《Second Chances》


 1

    ~Valentina Emerson~


    Holy shit I''ve been here for 3 days and I''m still trying to get used to how crowded it is. Today it seems like there''s more people here than usual. I shrug it off as I bump into something, as I wasn''t paying attention.


    "Jesus Christ. Did I hit a brick wall or was that someone in my fucking way."


    I look up to see a tattooed hand, offered out to help me up, drop.


    "Wow. What a bitch. Don''t help her Mikey."


    I raise an eyebrow and look around to see..


    "Oh my God! Michael Vampire! I''m so sorry!"


    I jump up and dust myself off. Apologizing to the beautiful man, I pull out my phone for pictures.


    "Can I have a picture? I just love Dead Girls Academy!"


    "Uh hello. And sure. Thank you for your support."


    I pose with Michael and take a few photos, completely ignoring the man he was with. This must be why it was a little more crowded than yesterday.


    ~Ronnie Radke~


    This bitch. I can''t believe it. She''s the one that ran into me. Yet here she is, taking pictures with Michael and apologizing to him. I watch, arms crossed, as she stands and practically drools over him.


    "Shut the fuck up, you''re so loud."


    I grab her arm and pull her a couple streets over with Michael following behind.


    "God damn. Let me go you fucker."


    We stop and I let go. Michael comes to stand next to me.


    "Why''d you drag her along? No offense hun."


    Michael smiles at the girl and she blushes back.


    "Oh you can say anything you want about me Michael Vampire."


    "You can just call me Michael."


    Patience isn''t a strong suit of mine and it''s wearing thin. I dragged her along so she wouldn''t alert the fans we had avoided by slipping out of a side door.


    "This whole friendly thing is cute but you''re a bitch and I''m not going to waste my time standing here chatting."


    "Shut your whore mouth Radke."


    ~Michael Vampire~


    My eyes widen at what the fan girl just said. She knew it was Ronnie but never said anything to him. She was more focused on me. Man does she have some balls to say that to him. Especially since she seems to know who we are. Ronnie isn''t the friendliest, even more so when someone is rude to him. It''s a good thing I''m standing in between the two.


    "Uh Ronnie... We should go."


    I try my best to distract him, considering we''re in public.


    "What did you say to me, you dumb bitch?"


    The girl smirks at Ronnie''s obviously irritated tone. Oh God, don''t make it worse. She''s going to make it worse. I flag down a cab as the girl answers.


    "You heard me Ronald. Or did all those drugs infect your ears?"


    ~Valentina~


    I''ve known about Ronnie and Michael since I was younger. I know Ronnie''s got a temper but I can''t stop myself from pushing him further. He looks like he''s about to explode and I kinda feel bad for bringing up his past drug abuse. He''s fuming as Michael shoves me into a taxi and sits in between me and Ronnie. I think he''s lost his ability to talk or he''s trying to find a reason to not hit me.


    "Um I have somewhere to be."


    "Please woman be quiet for 10 minutes."


    "Am I being kidnapped?"


    "For the love of all things, SHUT UP. Please. I don''t want to witness a murder."


    I keep my mouth closed due to Michael''s raised voice. I''m in a taxi with Ronnie Radke and Michael Vampire. I bite my lip to hold back the loudest squeal of all fan girl time. I nervously adjust my clothes as I glance at Ronnie, who is clench-fist glaring at me.


    ~Ronnie~


    I''m going to go to jail. I''m going to fucking kill this cunt and I''m going to go to fucking prison. I turn to look out of the window. Think of Willow. She doesn''t need a murderer as a father. At this point, if Michael wasn''t sitting between us and staring me down, I''d strangle her in this fucking cab. My mind is going crazy. I can kill her back at the house. No one will know. Michael won''t tell. He practically forced her in the car. He''d be tried for ''helping''. My mind floods with murder plots as we pull up to our house. I wonder why dumb ass Michael brought her here with us.


    ~Michael~


    I''m not really sure why I brought her here with us. I was just focused on Ronnie not beating the shit out of her in the middle of the street. I unlock the door and step inside, making sure I stay between Ronnie and the girl. After Ronnie comes in, he gently closes the door and locks it.


    "Oh shit."


    I barely have the time to think as Ronnie lunges forward, ready to kill. The girl shrieks and runs toward the kitchen. Obviously I have to stop him but if I grab him, he''s going to punch me. I step in his path.


    "Ronnie.. Calm down.. Think for a second."


    "That stupid cunt better come the fuck back out here."The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    "Please come back out here."


    She cautiously moves to hide behind me.


    ~Ronnie~


    Clearly, I''ve lost the ability to think. Still, if Michael doesn''t move out of the way, I''m going to punch him in the fucking face. The bitch moves a little to look at me. She looks pretty frightened. Too bad for her.


    "My name is Valentina. I.."


    "Bitch, I don''t fucking care. Stop being a pussy. Where''s all that shit you were talking before?"


    I try to step around Michael. He''s quick, I''m definitely going to have to physically move him out of the way.


    "You wouldn''t actually hit a woman, would you?"


    I laugh.


    "Bitch, you''re the exception."


    ~Valentina~


    That laugh was psychotic. I''m holding onto the back of Michael''s shirt but I still don''t feel safe. I''m going to die today. By the hands of Ronnie Radke. I just had to get fucking smart with him.


    "Ronnie, I''m so sorry."


    "Keep my fucking name out of your mouth."


    "We can work through this without violence."


    "The fuck we can."


    My grip on Michael loosens as I prepare to run for my life, literally. The next events seem to happen in slow motion. Ronnie punches Michael and his hands are wrapped around my throat before I can even react. He''s squeezing so tight, my eyes begin to water. My hands cover Ronnie''s, trying to pry them from my throat. I try my hardest to stop the dark that''s creeping up.


    ~Michael~


    From my spot on the ground, I watch as Ronnie has Valentina up against the wall, off her feet. Surprisingly, this is the first time I''ve seen Ronnie so violent. I jump up and try to pull Ronnie from her. He shrugs me off like I''m nothing. From the look on her face and how tight Ronnie''s hands are around her throat, she''s going to pass out soon. I don''t need a dead girl on my living room floor and I don''t need my friend going to jail. I try one last time.


    "Ronnie, dude, let her fucking go."


    I see something click and he stiffens before he loosens his grip, but he doesn''t let her go.


    "Please, let her go Ronnie."


    "Fine."


    He lets go and she crumbles to the ground.


    "Dude!"


    ~Ronnie~


    Did I want to let her go? No. Did I drop her on the floor on purpose? Maybe. I step back and watch as Michael rushes to her side. I don''t fucking feel bad. I''m not going to jail over this bitch. Maybe it''s my anger but I''m not letting her leave until the bruises heal. Michael practically drags the bitch over to the couch.


    "Can you get her some water?"


    I just casually walk to the kitchen and get the water from the sink.


    "There ya go bud."


    I tilt my head curiously at the girl. It looks like Michael is trying really hard to get the stupid cunt to open her eyes. She''s holding her throat and crying as Michael tries to calm her down. I still don''t fucking feel bad.


    ~Valentina~


    I can''t open my eyes. My throat is burning, making breathing even harder. I barely hear Michael''s voice over the ringing in my ears. He sounds so far away. I barely feel the couch under my body. I can''t move my arms either. It feels like they''re not mine. I''m not 100% sure how long it''s been since Ronnie started choking me. I need to open my eyes.


    "Here. Ice instead."


    I feel my body jump at the sound of Ronnie''s voice.


    "Thanks bro. Valentina? Can you hear me? I''m gonna see how you do with a piece of ice. "


    I manage to open my eyes for a brief second before I have to close them again. The world was spotty, bright and spinning.


    "Suck on them. Don''t swallow them right away."


    I suck on the first few but I accidentally swallow the next one Michael gives me. It burns but at the same time it feels so good. Michael sits me up to cough.


    "Stupid bitch."


    Oh God, something isn''t right...


    ~Ronnie~


    Just what I wanted to be doing. Carrying a person upstairs. Yeah it''s probably my fault, but she didn''t have to pass out. At least Michael is helping.


    "Spare room."


    "Obviously Mikey. Where else are we going to keep her? Your room?"


    "You''re lucky I don''t put her in your room. This is all your fault."


    We lay her down on the bed as I mumble.


    "She started it."


    "And you clearly finished it."


    I smile, proud of myself as Michael shakes his head. I don''t blame him for being upset. Maybe I overreacted a but. Don''t get me wrong, she deserved it. But I feel bad because Michael has the responsibility of taking care of the bitch now.


    "Come on Mikey, I said sorry."


    "And when I close my eyes and open them, there won''t be a nearly dead girl on the bed in my spare room."


    "I could make that happen."


    Michael begins shoving me out of the room and closes the door behind us.


    "You''re not funny Ronnie."


    He turns down the hall towards the stairs and I follow behind."


    "It wasn''t a joke."

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    I smirk and hold back my laugh. That was a good one. Cleaver girl.


    "Lead singer syndrome."


    Valentina rolls her eyes for the third time in like five minutes.


    "Bullshit. Anyway, I was going to say you don''t have to stress about not having a condom. I have an IUD. So no worries."


    At fuck. I hadn''t even thought about that. At least she''s prepared for random, unprotected sex. I already have Willow and one bitch of a baby mom. There would be no way I have another kid with another baby mom. I learned my mistake, picking psycho women to bear my children. No fucking way.


    "If you got pregnant I just would''ve paid for the abortion."


    Valentina friend and leaks forward as if she didn''t hear my properly.


    ~Valentina~


    "I''m sorry what? An abortion?"


    He said it as if it was nothing. As if it''s his body and his choice. Like it''s no big deal. Like it''s a pin prick. This has to be a cruel joke.


    "Yeah. I have Willow. I''m not sure I''m ready for another kid. I don''t even know if I want more kids at all. Willow is my baby, I love her to death."


    I sit still, shocked. Not sure I''m hearing right. I understand not wanting another kid but just going straight to abortion?


    "What about the other options?"


    "Look. If I have a kid, I''m going to take care of it, I''m going to be in their life, they''re going to know I''m their father. So just not seeing my kid wouldn''t be an option. And giving my kid up to be raised by two strangers? No."


    I stand up angry, just as Michael opens the door to tell us dinner''s ready. I glare at Ronnie, open my mouth, think, and close it. I storm past Michael into the house, not saying anything.


    ~Michael~


    When Val goes inside angry, I sigh and run a hand through my hair.


    "God damn it. It wasn''t even.. It was a hypothetical question."


    I sit in the chair next to Ronnie. These two fight like a fucking married couple. They irritate the fuck out of each other. Imagining them dating is impossible. It''d be hell.


    "What''d you do now?"


    Ronnie shakes his head, still staring at the door Val went through.


    "She''s literally mad over nothing!"


    I pat him on the shoulder.


    "She obviously didn''t feel that way."


    He throws his hands up in frustration.


    "I can''t talk to her about anything. Shit! Fucking emotional ass woman! Getting mad over fucking everything!"


    I hurry to change the subject. There''s a few things I want to know that only Ronnie can tell me.


    "I have a couple questions."


    "Are you going to angrily stomp away, cursing me out in your head, if I answer honestly?"


    "No.. But I might beat your ass depending on your answer."


    Ronnie relaxes back into the chair and looks at me.


    "Fucking better than whatever that damn woman does."


    I give him a look and he just admits defeat.


    ~Ronnie~


    "Do you like Val?"


    "Yeah, she''s great."


    Michael gives me a look that he''s serious. Damn. Why is everyone interrogating me tonight?


    "Mikey, come on."


    "You know what I mean. Answer the damn question."


    He folds his arms, showing that he''s not going to give up or drop it. I let out a dramatic sigh.


    "Fuck. I don''t know. Why does it matter?"


    Michael locks eyes with me and breathes out, frustrated.


    "Ronnie, you can''t use this girl. No, shut the fuck up and listen."


    I never even had the chance to defend myself. I opened my mouth and Mikey told me to shut up.


    "You cannot use her, Ronnie. Don''t use her neck as an excuse to keep her here and be your toy. You can''t just have your fun and then just drop her. She likes you. I know you two fucked last night. Don''t just use her for sex because she''s here. Don''t be an asshole like that. So do you like her? Are you serious about it?"


    Jesus Christ, you would think that I''m asking for her hand in marriage. It''s not that serious. Michael is only like this when it comes to Alva. Is this about all the shit from before Val moved here?


    "Whoa, Mikey. Chill the fuck out. She''s only been here for a week. When she leaves, she''ll forget all about us and continue on with her life. It is not that deep. Let''s go eat bro."


    Before Michael can say anything more I get up and open the sliding glass door. Fuck that conversation. Michael grits his teeth but lets the conversation. When we go in everyone seems to be waiting for us.


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.~Valentina~


    Fucking Ronnie. He''s such a dick. When they come in, I don''t even look up. I go back to dishing up everyone''s plates. Max is looking at everything like he''s in heaven. When I sit my plate at the table, thinking I''d be sitting alone, I''m shocked when Michael, Alvanis and Max sit around me. The three look at Ronnie, who sighs and sits down farthest away from me. Max breaks the silence.


    "Where''d you learn how to cook like this?"


    I smile, thinking back to before my parents died.


    "My dad''s passion was cooking. When most guys were learning how to fix cars, my dad was in the kitchen helping. When I was little this was my favorite meal and he''d usually let me help make it."


    Alva shoves a forkful of food into her mouth and covers it with her hand as she talks.


    "What did your mom do?"


    "My mom was a part time nurse. Everyone loved her. She used to do it full time but when I was born, she told my dad that she didn''t want to miss out on me growing up. It was tough work you know. Family always came first to her."


    Ronnie speaks up from the end of the table.


    "How''d your parents die?"


    Everyone looks to him shocked. Ronnie continues eating, awkwardly.


    "Sorry..."


    "No that''s okay. My mom had cancer from a very young age. It came back when she found out she was pregnant. She would rather have had me healthy and enjoy the time she had, then risk losing me. She almost died at childbirth. When my mom passed, my dad was so sad. He kept his spirit up for me but I knew how much it hurt that he lost his one true love. A couple months later, he passed away in his sleep. Doctors said natural causes but I know it was from a broken heart."


    ~Michael~


    After Val is done, we all finish eating in silence. Val doesn''t eat much for this being her favorite, but I can understand why. When she''s done she gets up and starts clearing plates. I take my empty plate to the sink.


    "Val, you don''t have to do that."


    "But I cooked and made a mess."


    "Exactly why you don''t need to clean up."


    Max and Alvanis come up next to me with more dirty plates.


    "Yeah, we got this."


    Ronnie hands me the last of the plates. He turns to Alva, who rolls her eyes.


    "What?"


    "Where''d you put those bags so Val can have clothes and she doesn''t have to wear mine?"


    Valentina stands in the doorway, looking down at herself. Even with how thin Ronnie is, the jeans and t shirt she''s wearing, hangs dramatically off her body. She just shrugs.


    "Yeah, it''d be nice to have clothes that fit."


    We all laugh in agreement.


    "In the closet, in my room. All the bags are piled up in the back corner. She knows where."


    Valentina nods at Ronnie.


    "Thank you Chipmunk!"


    He hugs Alva and pats her head. She frowns in annoyance and the two disappear to go upstairs.


    "Can they just date already? He''s so annoying."


    I sigh and finish the dishes.


    "You know how Ronnie is, Alva."


    "Yeah but they''d be cute together."


    Max takes Alva''s hand.


    "Babe. All they do is fight and argue. Do you really want to deal with that?"


    "We''re just visiting."


    I hold my hand over my heart, fake offended and hurt.


    "You can''t do that to me! I''m your only brother! I''d kill myself, constantly being around that!"


    We all laugh.


    ~Ronnie~


    I follow Val upstairs to Alvanis'' room. She opens the closet and starts tossing bags at me.


    "These are all clean?"


    "Yeah. New from various ex''s of Michael''s."


    We carry about 7 bags back into my room to go through them. Val is pulling out short skirts and shirts made out of thin material. She holds up a practically see through, strapless dress that has slits up both sides. There''s a red lace underneath, basically holding the two sides together.


    "Oooh."


    I grab it from her and put it in the bag of clothes that are either too big or too small.


    "Absolutely not. You are not going to walk around in that."


    Val raises her eyebrows at me and folds her arms.


    "Says who?"


    "Me!"


    Val frowns and I throw a pair of jeans at her.


    "There. Wear those."


    She checks the size, holds them up, and glares at me.


    "These aren''t even my size! They''d be baggy on me!"


    "Good. Trying to wear fucking hooker clothes in my house. I don''t think so woman!"


    Val laughs and tossed the jeans back at me. She thinks I''m joking. I should burn that fucking dress.


    "Just pick out clothes that you can wear and not clothes that remind me of the Vegas strip, okay."


    "So bossy."


    I go through the pile of clothes she''s been pulling out to make sure nothing is too revealing.


    "Yeah. Yeah. Whatever."


    ~Valentina~


    Ronnie is so fun to mess with. I had no idea he''d get like that over clothes. Especially since this is just a platonic thing. I look around me at the chaos Ronnie is cleaning up. I have a bag each of shirts, shirts and jeans. I have half a bag of sweaters. I also managed to sneak in a few dresses, including the one Ronnie forbid me to wear.

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    ~Flashback~


    "Arthur what the fuck are you doing?" I come home to Arthur destroying our room, going through all my things. "Where is it you fucking whore?!" I''m so confused. I start picking up my clothes and putting them back in the drawers. "Where is what Arthur?" He stops destroying the closet and grabs me. I pull away and he gets even more angry. "I know you''re sleeping with him you fucking slut!" I''m so confused, I start screaming back. "Who?!" "That manager of yours! The one who gave you a ride last week!" He''s so close to my face that I smell the alcohol on his breath. "I know that''s why you''re always out so late! I give you everything and you do this?!" "Are you fucking stupid?! You think I''m cheating on you with Gio?! I''m not, you fucking moron!" Arthur grits his teeth and steps back. My heart skips a beat and before I can do anything, he punches me in the face.


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    ~Alt Press~


    AP Reporting: A twitter user by the name of XxEscapetheFallingVeilxX released a series of photos and screenshots not too long ago that have gotten a lot of heat already. The photos show user Ashlee Marcs (LeeMar) and FIROfficial''s Ronnie Radke (RonnieRadke) all over each other in a bar and later, allegedly in Radke''s house, conducting in explicit sexual acts. Marcs, who mentioned the acts were completely consensual, says everything was going great and then Radke "publicly embarrassed her and then threw her out of his house". She also states it was not her who originally released the photos but feels better sharing them and telling the truth, rather than letting rumors spread. We reached out to Falling In Reverse''s front man Ronnie Radke but thus far, he has not responded to the posts. This comes months after faceless user "Valen Emers" (ValOnFyre), who runs an art blog, dismissed claims of a relationship with the notorious playboy after being tagged in multiple posts across Twitter and Instagram.


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    ~Ronnie~


    When Rob and I go into the kitchen, I sigh.


    "She''s so fucking spoiled. She gets anything she wants by just by flashing around those gorgeous blue eyes. People just submit to her every wish, especially guys."


    Rob shakes his head at me, then looks around at the popcorn and hot chocolate.


    "Are you complaining because you still submit to her will? Or are you jealous because Craig is giving her attention?"


    I glare over at him and eat a piece of Valentina''s popcorn.


    "I feel bad, okay? You happy? I feel horrible."


    Robert nods as I boil the milk on the stove.


    "As you should. You put her through some shit. She''s still probably confused. And now she has to deal with the AP crap. I know you still like her, you know you still like her. A little friendly advice? Wait it out, keep your dick in your pants, and maybe she''d take you back."


    When he''s finished, he''s frowning at me. Maybe I should''ve started off talking to Thrasher about everything, or TJ. They barely know Val still. She just gets everyone in her grasp. She''s so fucking friendly and sweet. God damn it!


    "Are you scolding me, Rob? Are you my dad? And to be fair, it is not all my fault. Remember when we caught her and Derek making out?"


    "Derek kissed her. I remember. She got shitfaced drunk and scared me half to death in the bathroom. Knocked a few years off my life. "


    Rob smiles and I can''t help but laugh. I knew it. He can be mad at me all he wants, but he''s still one of my best friends.


    "Okay, what about her obsession with Jacky? What about her just sneaking off to that party? What about her suddenly moving out? And what about the fact that she went on a date with Zakk last night?"


    Robert nods his head at my jealous ramblings. I can''t even act like I''m not jealous with him. He knows everything! It just doesn''t work to lie.


    "So what, she likes Jacky. Alva does too, that''s her best friend. She''s an adult, so it wasn''t technically sneaking. To be fair, you went to Texas partly to get away from her. And if you two weren''t dating, it was weird for her to stay here. Even if Michael considers her a sister. However, the Zakk thing, I saw on her Snapchat. That''s rough. She could''ve gone out on a date with anyone. Choosing to go out with Zakk was probably partly revenge. Tough break man."


    I sigh, finishing up the cocoa just a Michael walks in the back door. Holy fucking shit. Rob goes to help him with the bags. I just stand there, staring at the giant stuffed bear that''s almost as tall as Michael.


    "What the fuck is all this?"


    Mikey sets the bear at the table and sets the groceries on the counter.


    "I saw the bear and thought of Val, so I bought it. The rest is stuff we need and food to make chicken parm."


    I look at Rob, who''s smiling, looking at me and the bear.


    "See, fucking spoiled."


    He shrugs and I jump at Valentina''s loud shriek from behind me. She''s seen the bear, obviously. It''s kinda hard to miss.


    "Oh my god! Is that for me?"


    I smirk and block her path, arms crossed.


    "Nah, that''s my teddy."


    Val frowns and Mikey pushes me out of the way. When Valentina picks it up, she''s completely hidden behind it. A damn stuffed bear is bigger than her. Michael invites Craig and Robert to stay for dinner. We all relax in the living room, playing video games while dinner cooks. Valentina sits, snacking on the popcorn and cocoa, unfazed that she can''t really play because of the bandages. That bear has made her the happiest person alive. Considering how much she loves kicking our asses on the PS4, I''m glad she''s not sad about it. She doesn''t like people buying her things or worrying about her but I guess stuffed animals don''t count. After dinner, everyone says goodbye. Val promises that she''ll come over more often and try to see everyone. We give Val leftovers of dinner, as well as Rob and Craig because Michael made so much. The two leave and Michael drives Valentina home. As they pull out of the driveway, all I see is Val''s hand waving in front of the giant bear.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ~Valentina~


    I''m straightening up around my apartment and cleaning when the doorbell rings. I''ve finally managed to make it look like I actually live here. For the longest time, I only had my bed and a small couch. Now I have a bunch of stuff. I always send pictures to Alva or Michael before I buy anything. It''s really great having them here for me. Michael actually stops by pretty often to make sure I have proper food and to see if I need anything. Only a few people even know where I live. And they know not to give out my address. Max, Alva, and Michael of course. Jacky and Zakk also stop by from time to time. Other than that no one knows where I live, not even Ronnie. Speaking of people stopping by, I put away my cleaning supplies and open the door.


    "Hey Zakk!"


    "Hey! Am I interrupting your house cleaning?"


    "Are you kidding? No! This place wasn''t even dirty! Cleaning just keeps my mind off things."


    We hug and I let him into my apartment, closing the door behind him. Even with all the furniture and accessories, my apartment still looks barely lived in. Zakk looks around and we both sit down on the bigger couch.


    "So how have things been going?"


    I sigh and fidget with my clothes.


    "Pretty good!"


    He gives me a look that he doesn''t believe me.


    "Don''t lie. I see the dark circles under your eyes. More night terrors?"


    "Yeah. They''ve gotten really bad."


    He hugs me into him. Zakk has been really great to me since I moved. He checks in pretty often. Not as often as Michael, but still.


    "Have you told Michael, or Alva, or Max?"


    "No. They have their own stuff to deal with."


    Zakk pinches my arm.


    "Ow!"


    When I look up he''s scolding me. Oh god, not this lecture again. It''s always the same no matter who it comes from. Zakk, Max, Alva, Jacky, Michael, and Ronnie. We care, you''re important. I roll my eyes and he sighs.


    "I know you''re tired of hearing the same shit over and over. But Val, we really do care and we really are worried about you. I really don''t think you should be living here alone. Someone should at least be here for you at night. You can''t even have extra furniture in your room because you''ll most likely break it coming out of a night terror."


    I sigh, admitting defeat, and nod my head. I move to where I can look up at him and smile.


    "I know Zakk, I know. I''m working on it. I just need to sort some things out. I promise I''m okay or at least I will be."


    He pats my head. The rest of the day goes smoothly. We watch a couple movies, eat dinner and play on the PS4. We say goodnight. He goes home and I try to get some sleep.


    ~Michael~


    Val''s done pretty well with staying in touch. She tries to come over once a week, sometimes twice. Her and Ronnie have been getting along very nicely. However, Ronnie has been acting a bit suspicious. He''s not going out to bars or clubs anymore but he has been spending a lot more time with that mystery cashier girl. He doesn''t post about her, he doesn''t talk about her much either. But, Val and Ronnie are just friends now, I guess. Val''s been staying in touch with Max and Alva too. She even sees Zakk and Jacky occasionally. I''m in the living room, playing music when Val walks in. She runs up to give me a hug.


    "Hey Val! My adopted little sister! How have you been? Come sit!"


    She sits down next to me on the couch. Charlie charges in and practically mauls her the second she sits. I guess Charlie doesn''t get to see her enough. She scratches his ears as he rubs all over her as if he didn''t see her last Tuesday.


    "I''ve actually had a good few days. I''m still having night terrors but they''re not as bad and I can''t remember them when I wake up. Oh my gosh, Charlie! Who''s a good boy? Charlie is! Oh yes! Charlie is! I missed you, yes I did!"


    I laugh as Charlie rolls around on the floor, soaking up all her attention. Just then Ronnie walks in from the back.


    "Don''t lie to him, Val. He''ll get used to it and wonder why I don''t call him a good boy all the time."


    Charlie perks up at the sound of Ronnie''s voice. He bounds and leaps into Ronnie''s lap, nearly knocking the chair over with them. Val and I laugh even harder.


    "Is he still chewing up your shoes and belts?"


    "Of fucking course. Charlie is a pain in my ass."


    "Aw, Charlie is an adorable pain in the ass. Just get him some chew toys."


    I shake my head.


    "They''re always destroyed within a couple days."


    Val smiles and shakes her head. Ronnie pushes Charlie off his lap and dusts himself off. Charlie hobbles away and stretches out behind the couch.


    "Oh Val. By the way, Willow is coming up for a visit this weekend. Do you have time to stop by? She asked if you were going to be here and I told her I didn''t know but that I''d find out."


    "Aw, of course, I''ll stop by and see the little angel! I''m so honored that she wants to see me. I''ll bring her a present."

 20

    Ronnie smiles and shakes his head in amusement.


    "You don''t need to get her anything."


    "I''m bringing the little princess a present."


    Ronnie just nods his head. Of the few times that Willow has been around Val, she''s grown really attached. Every time Ronnie calls and I''m around, Willow asks for Val. She''s such a natural with kids. Ronnie''s an idiot for giving her up. If Val wasn''t like a sister to me, I''d snatch her up. Val has all the qualities of a good wife and she has plenty of extras. A woman like her doesn''t stay single for long. Val goes into the kitchen to get something to drink and Ronnie turns to me.


    "I know she''s only here to visit but don''t keep her for too long. Rei''s coming over for dinner to meet you tonight, remember?"


    "Who the fuck is Rei?"


    Ronnie sighs and rolls his eyes.


    "Mystery cashier girl."


    I nod my head.


    "Ah, yes. The reason I almost killed you."


    Ronnie frowns at me and Val comes back. We spend a good few hours just talking and a few more playing games and watching movies. Val goes home and not even 5 minutes later, Rei shows up.


    ~Ronnie~


    I pull up into the driveway of the address Michael gave me and turn off the car. I''m actually pretty excited. I haven''t even been here yet, like at all. So far it seems pretty nice, from the outside at least. I walk into the little entryway and take the stairs to the second floor, where Val''s apartment is. She had left her wallet at our house and Mikey wanted me to drop off a few other things that he picked up for her recently. I wonder what her apartment looks like. Considering that Mikey and Alva helped her decorate, it''s probably dope as fuck. Like all edgy and shit. I take a deep breath and ring the doorbell. After about a minute of me thinking that maybe she''s not home, the door opens. Jacky is standing behind it, in just his boxers, when I walk in.


    "Oh hey Ronnie.."


    "Who is it Jacky?"


    Vincent closes the door behind me and Val comes into view, wearing a t-shirt and girly lace panties. My stomach drops and it feels like I just got punched in the chest. Val runs into the apartment, flustered as if I''ve never seen her body before. I guess it is more for respect to Jacky. I doubt he''d want another guy to see his woman in underwear. I shouldn''t even be surprised.


    "Hey Jacky. How have you been? Michael just asked me to drop these things off for Valentina. Plus, I''ve never seen the apartment before. I hope I''m not interrupting anything."


    Jacky leads me into the living room of the place and shakes his head. He grabs the bag from me and sets it on the small dining room table. The apartment looks so generic. Like it has the essentials and stuff like that, but it doesn''t have anything extra that would make it feel like a home. It reminds me of some 9 to 5 person who puts all of their energy into work. The only thing that makes it evident that she lives here is the drawing desk, her easel, and supplies in the corner of the room.


    "I''ve been good man. What about you?"


    "Been pretty great, can''t complain."


    Jacky offers me a seat and we sit in awkward silence for a few seconds until he stands.


    "I''m gonna go see what''s taking Val so long."


    He disappears down a short hallway, where I''m guessing the bedroom and bathroom are. I thought things were going in a good direction with her and Zakk but I guess not. I guess Zakk didn''t hurt me enough. But Jacky though? Seriously? I wonder if chipmunk knows. That''s her best friend. I doubt she''d be okay with it. Jacky is lucky, Val is special. I can be the bigger person. Val comes out in a dress, looking embarrassed.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Thank you so much for bringing these. I was so upset when my light broke and I couldn''t find my wallet. These bulbs are expensive and I''m mid-project. What do you think of my place?"


    I manage to smile and look around. She definitely wasn''t expecting me. Jacky comes back out, this time in a t-shirt and jeans. Val nervously smiles over to him. Guess she didn''t want me to know yet.


    "It''s nice. Less angsty than I expected. I wish I could stay to chat but I really gotta go."


    Valentina follows me to the door.


    "Um. About what you saw. Jacky and I aren''t.."


    I cut her off, opening the door.


    "You don''t need to explain yourself. You have your privacy. We''re both adults."


    Before she can say anything else, I leave and close her apartment door behind me. I get in my car and immediately dial Michael.


    "Did you know? Was this supposed to be some kind of fucking joke? I''m not fucking amused."


    "Whoa, Ronnie. Calm the fuck down. What are you talking about?"


    "Jacky is fucking Valentina. Or they''re dating. Either way, he''s staying at her apartment."


    I hang up and toss my phone on the passenger seat.


    ~Valentina~


    I sigh at the closed door and Jacky comes up behind me.


    "I''m guessing he took this the complete wrong way?"


    "If you walked into an apartment and saw two nearly naked people, how would you take it? And the stubborn asshole wouldn''t let me explain."


    Jacky follows me into the living room and sits next to me on the couch. He shakes his head.


    "Ronnie is... Ronnie. He was probably thrown off guard. You did go on a date with Zakk. What a twist that you''re with me instead!"


    I look at him and roll my eyes. Of course, he finds this whole thing fucking hilarious.


    "I''m going to fucking smother you in your sleep."


    "That''s hot. Can you do it while naked?"


    "Hilarious. You''re so fucking cute that I might get fucking sick. Don''t touch me, Vincent."


    "Gasp! Our first fight as a couple!"


    I''m about to literally strangle him when my phone rings. I glare at Jacky as I answer Michael.


    "Hey! Val! Just wanted to make sure Ronnie dropped the stuff off. How are things? How''s the project going? Are you really dating Jacky?"


    I stare at my phone and mouth, ''Ronnie told Michael'', to Jacky. He starts laughing, hard.


    "Michael. Do you really think I would date Jacky? Well yeah. No! I mean like with knowing that''s Alva''s best friend. Exactly. Yes, that''s him laughing like a fucking hyena. No. We hadn''t gotten dressed for the day. No Michael. Michael Orlando! How dare you!"


    I''m about to go off on Michael but Jacky stops laughing and takes my phone from me.


    "Hello? Michael? Can you stop talking for a minute? Are you really threatening me right now? I''m not dating her! Oh my god, Michael. We''re not having sex either! If you would shut up, I''ll tell you. I come over if she has bad night terrors and when she feels like she might have one, I stay the night to be here for her. Didn''t think about that, did ya? I am not a smart ass. Yes, Alva knows. I don''t need her permission anyway."


    Jacky sighs into the phone and hands it back to me.


    "Sorry for jumping to conclusions Val. Ronnie called me upset and told me. Why didn''t you tell me? I''m a little hurt that Alva knows but I never heard anything."


    "Because every time it''s brought up, you tell me that I never should''ve moved out. I didn''t want you to feel guilty I guess. I mean, you worry so much already. Ronnie left before I could explain. He said something about us both being adults and me having privacy."


    "I''ll talk to Ronnie when he gets home. I really don''t think you two can come back from this one though."


    "What do you mean?"


    Michael sighs and I start panicking.


    "Well. It''s kind of all been piling on him. The kiss with Derek. The party you went to. The date with Zakk. And now he walked into your apartment when you and Jacky were nearly naked. It''s hitting him hard right now. You guys might not get any more shots at being together."


    I start tearing up and Jacky looks at me, alarmed.


    "But I really like him Michael. A lot."


    "I know honey. It''s not just on you. A big part of it is him as well. Are.. Are you crying? Val?"


    "I need to go. Bye. See you for Ronnie''s party."


    When I hang up I can''t help but break down crying. Jacky rushes to get my emergency ice cream out of the freezer. An hour and a half later my ice cream is gone, I''m laying on the couch with my head in Jacky''s lap and we''re watching horror movies. My phone rings. I consider letting it go to voicemail but it''s Robert.


    "Hello?"


    "Hey, baby girl. How much of the story did Ronnie get wrong?"


    "Jacky and I aren''t dating. We''re not fucking either. He stays the night occasionally to calm me down when I have a night terror and it helps to have someone here. I get them less often."


    "He''s so great at getting things wrong and blowing things out of proportion. I''m glad someone is there with you. I''ll see you at the party. Rest up, baby girl."


    ~Flashback~


    I wake up in a hospital bed, different machines, and tubes surrounding me. The last thing I remember is being at work and then it all goes blank. The doctor''s tell me that I passed out from exhaustion. I''m overworking myself to death, they say. Jazyln has come in to see me. Arthur sends love, work is too busy right now for him to come in, as I expected. The doctor came to talk to me, he put it out straight. I either continue down my path of self-destruction or I can ease some of the stress. I''ve been thinking about it since then. My parents wouldn''t want this for me. I think I''ve made my decision. I''m going to finish out my semester and leave school. It''s for the best. Hopefully, Art will see that.

 21

    ~Michael~


    I walk into the house with Val, who has a present for Willow and Ronnie. The second Willow hears Valentina''s voice, Willow runs up to her. Val hugs her and lifts her up. Ronnie comes into the room from the kitchen and smiles.


    "Val! You came!"


    "Of course darling! Just for you!"


    Val hands the two wrapped presents off to Ronnie as Willow clings to her neck, refusing to let go.


    "Daddy told me that you might not come."


    Ronnie awkwardly smiles, looking at Val and she whispers into Willow''s ear.


    "Your dad wishes I didn''t come. But guess what."


    "What?"


    "I''m here. And I got you a present."


    Willow excitedly bounces up and down in Val''s arms and she nearly drops her. Valentina manages to set Willow back on the ground. Ronnie shakes his head, still holding the presents.


    "I told you before that you didn''t have to buy her anything."


    Val smiles through clenched teeth and grabs the present wrapped in red paper.


    "The only person I bought anything for is you, Radke. Happy birthday by the way."


    They glare at each other as Ronnie nods and Val hands the gift to Willow. Willow quickly but carefully opens it. Inside is a framed picture. It''s a drawing of Willow done by Val. Willow hugs it to her body.


    "Thank you, Val! I love it!"


    Val hugs Willow and Ronnie eases up. It''s a beautiful drawing. I''m sure Chrissy is gonna feel a certain type of way. The doorbell rings and Val goes to open it. It''s Rei. Fuck.


    "Ronnie. This woman is asking for you.."


    We leave Willow in the living room and go to the door.


    "The fuck is your problem? Let her in. Shit."


    Val looks at me confused and lets Rei in at Ronnie''s request. She hugs me as she comes in and Ronnie hold his arms out to her. Rei looks at Val.


    "Is this her? Is this Val?"


    "Uh yeah. Sorry. Val this is Rei, Rei this is Val."


    Val shakes Rei''s hand, still confused.


    "I''m Ronnie''s girlfriend. I''ve heard so much about you. It''s so nice to finally meet the famous Val."


    "My name is Valentina, please."


    Val has this look in her eyes and Rei''s taken aback for a second. Rei nods and apologizes. Ronnie takes Rei to meet Willow and Val stands at the door, staring into space.


    "Who the fuck? When the fuck?"


    "The cashier Max jokingly gave Ronnie''s number to. They''ve been friends for a while. She''s also a model. They started dating after the Jacky misunderstanding. They''re uh, close, I guess."


    Val stares at the wall, she takes a deep breath and turns to me.


    "I''m guessing she''s going with us. Obviously. So, I can be friendly. It''s great that he found someone."


    ~Ronnie~


    I introduce Rei to Willow and they have a brief interaction before Rei drags me into the kitchen to talk.


    "What is she doing here?"


    "Come on Rei. I invited her before and Willow wanted to see her. Plus, she''s my friend and Michael''s as well."


    Rei folds her arms in front of me and gives off a superficial attitude.


    "Your friend? Bullshit. Do I need to remind you how upset you were? Or how she sleeps around with your friends and band to make you jealous?"Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    "She didn''t sleep with anyone, I told you this. It was a misunderstanding."


    She rolls her eyes at me and I sigh.


    "Ronnie."


    "Look it''s fine. You don''t need to worry."


    I kiss her and she drops her arms. I get her to smile and we walk back out to the living room. Willow is eagerly seated in Val''s lap and Michael is sitting next to them. We sit on the opposite couch and Rei hands me a neatly wrapped box. Time to open presents before we go out and meet up with everyone else to celebrate my birthday. I open Rei''s present. It''s a Rolex watch. We haven''t been dating long, this is kind of a shock. I''m not one for materialistic presents. I hug her and kiss her cheek. Val makes a disgusted face behind Willow.


    "Wow, Rei. Thank you so much. You really didn''t need to."


    "Only the best for you."


    I grab Valentina''s present and open it. It''s a fucking box of fruit gushers. I laugh and smile over to her.


    "Max told me that they''ve been your favorite since you two were kids. I know they''re probably not gonna get eaten because of the calories but nostalgia."


    I smile even wider and stand to hug her. It was such a sweet gesture.


    "Thank you so much, Val! I haven''t had them in years! I''m not gonna let them go to waste."


    After Chrissy comes by to pick up Willow, we''re all getting ready to go out. Rei''s been super affectionate, probably because of Val being here. Valentina has been polite to Rei as best as she can, besides glaring when she thinks no one is looking. I''m on my phone confirming the address for Rob and TJ on my phone when Val and Rei start talking.


    "That was sweet. Buying my Ronnie fruit snacks. It''s really cute. I hope it wasn''t too costly for you, being an artist and a college dropout."


    "Yeah well, it''s not all about money or fancy gifts. Tell me, on a cashier''s salary, how could you afford a Rolex? Did you dig it up or beg your sugar daddy for it?"


    Val smiles at us both as I stand and tug Rei away. I knew they weren''t gonna get along but fuck.


    "Alright everyone, it''s time to go. Rei and I will go in my car. Mikey, take Val in your car. As long as they''re both kept away from each other, we''ll be fine."


    ~Valentina~


    I wake up, hungover, sprawled out on the couch in my apartment. It''s been a few days since Ronnie and Max''s birthday. It''s such a great thing to live a few blocks away from a liquor store but also a bad thing. I start cleaning up my apartment when notifications start going off on my phone. I grab water from my fridge and check them. A bunch of conspiracy tweets basically saying, ''Anyone else find it weird that Ronnie and Val suddenly stopped following each other and then Ronnie posts about his new girlfriend?''. I roll my eyes and toss my phone on the couch. I have a deadline but I can''t work in this messy apartment. My phone starts ringing, it''s Robert. I mute the ringer and make a quick post on twitter about my deadline. That way no one will bother me. They know I never answer when I have a deadline. He texts me.


    "Just wanted to check-in. See if you''re okay. Call me when you can love."


    I wake up early Christmas morning, to a phone call. I''m hungover yet again. The great thing about drinking until you pass out is that you either don''t have night terrors or you can''t remember them. I yawn and look at my phone. 16 missed calls. 4 from Alva, 2 from Max, 6 from Michael, 3 from Jacky, and 1 from Zakk. I pull leftover vegan nachos from the fridge and dial Zakk back.


    "Oh my god, Val?"


    "Shouldn''t you be with like family or something? Not calling me on Christmas."


    I put the nachos in the microwave and wait for him to answer. I''m trying to eat more healthy since I drink so much.


    "Where have you been? And don''t give me that deadline shit. After Jacky couldn''t find you at your apartment and no one could get ahold of you, they called me. Me! You''ve even been dodging Rob!"


    I sigh as I pull the heated nachos from the microwave. I shove one in my mouth and chew before I answer.


    "I really have been busy with my deadline Zakk. And I''ve been making new friends in my building and the area near me. Everyone knows I don''t answer when I''m working on a project. I must have been at a neighbor''s when Jacky stopped by."


    "Can you call and tell them that you''re okay? Michael wanted to see you before today. Merry Christmas by the way."


    I finish my nachos and yawn again.


    "Michael is in Florida, celebrating Christmas with Alva. I''ll stop by when he comes back next week. Merry Christmas Zakk."


    I''m pretty sure he knows damn well that I won''t be stopping by that house. And I don''t plan on calling either. I always forget when I start drinking anyway.


    "Want some company? I can stop by later."


    "Ah, no. That''s okay. My neighbor invited me over for dinner today. You enjoy today though."


    "Talk to you later Val."


    He sighs before hanging up. I don''t really enjoy Christmas that much anyway. I mostly just look forward to the sales at the stores. I finish cleaning around my apartment and get to work on my recent project. I could''ve let Zakk come over but if anyone found out, they''d be super pissed off. Including Michael, Jacky, and Robert. I can''t focus on my project thinking about them. Damn it! I put my pencil down in frustration and turn on my music. Ronnie''s voice comes through the speaker and I immediately shut it off. Of course, Falling In Reverse would play first. Fucking hell! I give up and grab my phone. I shoot a quick text to Zakk, telling him to feel free to stop by. I then text Robert, he might not answer considering today but it''s worth a shot.


    "Merry Christmas, I''m still alive."


    "Merry Christmas baby girl. Where have you been? I miss you!"


    "Busy with this deadline and kinda avoiding human contact."


    "I''m sorry. Avoiding Ronnie doesn''t mean you need to avoid everyone else though."


    "Who said that I''m specifically avoiding Ronnie and unintentionally avoiding everyone else? I''m not, it''s just the holidays."


    "We both know that''s bullshit. Nice job making Ronnie feel guilty though."


    "What does he feel guilty for? Being a complete moron?"


    "No, but funny. He feels guilty because he knows you''re not talking to us due to him. We all know you have this idea that we''re his friends and don''t want to get in between that or whatever."


    "My god. Are you psychic? Read my fortune."


    "Haha. Stop shutting yourself in your apartment and drinking so much. Call everyone back! Interact with people. Stop ignoring your friends Val."


    "For your information, Zakk is coming by today. I gotta go."


    "You better call me tomorrow."


    "Mhmm. Love you, byeeeee."

 22

    ~Michael~


    It''s March now and I''ve barely seen Val since New Year''s. She took me to this really shady bar that she goes to a lot apparently. Enough to where both bartenders and the doorman know her by name and seem pretty friendly. It must be where she spends most of her time. She doesn''t come to the house at all anymore. I don''t blame her. Rei is here nearly all of the time. If she''s not working, she''s here. Yet she never sleeps over. She always goes back to her own apartment, sometimes leaving at 5am. Maybe I''m a little biased but I just don''t trust her. I really would''ve rather Ronnie end up with Val. I''m still as nice and friendly as I need to be though. Val keeps in touch with everyone just enough so no one bothers her too much about it. Except for Alva and Jacky. If Val goes more than two hours without replying to Alva, Alva gets pissed and starts calling until she gets an answer. Jacky, on the other hand, feels betrayed because him and Val no longer hang out. He''s not even really friends with Ronnie at all. But she''s unintentionally hurting him and it''s not fair to Jacky at all. They were really close before and now Val just likes to be alone. We all know that her excuse about having friends in her building is total bullshit but the few people that actually call her out on it, get her typical annoyed response. Lately, Valentina''s been quite the little party girl. I''ve seen it on her private account. Wearing less clothes and more exaggerated makeup. The people that she parties with don''t seem that great. Just last week she posted a clip, drunkenly making out with some girl, who doesn''t seem like the kind of person Val would make friends with. They all seem kind of sleazy. It''s disgusting. She''s fallen down this hole and no one can get her to come out of it. I''m constantly worried about her. It''s effecting my friendship with Ronnie. Speaking of Ronnie, he just got home from spending the weekend away with his girlfriend. He sits down next to me and sighs loudly while giving me side glances.


    "What?"


    "Anything from Valentina recently?"


    "Not since last week. Why do you care?"


    "Look, Michael, I know you blame me but it''s her decision how to handle things. We both agreed that we were just going to be friends."


    "Everyone blames you. You know damn well that you just wanted to get back at her for the Jacky incident at first."


    "Mikey, come on. I miss her too. She''s my friend too. Please, man. Stop doing this to our friendship. I know you care."


    I sigh and nod my head.


    "Sorry, I''m just worried. Why''d you ask about her anyway?"


    "Willow asked to see Val. I told her no. She forced me into settling with talking to her on the phone."


    "You know that''s not going to happen. These days Val''s either passed out, hungover, or drunk."


    "I know but Val loves Willow. And I thought you could talk to her about it. Please Mikey! You know she would say no if I asked!"


    I roll my eyes and give in.


    "Fine, I''ll try. No promises though. She could still say no to me. It''s not like she listens to me at all. especially these days."


    We both exchange sad looks and I die a little inside at the very thought of asking Val.


    ~Ronnie~


    I sigh in relief now that my roommate is back to being my friend. I lean back into the couch, thinking about the last time I saw Valentina. It was at the club on my birthday. I was introducing Rei to everyone. Lane Douglas, who isn''t around that often, was confused and asked if Rei was Val. Rei, of course, got offended and said some not too nice things about Val that she overheard. Everyone just stood there, shocked that MY girlfriend didn''t like Valentina. Val just looked at me and then walked away, disappointed after I didn''t defend her. Since then, everyone has been pissed off with me. She''s supposed to be my friend and I just stood there. It was a stupid mistake on my part. I really fucked up, which I do a lot when it comes to Valentina.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    "Isn''t Val''s birthday coming up?"


    "Yeah. On the 21st she''ll be 22."


    "Wow. Soon it''ll be a year since she''s been here."


    Michael nods his head and looks at his phone background. It''s a picture of Val and Alvin goofing around for the camera. It kills me that Michael is so hurt.


    "You should surprise her for her birthday."


    "How? I mean I think Jacky still has the key to Valentina''s apartment. If she hasn''t changed the locks."


    "Trust me, she hasn''t and he does."


    Michael gives me a confused look.


    "Uh. Well. Apparently, when Val is out, Jacky and Rob go check on her apartment. They clean it up and stock her fridge sometimes."


    He punches my arm, not super hard, but still to where I felt it.


    "What the fuck Ronnie! I thought no one goes over anymore! Does she know?!"


    I rub my arm and roll my eyes at him.


    "Of course she knows! She just pretends like it doesn''t happen. They didn''t ask if you wanted to go because they thought it would be too hard for you. They don''t even talk about the things they see in there but I know it''s hard for them."


    He sighs. At least he gets that it wouldn''t be good for him to see that stuff and doesn''t demand to go. Maybe we could get her to come back to us if we did this surprise party for her.


    "What''s your plan? I know you have one up your sleeve, Radke."


    I think for a few minutes and pull out my phone. We need to get everyone in on this that we can. It''s a shame that Max and Alva are still in Florida and won''t be around until June or July I think. Oh well. First I text Jacky and Rob the plan in a group chat. Once I know that they''re on board, I send a mass text to everyone Val has met and become friends with to meet up at Val''s address early on the 21st. We need to show her how much we care about her and shit. Plus it''ll keep my mind off things. I text Max and let him know everything and ask if he can set up like a face cam or something so it''ll be like him and Alva are there too. I put my phone down and turn back to Michael.


    "I want this to be the best fucking party anyone has ever thrown."


    "It''s gonna draw a lot of attention to Val''s apartment."


    "As long as no one posts about it beforehand, I think we should be fine. Now, let''s go shopping!"


    Early morning, March 21st


    ~Michael~


    Thanks to Zakk, Val has been out of her apartment since last night. They had a "slumber party" at his house, which was just them in onesies eating junk and watching horror movies. None of us really knew, but apparently they have these types of nights about once a month. Zakk told us that he kept Val up well past 6am, so she won''t be home until way later. Rob and Jacky were here before anyone else, cleaning up and straightening Val''s things out so they''re not in the way. Ronnie and I have been collecting various party supplies for almost 2 weeks. Right now, only a few people are here. All of ETF is here. Half of SWS, ATL, and Lane are here. Justin and Lane come up to me, carrying a giant Jack Daniels bottle pinata and laughing.


    "Dude what is this for?"


    I hand them two brown paper bags full of various airplane shots and smile.


    "That boys, is for the party favors."


    "You''re giving out alcohol as party favors? Not everyone who''s coming, drinks."


    "They''re going to be there for anyone that wants them. If Val feels like sharing. Come on guys, do you think it was a bad idea?"


    Justin and Lane exchange looks and smile back at me.


    "Nah, it was a great idea. I''d say drinking is Val''s favorite hobby these days."


    I nod and they take the stuff to the counter to set it up. I spot Ronnie setting up Val''s speakers and walk over.


    "It''s crazy that these have just been sitting here, collecting dust! She should''ve asked one of us to set them up for her! How''d she get them anyway?"


    "I believe those were a gift from Max."


    Ronnie smiles and shakes his head as he messes with the wires.


    "Of course. Once they started to get along, he spoiled the shit out of her. Doesn''t he send her a care package from Florida every month?"


    I smile and help Ronnie with the speakers.


    "Yeah. And now Alva is in on it so the box has gotten even bigger lately."


    Ronnie stops and stares off into space for a second before looking away, sad.


    "Do you think she''ll ever forgive me?"


    I''m taken aback a bit. Ronnie doesn''t really show how much this hurts him. He really does still love Val. Now is not the time and here is not the place for this though.


    "Of course. You just need to apologize and give her time. She won''t be mad at you forever, I mean she can''t. Just look at you."


    Ronnie smiles and gently shoves me a bit.


    "Gay. I really miss hanging out with her though."


    "I do too Ronnie. I do too."


    As more people show up, decorating the apartment goes by faster and faster. We''re kind of all crowded into her apartment. Everyone is super excited. About 20 minutes ago Zakk had texted me and said that they were on the way back.

 23

    ~Valentina~


    Zakk has been acting weird all day and he''s been strangely over-excited about our slumber party for this month. Today, I turned 22 years old. It''s there on my Instagram and Twitter but so far, no one has said happy birthday. Well, fans of my art have of course, but none of my friends. Zakk looked at me confused when I just announced that it was March 21st. Michael hasn''t even wished me a happy birthday. As I''m walking along the hallway to my apartment door, I pull out my phone and dial a number.


    "Babe."


    "Hey, I know you''re bummed that I''m not coming out tonight."


    "It''s your birthday. You''re supposed to have fun."


    "I know babe. It''s just weird."


    "But you ditched me last night for that pussy. Uh, Jeff, or whatever."


    "Zakk. And watch your mouth when you talk about him. Gotta go, love you, bye."


    When I hang up Zakk gives me a side look. It wasn''t a shock that they don''t like each other. They''re from different crowds. Zakk doesn''t understand why I''m dating him but he respects me enough to keep his opinions to himself. When I stick my key in the door Zakk is practically jumping up and down. We walk into my pitch-black apartment and Zakk closes the door behind us.


    "What the fuck is wrong with you? I''m not a fucking owl Zakk, I can''t see in the dark."


    Suddenly my lights flash on and I blink at the brightness. There are a bunch of people I know squeezed into my tiny apartment. From what I can tell, the entire place is decorated. Everyone screams at the same time.


    "Happy birthday Valentina!"


    I look around at the people I''ve been avoiding. Even Max and Alva are digitally here. I''m struck with the memory of my parents always throwing me special parties and I kneel down, beginning to cry. Laughing and clapping goes around the room and I smile through my tears as Zakk pulls me back up.


    "You remembered. You guys threw me a surprise party."


    "Do you really think that we''d forget?"


    I spot Michael walking towards me and I sprint into his arms. He holds me.


    "Michael! I''m so sorry. I''ve been so awful and completely ungrateful."


    "It''s okay Val, it''s okay."


    "No. It''s not. I''ve been avoiding you and Jacky. Is Jacky here?"


    "He is. You might want to talk to him and Rob privately later. Really."


    "Thank you so much for this."


    "Everyone pitched in to get it set up. I mean Zakk had to put up with you."


    I gently punch Michael and look at Zakk, who gives me a goofy face.


    "Seriously though. This was all Ronnie''s idea. Thank him."


    Michael lets go and pushes me in the direction of Ronnie. He''s sitting on my couch, keeping to himself. Every few seconds, he nods. Max is still on the screen, talking. He''s probably giving him a pep talk. Great. Fuck my life.


    ~Ronnie~


    I stare at the ground, listening to Max''s instructions. Most of what he''s saying are threats. I get it. I absolutely deserve it. He tells me that Val is on her way over and I look up. Alva comes back on with Max and they greet Val.


    "Happy birthday best friend!"


    Val''s face lights up with a smile.


    "Thank you so much. I wish you two were here."


    "Ah don''t worry. We''ll be up there in a few months. We better go though. Enjoy your night!"


    They all say bye and Val turns to me. She sits next to me on the couch and gives me an awkward hug.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "Michael told me that this was your idea. Thank you so much."


    "Ah. You deserved it. You''re welcome."


    We sit in uncomfortable silence.


    "Where''s Rei? I didn''t see her."


    I sigh and shrug.


    "We broke up last week. Uh, she was seeing her ex behind my back. It was a whole thing."


    Val nods and I clear my throat.


    "Oh wow, that''s horrible. I''m sorry."


    "Ah, it''s fine. We were only dating a few months. What about you?"


    Shit. Val coughs at the personal question. Fucking hell Radke.


    "There''s this guy I''m seeing. Zakk''s met him."


    She stands up and I see her looking through the crowd. I follow her vision and spot Jacky. He''s doing everything he can to not notice Val.


    "Hey, Vincent?! Bring me a drink!"


    "Get it yourself, Ronald!"


    I excuse myself to Val, who sat back down and walk over to Jacky. I pour two drinks and lean into him.


    "You can''t avoid her man."


    "Can''t I? That''s what she did."


    "You two need to talk Jacky."


    "Mm. That''s nice."


    I grab the two drinks and hand one to Jacky. As I pull him along back to the couch, I nod at Mikey, who''s been standing, chatting with Rob. Halfway to the couch Jacky starts fighting and I have to shove him in front of me. Rob is already awkwardly standing there with Mikey.


    "Suck it up."


    "I don''t want to talk to her!"


    "Be a man!"


    "I don''t want to!"


    "If that were true, you wouldn''t have bothered coming."


    "I was doing you and Michael a favor."


    "Vincent. You stock her fucking fridge when she''s not home. Knock it off."


    I make Jacky and Rob sit in the chairs. I hand Val her drink from Jacky as Michael and I sit on the couch with Val in between us. Michael leans back and moves Val to rest against him. He''s gonna be an overprotective dad tonight it seems. Jacky is looking straight ahead at the blank TV and Rob is staring at the drink in his hands.


    "Fucking talk."


    ~Michael~


    Ronnie attempts to get everyone to start sharing feelings and shit. Val quietly sighs and rests her head on my shoulder like she used to do before Ronnie fucked everything all up. I missed my little-little sister. I miss Alva more obviously. It''s just different. Alva is all the way in Florida. Val is here in LA just avoiding me. It hurts. Val starts to speak with sadness in her voice.


    "I guess I owe Robert an apology for ignoring his texts and never calling back when I said I was going to. However, I definitely know I owe Jacky an apology. I stopped hanging out with you and leaving every time you said you were coming to check on me, in addition to dodging your calls and texts. I know it''s probably not enough but I really am sorry. I miss you guys. I miss everyone but especially you two. I was being a selfish asshole. I''m so sorry. Please forgive me."


    Rob and Jacky exchange looks. I kiss the top of Val''s head.


    "Robert. I know I hurt you. We weren''t as close as Michael and I are but you''re like an older brother to me. I am sorry. If Michael could forgive me, I''m sure you could too. Jacky."


    Val turns her body towards Jacky and for the first time, he looks up at her. There''s sadness and pain in his eyes.


    "Besides Alva and Max, you''re literally the best friend I''ve ever had in my entire life. I know it''s not an excuse but I was going through a dark time and I didn''t want to hurt you by you seeing me like that. I''m so sorry."


    Jacky stands and hops on Val, hugging her and nearly crushing me in the process.


    "Please never do it again. I need you."


    Val looks over to Rob and he smiles.


    "I guess I can forgive you."


    A few people from around the room that were listening start cheering and clapping. This whole situation has put stress on all of us lately. Jacky leans more into Val, which causes them both to lean into me.


    "Valentina I love you. But you and Jacky are going to fucking kill me."


    Jacky leans over and kisses my cheek before getting off Valentina. Val downs her drink and jumps off the couch.


    "Let''s fucking party!"


    I look over at Jacky and he smiles.


    "Was that kiss necessary?"


    "Don''t be so cold sweetheart."


    Val looks between us with a shocked face. Jacky and I burst out laughing. She glares at us.


    "Sorry, it was hilarious."


    "I ship it."


    "No. No. It was a joke. Fucking fangirl."


    She pouts.


    "But it''s my birthday."


    "And..?"


    "I want Vampent to be a thing."


    I roll my eyes and Jacky groans.


    "Oh my fucking god. Never."


    Thankfully Ronnie saves us from enduring any worse ship names Val can come up with by setting up the alcohol-filled pinata. Val manages to break it and is kind enough to share with everyone that wants in. She opens various presents as cake and ice cream is passed around.


    ~Valentina~


    It''s been about a month since my fantastic birthday party with all my friends. I''ve managed a good balance between keeping in touch with friends, seeing my boyfriend, seeing my best friends and projects. For weeks Michael has been complaining that he hasn''t had the chance to meet my boyfriend. He is my big brother after all so I gave into his dinner request with the two of us. I''m excited, however, my boyfriend couldn''t care less. He''d rather be out at the usual club hang out right now. Luckily we show up at the restaurant before Michael so I take the few spare minutes to talk to him.


    "Please be nice to Michael. He''s like family to me."


    "Yeah, I got you, babe. As long as that one guy isn''t here."


    "You and Zakk literally have no reason to hate each other..."


    "He was giving me looks the entire time. You sure he''s not gay?"


    "Zakk is very straight, trust me."


    He tightens his grip on my hand.


    "Why? He try something with you?"


    I look up and spot Michael coming in. Thank fuck. I wave him over and JJ leans into me.


    "That''s him? He dresses like a fucking faggot."


    I slap his arm.


    "JJ. Don''t fucking start. You promised."


    "Alright alright. Lay off."


    Dinner goes pretty smoothly and JJ manages to keep his manners with Michael. Mostly, I catch up with my big brother while JJ listens. Occasionally Michael and him exchange questions and answers. As dinner goes on, however, JJ gets increasingly irritating and I have to excuse us early. Michael seems to understand but I see the worried look on his face as JJ practically drags me out of the restaurant.

 24

    ~Michael~


    After Val and her boyfriend leave the restaurant, I pay for my part of the meal. Even though I had invited them out to dinner, Val insisted that she pay for her and her boyfriend''s food. He didn''t offer to pay instead. JJ. What a fucking asshole. At least he acted like one. He gave me dirty looks, barely answered my questions, and was the whole reason they left early. Not to mention that he was on his phone the entire time. From what Zakk told me, Val and him met at one of the shady bars she frequents. He''s an alcoholic with no job apparently. JJ seems to live off ''family money''. Zakk and I are both worried about Valentina''s safety. When I walk into the house, Ronnie practically mauls me before I can even close the door.


    "So how was dinner? How''s Val? What vibes did you get from her boyfriend?"


    I sigh and head over to the couch, Ronnie following close behind, knowing that he wants full details. He still cares about her. And even though I''d never admit it to him, I would feel better if Val was with Ronnie, a lot better. Ronnie and I sit down.


    "Her boyfriend''s name is JJ. From what I heard he doesn''t have a job, well a legal one. He''s a regular at one of the bars Val goes to."


    "So he drinks a lot? Zakk said that he''s a dick."


    I nod my head.


    "Yeah, he''s not exactly the friendliest person. He really didn''t care about being there. They actually left early because he threw a fit."


    "Zakk and him really don''t like each other."


    "I don''t think JJ likes me either."


    Ronnie shakes his head.


    "What''s his real name?"


    I sit for a minute, thinking.


    "I don''t think Val even knows what it is. I don''t think she really knows anything about him."


    Ronnie sighs, becoming annoyed. I don''t blame him.


    "What are we gonna do about this?"


    I pat my best friends back. As much as I want to do something, I can''t.


    "Ronnie. I know this isn''t what you want to hear but we can''t do anything. Valentina is an adult and we have to let her make her own decisions. If we intervene she''ll probably shut us out again."


    ~Ronnie~


    "There has to be something we can do! He''s probably dangerous! Val could get hurt!"


    He looks down and continues patting my back. I bring my hands to my face and groan into them. I realize that there''s actually nothing we can do and it''s killing me. It''s obviously hard on Michael too. I mean since we met her, all he''s wanted to do is protect her and stop her from getting hurt.


    "All we can really do is be here for her and support her when she needs us."


    I rub my hands down my face and nod. I''m the last person she''d want in her personal business anyway. Especially with everything that''s happened between us. I''m not giving up though.


    "I talked to Willow today. She''s driving Chrissy crazy asking about Val."


    We both laugh and the tension that was in the room gets cleared out.


    "That bad? How''s Chrissy dealing with it?"


    "She said I''m taking too long getting Val to call. You''re not going to believe this.."


    I pause to laugh and Michael leans in closer, impatient.


    "Stop stalling. Fucking tell me."


    "Chrissy ordered a commission from Val for Willow and added a note with her number saying that she''d appreciate a call to Willow!"


    Michael starts laughing and it causes me to laugh harder.


    "But I thought Chrissy hates Val?"


    "She does! But I guess Willow won''t leave her alone about it. She''s desperate at this point."Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.


    "Well, call Val and ask."


    "Right now?"


    "Mhm."


    I start dialing and Michael motions for me to put it on speaker. When Val answers I can barely hear her. JJ must''ve been anxious to leave the dinner so he could go to the bar and do whatever he does.


    "Hello?! Ronnie?! Hold on! Babe?! JJ!! Fuck! I''m going outside for a minute!"


    I hear a guy yell something back but I can''t make out what he said. I wait until the music and voices become just background noise.


    "Jacky Vincent''s best friend speaking."


    ~Valentina~


    I hear Ronnie groan and I laugh into my phone. I can practically hear the eye-roll over the receiver.


    "2nd best friend. Alvin comes first."


    "Of course. I know that. Max comes first to me. Or Rob. Or Zakk. I don''t know."


    I laugh into the phone again. Honestly, I''m a bit tipsy and I can''t help it.


    "Anywhore, what''s up Ronster?"


    I hear a distant chuckle on the other end.


    "That Michael? Hi big brother!"


    "Yes hello! Have you been talking to Alva lately?"


    "Yes! How''d you know?!"


    It sounds like the phone switches hands and I''m back to talking to Ronnie. This smile I can''t seem to remove is hurting my cheeks.


    "You said ''anywhore'' and you called me ''Ronster'', which you have never done."


    "Ahh. Is that why you called?"


    There''s silence and I imagine Ronnie just staring down at his phone like an idiot. A cute one.


    "No. Have you looked at your recent commission requests?"


    "Not for a few days. Why?"


    "Chrissy sent you one."


    It''s my turn to stare at my phone like an idiot now.


    "The fuck. Why?"


    "Willow misses you. So Chrissy bough a commission for her and out her number on it so you could call and talk to Willow."


    I nod at my phone. That''s really sweet of Chrissy to look past her hate and contact me for Willow. She''s a good mom. I admire that. Still don''t like her though. I''m sure she''ll like me more now knowing that I''m in a relationship and not banging Ronnie. Ha! I end up laughing out loud and remember that I''m still on the phone with Ronnie.


    "Valentina? Still there?"


    "Haha yeah. I''ll search for hers tomorrow. I gotta do the commissions in order by date but I''ll call. Omg."


    "What?"


    "What if Chrissy and I became friends? Like your baby mom chatting it up with... Uh, what even was I? Your fuck buddy?"


    "I really hate that."


    "Your friend with benefits?"


    "Can we not talk about this?"


    "No, I''m just saying. Imagine the horror. Chrissy and I being friends. Talking. Discussing. Comparing."


    I laugh just thinking about all the tea and drama that would be spilled. Ronnie sighs and I hear Michael trying to cover up his laughter.


    "I''d kill myself."


    "Ah, no you wouldn''t. Don''t be so dramatic Ronnie-poo."


    "You''re right, I''d just kill you."


    "Aw sweetheart, you''ve tried that before."


    He huffs into the phone and I laugh more. On no level am I scared of Ronnie. Even when he''s angry. It''s refreshing how comfortable I am with him. When I first met him I was obviously scared. But I got to know him. He''s nothing like Arthur and he''d never intentionally hurt me.


    "Take your drunk ass home, Valentina."


    "Ahh. The sweetest goodbye darling. Bye Michael! I love you!"


    "Goodnight Val! I love you too!"


    ~Flashback~


    It''s been about 2 months since I chose to quit school. I filled up my spare time by picking up extra shifts at my various jobs. I still haven''t told Arthur and it''d be suspicious if I spent more time at home than normal. I''m going to tell him, I just need to figure out the right way to do it. He''s become increasingly aggressive and angry lately. I do my best to tiptoe around him. I get home from a shift to find Arthur home early. He''s sitting at the kitchen table, drink in hand, with papers in front of him. I don''t need to step near him to know he''s wasted.


    "Arthur?"


    "When were you gonna tell me?"


    "Wha-?"


    He tosses the papers across the table at me. Luckily, he hasn''t moved towards me and I feel a hell of a lot more comfortable with the table between us. I glance at the papers and see that they''re from my school.


    "I was gonna tell you, I just needed to find the right time."


    "So who are you fucking when you''re pretending to be out in class?"


    "No one! I''ve been picking up extra shifts."


    "Oh? With Gio?"


    I roll my eyes, not this again. I turn to walk out. In an instant, Arthur is up and he grabs my wrist, violently jerking me back.


    "Where the fuck do you think you''re going, Valentina? You belong to me bitch."


    I try pulling away but his grip is too strong. He raises his arm and I flinch just seconds before his hand connects to my face.


    ~Robert Ortiz: Bonus Chapter~


    It''s the middle of May and I''m rushing to get to the hospital. I didn''t explain anything to the guys, I don''t think I even hung up my phone. I just shoved it in my pocket and got in my car. I give the front desk my name and they send me up to the 3rd floor. They explain that she''s in surgery and I take a second to breathe and pull out my phone to call Jacky.


    "Hey Jacky."


    "Rob? What''s wrong? It sounds like you''re crying?"


    "The hospital. I''m an emergency contact. You need to get here. Now."


    It only takes Jacky 20 minutes to arrive. Even with all the LA traffic. When he steps off the elevator, he spots me and starts running. He has a t-shirt and sweats on. He must''ve been asleep. He reaches me and nearly collapses, trying to breathe.


    "What. Happened."


    He takes a deep breath in between the two words. I''m kind of worried that he could be having a panic attack. I sit down on the floor with him. After a couple seconds, he nods, letting me know that he''s good.


    "I just got a call saying that I was the emergency contact and that I needed to come down here right away."


    Jacky nods and spots a nurse. I stop the nurse and manage a hopeful smile.


    "I was just wondering if there was any news?"


    "She''s still in surgery, one of the doctors will be out later to explain."


    "One of?"


    She gives us a sympathetic smile and continues on her way. Jacky and I exchange looks.


    "You have to call them."


    "I know Jacky. I just don''t want them to freak out."


    "Just call them. Michael isn''t going to understand why he''s not the contact."


    I nod and dial. Michael cheerfully answers his phone. This breaks my heart.


    "Hey Rob! Long time, no talk! You gotta come over to hang out! What''s up!"


    "Michael. You need to come to the hospital."


    "Wh-Why?"


    "It''s Val."

 25

    ~Michael~


    It''s Val. Those words keep repeating in my head. The way he sounded when he said it, I know it''s bad. Ronnie is driving, I just couldn''t. I''m too worried. I want to know what happened. Ronnie, even though he''s certainly distracted, is still driving better than I would be. I manage to hold back tears and stare out the windows. What am I supposed to tell Alvanis? What am I supposed to tell everyone? Everyone fucking loves her. What am I supposed to fucking do? I scream and punch the dashboard. Ronnie glances over at me and his fingers tighten on the wheel.


    "Fuck!"


    "Michael you need to tell me what''s going on. You can''t tell me I need to take you to the hospital and not tell me why."


    When I don''t respond, he continues.


    "It''s obviously not Alvin, she''s in Florida. Did Matti or Tyler do something stupid?"


    I sigh, wiping a hand over my face and continue looking out of the window. If I don''t say it, it''s not real. It''ll just be a bad dream that I''ll eventually wake up from. Ronnie is so god damn persistent.


    "Michael? Plea-"


    I cut him off and tears begin to fall down my face.


    "It''s Val! It''s fucking Valentina! God fucking damn it, Ronnie! Valentina is in the fucking hospital! Rob called me. He''s up there with Jacky. They don''t know anything other than she''s in s-surgery."


    I see Ronnie''s knuckles on the steering wheel turn white as he presses harder on the gas. Through my tears, I see that Ronnie''s face is pale and he looks like he''s physically in pain.


    "R-Ronnie? Are you okay?"


    His eyes never leave the road and I pat his shoulder, causing him to jump a little in the driver''s seat.


    "Uh, does anyone else know? Like besides the four of us?"


    "No. Just you, me, Rob and Jacky."


    Ronnie nods his head and I wonder what''s going through his mind.


    "No one else can know. Not until we talk to the doctors and find out. No one posting about it, no one speaks a fucking word of it to anyone else. Not even a ''sorry personal problem, not gonna be on social media'' post."


    I nod in agreement.


    "Yeah, of course."


    Ronnie nods and we spend the rest of the car ride in silence. I would wonder why Val has Robert as her emergency contact but I''m not stupid. She probably made it that way just in case she did something reckless and ended up in the er. I am super protective of her and tend to treat her like a kid sometimes. But I just try to make sure she doesn''t get hurt. For exactly situations like this. When we get to the hospital I don''t want to get out of the car and Ronnie pulls me out. We get to the third floor where a hyperventilating Jacky and a pacing Robert are.


    ~Ronnie~


    Jacky looks up and tugs on Rob''s pants. Rob spots us as we rush over. Jacky is breathing heavily and I call over a nurse.


    "I understand that this floor is busy but the poor man is having a panic attack. How long has it been now?"


    Rob blinks for a few seconds before speaking.


    "Like uh half an hour or so?"


    "Half an hour of him struggling to breathe. Can you please get him something?"


    "Yes sir."


    I fucking hate hospitals. The nurse comes back with 2 cups. One with water and the other containing what I assume is an anxiety medication. The nurse helps Jacky take it and rushes away. I don''t blame her. 4 scary, tattooed guys. I''m surprised she didn''t call security when Mikey and I got off the elevator. After a couple minutes, Jacky is breathing normally and stands.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    "So I''m guessing no one has said anything to you guys yet?"


    "No.."


    Jacky suddenly pulls Michael, who was just staring blankly at the wall, into a hug. Michael tenses but then just relaxes his arms at his sides. I look at Rob who seems to try to smile but it''s a grimace.


    "She''s going to be fine Rob. She has to."


    After about an hour, a guy in a white doctor coat comes out of the double doors and looks around. I pat Mikey and we all look up at him.


    "Family of Valentina Emerson?"


    All four of us jump up and rush over to the guy. He looks a bit overwhelmed as we all tower over him.


    "Uh, emergency contact? Mr. Ortiz?"


    Rob holds out his hand and greets the doctor.


    "Please, it''s Robert. We''re all family."


    The doctor sighs and pulls us into an empty room.


    "I''m Doctor Colnik, a surgical resident at this hospital."


    "Surgical?"


    "Please if you''ll just let me continue. This isn''t going to be easy."


    The four of us exchange worried looks.


    "Miss. Emerson was brought in by ambulance. We''re not exactly sure what happened and we won''t know until she wakes up. That is if she remembers. What we do know is that she was found in an alleyway behind a bar, downtown. Her injuries seemed superficial. Until she crashed in our er. She has several cuts, scrapes, and bruises. Our concern, however, is her broken ribs. One of which has caused internal bleeding."


    Beside me, all the color drains from Mikey''s face and the doctor catches him before he crashes to the ground. We help him into a chair and the doctor continues, after instructing a nurse to get water.


    "As of now, we''ve managed to control the bleeding enough to find the location of it. After everything is stitched up and she''s taken to a room, I''ll send a nurse to take you up. Right now there''s no way to know when that''ll be."


    It feels like the world is crashing down around us. Michael grabs the doctor''s coat.


    "She''ll be okay though, right?"


    We all look hopefully to the doctor.


    "We hope for the best, Mr?"


    Michael looks down at the floor. It wasn''t the answer he wanted, it wasn''t the answer any of us wanted. I respond for him.


    "That''s Michael, Val''s big brother. I''m Ronnie and this is Jacky. Val means a lot to us Dr. Colnik, we can''t.."


    I trail off, refusing to speak the words. The doctor kneels in front of Mikey.


    "Michael, we are doing everything we can to bring your sister back to you. Every possible thing."


    He nods and when the nurse brings Michael water, the doctor goes back to work.


    ~Michael~


    Who knows how long it''s been. After Val was out of surgery and taken to a room, everything has kind of been a blur. Ronnie told Zakk and I told Alva and Max. After convincing them that they didn''t need to fly out, with some difficulty, I promised to give them updates on everything. They said it could take up to a week for Val to wake up. They had to put her under so the injuries wouldn''t cause any more stress on her body. It doesn''t help that she was completely wasted. The police had stopped by but of course, wouldn''t tell us anything. A few hours ago, Rob and Jacky left to shower, change clothes and get sleep I guess. Rob will probably have to tell the guys from ETF what''s going on. As long as it''s not made public. I don''t need Val to wake up to know what happened. That piece of shit JJ. When I find him, I''m gonna kill him. How dare he lay a hand on my sweet baby sister. Ronnie pulls me from my thoughts.


    "Mikey? Michael? Hey, Michael?"


    "Yes?"


    "You need sleep, Michael. It''s been 2 days.."


    "I''m not leaving. You can''t make me."


    "Michael, calm down. I''m not trying to make you do anything."


    "She needs me here."


    "Michael, have you seen yourself? You haven''t slept in 2 days. Valentina wouldn''t want.."


    "Don''t try to tell me what Val would want!"


    Ronnie sighs in defeat and goes back to sit in the chair at the end of the bed. I know he''s right. I know. But I just... I can''t leave her side. What if she wakes up when I''m gone? What if something happens and I''m not here? Sleeping seems like such a selfish waste of time.


    "The doctor said it might be a couple more days before she wakes up."


    "I know. I was sitting right here when he came in Ronnie."


    "Look, man, I know you''re worried."


    "Can you please save your speech?"


    Ronnie angrily stands and comes over to me. He tugs my chair away from Val''s bed so he can be in front of me. I look up at him, annoyed.


    "Mikey, we''re all fucking worried. We''re all scared. Jacky can''t come into the room without having a fucking panic attack. We''re all going through it, bro. We all care about Valentina just as much as you do. It''s stressing us all out. Now stop being a fucking asshole."


    I sigh and nod, looking down. I''m just so worried. Val has become a big part of my life since we met her. Not only that but Valentina is incredibly important to Alvanis. I don''t want to see how losing Val would effect my sister.


    "I''m sorry Ronnie."


    "You need a break man, Go to the house.."


    "I can''t..."


    "Listen to me. Go to the house, take a long shower, get changed, Come back up."


    "No sleep?"


    "If I tell you to get sleep, you''re not gonna leave. When you get back you can sleep. I don''t think that chair will be very comfortable but it''ll put your mind at ease. You''ll be right here when Val wakes up."


    I nod and stand from the chair. I go over to Val''s bed and lean down.


    "Val I''m going home to take a shower and change. I''ll be right back. 2 hours tops. Don''t you dare wake up just because I''m gone. You better wait until after I''m back. I love you."


    I kiss Val''s cheek and squeeze her hand. Ronnie hugs me with a silly smile on his face.


    "Shut up."


    "I wasn''t gonna say anything. Please take a taxi, you shouldn''t be driving."


    "Yes, dear."


    We both lightly laugh. Val would''ve appreciated that joke. I take a taxi home for my much-needed shower and change of clothes.

 26

    ~Ronnie~


    I''m glad I was able to convince Mikey to go home for a shower and change of clothes. He was starting to smell musky. Not to mention the fact that he needed to get away for a bit to clear his head and get some fresh air. We all smell like the fucking hospital anyway, no matter how good we shower. I tried last night. Fucking smell just won''t go away. With only a couple minutes before the clock marks 2 hours, Michael rushes back in. He took a shower and changed, but somehow he looks even more exhausted than before. He sits back in the chair to the left of Valentina. Within a few minutes, he''s knocked out, his head and arms resting on Val''s bed. I stand and walk up to the right of her.


    "Mikey? You awake bud?"


    When he doesn''t respond. I know he''s out cold. I gently brush my fingers over Val''s face. There''s barely any heat to her body. The tears I''ve been holding back since Mikey told me in the car, begin to silently fall down my face.


    "Val? I don''t know if you can hear me. I just... God this feels so stupid. Please just come back. I know I''m an asshole and I always mess things up. If not for me, for Alvin, Max, and Michael. Shit, for everyone else. Everyone loves you. Jacky hasn''t been able to come in because it makes him too upset, seeing you like this. Zakk won''t leave his house. I''ve never seen Rob so scared. And Mikey, he''s in bad shape Val. He just sits here. This is the first time he''s sleeping in three days. He needs you, Val. Fuck, I need you. I- I think I fell in love with you. I don''t know when or how it happened. But I just do. I fucking love you, Valentina. I want to be able to do this right. I know I''ve asked for too many chances. Please. I can''t lose you, Val. Come back."


    I move to sit back down in my chair and wipe my face. Michael didn''t budge the entire time. Honestly, I don''t even care if he heard me. I just hope that Val is still in there somewhere and she heard me.


    ~Valentina~


    I don''t know where I am. All I really know is that it''s cold and dark. I don''t know how long I''ve been here. Time doesn''t feel like a real thing. I was fairly certain I was alone until I heard someone calling my name. I kept walking until I came to a door. From under the crack, I can see a warm light on the other side. I want to open the door, I want to be where the light is. Every time my hand gets close to open it, I freeze. My heart starts beating faster and I feel like if I touch the knob, it''s going to burn my hand. I''ve just been sitting in front of the door, uncertain of what to do. I can hear two separate people calling my name from beyond the door. The voices sound so familiar. I want to go through so bad but something is keeping me in the dark and cold.


    "Val I''m going... ...I love you."


    Michael? Where are you going? Everything in between was an incoherent mess. I love you too! Why can''t I speak? I open my mouth but the words only play out in my mind. For a while there''s nothing. Then, someone talking. The same incoherent speech. I can''t make out what they''re saying. Then for a brief moment, I hear Ronnie speaking.


    "...I need you... ...fell in love with you... ...can''t lose you..."


    Ronnie? Where are you? You''re not losing me! I''m still here! You love me? He loves me? Did I hear him correctly? It sounds like his voice is right outside the door. I stand and take a deep breath. My hand hesitates close to the knob. It feels so hot. I gather all my courage and grab the knob. It''s not even warm. I turn and pull the door open. I''m met with a warm, blinding light. It feels like arms wrap around me, they pull me back and the door slams shut.


    ~Michael~


    From my sleep I hear an annoying blaring, stirring me close to being awake. I mumble, still half asleep.


    "Ron... Turn off the damn phone.."


    Suddenly, I''m being shaken. The blaring is getting louder and it sounds like there''s chaos around the room.


    "Michael! Mikey, get up!"


    I groan, not opening my eyes.This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    "Sir, I need him to move!"


    "I know! Fuck Michael!"


    I''m dragged up from my seat and I''m fully awake. Ronnie pulls me to the end of the bed and I look around at the room. One of Val''s machines is going crazy and there are at least 3 nurses and a doctor.


    "What''s going on?"


    "Val''s heart stopped.."


    My blood runs cold in my veins and my own heart skips a beat. I grab onto Ronnie for support and he holds me up. I quietly listen to the hospital staff.


    "Charge to 200!"


    "Charged to 200!"


    "Everyone clear!"


    "Clear!"


    They shock Val and I see her chest rise up and go back down. I look to the heart monitor and the line remains flat. Tears start streaming down my face. If Ronnie wasn''t holding on to me, I would be on the floor.


    "Charge to 300!"


    "Charged to 300!"


    "Everyone clear!"


    "Clear!"


    They shock her again. Her chest rises and falls. I hold my breath. Please Val, please. We all watch, no one making a sound. There''s a small rise on the monitor and then her heart starts beating normally again.


    ~Ronnie~


    When the lines on Valentina''s heart monitor go back to normal, everyone in the room breathes out. I pull Michael into a hug. I''ve started crying in relief right along with him. The doctor checks everything else with Val to make sure nothing is wrong, as the nurses clean up the mess. As they exit the room, Michael thanks every single one of them. After the doctor is finished, he comes over to stand by us. Michael shakes his hand.


    "Thank you Dr. Colnik!"


    The doctor nods with a grim look on his face.


    "Don''t thank me yet. Michael, Ronnie. We''re not out of the woods yet. It''s not normal for her heart to suddenly stop like that. It''s not good. It''s going on the fourth day since she was taken out of surgery and she still hasn''t woken up yet."


    Michael stares past the doctor to Val''s small body in the bed. I meet the doctor''s gaze.


    "What are you saying, Doctor?"


    "Well. It''s a tricky subject. I gave her 5 days to wake up. If she doesn''t wake up after that, she could very well be in a coma due to her injuries."


    "You''re saying she won''t wake up?"


    "I''m saying it is a possibility and you guys should consider your options."


    I frown at the doctor. Options? He doesn''t mean... I know this is LA and they probably need the bed space but fuck. We''re not giving up on her after only a week! Michael begins getting agitated. He stops watching Val and turns his attention towards the doctor.


    "This is my little sister."


    "I know Sir, I''m just trying to explain..."


    "Explain what?! How you want me to give up on her after only 5 days?! I have another sister! It would kill her! I can''t believe... What kind of Doctor are you?! You''re supposed to give people hope and do everything you can to help patients get better! And yet you''re standing here, telling me to consider options that aren''t even options for me! At all! You know what?! Fuck you and your options!"


    I tug Michael back away from the Doctor as a couple nurses look into the room. He must get yelled at a lot because he seems unfazed.


    "Dr. Colnik, do you need me to call?"


    "No, thank you. That won''t be necessary. Michael is just upset and stressed. Correct?"


    The nurse nods and leaves as Michael glares at him.


    ~Michael~


    "Fuck off."


    I''m gonna say something else but Ronnie stops me. However, I''m too angry to listen.


    "Michael... Calm down..."


    "No. He''s a dick. Do you have family? Do you have siblings? Do you have anyone that you care about?"


    Dr. Colnik is about to respond when I spot movement from the corner of my eye. A quiet, hoarse voice speaks up from behind us.


    "Michael Orlando. Is that any way to talk to the Doctor that saved your sister''s life?"


    Ronnie and I exchange wide-eyed looks as the Doctor spins around, just as shocked and surprised as we are.


    "Miss. Emerson? You''re awake! I''ll be right back with some equipment and a nurse!"


    The Doctor rushes out of the room as Ronnie and I rush to either side of Valentina''s bed. She looks at both of us and smiles. Her eyes linger on Ronnie for a bit as if there''s something she wants to say. She looks so frail in the hospital bed. Val reaches a shaky hand up to my face and wipes away a few tears. I never even realized that I was crying.


    "Don''t cry. Where''d you go earlier? I heard you say that you were going somewhere and that you loved me."


    "You heard what I said?!"


    "Only bits and pieces, same with Ronnie."


    I look up at Ronnie with a happy smile on my face. Ronnie is staring down at Val with a strange mix of emotions written across his face. Val reaches over and gently places her hand on top of Ronnie''s. Ronnie moves to hold her hand.


    "Where''s my hug, big brother?"


    I lean down and softly hug her. She''s still injured and weak so I can''t exactly hug her with the excitement that I really want to.


    "You all scared us so much."


    "Who all knows?"


    "Us, Max, Chipmunk, ETF, Jacky, my band, and Michael''s band."


    Val nods. She looks around at all the machines and her eyes trail down the iv to the needle in her hand. She frowns.


    "Damn. I hate these things."


    I smile down at her and Dr. Colnik comes back in with a nurse.


    "Hello Miss. Emerson. I''m Dr. Colnik. I know you''ve just woken up but we''re gonna take you down for some testing right away. If you, gentlemen, would wait in the visitor''s lobby."


    I''m about to protest but Val pats the top of my hand and smiles.


    "I''ll be fine. Go let everyone know that I''m back. I love you."


    "I love you too."

 27

    ~Valentina~


    I''m laying in the back seat of the car with my head in Michael''s lap. Ronnie is driving us back to their house, I assume. The hospital didn''t really want to release me but I was so tired of being tested on like a fucking lab rat. I feel fine, except for the huge-ass stitches across my stomach. The Doctor said that the scar shouldn''t be too noticeable but who knows. Even with all the shit, Arthur put me through, I managed to escape without any permanent physical damage. The guys are skeptical about what I told the cops. Although, the Doctor explained to them that it was a possibility, they don''t believe that I don''t remember what happened. I want to talk to Ronnie about what I heard but Michael hasn''t left me alone since I''ve been awake. Apparently, he barely left when I was still out. I love this stubborn asshole. I sigh and turn to bury my face in Michael''s shirt. Michael pats my hair with one hand, while the other holds me securely to him.


    "She alright Mikey?"


    "I''m fine Ronnie. Just hurts."


    Michael relaxes his hold on me and I internally groan. I need to talk to Max or Jacky or Zakk or Robert. I feel like Max and Rob would tell Ronnie though. I feel like they have some kind of ''bro code'' or whatever. I dramatically groan into Michael''s shirt. Maybe I can talk to Alva about it? Fingers brush my hair back from my face.


    "Val, are you okay?"


    I push my face further into his shirt and cling onto him. I need to be held. I''m honestly terrified. I''m glad reading minds isn''t a thing because then they''d know the truth. I remember EVERYTHING.


    "Val?"


    Michael tries to gently push my face back so he can see me but my grip is strong.


    "Valentina?"


    I slightly shake my head and my voice is muffled by his shirt.


    "No..."


    "Valentina Emerson."


    Instinctively, I stiffen and then relax my hold at the stern voice. Michael takes the opening and moves my face back. I close my eyes before I can see his face.


    "Open. Let me see those pretty eyes."


    I feel my face flush red before I open my eyes and look up at my big brother. It''s hard. The way he''s looking at me. It''s hard to not break down crying and tell him everything.


    ~Michael~


    When Valentina finally looks at me I want to take back everything she went through and protect her better. She looks guilty. What would she feel guilty for? I''ll have to persuade her to tell me later. Something is going on with her and Ronnie, I''m just not sure what.


    "Michael stop staring. I already have a hole in my stomach. I don''t need one in my head."


    If she wasn''t in pain, I''d hit her for that. Instead, I tug on her hair with a frown on my face.


    "Not a funny joke. What''s wrong?"


    Her eyes shift away from mine as she speaks.


    "I''m.. just tired. And the medicine is wearing off. I want to see Zakk, Jacky, and Rob."


    There is definitely something she''s not telling me. Is it because Ronnie is in the car?


    "You just said you''re tired and in pain."


    I feel her body shift as she pouts.


    "You can see them later sweetie."


    She doesn''t respond, just looks at the roof of the car. I have an idea. It might be a little harsh but I think it''s necessary.


    "What about JJ? Don''t you want to see him?"The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    Her whole body stiffens. She starts breathing loudly like she''s having a panic attack. Her eyes meet mine. She looks absolutely terrified before she regains her composure. She is hiding something.


    "I''ll call him later.. He''s busy..."


    I can tell it was hard for her to say that without stuttering out. I look up from her face. Ronnie and I lock eyes in the rearview mirror. He shakes his head. Right. Now''s not the time or the place. Later though. She better not think she''s off the hook. I drift off in my thoughts.


    "Take as much time as you need. I''m sure he understands that you need rest."


    Where even is her phone? I think Ronnie grabbed it and turned it off. Notifications were coming in like crazy. Val doesn''t need that extra stress right now. She can barely sit up without being in intense pain. We left the hospital too early. She''s so stubborn.


    "Michael?"


    "Yes sweetheart?"


    I smile down at her and the corner of her mouth nervously twitches up.


    "Um... Well... Can I stay with you and Ronnie until I get feeling better?"


    I laugh and lean down to kiss her forehead. She sounds like she''s afraid we''re gonna say no. Like I would let her go back to her apartment anyway. Ha.


    "I would never turn you away. In fact, I was afraid I''d have to force you to stay with us. Ronnie?"


    ~Ronnie~


    "Of course love. I''d prefer you stayed with us actually. Easier to take care of you. When you feel rested we can go get some stuff for you. Unless you want Jacky and Rob to pick up stuff?"


    "No that''s okay. I want to."


    Michael looks up to the rearview mirror. He shoots me a questioning look. Probably because I called Val ''love''. I can''t help it. I want to know what all she heard when she was unconscious. I also have a sickening feeling that she remembers what happened. It may be tough but I can tell when she''s lying. I gotta talk to Mikey. We need to give her space for a while. She''ll tell us if and when she''s ready. I turn to pull into the driveway to the house.


    "We''re here guys. Hold on Mikey, I''ll help you with Val."


    I bridal carry Valentina into the house. Her face is shoved in my chest but I can still see the pink tint to her cheeks. God, she heard my confession. I need to talk to Rob. I would talk to Max but I feel like he''ll say something to her. I lay her down on the couch and give her the PS4 controller. For the next hour, Michael and I run around making sure she''s comfortable and has everything she needs.


    "Val? Sweetie? I''m going to go take a nap. Ronnie will be down here. Yell if you need something."


    I hear Val giggle slightly. Michael''s been watching her like a hawk. She''s been dozing off since she got her medicine so I guess Michael took that as a sign to get some well-needed rest too.


    "Okay big brother. I''m sleepy too."


    I smile. She sounds so cute and sweet. I mean she always does but she''s especially adorable when she''s tired. I go into the kitchen and call Rob.


    "Hey! I heard Val''s home! When can we come see her?!"


    "Well, right now the meds make her tired. She can''t really sit up well so she''s on the couch. I''ll let you guys know. That''s not why I called though dude."


    "Oh. What''s up, bro?"


    "I''m just gonna spit it out. When Val was still out I told her that I''ve fallen in love with her."


    "Okay?"


    "When she woke up she said she heard bits and pieces of me and Michael talking to her. She heard my confession."


    "Oh... Uh, I''ll have to come over. Tomorrow? Yeah. You need to relax and stay calm dude."


    He hangs up before I can say anything else. Michael is gonna be upset. Hopefully, Val feels slightly better tomorrow.


    ~Valentina~


    I love this couch, I really do. It''s so comfy to sleep on. Not as comfy as Ronnie''s bed but still. Ronnie stayed down here with me all night. When I woke up he was sitting at the end of the couch, passed out with my head in his lap, and his arm protectively over me. I''ve been laying here kind of watching him sleep. It sounds creepy but he''s so peaceful. He''s not the only one that fell in love. I just... I don''t know. I sigh and pick up my phone to text.


    "Alva!"


    "Val! What''s up?! Are you home?!"


    "Yes, I''m home! Well, I''m staying with Ronnie and Michael until I get better."


    "That is your home girl."


    "Okay well, whatever. I need advice."


    "Uh. You know this isn''t Max right?"


    "Oh my god. Alvanis. I need my best big sister''s advice."


    "Bitch, I am the only sister. Don''t play with me."


    "ALVA! I need girl advice!"


    "Holy shit are you pregnant? Is it Ronnie''s? Michael is gonna kill you!"


    If I wasn''t looking up at Ronnie''s sleeping face I''d scream out in frustration. I take a deep breath before I type out my response.


    "ALVANIS GRACE ORLANDO! I am not pregnant and if I was it wouldn''t be Ronnie''s kid! Now listen!"


    "Damn, you didn''t have to go all full name on me Val."


    "So I think I''m in love with Ronnie."


    "Girl. I know. Everyone knows. It''s pretty obvious."


    I ignore Alva''s text and reply with a jumbled mess of what''s been weighing on my mind.


    "So when I was still unconscious in the hospital I could hear some of Mikey and Ronnie talking to me. And I heard Ronnie..."


    I pause. Do I really wanna say something? Should I really tell? I mean what if I imagined it? What if he only said it because he thought I wouldn''t wake up? My thoughts are interrupted by Alva''s text.


    "Val? I swear to fuck if you don''t tell me... I will fly to LA. Not even Jacky will be able to save you."


    "RONNIE TOLD ME (unconscious me) That he''s in LOVE WITH ME."


    After a couple minutes of Alva not responding I text her again.


    "Alva? Did you get my text? Don''t beat me up, I swear I texted you."


    My phone lights up with a call. Thank you Ronnie for putting it on silent. He would''ve been rudely awoken by Asking Alexandria blasting from my phone.


    "Hello?"


    "HOLY FUCK HE CONFESSED HIS UNDYING LOVE FOR YOU WHILE YOU WERE OUT! THAT''S SO FUCKING CUTE!"

 28

    ~Ronnie~


    It was hard not to react when Alvin started screaming. I''ve been sitting here pretending to be asleep, reading her frantic text to Alva. I knew she heard me! Damn it. Val sits up quickly, trying not to wake me up. She groans from the strain on her stitches and falls back down.


    "Fuck Alva! You''re gonna wake up Ronnie! Shit. I gotta go..."


    I instinctively wrap my arms around Val after she hangs up.


    "Ronnie?"


    Shit.


    "Yes?"


    "We need to talk."


    "About what darling?"


    "Don''t play dumb. You were faking weren''t you?"


    Fuck.


    "Okay, fine I was."


    Val reaches her hand up and gently touches my face. For a moment we just look into each other''s eyes. Normally I wouldn''t be down for this corny shit but it''s different with Val. I am different with Val. I really love her. Just as I''m about to lean down for a kiss, Michael sprints down the stairs and Valentina drop her hand.


    "Baby sister, you''re awake! Morning Ronnie."


    I nod, slightly irritated at the interruption.


    "Hello Mikey. Uh, Rob is coming today."


    Michael lifts up Val''s legs to sit on the couch.


    "Hmm I don''t know. How are you feeling Valentina?"


    She''s been smiling wide, trying to contain her excitement at the simple mention of one of her four best friends.


    "I''m absolutely spectacular dear brother. I''d be even better if Zakk and Jacky were tagging along."


    "Val, you just got out of the.."


    "Please Michael!"


    Val gives Mikey the most adorable puppy dog eyes I''ve ever seen in my life besides Willow''s. Michael crumbles at her begging.


    "Fine! I''ll tell them or Ronnie can ask Rob to pick them up."


    Val sets her phone back on her chest and smiles widely. She has to contain her excitement so she doesn''t strain herself too much. She hasn''t seen any of them since she went to the hospital. She probably misses them a lot. If she didn''t know better she''d probably ask Michael to put Max on a plane so she can see him too.


    "Already done!"


    Michael laughs and heads into the kitchen to make breakfast. I help Valentina up slowly.


    "Val?"


    "Yes Ronnie?"


    "When you start feeling better uhh... Nevermind."


    She just looks at me curiously. I keep forgetting about her ''boyfriend''.


    ~Michael~


    As I go into the kitchen, I mentally pat myself on the back for interrupting whatever was going on with Ronnie and Val. It''s obvious they love each other. I''m pretty sure J.J. is the reason why Val ended up in the hospital but until she says something, we''re stuck. As far as we know, she''s still in a relationship. Plus, I don''t completely trust Ronnie with her yet. He''s drove her out more than once.


    "Hey sweetheart! What do you want for breakfast?"


    Valentina slowly walks up behind me.


    "Just a smoothie."


    "What are you doing up?!"


    "Relax. I was getting water."


    "Why can''t Ronnie do it?"


    She rolls her eyes and grabs a water bottle from the fridge.


    "He''s not my servant. And he''s taking a shower before the guys get here."Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    I pull her into a hug and begin to get emotional.


    "I was so scared, you know?"


    "Aw Mikey, come on! The guys are gonna be here soon! I''m gonna have to deal with an upset Robert, a sad Jacky, and a crying Zakk."


    I sigh and release her, turning back to the blender.


    "Michael don''t do this."


    I pour chopped strawberries in the top.


    "Big brother? You know I love you."


    I sniff and toss some spinach in. She sighs and hugs my side.


    "I just don''t think you realize how much I care about you. How much everyone cares about you. It''s no secret that I was a mess. Zakk refused to leave his house and Jacky kept having panic attacks."


    She buries her face in my side and hugs as tight as she can without hurting herself.


    "Michael I know it was hard. I''m so sorry. I''ve broken promises. I''ve hurt the only people that care about me. I''m a constant fuck up. I''m not good enough, I never am."


    Before she can start crying, I move her face up so she''s making eye contact.


    "I never want to hear that come out of your mouth ever again! It''s not true Val. I know it still bothers you Valentina, but fuck the past. All that matters is the present. You have people that care about you and love you."


    She smiles up at me and her blue eyes light up.


    "Now can I get you to eat some toast with this smoothie?"


    "I can try."


    After she eats I send her on her way back into the living room.


    ~Valentina~


    I nearly screech when the doorbell rings. I get to see some of my favorite people.


    "Come in!"


    Jacky and Rob come in smiling. Zakk comes in last and starts sprinting towards me. Robert grabs the back of his shirt and stops him from tackling me. Ronnie comes down.


    "Yo Rob! Zakk! Jacky!"


    The three come inside, Zakk still being held by his collar. I frown.


    "Do you have a spare dog leash for Zakk?"


    "Aw let him go see his best friend Rob."


    Ronnie laughs, shaking his head. Before he lets go, he warns Zakk.


    "Be gentle Zachary. She still has the stitches. Do not tackle, do not squeeze, do not goof around."


    Zakk groans at Robert''s protectiveness. However, as soon as Rob let''s go, Zakk sprints to me and gently lifts me up as I squeal. Everyone else in the room shakes their heads.


    "I can''t believe you actually thought that he''d listen."


    Jacky pats Rob on the back laughing.


    "Oh please. I gave you the same speech in the car."


    Just then Michael comes out of the kitchen.


    "Zachary Sandler! Release my baby sister!"


    Zakk sets me down. I hug Robert and Jacky. My phone notification goes off. JJ.


    "I told you that you''d regret breaking up with me you stupid bitch. Hide with those faggots (AN: I APOLOGIZE. I hate using this word.) all you want, I''m not fucking finished with you yet."


    "I know you''re reading these! Answer me or something bad will happen!"


    "I came to visit you in the hospital but those 2 guys were always there. Sometimes there were more."


    "JJ, I said what I had to say, it''s done. Please just leave me alone. You''re the one that said I was ugly and worthless and good for nothing... Move on."


    I hand Ronnie my phone after responding to JJ and sit next to him. He unconsciously throws an arm over my shoulders. Michael, Jacky, Robert, and Zakk all argue over who gets to sit on the other side of me. Before anyone can win, my phone beings blowing up with texts.


    "Whoa, Val."


    I reach for my phone but Ronnie holds it to where I can''t reach. He goes to unlock it.


    "No! Ronnie! Let me just put it on silent!"


    He begins looking at the screen, joking around at first.


    "Nah I''m gonna tell whoever it is that you''re with family and friends. Uhh, this isn''t Max..."


    I begin to panic.


    "Ronald! Those are my personal texts! You have no right to read those!"


    I see the anger flash in his eyes as he reads through a few of the texts.


    "Michael. Can I request your presence in the kitchen for a second?"


    I internally groan. I''m in fucking trouble. Fucking Ronnie. Fucking nosy. Michael gets up and follows Ronnie into the kitchen. I''m not going to get my phone back anytime soon. Asshole. I''m about to get fucking interrogated.


    ~Ronnie~


    I scan through a few of the messages from the bastard and read them out loud to Michael. It''s no surprise that he beat the shit out of MY precious Valentina. But these threatening texts are a shock.


    "I fucking knew it! God fucking damn it!"


    "Michael calm down."


    He looks at me like I''m fucking insane and honestly it terrifies me a bit. Maybe I might go a bit crazy when it comes to Valentina.


    "What in the fuck do you mean calm down Ronald? He did this to Val. The girl you love. He beat her and left her for dead in a fucking alley to go back to drink like the piece of shit he is!"


    I know he''s right and remaining calm is an internal struggle but I need to maintain my composure. She''s in pain. Hurt flames through my body when I read the messages that caused this mess.


    "JJ, I''m so sorry. You are a great person and have treated me so well."


    Michael scoffs at the text. I hold up my hand to stop him. There''s more.


    "However, I can''t continue this relationship. My excessive drinking is worrying the people that I''m lucky to have care about me. I keep pulling away and hurting people. And most of all, I''m still completely in love with Ronnie. I waited for the feeling to pass but it just consistently increases. Even if he doesn''t feel the same. I can''t continue to stay with someone I''m not happy with. I''m sorry if this hurt you in any way but I can''t do this to myself anymore."


    Tears form in my eyes as I look up at Michael. Deep inside this feeling boils to the surface. I''m a mixture of pure happiness with a bit of guilt for being the underlying cause of the situation.


    "She broke up with him because she''s still caught up in you. I.. Wow."


    Michael stands there a bit shocked and has surprisingly calmed him down. Honestly, I''m shocked too. There goes the only thing that was stopping my flirting. I smile to myself. I''m going to do it right this time. We''ll take it slow.


    "So Mikey. What do you want to do?"


    "Besides beat the shit out of this guy?"


    I give Michael a serious look. Not because I don''t think he''ll do it. He''d do anything for the people he cares about. But because it''s not like we can track this guy down. Shit, Val won''t report it or press charges. Plus we only know this guy''s dumb ass nickname. Michael sighs as if his thought process has completely betrayed him.


    "You know Ronnie? Let''s just be here for her."


    I lean in closer. Surely I hadn''t heard him right.


    "Say again?"


    "You heard me asshole. She''s terrified and just wants to move on. We''ll block his number from her phone and help her heal. Mentally and physically."


    I smile at Michael''s sudden maturity growth. I pat him on the shoulder on the way back to the living room.


    "Stop looking at me like that. If we ever see him I''m still gonna beat the shit out of him."

 29

    ~Valentina~


    I sit up and shake the barely awake man next to me. He groans and opens one eye.


    "What if Michael finds me in here?"


    "Relax Val. You''ll just tell him the truth. You had a bad dream and he wasn''t home so you came to me."


    "He''ll be suspicious because we went out last night."


    Ronnie turns onto his stomach and smothers himself in the pillow, muffling his words.


    "Val... We had a date. One date. Besides that, I promised you nothing else. No kissing, no sex, and no sleeping in here with me."


    I pout and lay back on the other pillow.


    "But it''s better to have someone.."


    "If you sleep in this bed, things are going to happen. Things that obviously complicate us."


    I turn on my side to face him, ignoring the pain in my stomach.


    "I''ll call Craig then!"


    "You do th... What? Cruel, that''s cruel. I thought you were gonna say Zakk. Anyway, get up."


    Ronnie sits up and looks at the clock. Date number 2 is lunch. He wants to take it slow but I mean, come on. As he gets up, I watch him from the bed. How in the fuck did I get so lucky? He stretches, flexing his muscles. I want to slowly trace my fingers over each and every tattoo. We''re not ready for that kind of intimacy though.


    "Don''t dress too fancy, I barely have clothes here."


    Ronnie nods as he puts on a shirt. He''s going to kick me out soon so he can change pants.


    "Right. We''ll go over tomorrow to grab some things. Your phone has been quiet."


    "Yeah. It''s mostly Zakk. Max and Alva haven''t been answering me lately."


    Ronnie smiles and motions towards the door as I stand.


    "Must be busy."


    After Ronnie finishes changing, he takes me to a cute little restaurant. He pulls out the chair for me and everything. He even turned down the flirty waitress.


    ~Michael~


    "Everything is set. Yes, I''m sure."


    "This really doesn''t feel right M. This is a girls apartment."


    "Relax dude. It''s my baby sister. I already explained the circumstances. She needs to be safe and protected. It''s for her own good."


    "Oh damn. Is this her? She''s fucking hot."


    I groan at my phone.Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    "Do anything besides what I''m paying you for and I will cut off your balls and mail them to your mother."


    "Geez. I got it bro. I was just appreciating the scenery."


    Ronnie and Valentina come through the door. Val sprints to me.


    "Brother!"


    "I gotta go. Don''t disappoint me."


    "Is that her? Tell her I said ''Wassup''."


    I hang up and pull Val into a hug. Ronnie looks at me and I nod. He didn''t want to agree to it but after arguing my case, he regretfully said yes. She''s in for two surprises this week. One great, one bad. Val and Chrissy have been getting along pretty great. They''ve even been texting, much to Ronnie''s dismay. I don''t quite understand. Potential girlfriend should definitely get along with baby mom. Ronnie just has his insecurities. He''s already fucked up twice.


    "What are we doing today guys?"


    Well, Ronnie and I will be clearing upstairs. Since she can walk up the stairs now and for her surprises. I don''t want to just leave her down here alone though.


    "We have some stuff to do. You can call over a friend though. One friend Val."


    She sighs and Ronnie lifts her up bridal style. They laugh and plop on the couch.


    "One friend. I got it dad."


    Ronnie smirks and Val just rolls her eyes at me like some bratty teenager.


    "Any more texts?"


    "Nope. The real question is who am I gonna have come over. How dare you limit me to only one best friend."


    I shake my head as Ronnie hugs Val.


    "Rob, his girl, and the kids went to the amusement park."


    "And Zakk is with his babe. Well, that narrowed it down fast. Still, I miss Max."


    Ronnie and I just smile. Only a couple more days. She needs this. We all need this.


    "I still don''t understand how you two can be such good friends. You two fight all the time."


    Val shrugs.


    "And then we hug and play video games. Ronnie and Alva fight like that too."


    Ronnie grabs water out of the fridge. Val frowns. We had to lock up the liquor and get rid of the beer that was cold. We''re trying to get a handle on her dependency.


    "Alvin loves me."


    I snort and Val chokes back a laugh.


    "Only on the days, she doesn''t want to kill you. So like 1 or 2 days a week."


    "Rude."


    Cleaning goes by pretty smoothly. Jacky brought Val a bunch of snacks. As if she needed them considering the guest room dresser stash has overflown all over the room. I don''t know how she''s gonna eat all these snacks. But if Ronnie or I even touch it, she somehow knows. As soon as we''re finished, Val goes up with her new snacks and goes to bed.


    ~Ronnie~


    When I get up to take Val to her apartment, she''s not in her room. I check every room upstairs before I go down to the main floor. I go out into the kitchen and there she is. I gently shake her shoulder.


    "Babe? Why are you asleep under the table?"


    She yawns and opens her eyes, smiling.


    "I was cuddling with Charlie. It was great."


    I smile and help her from under the table.


    "Well, that''s good that you were able to sleep. How are the nightmares?"


    She kisses my cheek and grabs orange juice from the fridge.


    "They''re honestly not too bad."


    After Valentina drinks her orange juice, she grabs a small apple and we head out. This is going to be so fucking hard. I didn''t want to agree to Michael''s plan but what choice did I have? She''s not going to come back anytime soon. She just needs a little push to finally move back in with us. My stomach drops as I pull up to her apartment and turn off the car.


    "Wait, Val!"


    "Yeah Ronnie?"


    She pauses with the door open. I panic.


    "Well um. I know it''s super early and shit but... Will you be my girlfriend?!"


    "I''m pretty sure I was since our first date."


    I sigh and we get out of the car. Here goes nothing. We get up to the door and my heart is pounding. I thought he was supposed to keep it open a little bit. Val opens the door and we step inside. She immediately gasps. The whole fucking place is trashed.


    "Ronnie? Oh my god."


    "Get behind me, sweetheart."


    We check every room in her apartment. By the time we''re back in the living room, she''s shaking and crying.


    "This was JJ."


    "You don''t know for sure."


    "I can feel it, Ronnie. He broke into my apartment."


    I hug her into me. The guilt slowly eating me alive. Even so, I have to go along with the rest of the plan. I kiss the top of her head.


    "That''s it, Valentina. You''re moving back in with me and Michael. No protest. I need to be sure you''ll be safe. That can only happen if you move in. Grab your toothbrush and a few changes of clothes. Rob and Jacky will come back for everything else. I don''t want you here anymore."


    Val just nods. The first thing she grabs is her parents wedding picture.

 30

    ~Valentina~


    Moving back in with Michael and Ronnie was pretty easy. I''m moved into the same room. We''re not ready to tell everyone that we''re dating yet. Well, Chrissy knows and she''s actually done pretty well with it. it''s weird getting along with my boyfriend''s ex and baby mom. I''m glad though because I know Willow is the most important thing to Ronnie. I''m relaxing on the couch, alone in the house. Michael is running errands and Ronnie went out to get food since Willow will be here this week. Everyone will be back later tonight I suppose.


    "Oh, hey Craig."


    "Wow, you sound disappointed."


    "Sorry. I thought..."


    He cuts me off as I hug him.


    "I was Ronnie?"


    I punch his arm.


    "I thought you were Ronnie with Willow! She''s here for a week and she''s all mine!"


    "Jesus fucking Christ Len. Is that what you wanted Ronnie for?"


    Craig teases and winks. I put my finger to my lips.


    "What''s up anyway? Why''d you stop by?"


    "Well, I know Ronnie and Michael are out and they asked for me to come keep you company."


    We sit on the couch and Charlie comes over to say hello to Craig.


    "Really?"


    "No. HA! I came over to be nosy. Plus, I haven''t seen you in a while."


    "Aw, I missed you too Craig!"


    Craig and I are leaned against each other laughing and talking when Ronnie and Willow come in. He glances at me, Craig, the empty liquor bottle, and then back at me. Fuck. It wasn''t. Willow sprints up to me, much to Ronnie''s disapproval it looks like.


    "MOMMY VAL!"


    "Oh my gosh, Willow!"


    Willow barely gets into my arms for a hug when Ronnie pulls us apart.


    "Go put your stuff away in the room sweetheart. Say hello to Craig. The adults are going to talk."


    Craig and I exchange looks. After Willow says hello to Craig, she runs upstairs. Ronnie doesn''t turn to look at us. I hope Michael gets back soon.


    "See ya later Craig."


    "Look, Ronnie.."


    "Goodbye."


    Craig nods and gives me a sympathetic look before going out the front door. I stare down at my hands like a mischievous child about to get scolded.


    "Seriously Valentina?"


    "Don''t overreact Ronnie.."


    He turns to me and I look up. He''s upset.


    "Overreact? You''re supposed to be sober Val! For multiple reasons! You knew Willow was coming today!"This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.


    "You''re acting like I asked for him to bring the bottle."


    We''re both trying to keep our voices down so Willow doesn''t hear us.


    "Did you?"


    "Excuse me! No! I didn''t even know he was coming over!"


    ~Ronnie~


    I watch Val, looking for signs of the truth. If I had known she''d be acting like this, I would''ve taken Willow out for a while. Seriously, she knows I don''t want anyone to drink around my daughter, especially with the way Valentina drinks.


    "So he brought out alcohol and you were just like ''hell yeah let''s drink it.''? You know Val, don''t act like an innocent party. Who am I supposed to blame?!"


    From Val''s spot on the couch, she glares at me. This is getting out of hand but I know I''m right.


    "Oh my god! Are you serious Ronnie?"


    "Does this seem like a joke Valentina?!"


    "Craig offered! I didn''t think I should say no!"


    "Really?! Why the hell not?! You nearly died because you were so fucking drunk all the time!"


    She closes her mouth at that. It was a low blow.


    "Craig wanted to have a drink with a friend! It got out of hand! But since you want to go there! At least I don''t go around dating people to spite a fling for having a male fucking friend!"


    That was a really low blow. My anger is getting the best of me.


    "The issue here is your drunk ass, not Rei!"


    She cringes at her name and speaks calmly.


    "Rei, huh. You still talk to her?"


    "She''s my friend."


    Valentina smirks.


    "A friend who called me horrible things? Me, your GIRLFRIEND!"


    "This is fucking ridiculous! You''re jealous? You''re fucking drunk Val. You were drunk at my birthday party too."


    She jumps up from the couch. Now we''re both up and angry.


    "I didn''t start drinking until you just stood there like a jackass while that bitch talked shit!"


    "Can you stop fucking name-calling! It''s childish as fuck Valentina! The fact is that you''re drunk. None of this other shit matters."


    "Yeah, I''m sure out of my mind drunk. Wanna know why?"


    I already know what she''s going to do. Although I hope she doesn''t. She knows I can''t control my temper with her. And I tend to say things I sure as hell don''t mean.


    "Don''t do it Val."


    Unfortunately, she ignores me.


    "You''re defending your ex-girlfriend to your current girlfriend."


    "You have issues Valentina."


    "Because I''m the reason everything bad happens to me."


    "Maybe you are."


    Before I can even register Val''s movement, the empty bottle smashes against the wall next to me. We both stand there shocked.


    "Willow we''re going out!"


    When I come back downstairs with Willow, Val is nowhere in sight.


    ~Michael~


    After picking Max and Alva up from the airport, I try to call Valentina and Ronnie. The lovebirds always assume they''re a step ahead of me but I know. This is Val''s big happy surprise, well supposed to be. Ronnie''s phone is off and Val isn''t answering so I have no choice but to take them back to the house.


    "So what''s going on?"


    "I''m not sure Alva. I hope everything is alright. I would say that they''re just out with Willow but Ronnie knew about this today."


    I pull up to the house and all 3 of us get out. The first thing I notice when I open the door is the broken glass.


    "Umm.."


    Alvanis and Max shove past me, going further into the house.


    "Holy fuck. Radke! Val! You guys here?!"


    I quickly gather up the broken glass so no one gets hurt.


    "Michael, call everyone who knows Val, Alva check upstairs. I''ll check down here. Something obviously happened."


    I call her closest friends first. Jacky, Zakk, Rob, and Christian. Just as I''m about to dial Craig, Max calls for Alva and I to come back down.


    "Guys! Come here!"


    When I get downstairs with Alva, Max is holding Val to his chest and she''s clinging to him. She lets go at the sight of Alva and nearly tackles her to the ground. I brush my hand through Val''s hair and she lifts her head up sniffling. Her voice is quiet.


    "Oh my gosh. You guys are actually here!"


    "Surprise. Don''t cry!"


    Max shakes his head.


    "She was crying before I found her."


    Alva immediately goes into protective mode and starts checking her over for blood, cuts, and any other injuries.


    "It probably has something to do with the broken bottle."


    At that moment Willow runs through the door into Alva''s arms.


    "Auntie Alva!"


    The three of us all exchange looks before noticing that Val has gone back into hiding.


    "What the..?"


    Ronnie walks in, arms loaded with chocolates and flowers. Max angrily hit him upside the head.


    "What did you do Ronald!"


    Alva takes Willow upstairs to play while Ronnie talks, mostly loud enough so Val can hear him.


    "Look I was in the car angry for the bottle being thrown at me and I remembered what I said and the things you''ve been through. I''m so sorry. I got you like 10 different brands and kinds of chocolate. I got you Azaleas, Primroses, Begonias, Carnations, and Dalias. Do you know how hard I had to look to find them? Please come out."


    From the top of the stairs, Alva shouts.


    "But her favorites are Roses, Alliums, and Heliotropes!"


    Ronnie sighs.


    "They''re in the car. Babe, I only have two hands. I love you, please."


    Val hesitantly comes out of her hiding spot.


    "I''m sorry I threw the bottle at your head."


    Max and I audibly sigh.


    "You two are a mess."

 31

    ~Valentina~


    It''s been a few weeks since my big fight with Ronnie. It was kind of put out there that Ronnie and I are dating before we planned. Max and Alva are staying in a hotel I guess. They actually have an announcement for us over dinner. Michael is terrified that Alva might be pregnant. She''s obviously not, but I guess that''s just how older brothers are. Next month, Ronnie and Michael are going on tour so it''ll be just Charlie and I in the house. That means Zakk is going as well. ETF is going on tour too so Rob will be gone. Luckily, Jacky will be around for a bit so I don''t go completely crazy by myself. After laying awake in bed for almost 3 hours, I finally get up and head downstairs.


    "Best friend! I thought you were going to sleep forever!"


    Max hangs onto me and drags me into the kitchen where everyone else is. I say hello to Michael and Alva, struggling to get free of Max. I go over to Ronnie, who plants a kiss on my forehead and hugs me to him.


    "She left me for Ronnie.."


    Max dramatically wipes fakes tears from under his eyes.


    "Fuck off, I''m her loving boyfriend."


    "Best friends are forever Ronald!"


    I smirk and pat Ronnie''s shoulder.


    "Sorry to you both but neither are forever guys."


    Michael and Alva laugh.


    "Damn. She got you two good."


    After lunch Alva and I head out for a much-needed girls day. Massage, facials, ending in a mani/pedi. During our facials, Alva and I start talking about stuff.


    "So are you doing okay? Like really. And how long have you been with Ronnie? Also, I''m really proud of you Val."


    I attempt to stop myself from tearing up. I''m so lucky that I found this great family to be a part of.


    "Some days are harder than others, you know. But knowing that Ronnie and Michael are with me helps a lot. Um, since I moved in it was official. But he''s been trying for a long time. Thank you Alva, that really means a lot to me."


    "I always knew you two would end up together. You''re meant for each other."


    I laugh and roll my eyes.


    "If you start talking about fate or destiny, I''ll leave you here."


    Alva laughs.


    "Fine be a non-believer."


    After our mani/pedi it''s still too early for dinner. We end up going to the mall and shop. This is my first time out, besides dates with Ronnie, in a while. It feels so nice to chat and be a girl with Alva. I mean the guys try but it''s nothing like shopping with Alva.


    "Oh! That''s so pretty Val! Let''s go so you can try it on!"


    Alva points to a particular store and I look into the window. I see some kind of lingerie thing hanging on a mannequin. It is incredibly gorgeous but...This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    "I don''t think it''ll look good on me, you should try it on though."


    "Ugh shut up Val. Hi, my sister would love to try that on!"


    I stand there helpless. I''m ushered into a fitting room by the overly friendly salesgirl."


    "You two have such lovely bodies! Please look around! Oh! I have accessories that go with the suit your sister is trying on!"


    ~Michael~


    "So what was this thing you guys want to announce?"


    We''re all sitting, just hanging out. Dinner is done but the girls are late getting back.


    "When the girls get back you''ll find out."


    I glare over at Max.


    "I swear if you got my sister pregnant.."


    "No! It''s not that! I swear!"


    I nod still glaring. Ronnie is just smiling down at his phone.


    "Is your girlfriend coming home?"


    Ronnie looks up startled and puts his phone back in his pocket.


    "Huh? Oh, I don''t know. Max''s girlfriend is with her, ask her!"


    I give Ronnie a confused face. I wonder what all that was about. He barely uses his phone unless he''s texting Valentina. Plus he got kind of hostile when I asked him. I know they''re not fighting so what the fuck.


    "Damn Ronnie, relax. I''ll call Alva."


    "I was just saying. She''s her own person. I don''t always have tabs on her."


    As Max goes to call Alvanis, I glare suspiciously at Ronnie. Max comes back a few seconds later.


    "They''re already here. Just putting stuff upstairs."


    "Hm. More shopping.."


    I have to stop myself from breaking the plates over Ronnie''s head. What''s up his ass? I grit my teeth.


    "Val barely shops. Set the table Ronald."


    Soon we''re all seated at the table with our plates piled with food.


    "Wow this all looks so good! You guys are amazing!"


    Everyone begins eating. I smirk.


    "You mean Michael and I are amazing? All Ronnie did was set the table."


    Ronnie doesn''t even hear. He''s too busy looking at his phone. Val laughs.


    "Babe put away your phone. This is a special dinner, remember?"


    Ronnie shrugs off her hands.


    "Well sorry but I''m busy. I do have a job, you know."


    Oh, I''m going to beat his ass. This dinner is about Max and Alva. They have an important announcement to make. I can''t throw a plate at his head. I can''t throw a plate at his head. No matter how bad I want to. Max clears his throat to ease the tension.


    "So Max and I have something exciting to announce. Go ahead Max."


    He smiles, looking at every one of us. Stalling dick.


    "We''re moving to LA!"


    My jaw drops and heart swells.


    "What!"


    ~Ronnie~


    Everyone at the table cheers with excitement and happiness.


    "Dude when? Did you come to look at houses?"


    Alva and Max exchange smiles.


    "We already have a house, we came to get everything else set. Max is gonna go back to make sure everything is being shipped out. By next weekend we''ll be all moved in."


    I bounce in my seat excited.


    "Yes! Max, please come on tour with me. It''ll be like old times, minus the drugs!"


    Max looks over to Alva, his eyes asking for permission. She nods her head.


    "Yes! You got it Ronnie! Besides it''s only like 2 months!"


    After dinner, I''m in my room waiting for Valentina to finish whatever she''s doing in my bathroom.


    "Hurry up Val!"


    "Can you hold on?! This thing is complicated!"


    I sigh impatiently and go on my phone.


    "Can I help?"


    "No! I got it. Just hold on."


    I hear the bathroom door open as I type on my phone. Val huffs, annoyed.


    "Ronnie."


    "Hmm?"


    I hum, still focused on my phone.


    "Ronald!"


    An angry Val snatches my phone from my hands and tosses it down on the bed.


    "What the hell Val! I was doing something!"


    I look up to Val who''s wearing some kind of floor-length see-through lacy dress and hold back a laugh.


    "Oh yeah, you''re so busy. But I wanted to show you what I bought today. It''s for you.. I.. Why are you laughing?"


    Unable to hold back, I bust out laughing.


    "What in the pointless fuck are you wearing. You spent actual money on a table cloth? Or is it a veil?"


    Her face goes blank and she tears it off, standing in her underwear.


    "Aw babe. I didn''t mean it. I just don''t think fancy silk and lace is necessary to spend money on when it only gets worn for like 5 minutes."


    She grabs a store bag and fills it with some things, opens the door, and goes downstairs.


    "Wait Val! You can''t go down in your underwear!"


    I chase after her, everyone has followed Val into the backyard.


    "Val isn''t that the stuff you bought today while we were out?"


    Val nods to Alva. Max is covering his eyes and Michael just looks confused. Val puts the bag in the fire pit and pours igniter on it.


    "Val. You spent a lot of money on those. Don''t"


    Val lights a match and shrugs as she drops it into the bag. It instantly goes up in flames. She comes over and pats my face.


    "Problem solved love. Let''s go fuck."

 32

    ~Valentina~


    Since that night I burned my clothes, the air around the house has been tense. Michael is currently looking for his own apartment. Alva and Max are decorating their house. Jacky''s been keeping me company at the house. Ronnie''s been working on new music and producing, so he''s not home too much. I admit I acted like a child but I was so frustrated with how coldly Ronnie''s been treating me. We never even talked about it. We just pretended like it didn''t happen. I hear rustling in the kitchen and call out.


    "Jacky?"


    Nothing. I go through my list of people it could be.


    "Michael? Max? Alva? Shit, Zakk?"


    Again, nothing. I carefully stand from the couch and tiptoe to the kitchen.


    "Ronnie? What are you doing home?"


    He hides something behind his back.


    "Uh well. The guys needed a break since we''re leaving on Sunday. I''m home for the next couple days."


    I mentally sigh as Charlie bumps into my leg for me to pet him.


    "Okay. Have you seen Jacky?"


    "I actually sent him home.."


    I blink for a few seconds. Ronnie moves his hands from behind his back and holds roses out to me.


    "O-oh. Um, thank you."


    My stomach turns from the uncomfortable silence. My face must''ve gone pale because Ronnie pulls out a chair and makes me sit. Worry washes over his face.


    "Are you okay? Val?


    He runs up to our room for my medicine, thinking I''m having a sudden anxiety attack. I stare at the flowers in my hands. He comes back down with the bottle and grabs me some water. I take a few seconds before I speak.


    "Thank you."


    Ronnie pulls a second chair up close to me and sits. He reaches out to hold my hand in his.


    "I''m sorry for the way I''ve been acting.."


    I cut him off.


    "You really don''t have to.."


    "Please Valentina. I''m really sorry. I''ve been working too hard and stressing about it."


    I pat his hand, eager to end this conversation.


    "It''s okay Ronnie. Really, trust me."


    He hugs me tight.


    "I don''t deserve you."


    Damn right you don''t Ronald Joseph Radke. But I love you, so I''m stuck.


    "Well what do you want to do?"


    He looks at me intensely. All I see in his eyes is regret. It''s not like my heart can break anymore. It seems like I''m just destined to have shitty relationships. Maybe it really is just me. It''s a painful thought but looking back, it''s probably true. Arthur, Ronnie, JJ, and Ronnie again. It was dumb of me to even try with Ronnie anyway. He''s a rock star. He could get models if he wanted. My chest aches at the thought.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    "I don''t know Ronnie. What do you want to do?"


    I attempt to maintain a normal-ish face. Ronnie''s worried look increases.


    ~Ronnie~


    I need to do some serious damage control this time. It could literally cost my relationship. It''s clear she''s hurt. It''s kind of like she just gave up and doesn''t want to put any work into our relationship. Shit, I know I''m far from perfect but she''s not the best either. She throws fits and acts like a spoiled child. Willow acts better than Val sometimes.


    "Just get dressed, okay?"


    She sighs and looks down at herself.


    "Do we really have to go out Ronnie? I don''t feel like being around people today. Can''t we just stay home and order in?"


    I sigh, trying to keep calm so I don''t start a fight. I run my hand down her cheek.


    "Please Val. Just go get dressed babe. I promise you we''ll have a good time. And I''ll keep my phone off."


    Val raises her eyebrows at my last statement.


    "The whole day?"


    I groan but give into her puppy-dog eyes.


    "You''re so fucking cute. Alright, the whole day."


    She smiles and stands.


    "If I had known you''d give that easily, I would''ve pushed for until you go on tour."


    I kiss her head before she goes upstairs to change.


    "I wouldn''t bet on it, babe. I''m a very busy man."


    I cringe as soon as the words come out I know how she''s going to take it. Thankfully, she says nothing. Once she''s upstairs I dial a number on my phone.


    "Hello gorgeous."


    "Don''t. I''m taking a break before tour. I''m going to be spending my time with Valentina."


    "Aw. She''s so selfish."


    "I said don''t. I''m not gonna have my phone on me."


    "Ugh. She''s so fucking.."


    "Watch what you say. Bye."


    "Bye. See you in Vegas."


    I sigh and hang up. Val calls down.


    "I hope you realize I need to do my makeup."


    "Come on Val, no you don''t!"


    "I need to look presentable!"


    "Babe, you always look beautiful! Come on!"


    She comes down in a lavender sundress, looking completely adorable. She pats Charlie goodbye and we leave.


    ~Michael~


    The last couple weeks have been crazy, especially since I found my own place so close to tour. Valentina and Alva stayed with me last night to help get everything together more quickly. Valentina was up before everyone else, continuing to paint. Later, Ronnie and Max are bringing over Willow. I walk up to Val and hug her.


    "How''d you get paint on the back of your neck?"


    "Probably from the paint in my hair."


    "How''d you get paint in your hair?"


    "Accidents happen Michael."


    I raise my hands up in surrender and take Val''s paintbrush.


    "Not an enemy, just a concerned brother."


    She sighs.


    "Sorry Michael. I''m just, I don''t know."


    I take her hand and she follows me into the living room to sit on my couch to talk.


    "What''s going on Val? You can talk to me."


    She cuddles into me, her voice becoming full of emotion as she speaks.


    "Ronnie''s been acting so weird. He''s become more and more distant with me. I don''t know if I did something wrong or what. I know I''m not the best girlfriend.."


    I shake my head, frowning.


    "Stop that Valentina. Don''t let any relationship drag you down to where you feel low about yourself. Ronnie''s damn lucky to have you. If he doesn''t know that then it''s all on him."


    Val nods and rests her head on me. We hear horns honking from outside and Alva rushes down.


    "My niece is here! My niece is here!"


    "Do not say anything bad about Chrissy. She was nice enough to allow Willow to come without her."


    Alva sticks her tongue out at Val as Ronnie and Max come in. As soon as Ronnie sets Willow down, she runs into Val''s arms.


    "Mommy Val!"


    "Well hello, sweetheart! Was daddy nice?"


    Willow dramatically rolls her eyes.


    "Daddy was on his phone!"


    Ronnie laughs.


    "You''re tattling on me. Why don''t you say hello to Uncle Mikey and Aunt Alva?"


    She hugs both of us but runs back to sit with Val.


    "Uncle Max was talking to a lady."


    Max smiles and ruffles Willow''s hair. The day goes pretty smoothly. Willow didn''t feel good so she went home to Chrissy early. Val and Alva were messing around and out their handprints on my living room wall. Before I could stop them, they wrote cute little notes to me and signed their names. Considering tomorrow afternoon Max, Ronnie, and I will be leaving, we spend the night at Ronnie and Val''s place. Valentina seems to have calmed down after we talked. Her and Ronnie are curled up together in an armchair next to me. Zakk is coming over early to spend time with Val before he leaves and Jacky should show up as well. So far so good. Although, I am worried about how my little sisters will do basically alone. Soon the girls are both asleep and we decide to all camp out in the living room for our last night.

 33

    ~Valentina~


    Alva skips through her door with coffee and donuts for us.


    "Someone''s pretty cheerful."


    "Well yeah! Max is coming home in a few hours! Didn''t Ronnie say anything?"


    She sits and we sip our drinks.


    "Yeah. Michael let me know they''d be here before lunch."


    Alva bounces up and down on the couch.


    "Calm down before you break something."


    "Do I look like Craig Mabbitt to you?"


    We both burst out laughing. Alva and I spend most of the morning cleaning up the mess we made in the living room and kitchen. Alva is fast asleep on the couch when I get a call.


    "Hello?"


    "Hey dollface."


    My blood runs cold and I quietly get up from the couch into the backyard.


    "JJ? How''d you get this number?"


    "Let''s not worry about that right now. I have a message for you."


    "What do you want?"


    He pauses to whistle.


    "Straight to the point I see."


    "JJ."


    I sigh, getting tired of his games.


    "Okay. Okay. Don''t hang up, you''ll want to hear this."


    He clears his throat. It''s as if he''s sorting all his paperwork.


    "How much do you trust Ronald?"


    "Seriously JJ.."


    "Shut up and listen to me Valentina."


    His sudden serious tone shocks me into silence.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    "You obviously trust him since he''s your boyfriend, right?"


    "Y-yeah."


    He laughs maniacally.


    "Who do you trust more? Your friends or Ronald?"


    I sigh, unsure of how to answer.


    "It''s alright. You don''t have to pick. My point is that if Ronald did something behind your back, who would you expect to tell you if they knew?"


    I respond without a second thought.


    "My friends."


    "So Jacky, Zakk, Robert. Max?"


    "How do you know..?"


    He cuts me off.


    "Just fucking listen and shut your fucking mouth or I''ll walk in your house and shut it myself."


    He chuckles and continues.


    "Jacky and Robert don''t know too much because they''re barely around. But of course Max and Zakk should, right?"


    "Yes. I trust them to."


    "Really? You''re that trusting to people who''ve known your boyfriend for years? Weren''t they both his best friends way before you came along?"


    I take a deep breath.


    "Well yes but.."


    "But nothing Valentina, Use your brain. All the calls and texts. Al the attitude. All the excuses. Do you really think nothing is going on? Have you even checked? You two live in that big house alone, yet sleep in separate bedrooms? Come on Val. How would I know these things?"


    My breathing quickens. JJ continues.


    "You see I''m not a bad guy. I only want what''s best for you. Yeah, I might have a temper but that''s something you''re used to. Or have you forgotten about your dear ex-fianc¨¦ Arthur? Use that college education, Valentina. It doesn''t matter you dropped out."


    Now it''s my turn to get angry.


    "How do you know these things? Do you have me bugged? Are there cameras? You''re stalking me!"


    I hear him snort over the line.


    "Babe please. Don''t flatter yourself. How much of your life do you think Ronald shared with Rei? How much do you think Max shared with Llana?"


    I''m speechless over the phone. Besides Alva and Max fighting about Llana a few times, she''s never really been mentioned to me. At the same time, my blood boils at the mention of Rei."


    "Ronnie never told that bitch anything. Besides, she''s old news. And Max stopped talking to Llana a long time ago."


    "Oh feisty Val."


    "JJ, your pathetic excuse of trying to break up my relationship is over. And how dare you drag my sister and my best friend into it. You don''t know them."


    He laughs.


    "How wrong you are babe. I happen to be close to Max. Well, through mutual friends. The facts are babe. Your darling best friend is cheating on your sister. Still."


    "Bullshit!"


    "Don''t get angry babe. Just watch my tape. Keep my question in mind. Can you really trust Ronald and his friends? Bye babe."


    He hangs up and Alva opens the door to the house.


    "Uhm Val? Some kid just delivered this DVD?"


    I pull her into the house, not stopping until we get to the living room. I open the package. There''s a DVD and a note.


    "Babe. It''s sad I know those close to you more than you do. Watch with your sister. -JJ"


    Alva sits as I load the DVD.


    "Val, what the fuck is going on?"


    I shush her as the tape plays. Alva watches focused.


    "Hey, that''s Max."


    "Who''s that girl coming in?"


    The blood drains from Alva''s face. I see her emotions go from sad to angry and all in between.


    "That''s the bitch Llana."


    The tape continues to play. showing Max meeting with the woman multiple different times. When the tape is done, Alva and I sit in silence. The most recent clips seemed to have been caught from this tour that Ronnie''s on.


    "Did I just watch porn of my boyfriend cheating on me?"


    "Alva... I..."


    We exchange looks.


    "Shit."


    "Fuck."


    "Asshole."


    "Bastard."

 34 1/2

    ~Valentina~


    By the time Max, Ronnie, and Michael get to the house, it''s a bit trashed. I''m sitting on the bottom steps of the stairs as Alva screams and breaks things throughout her house.


    "Um. Valentina. What the fuck is going on?"


    All three men look at me, I can''t help but give my best friend a disgusted look.


    "Tell that bastard to get out of my house!"


    Max walks towards the stairs but I stop him from going up.


    "Val move! Alva, what''s going on?"


    Alva comes down, face red. She has a hammer in her hand. Michael looks back between Alva and Max.


    "Oh, I know EVERYTHING Max. I want to hear it from you, you bastard. You cheater. You piece of shit!"


    She swings the hammer with every word. She''s so reckless with it that Ronnie takes it away from her. Max just lays on the floor as Alva goes up to break more stuff.


    "I did. I cheated. Just kill me Michael."


    "Wait what the fuck is going on?"


    "I cheated on your sister Michael. You finally get to kill me like you''ve always wanted."


    I look at Max, confused.


    "What the fuck. Get off the floor Max."


    "No! I''m being a man. I cheated on the love of my life. I deserve this beating. Come on Michael."


    Michael looks at me, up the stairs, then back down at Max. The distant sound of things breaking can still be heard from the second floor. Ronnie puts the hammer down and shakes his head.


    "I''m so disappointed in you Max."


    "Fuck off Ronnie."


    "She really loved you."


    "You have no room to judge me."Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    I look down to Max, then to Michael.


    "What''s that supposed to mean?"


    I see Ronnie give Max a warning look. Michael blinks fast, his eyes narrowing.


    "Green."


    "Max, I''m not like you."


    Alva has come down halfway to see what''s going on. Max smirks bitterly at Ronnie.


    "You''re right, you''re not like me."


    Max pauses and looks at me.


    "You''re worse. Val got the shit beat out of her for you."


    Ronnie steps forward.


    "Max shut the fuck up."


    Michael steps between them, just as confused as I am.


    "Continue Green."


    "Val, I know you hate me right now for hurting Alva. You need to know the truth. Ronnie''s been cheating. I made one mistake trying to protect Alva. I can never come back from that. But Ronnie''s been seeing Rei behind your back. A lot. Texting, calling."


    It''s in that moment everything clicks. The secrets, the phone, the way Ronnie''s been acting. My mouth hangs open. This is what JJ was trying to get me to realize. I really am stupid. I should''ve known better. I ignored the warning signs, just like I did with Arthur. There''s a touch on my arm.


    "Val? Are you okay?"


    Alva has me sit down on the stairs. Ronnie is screaming at Max, Shouldn''t Alva still be angry? She''s known Max for years. I''ve only known Ronnie for a short time. Almost 2 years? I think.


    "Val? We''re here, you''re okay."


    Did Michael know? He couldn''t have. He would''ve said something. He''s my family. Right? Him and Ronnie were friends first. Can I really trust them? Why are they treating me like I''m fragile? I''m fine. Really.


    "Thank you for telling me Max."


    Max just nods from his spot on the floor. I look over to Ronnie. He''s staring at me.


    "Don''t look at me like that."


    "Val, please. It was a mistake."


    "Save it. I''ve heard it before Ronnie. Fool me once, shame on Arthur. Fool me twice, shame on me."


    Michael frowns.


    "Val don''t blame yourself."


    "I''m not Michael."


    He backs off at my tone. Fuck.


    "I''m not blaming myself. I should have recognized the signs. This has happened before."


    "Wow."


    I look up to Ronnie with no emotion in my eyes.


    "Shut up. Jesus."


    "You''re the one that told me never to compare myself to him. Now you''re comparing me to him?"


    I roll my eyes at his attempt.


    "Well now there are some similarities aren''t there? Cheating, lying, going behind my back."


    Ronnie sighs.


    "Can we talk about this at home in private?"


    I laugh, throwing my head back.


    "No! What is there to talk about? What do you want? Another chance? Ha! Say what you have to right here."


    "It''s no one''s business but ours."


    I laugh more and pick up the discarded hammer. I wave it at Ronnie.


    "There''s no ''ours'' Ronnie. No. What you''re gonna do is leave to your whore for a bit so I can pack my shit. Michael, can I stay with you?"


    Michael nods as Ronnie gets more angry.


    "She''s not whore."


    All of us, including Max, glares at Ronnie.


    "You don''t even want to talk about it?"


    "No. There''s nothing more to say."


    He looks at me, then at Michael.


    "Fine. Since everyone''s snitching. Michael paid someone to break into your apartment so you''d move back in with us."


    Michael looks down in shame and I shake my head.


    "I''m thankful."


    "What?"


    Ronnie looks shocked and Michael looks up surprised.


    "I shouldn''t have been living alone. Shame on you for trying to use Michael to shoulder blame from me."


    Ronnie slams the door open.


    "Fine, whatever. Leave if you''re gonna leave."


    With that, he storms out.

 34 2/2

    Max is staying with Ronnie. Alva and I are with Michael. Today I''m breaking the news to the two. I thought about it for a long time. A girl like me just doesn''t belong here. There''s no reason for me to be in LA. Just like when I first moved here, I''m only taking a carry on of essentials. I don''t want anything I got from here. This place will never be my home. It''s too much of a reminder of what I''ve had. The pain is too much. I hope one day, they''ll all forgive me. I walk into the living room where my makeshift family is.


    "Michael, Alva. Um. I have something to tell you. First, I want you both to know I appreciate everything you''ve done for me and how you all opened your arms to me and treated me like family.."


    Michael smiles.


    "That''s because we are family. I have two beautiful, talented little sisters."


    I slightly smile as Alva laughs.


    "Why''re you being so grim? You''re making it sound like you''re going somewhere."


    I nervously laugh.


    "That''s because I am."


    Alva and Michael speak at the same time.


    "What?"


    I sigh, awkwardly.


    "I''m moving back to Indiana. There''s nothing for me here. I should be with my actual family."


    "But they''re horrible to you! We''re your family, not them! Don''t do this to yourself!"This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    I look at the floor and my feet.


    "I''m sorry Michael."


    Alva suddenly speaks up.


    "If Val leaves then I''m leaving too."


    I look over and Michael begins to panic.


    "Wait, what? No! Neither one of you are leaving! Val, please!"


    I look at him and we lock eyes.


    "I''ve made my decision Michael. I''m sorry, I''m not staying. We started off as strangers and it should''ve stayed that way."


    "Please Valentina! Please! I don''t want to lose you or Alva. Please!"


    Michael begins to cry. Guilt hits me like a brick. I turn to go back upstairs. I need to stay strong. This is how it has to be. It''ll be better for everyone.


    "My flight leaves tonight."


    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


    For a weekday the airport is pretty packed. Alva stayed at the house. She''s leaving next week. We said our goodbyes back at the house. She never once begged me to stay. I think she understands. I hope.


    "Max?"


    "I know you hate me but I still had to come say goodbye."


    We hug for a long time.


    "I''m not going to get carried out of the airport but band members, am I?"


    Max chuckles as we let go.


    "No. No one else knows besides.."


    I spot the person walking up to us.


    "Ronnie."


    "I love you, Val. Take care of yourself."


    "You too, Max."


    I begin walking away but Ronnie catches my wrist.


    "Wait, please."


    I stop and turn to face him.


    "You don''t have to do this."


    "It''s not because of you. I don''t belong here."


    "You sure as hell don''t belong there! They gave you hell."


    I just look up at him.


    "What am I supposed to tell Willow? She calls you ''mommy''."


    I feel a pain in my heart.


    "I''m sure you''ll figure it out."


    "I love you, I know I fucked up.."


    I interrupt him.


    "Save it Ronnie."


    "What about Michael?"


    "He''ll understand one day. This is what''s best."


    He sighs, feeling defeated.


    "You''re really fucking up Alvin."


    "Alvanis is an adult."


    "You''re her best friend! Her little sister! You''re the only girl she''s ever gotten along with. Don''t do this to everyone that cares about you!"


    I look up at the display board.


    "I gotta go Ronnie."


    Before he can say anything more, I walk away. Michael gives me a teary goodbye, having completely given up trying to get me to stay. Luckily, I was able to buy out my row. As soon as the plane takes off, I let everything go. LA is my past as soon as everything is wiped from my phone and social media.