"I'm scared… What if she doesn't forgive me?" "She will forgive you. You didn't do anything wrong. I promise you Rosa is just as nervous as you are." "I… I know but…" I place an arm on her shoulder, looking into her azure-lit eyes with reassurance. "It's going to be okay, trust me." "I... I trust you…" Leaves rustle along the ground as a cool wind blows through the relatively quiet park, a gray sky shining below us matching the colour of snow, almost as mother nature's way of giving the effect of winter even though it almost never snows in Dinofornia. About two days have passed since Stella and I were able to have a nice and normal date with no issues whatsoever. No attacks from Trish No tragic encounters with Reed And I was most surprised with how well Stella handled herself throughout the date, especially in the Donut shop, where I was almost certain the crowd was too overwhelming for her. But to my surprise, she could calm herself down and not let her instinctive fear consume her. Aside from some mishaps here and there, she seemed so… happy that day. The bubbly and outgoing demeanour shone through her as she eagerly talked about things related to her interests, like Astrology's effect on the Winter Solstice or new anime shows she's seen here and there. It brought a strong warmth to my heart. That's the Stella I remember. It was a good day, that's for sure. I stare at the ground gazing upon the grass beneath our feet, enjoying the sounds of nature. My eyes instinctively turn toward the metal brace attached to my left leg. I'm still in complete awe that my leg could make another recovery in such a short period to the point where I can actually stand or walk without needing any crutches. Although I'm not sure how wise of an idea that would be, especially since it still feels kind of sore if I put too much weight on it. I'm still surprised Trish didn't fuck up my leg beyond repair, but I'd rather not gamble away my prospect of being to walk without feeling like a cyborg. "What's wrong with Cyborgs? Cyborgs are cool!" I turn to see Stella shooting me a playful pouty face. Me and my fucking mumbling, I swear it's going to be the death of me. "I'm definitely not as cool as a Cyborg." I shrug with a flair of sarcasm. "Besides, I'm probably more a Cyborg from Victorian London standards." "Still a Cyborg, though!" Stella winks as she nudges my side with her elbow. "Heh, yeah. I guess so." Her playful enthusiasm elicited a smile that grew across my face. "Now I just need one of those wheelchairs with a minigun attached; then I'll really fit the bill." Her face lights up at my nonsensical description. "Oh! Is that some kind of reference to a character from a new anime?? That's so awesome!" Actually… That would be pretty cool. "Uhhh, not quite. It's an enemy from a video game I heard about. The design definitely stuck in my head." "That sounds awesome!! What's it about?!" Her azure-blue eyes gleamed with interest as an enthusiastic smile grew across her lips, her reaction causing me to blush. Why does she have to be this fucking cute? C'mon, Anon, don't be a retard now… Wait… I really hope I didn't mumble that word. Hmm… What's the best way to summarize this game? I don't even think the developers knew what they were making. "The best way I can describe it is… It's basically a cautionary tale about why England is such a terrifying place to live." She chuckles at my goofy description of the game as she scoots closer to me on the bench seat, resting her head on my shoulder as we enjoy the wonderous sight of urban nature… and wait for Rosa to show up. Stella wanted to arrange a meet-up with Rosa and apologize for her actions, and yet Rosa wanted to do the exact same thing. So I'm playing the role of some sort of mediator, texting Rosa on Stella's behalf, and I guess. 'Keeping the peace.' I don't think that will even be necessary, considering how both of them feel bad about their actions despite doing nothing wrong. So we arranged to meet in a quiet location and decided to go to the Volcadera Memorial Park. It was the same place Rosa met with me the other day, so I figured a spot like this would be as good as any. "Hola, mis amigos.." A familiar yet shy female voice calls out from behind us as we turn to see Rosa begin to approach us on the stone path, dressed in the same warm floral coat and attire I saw her with last time. A calm smile rests on her face. However, her eyes and body language tell another story of nervousness and apprehension. As she takes small steps toward us, her fidgeting hands become more noticable the closer she gets. ‘Is she going to forgive me?’ ‘What if I say the wrong thing?’ ‘Mierda, I don't want to lose her too.’ The anxious Ankylosauraus is clearly as nervous as Stella was about the meeting. "Hi, Rosa…" Stella nervously smiles as she rises from her seat, waving at her friend. "It's g-good to see you again." I follow Stella's actions, ascending from the bench as I try to place more weight on my weight foot, and the two of us begin to approach Rosa. I stay back as I allow Stella to come face-to-face with Rosa. This is about them, so it's only fair that they get the space they need. "Thank you for coming, Rosa." The Stego's eyes point towards the ground as she tries to maintain her composure. "I missed you." "I… I missed you too, Chica." Rosa shyly looks towards Stella as she returns her gaze. "Did you two want to sit at one of those tables and talk?" Rosa points towards the wooden tables on the ground to our left. "Yeah, sure, that would be nice." I nod with a smile toward her. "Y-yeah, I would like that." The sheepish aura is still present in her voice. "Bien, thank you two." She nods to the two of us as we approach the wooden bench. Stella and I sit on the side in front of us as Rosa sits alone on the other side of the table. The two slump into their chairs as I carefully maneuver my leg around the bench so I can put my legs underneath, making me look like a puppet trying to play soccer. As we adjust ourselves and take our seats at the table, a couple of seconds of silence pass as both begin to fidget with their hands on the table, as if they're carefully analyzing what to say and trying to determine how to avoid a bad scenario. Eventually, Rosa is the first to break the stalemate as she clears her throat. "Stella… There has been something I have been meaning to talk to you about." The regretful Ankylosaur struggles to make eye contact as she addresses us. "About what I said that day, at your familia's home… I just wanted to say-" "I know… I'm sorry, Rosa. I shouldn't have blown up on you like that." Stella's apology causes the remorse on Rosa's face to be overshadowed by pure surprise and confusion, as if the Stego's words completely derailed her plans and expectations of how this meet-up would go. "Hermana, what are you talking about? I'm here to apologize to you for what I did, what I kept hidden from you!" The tenseness in her arms loosened as she's completely taken aback by her friend's words. Stella sighs as she adjusts on the bench and rests her head on the table. "You didn't do anything wrong, Rosa. I knew you were only trying to protect me, just like my parents were doing." Now it's Stella who looks away with shame. "The fact that I screamed at you all like that, it's kept me up at night, I regret every word I said." A small trail of tears begins to well from Stella's eyes as she looks at the both of us, trying to give herself the strength to provide herself with the closure that seems to have haunted her for the past couple of days. "You all are pretty much the only family I have left. Everyone else has either died or completely abandoned me, but you, all of you. Y-you were there for me during some of the darkest days I've ever had to go through." The clarity in Stella's voice becomes more shaky and croaky as she continues to open up. "Stella…" Rosa's arm reached across the table to take hold of the Stego's shaky hand. "A-and I…." And then, the dam finally breaks. Stella leans in as she takes hold of Rosa's hands, sobbing profusely as she's overwhelmed with emotion. "I'm s-sorry…. I'm so sorry!" "No no no… Está bien, Stella. You have nothing to apologize for" Rosa begins to stroke her hands, trying to soothe Stella with a soft voice. The same sadness on Stella's face starts to appear on Rosa's as she empathizes with her distraught friend. "You have every right to feel the way you did." I reach out and take hold of Stella's free hand, offering a tight squeeze as Rosa holds the other. "I… I know, but…" She looks up from the table, the fresh tears falling from her eyes creating a trail of black lines dripping down her face. "T-thank you…" "No no no… That is what amigos are for, no?" Rosa smiles as her other hand joins the table. "You were there for me in my darkest days too." A tearful smile forms on Stella's face as her eyes meet her closest friend's. "You've been the closest thing I have ever had to a sister. And family sticks together, right Rosa?" "Ha ha ha Si… Of course, chica." Over the course of the next couple of minutes, the anxiety and sadness that enveloped the table were replaced by conversations of joy and excitement, with Stella and I informing Rosa about our visit to town a couple of days ago, informing her of all the fun we had and the places to visit. Although something tells me, I don't wanna tell her that we went to the occultist shop or how I bought Stella some "blasphemous artifact." At this point, I feel more like a ghost than a real companion to Stella. But I still can't help but smile. These two were so worried about destroying their relationship. Now that that fear has evaporated, they can continue enjoying each other's company again. "It's nice… Isn't it, dear?" A new voice appears, once that I haven't heard since… Oh no… Turning away from Stella and Rosa's conversation, my peripheral vision takes notice of the figure sitting next to Rosa, as if she just spawned herself into existence. A diminutive presence paired with features that feels me with a sense of newfound remorse. "These two… They remind me so much of my children when they were growing up." Fang's mom… Why is she here?! Why now? I have been haunted by the dead for the last couple of months now. The ghosts of Fang, Naser, and Naomi tormented me daily, trapping me in a living hell. The pain still eats at me even if they seem more docile now. Seeing Samantha's face among the revenants brings a new level of pain. The pterosaur's nostalgic tone turns sombre as her head points toward the ground. "I always thought the two of them would go on to do extraordinary things." My heart sinks which each word uttered from her. "My little Naser was so kind, so thoughtful, always putting others before himself and doing what's right. If he were still here, he would've had the chance to jump into any medical school he wanted…" Ever so slightly, her voice becomes shakier as she lets out a sniffle. "And Lucy, my little pirate princess." Samantha's words are quiet, and yet it drowns out the conversation next to me between Stella and Rosa. The Ptero matriarch took a deep breath as she placed both her hands on the table. "She was such a creative soul, creating those wonderful stories and adventures with her wild imagination." I catch the stream of tears rolling down her cheeks as she reminisces about her lost children. "Or creating that band with those little friends of hers, determined to make a mark on the world with her music. She was always shooting for the stars…" She turns to me with a grim expression, the light in her eyes completely gone as her soul has left her body, leaving her a broken husk of a woman, crying from empty, lifeless eyes. Is this what happened to her after the shooting? "And then… My Lucy, she took her little brother's life… Before taking her own life too." She looks down to where her hands are sitting on the table as I follow where she's lo- ….what? I begin to notice the large cuts on her wrists. A crimson river begins to pour out of her pale blue arms, as it coats the table in red. "Just remember Anon…" I can feel a tightness in my chest as I look in horror to see the obscene amount of blood pouring from her arms, her skin gradually becoming paler and paler. "It all falls apart, one way or another…" No no no no no! FUCK! WHY?? "An-on?" WHY?! WHY DID I HAVE TO HURT SO MANY INNOCENT PEOPLE THROUGH MY SHEER FUCKING APATHY?! "Anon! What's wrong?!" They're all dead because of me, Reed has destroyed his fucking brain, Ripley is drinking himself to death ALL BECAUSE OF ME!!! I- Huh? The despair in me begins to fade as I feel the light and soft touch of a hand on my fingers, the scaly sensation on my skin snapping me back to reality. I move my head to the left as I see Stella and Rosa gazing at me with concern, the latter gently squeezing my hand. "What happened?! Are you okay?" "I… I saw-" I turn to show them the apparition of Fang's mother, only to see an empty seat where she was sitting just moments ago. To confirm my suspicions, I inspect the table before me, seeing that the wood is painted light burgundy rather than dark red. Why did it feel so real this time? "Were… They visiting you again?" Stella's voice pulls my attention toward her as she gently squeezes my hand. Rosa expresses surprise at Stella's question. I guess she still thought she was the only one I told about my hallucinations. "I…" I struggle to answer, the storm brewing in my mind making it difficult to give a coherent answer. I was too scared to tell either of them why Ripley got pushed over the edge or why there was suddenly a new face among the crowd. I don't want them to worry about me any more than they have to. As I fight to force another word out of my breath, I see the look in both Stella and Rosa's eyes, expecting to see a strange look emerge from them, typically of someone witnessing their friend talking to ghosts like a schizo. However, I see only concern in their eyes. Genuine concern for the well-being of their friend… Well, boyfriend in Stella's case. I have forgotten the feeling of someone caring about me, I've been hanging around the two of them for a couple of weeks now, yet the feeling still feels foreign to me sometimes. But they deserve to know the truth. If they can open up to me about all the horrific shit they've endured, I can be honest with them too. It's the least I can do for them. "Yeah… But it was someone new this time…" A defeated voice escapes my lips. "It was Fang and Naser's mother…" A shocked expression grows on Stella's face, while confusion grows on Rosa's. "Their mama?" The wheels turn in her head, trying to decipher why I am having visions of someone she assumes to be alive. "Isn't their mama…" "When I met with Ripley last week, he told me she died. She took her own life after…" My voice trails as the last few words become too painful to utter, eliciting a horrified look on both faces. Stella let out a gasp, clearly shocked by the horrific and tragic revelation, as Rosa quietly muttered to herself in Spanish. "Dios mio… When did this happen?" "I don't know… Not long after the shooting, I think. I only learned about it from their father last week." Stella's eyes widen as if she's found the missing piece in a puzzle she's been struggling to finish. "I had a feeling there was more to your story the other day." Her surprise is now replaced with sympathy as she recalls the words I spoke at the diner "When we got there, he… didn't want anything to do with me. He even told me that his-" "That's why you were so hesitant to speak…" Stella's fingers ran across my hand as I was forced to bring the source of a good deal of my guilt to the surface. "Y-yeah… I figured something like that would've been too upsetting to talk to you guys about." I explain to the two, taking the suicide of their late friend into consideration with my reasoning. "I'm sorry, though. I should've been more honest." "Chico estupido…" Rosa is the first to break the silence as disapproval grows across her face. "Did you already forget what I told you in the car while driving you home?" "The morning after I found you guys again?" Rosa's lips simpered into a warm smile, her face softening a bit. "You do not need to keep hiding your pain. You're not alone… No mas…" When I first heard her say those words, I didn't believe them. I easily dismissed her comfort as just some undeserved form of pity, believing that if she knew more about what happened with Fang and I, she would be more willing to wish upon the anguish I already put myself through on a daily basis. But after the time I've spent with them both, I learned of the pain and guilt they've both had to endure as well. Where there was once disbelief, there's now solace and comfort, knowing that they truly mean it and accept me despite all my flaws. "Thank you, Rosa…" A smile forms on my lips as my eyes start to get heavier. It really is a terrible day for rain. "Thank both of you. That means more to me than you could ever know." Rosa's smile grows warmer, knowing that her words are finally able to reach me. A sweet yet somber smile growing across Stella's face emerges too as she listens to the exchange between her two companions. "It will all be okay, Anon." Stella reaches across the table, now taking hold of my hand with both of her hands. "You are such a kind, thoughtful, and noble soul. Never forget that Karma rewards those who spread good energy into the world. Rosa's smile grew with amusement in response to her Stego friend's mysticism. "Sí, you have really come a long way since-" RING RING! RING RING! An electronic tune cuts through the air as my phone violently vibrates from my right pocket. "Shit, sorry about that… Just gotta check it." "No worries at all, Anon. Hope everything's okay!" Stella replies as I reach into my phone and take a look at the caller ID on my phone. Mr. Ditkovich (aka Landleech) Not this fucking vulture again… Why is he even calling me? He usually just visits me when I- wait a minute… A wave of fear echoes through my gut. Shit… I didn't forget to pay this month, did I? He usually would've texted me in advance if that's the case. Still, it's probably not good to let this go to voicemail. "Sorry guys, I just gotta take this real quick." I apologize as I rise from the bench, shuffling myself between the seat and the table. "No te preocupes, we will be right here!" "Thanks, I'll be right back," I tell them before walking away from the bench, walking towards one of the trees a couple of feet away from us. I press my thumb against the green accept button on the screen and raise the phone too my ear. "Hello? Mr. Ditkovich?" I answer with a degree of uncertainty. My question is answered with a cacophony of pained hacking and coughing. The ear-splitting sound emerging from my phone's low-quality speaks causes me to move it away from my ear until it ceases. "ANON! Where are you?" A scratchy voice blasted from the device with a thick Slavic accent, the annoyed expression in his tone caused me to worry a little bit. "I'm uhh... Out and about." I nearly trip over my words, trying to compose myself, "Why is everything okay?" My answer elicits an annoyed grumble that emerges before he clears his throat. "Okay… You have eight hours to get back to apartment." Why does he want me back? Did he need to come by and repair and check on the- Wait… Oh shit… Is my lease already over? "Why? Is uh... everything okay?" "Your lease is up! You get out now." His answer helps confirm my suspicions while also filling me with an extreme sense of dread. It's not even January yet! I had until the first of January to find a new place. Why is he kicking me out this early?! "I've got new buyers for lease, so I have to paint walls before they come." I can practically see the spittle fly out his mouth as he responds to my mumbling. "But, sir! Can't we just work something out? Or at the very least give me a little more-" I try to plead to cantankerous Ivan over the phone before I'm cut off with a scoff from his voice. "NO! SALE IS FINAL! PACK YOUR SHIT AND BE OUT OF HERE BY 9 PM, OR ELSE ALL OF YOUR SHIT IS GOING IN THE GARBAGE!" No… The tight sinking feeling in my chest grows more intense, the sound of my beating becoming louder and faster. All I can do is stand there in shock, trying to process the sudden turn of events. I'm fucked… I'm homeless. I don't have anywhere to go now! Why won't he let me extend it or just find a new apartment in his building? "DO YOU HEAR ME?!" The aggressive voice echoes through the handset's speakers and pulls me back into the waking world I quickly adjust my phone as I clear my throat. "Y-yes I do, I-..." I stumble over my words once more, feeling like a newborn giraffe taking its first steps. "S-sorry, I just gotta make a quick call, and I'll be back ready to pick everything up." "You have eight hours, don't waste time…" Mr. Ditkovitch growled as his scornful voice was followed by a beep, confirming that he hung up. Fuck… I really didn't wanna have to do this, but I don't see any other choice. Lowering the phone, my shaky thumb begins navigating through the phone interface. Exiting the call app, I open the Contacts lists on my phone and scroll down. Contact List: Mr. Ditkovich Stella Rosa Monty (Stella's Dad) Drug Store Hookup Ms. Castillo (Rosa's Mom) Fang (DO NOT CALL) Naser (DO NOT CALL) Dad. My eyes manage to spot the contact in question. However, as my finger hovers over the call button by his contact icon, I find myself struggling to find the strength to press down as I can practically hear the words he uttered during our last meeting. "You got a second chance, and this is what you did with it? What a waste.." …Fuck it. What other choice do I have? My thumb taps against the screen, changing the screen's background into a darker color as the phone indicates that it's sending out a call to my father. Wasting no time, I raise the device to my ear to listen to the dull yet anxiety-inducing sounds of its ringing. A couple of seconds pass until there is no answer, the suspense making it feel like an eternity. I look over to see Stella and Rosa, both of them gazing at me with a degree of concern in their eyes. I can't let them see me like this right now. I walk further away until the ringing is cut off abruptly. The first new sound I hear is a deep sigh. "...What do you want?" Nice to see you too, Dad. "I'm sorry to call so unexpectedly, but I really need your help right now!" I can already see him sneering over the desperation in my voice. "The landlord is kicking me out even though my lease is still good until the end of the month! Would you and Mom be able to help me fi-" "Why the hell would I help you?" His callous dismissal rendered me silent for a couple of seconds before I could hear a 'Hmm?' emerge from the phone "Why would you… Dad, what do you mean?! I don't have a place to stay anymore, please I need your help!" I pleaded to him, the grumbling in his voice hinting that he remained unmoved by my desperation. "What did I tell you a year ago, boy?" My dad brushes away my cries. The disregard in his voice speaks volumes. "After the lease is up, it's either college or the army, and I don't care which is which." "B-but Dad! Can we-" "And here you are, graduated only because meteor dodger-infested high school got shot up. And what have you done now aside from wasting away in that fucking apartment of yours because you were too stupid to get into college and you were too crippled and broken to get into the forces." My father's words cut me deeper than any knife, heartbroken that my own flesh and blood could say something as fucked as that. I knew neither of them cared about me beyond doing the bare minimum, but to hear those words come out of my mouth? I don't even know what to say. It's like lifting up a blanket expecting to find a turd only to find a dead body instead. However, the sadness passes through my body like waves in a river and is replaced with an array of new emotions. Resentment and anger. "I didn't ask for any of this to happen, 'Dad.'…" I growled through the mic, placing a sarcastic emphasis on the last word while barely able to contain the fury within. "And yet you didn't do a damn thing with your life afterwards, god… What a disappointment. Your mother thinks so too." Fuck…. You… "What did you just say to me, boy?" My mumbled words caused my dad's cruel tone fades into anger. You know what? I don't even care; I mumbled that by mistake. I am so tired of being treated like nothing more than an afterthought by both of them, they can go to hell. "I said fuck you." I begin to raise my voice over the phone, moving farther and farther away into the park. I don't want Stella or Rosa to see me like this right now. "My whole life, both you and mom have never been there for me, not even once! You've always treated me as nothing more than an obligation or a piece of dog shit stuck to the bottom of your shoe. When have you ACTUALLY told me you love me? Or that you're proud of me? HUH, DAD?!" I begin to raise my voice as I continue to trudge through the leaves and grass. "You little waste of skin…" His voice dripped with venom after listening to my rant. "We gave you food, and a house. Don't forget too I was paying for your apartment in Volcadera, you ungrateful little shit, even when you ran away from town after your retarded stunt with th-" "THAT'S WHAT A PARENT IS SUPPOSED TO DO!!" I scream towards the handset. The anger from years of built up of neglect and lack of love swells inside me like an inferno. "WHAT?! DO YOU WANT A MEDAL FOR DOING THE BARE MINIMUM THAT A DAD'S SUPPOSED TO DO FOR THEIR SON?!" My outburst is met with wordless hate. I breathe with a cold fury until my 'father' finally speaks. "...You're no son of mine…" "And you were never much of a father to begin with." My words match his vitriol, albeit deprived of the same energy I found myself in moments ago. I'm filled with anger. Angry about how my parents have shown me no love since the shooting, no love now that I'm homeless. And I'm angry because It seems they never loved me at all. "Have either of you ever told me you were proud of me? Whenever I got a good grade or made some extra money from my soda business back home?" Silence cuts through the air like a knife. I can practically see the scornful look in his eyes. "Did you or mom ever try to comfort me after a bad day at school, give me advice on how to deal with bullies?" The conflict between anger and sadness because more apparent in my voice with each breath I take. You didn't even visit me in the hospital after getting shot." An annoyed grunt emerges from the speakers. The tone in his voice saying 'Shut up, I don't care.' Tears start falling from my eyes as I truly begin to process the situation I've found myself in or the confirmation of the suspicion I've feared for so long. My own parents don't even care about me. They don't love me… I was always worried that may have been the case, especially considering how emotionally indifferent or downright apathetic they've been towards me, but to know it for sure? It's tearing me apart. "Don't ever contact me or my wife again." He spits out, his choice of words piercing me like a knife to the gut, showing how he's beginning to distance himself from me. "G-gladly… You fucking bald cunt." I choke out before lowering the phone from my head and pressing the red 'End Call' button. BEEP Fuck… My phone falls out of my hand onto the grass as my breath begins to shudder uncontrollably. The world around me begins to spin as my legs feel like they've turned into jelly. I'm fucked… I thought I had more time! Mr. Ditkovich can't kick me out. We signed a lease! He legally can't kick me out!! A tense feeling envelops my chest as I fall to the ground on my knees. My lungs begin to feel smaller as it becomes more difficult to draw breath. No, downright impossible to breathe… I have no way to go… I have about less than eight hours to get everything I need, and then… Fuck… My ears begin to be assaulted by a barrage of whispering. The eerily familiar voices send chills down my spine as it adds to my horror and despair. "What are you gonna do? Where are we gonna go?!" "There's no hope! It's over!" "Now we're truly alone! Forever lost!" Fang… Naser… Naomi… Shut up… Please… Stop As the shadows of former friends begin to cry out in pain, my focus is drawn to the more devastating matter at hand. My father, he… He disowned me… Both of them did… I knew their 'love' was always conditional, but to finally know it for certain? I…. I'm alone… I'm truly alone! "Just give up! Do it now!" "He never loved you. Neither of them did!" "There's nothing left for us! THERE'S NOTHING LEFT!" No family… No one who loves me… I'm alone… The world around me begins to spin in circles as the ringing deafens the whispers. The world around me goes dark as I see two figures running toward me. I can't make out their appearance other than the flash of orange and green growing closer. A faint yet muffled voice calls out to me. "....Anon!...." Rosa… Stella… I'm sorry… And just like that, my vision fades to black as I'm separated from the waking world. Three Days Later. A cold wind rustles through from my right side, piercing my skin despite my many layers of clothing. A few days have passed since I received that call, and now I'm officially homeless. I gaze around my surroundings, surveying the decrepit and harsh streets of Skin Row. Taking note of the absent-minded vagrants, moving cars, and the distant wailing of sirens. If there's one thing I've learned from this part of this town, it's that you've always gotta stay on your toes. But despite all the dangers that lurk in these streets, the criminals, murderers, drug addicts, and Pitbull owners. I am void of any fear, no… It's more like. I'm void of… Well, anything. Like there's nothing left inside of me, just cold emptiness. No possessions. They were all trashed when that vodka-guzzling fuck kicked me out of the apartment. No friends, no family… Nothing… Maybe… This is what was meant to happen to me. After all, could I really ever find happiness after what I've done? What I've caused? No… It's all a fuck joke. It's just the universe's cruel way of dolling out punishment to bottom-feeders like me. I deserve all of this… "Hey, Dweeb…" A familiar voice calls out to my left. This voice fills me with a duality of emotions, one of remorse and one of nostalgia. I jerk my head towards the sound of my new visitor, and I see a girl I could never forget, no matter how hard I tried. The all-black clothes she wore contrasted the ashen features of her body, the beautiful feathered wings and soft white hair giving her an angelic aura. Fang… "Why are you here?" I bluntly ask the ghost that's come to haunt me. Except, I see no ill intent in her eyes. No murderous hate, no despair, only sympathy. "I came… to make sure you were okay." She replies with a gentle cadence as she lowers herself on the dirty sidewalk below, joining me on the ground. I'm taken aback by her sudden change in tone compared to the last times she's appeared before me. "Why now? Didn't seem like that before." "Things are different now…"' Fang's eyes pointed toward the ground as she responded to my answer with little elaboration. "Are they really?" I ask bluntly. Fang lets out a sigh as if she's at a loss of words on how to console the inconsolable. "I don't know, you tell me…" "You're not even real… You're just a figment of my fucked up imagination." My rather harsh wording does nothing to phase the revenant in front of me, the sympathetic look in her eyes remaining as she inches closer. "Aren't I, though? The love you had for me was real. The constant dreams and nightmares you've had of me since that day are real. I've been in your mind every day since I left this world. The presence I left behind is real, is it not?" A few seconds pass as I take a moment to process the words spoken by her. I mean… Yeah, Fang is dead; she will always be dead, and nothing can be done to fix that. But yeah… Even in death, she still remains a big part of my life, whether it's the impact she's left on me or how much I could take everything back so that she would never have to feel so alone, so helpless, like how I feel now. Maybe in a way, she's right… She is still real. "There's always gonna be hard times ahead." My eyes meet her as my face lights up with confusion, unsure of what she meant by her words. However, her expression fades into a more mournful expression. "But you can't keep burying your heart away whenever those hard times come. You have to open your eyes to the light!" Open my eyes… Wait, is that supposed to be a metaphor for something? Have I been- "Open your eyes… Please, Anon…" Tears start to well up from the Ptero's amber-lit eyes, her sudden shift in emotion catching me off guard. What the fuck? "Fang? What are yo- I'm interrupted midsentence as both her hands take hold of my ragged winter coat, shaking me violently as she pleads with sorrow. "PLEASE!!! PLEASE WAKE UP!!" Oof fuck! Fang, what the hell are you doing? "PLEASE WAKE UP, ANON!!" The pitch in her voice begins to shift, transforming her voice into… Wait... "WAKE UP, ANON!! I CAN'T LOSE YOU TOO!!" Stella? "Please… I love you… Please don't leave me alone…" A soft and shaky voice chokes out, causing me to slowly gain consciousness back. "S-Stella?...." I briefly catch a look at my surroundings as my eyes spot the dried grass, fall leaves, and the benches in the distance. Wait… I'm still at the park?? What the hell is going on?? Before I can react any further, I'm cut off with a swift movement as Stella latches onto me, embracing me in a tight hug, the stego's plated tail wrapping around me as her face buried in my shoulder as she lets out tears of relief. Over her shoulder, I see Rosa approaching me with an expression of relief and worry. She moves in to join Stella in hugging me. However, she stops halfway through as slight discomfort grows across her face, possibly not wanting to get in between us. "An-on? Dios mio, thank Raptor Jesus, you are okay!" Rosa kneels on the ground as she meets our eye level. "What happened? You passed out for two minutes!" Two minutes?? No, that can't be right… Mr. Ditkovich kicked me out three days ago, and I've been living on the streets since... Wait… Why couldn't I remember either of them after I got kicked out? Why am I missing such a big chunk of my memory? "What? Two minutes but…" I ask before my own bewilderment catches me off guard. "It's been three days… I swear I was just…." I struggle to finish my sentence as my faculties start to work again normally and I begin to see the world around me more clearly. The same snow-white sky as before, the grass and the leaves on the ground are the same, and a cool breeze brushes against my clothes once more. I was only out for two minutes? What the fuck is wrong with me? "Nevermind that right now. What's wrong, Anon?" Stella pulls her head away from my shoulder as she addresses me with great concern. "We heard you yelling at someone on the phone, and you seemed so upset, and then you just passed out!" Her eyes lowered towards my cheek, noticing the liquid stain that poured down my eyes. Her sympathy grew as she moved her hand to wipe it away. "It's… It's nothing… I-" "¡No lo es!" Rosa calls out to me with disapproval. "You do not have to hide things from us. You are our friend!" "Please… Tell us." Stella softly pleads to me with gleaming azure eyes that pierce my very soul, showing how badly she wants to help. No… They're right. I can't keep hiding and pushing people away from me.. "I'm sorry…" My arms around Stella tighten as I return her hug. "I'll tell you guys…" Eventually, the two of us broke away as Stella adjusted herself on the grass below us, gently taking hold of my hand with a supportive aura. Rosa lowered herself onto the ground to join us at eye level, and I begin to explain everything about what happened. How my sleazy landlord decided to just fuck me over and kick me out of my apartment despite still having one month left on my lease. Or how…How my father essentially confirmed what I always worried that both he and mom thought of me. A loser, a nobody, a mistake, a waste of skin. How I was 'no son of theirs…" The revelation of my predicament elicited an empathetic response from both of my Dino companions. However, tears begin to roll down Rosa's face and stain her otherwise well-applied makeup at the mention of my parents disowning me. Considering how close she is with her family and how much pain she felt when she lost her father, I can imagine that hits close to home. While saddened by the news, Stella remained far more composed than I would've expected, considering how frightened she was for my well-being moments ago. "And then when everything went dark, I woke up thinking it was three days later… I was completely alone on the streets with no food, no friends. Nothing at all…" My fingers fidget with the grass below, plucking away the green strands from the earth. "And then F- I heard someone telling me to wake up, and then I found myself in your arms." Stella gives a slightly quizzical look, curious as to why I decided to stop myself mid-sentence. I can imagine explaining to your girlfriend how your dead ex comforting you in a dream would be a bit awkward, especially when said "ex" almost killed her. "I'm… I'm sorry…" I choke out, causing Stella's sympathy to overtake her suspicion as she wraps her arms around me once more. "No, please... don't be sorry, none of this is your fault, Anon…" Her tail begins to coil around me, fully trapping me in her embrace. "Nobody should ever have to worry about having nowhere to live or to hear something that cruel from your own family…" I… I don't know anymore… "It's gonna be okay, Anon. You're always welcome at my house…" Wait what? "Si… Mi mama and I would be more than willing to open our doors to you as well, An-on." My eyes point toward the ground out of shame, feeling guilty for receiving such pity. No… I don't deserve their kindness. I truly don't! I've spent my life leeching off of others. The last people I want to do that to is either of them! Suddenly, a pair of hands gently take hold of my face as my head turns towards Stella's face. "Please, Anon… We want to help you any way we can…" Gazing into her eyes once more, I'm able to get a better idea of her intentions, and I find that I'm wrong. The look in her eyes, it's not pity or just mere sympathy. It's love, true love… Is this what it feels like to not be alone? "You don't have to fight so hard against the world… Please, let me help you." I find myself struggling to hold back the growing tears in my eyes after the words leave Stella's lips, being shown this much kindness… I don't know how to handle it. But I refuse to be the same man that I was for so long, and I refuse to push away those who love me anymore. "Okay… Okay…" I subtly nod as a slight smile forms on my lips. "Thank you." A sad smile forms on Stella's lips as she embraces me. "I love you…" "I love you too…" One Day Later Okay… This should be the last of it. I reach into the black plastic bag and began pulling out various items, clothes, supplies, and video games. Pretty much whatever I could shove into a trashbag at the last possible second. It's been a day since I was kicked out of my apartment, and… Well, things are surprisingly not too bad! … Who the hell am I kidding? It's been absolute shit. I lost my home. My parents want fuck all to do with me, and best of all? There's a new face among the ghosts that constantly haunt and toy with me, Fang and Naser's mom. "I…Held Sam in my arms, as she…" The words uttered by Fang's dad in the bar repeat in my head like a broken record. I can't even imagine what he must have felt in that moment, the despair that comes with losing your children only to have your wife take her own life right afterwards. Nobody comes out of that the same man. My mind begins to hyper-fixate on the subject as I start to mindlessly pull various items and place them on the floor beside the bed, not even realizing what I am pulling out of the bag. Maybe… This is my brain's way of manifesting my guilt. I haven't stopped thinking about it since I first learned that she died and how my guilt and self-hatred resurface as it clashes with my newfound resolve to become a better person, not just for those I love but for myself as well. I feel trapped in a Jekyll and Hyde-type situation, with the added bonus of having no family or money. I'm constantly seeing dead people like a fucking schizo. It's just… No. I need to get over myself right now. It could've been a lot worse for me. Raising myself off the ground as I step away from my makeshift suitcase, I can feel myself calm down as I take a moment to step away from unpacking. I'm really glad that Stella and her family let me stay in their guest room. My eyes observe the surroundings in front of me, a freshly made double bed. The color of the blanket matches the tone of the walls. A small window is placed near the top of the ceiling, typical for bedrooms that aren't on the top floor. And to the foot of the bed is a dresser with a mirror, perfect so I can get a good view of myself when I wake up screaming from a nightmare. Other than that… There's nothing too noteworthy here, although I'm not sure what guest rooms were supposed to look like. Back at home, my parents always just used… My 'parents'... The mere thought of them causes the sense of loss to resurface inside me. That's not gonna be a fun subject for a while. However, I'm objectively in a better spot now than yesterday. As we rushed back to my apartment to figure out what to do next, I felt so detached from the world around me… But it wasn't like when I blacked out in the park and dreamed about Fang. I couldn't feel the world around me. It all just felt… Non-existent. I knew where I was, but I felt disconnected, like a spectator of the events unfolding. It was so much sad as it was empty... But I fear I would have completely fallen apart if it weren't for Stella. As Rosa drove us to Skin Row, Stella neglected her usual spot as Rosa's co-pilot. She sat in the backseat with me, holding me tightly as she whispered gently in my ear. "It'll be okay… I'm not going anywhere…" "I love you, Anon. We're gonna figure this out, okay?" If I weren't paralyzed with despair, her words would bring tears to my eye. No one has cared for me before like that, not since… My brain drifts away. I stare blankly at the mirror, observing the ragged and weary human looking in my direction, almost as if there's nothing there. …I need to get back to unpacking I resumed the depressively boring task of unpacking whatever I could shove into a garbage bag at the last minute before that old Slavic fuck evicted me. Thankfully I was able to get most of the good stuff. Laptop, Xrox, Vidya games, some sets of clothes, pretty much all the essentials. I had to leave behind a few things, like the furniture, the TV and monitor, and all my food and drinks. The latter of which is the least of my worries, however. A few minutes pass as I trudge through the contents of my bag like a miner digging for gold, only to find shit, good old reverse Midas touch. I end up placing most items either on my dresser or inside my dresser. However, as I am digging through the bag, there's one item in particular that stops me dead in my tracks The phone Roomba I bought in Little Trodon on my first date with Fang… The orange-coloured automaton, a battery pack attached to the top, as the angry expression painted on its fast contrasted with its diminutive size. Raymba… Hey little buddy… I stare at the automaton with mixed feelings, happy that I could bring my 'first real pet' with me to a new place. Looks like Ghibli better watch out. But a level of sadness lurks beneath that, since that little Roomba is one of the few things I have left of Fang- KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK OH, JESUS FUCK! "Hey, Anon! Would I be able to come in?" Stella's voice gently calls out after a barrage of knocks collides against the bedroom door. …Why do I have to be such a jumpy sperg? It's just Stella. "Y-yeah of -" Oh, Jesus fucking Christ… I cut myself off as I am reminded of the small cardboard package resting on the wooden dresser, which I DEFINITELY don't want Stella to see out in the open. …Why the fuck did her dad have to give me condoms? "Now, my boy. You two are adults, and I cannot stop you from doing anything, but I only ask that you do it safely." Monty's cautionary words echo in my head as my face contorts with cringe. I mean. Yeah, obviously... But I don't want to talk about that… with her FATHER of all people! "Anon?" "Sorry! Just a second!" A slight panic grips my voice as I quickly walk over to the cabinet to place the small box of lust in my pockets. Crisis averted Walking over to the door, I open the door to be greeted by rather concerned yet shy-looking Stella, dressed in her typical bedroom attire consisting of a baggy pink t-shirt and black shorts and socks. The hue in her hair seems slightly darker than usual as it gleams in the light of my bedroom. I guess she just got out of the shower? "Actually, I had a bubble bath." Oh for- Raptor Jesus, I gotta stop doing that. "S-sorry…" I rub my neck with embarrassment while looking away My reply elicits a giggle from her lips. "It's okay Baby! Don't worry about it!" Wait, what did she call me? "Baby, huh?" A smile forms across her face... "Yeah! That's one of the cute names that couples call each other… right?" Her smile fades into confusion as she tilts her head. I always found pet names like that corny as hell, but to be actually called that? It's nice… "Baby…" I nod in agreement to the growing happiness of Stella. "I like it." "Awww, great! I'm happy to hear that! …baby!" Oh no, what have I done? "So, how goes… unpacking?" She looks over my shoulder to see the garbage bag containing all of my possessions. "Did you need any help?" My eyes follow where hers are pointed. Crap. "Nah... I should be good. Not a whole left anyways, t-thank you though." I nearly trip over my own words as I answer. I don't want to have to explain RAYMBA to her, not with its connection to Fang. Stella takes a seat on the foot of my bed and looks at me expectantly as if she's wordlessly asking me to sit down. I comply as I turn away from the garbage bag, subtly moving away part of the bag with my foot so she doesn't see Raymba. "Is… everything okay?" I ask her as I sit next to her, gently taking hold of her hand as soon as I sit down. The Stego's blue eyes widened in response. "Oh no don't worry, Anon! I'm okay." Her hand squeezes as I can begin to feel her tail make its way around my pack, the plates lightly jabbing me in the process. The feeling causes me to wince a little as an apologetic look grows on Stella's face, and a quiet 'sorry' escapes from her lips. "I… actually wanted to ask you, i-if you were okay?" Am I okay? …Things have improved a lot in a sense lately in such a short period of time. Reuniting with my old friends, falling in love with one of them, and not to mention my leg finally starting to uncripple itself. However, all of the blessings I've received don't completely dull the pain I've been hit with. I'm still homeless, dead to my parents, seeing ghosts nonstop, and I almost got murdered twice in the past month. And… "No, I'm… I'm really not okay right now." I sigh as my eyes look down at the bed. Stella began to softly stroke my hand with her fingers. She deserves to know the truth. I've been hiding from others long enough. Not anymore. "Everything that's been happening lately, it's… all been too much for me." I lift my head up to hear the defeated expression on my face affecting Stella. "For a while now, I thought I deserved to pay for what I caused… But I'm not sure I can handle all this shit any longer." Stella's face begins to light up with worry as the grip around my hand tightness "A-anon… Please don't tell me you're thinking of… You know…" Her question causes my eyes to widen as I move my free hand to join her. "No! Stella, I would never kill myself… I... I could never do that to you or Rosa." The frightened look in her eyes fades. However, the Stego's sad expression still remains. "Anon…" "Besides, for a while, I thought I deserved to die for what I did and how I treated others. The only reason I didn't make that happen is that I was too much of a pussy to make that happen." My chest begins to feel heavy under the weight of my own words. "But that day, I lived… Did you know that Fang unplugged my alarm before I woke up that day?" A mixture of curiosity and leftover worry grips Stella. "She was at your apartment the night before?" How should I go about this? I'm a little afraid of going into detail about what Fang and I did before… yeah. "She was pretty distraught over what happened at prom, so much so that she refused to go home. So she stayed at my place the night before. But the morning when it all happened, she unplugged my alarm. She wanted me to live." A conflicted look appears across her face. Relieved that her boyfriend survived the shooting, but uncertain how to feel that her attempted murderer was the one who spared him. "Even when I was shot, she shot me in the leg, and yet I lived… When Trish attacked me, I survived both of those times too. It feels like a sign…" Stella's expression begins to calm as I finish my sentence, grasping her attention as I mention the possibility of 'fate' being why I'm still alive. "A sign, you say?" "Yeah… I think so." A shrug as a slight smile appears on my lips. "Maybe, it's the universe's way of telling me it's not my time to go just yet. I can still make a difference and turn things around." Suddenly, the Stego's face lights up as if she just discovered the cure for cancer. "I just realized something! You remember the cards you drew, right?" From… The tarot reading? What does that have to do with anything? "I think so? It was strength, lovers, and death-" I ask with confusion before getting cut off by Stella's enthusiastic voice. "Exactly! It was strength, lovers, and death! All of them upright too!" Her lips curl upwards, emphasizing her wicked glee. "You remembered!" I'm… honestly surprised I did consider what else happened in the following days completely overshadowed that, but... Nice… Good shit, Anon. "So, do you reckon there's a correlation between the cards you drew and everything that's happened lately?" I rubbed my chin as the gears in my brain began to grind. "I think so!" Stella lets go of my hand and raises herself off the bed as she begins to pace in front of the bed, focused on her deduction like a hamster in a wheel. She mumbles as she fervantly tries to decipher the correlations between what's happened with us thus far and the cards she drew. For a while, I thought astrology was just for boring schizo girls on Skronker. Still, I find myself compelled to learn more as Stella continues to educate me about its joys. "I think I got it!" exclaims the Stego as she stops in place, pointing her finger at the invisible lightbulb that shines over her head. "With Upright Strength, Lovers, and Death, it could symbolize a new beginning for us! How we've been able to find strength and security in each other, and together we can overcome the storm and begin anew!" Stella sat back on the bed as her excitement faded into a sweet smile. Her infectious hope eliminates any fear and doubt I have in this moment about my life, my parents, or any of that. "That was beautifully said, Stella." I smile back at her. "I think you might be on to something… baby. The Stego sweetly smiles as she pulls me into a warm hug, resting her chin on my shoulder. "Do you remember what I told you that night before we did the tarot reading?" She whispers into my ear. "Even if the stars point toward a grim fate." I whisper back, echoing the words of encouragement she gave me a week ago. "You're not alone anymore." "We'll face it together…" "Together…" Stella lifts her head from my shoulder as I make contact with her azure blue irises, the color of her eyes matching the moonlight shining upon clear waters on the ocean, fitting for her namesake. "You've shown me that, you know? In a time where I lost all hope and was filled with constant fear and despair." Despite her sweet smile, a slight tear begins to pour down her cheek. "That there's always hope to be found and that I'm never truly alone." Her complete vulnerability and emotion cause a warm sensation to ravage my body. Making me feel as light as a feather. My heart is overfilling with love and desire. Love… "I love you, Stella… I really do…" "I love you too… Out of all of the stars in the sky, you are the one that shines the brightest in my eyes." I love this girl so much. And without another second, our lips meet in perfect harmony, filling me with a sense of purpose, security, and love. She gave me a second chance, a reason for living… Our kiss begins soft and tender before the rhythm gradually grows more intense, our lips locking with each other more aggressively as our arms wrap around each other in our heated embrace. That is until… Stella takes it to the next step as the Stego suddenly pulls away, gently pushes me onto the bed, and lays me on my back. What the hell? I'm stunned with surprise as Stella has me pinned on her bed, adjusting herself as she straddles my waist. However, the vulnerable look in her eyes remains, contrasting her aggressive body language. She lowers her head to mine, inches from my face. "Anon… I want you…" Her words hit me with a barrage of conflicted emotions. The image of Fang visiting me the night before she died flashes in my mind. Filling me with a sense of grief and pain. However, it fails to drown out the other end of the spectrum. The love I have for Stella, the desire I have to keep her safe and see her happy. As well as the primal feeling of lust and passion swelling inside me. I can't live in the past forever… "I want you too…" I confess, revealing that the latter half of my emotions turn out to be the strong one. I guess it was good that her dad gave me that pack after all. I raise my head to meet her lips as we lose ourselves in desire. I love you, Stella… About two weeks have passed since the Baudelaires took me into their home, saving me from rotting in the streets to fend for myself. I realize I make myself sound like a helpless little kid incapable of wiping his own ass as I say that, but with everything that's happened to me… That could've happened to me. I will never be able to repay their kindness towards me, it's far more than I deserve. However, Stella sees something precious in me, leading me to realize that the warmth inside of me hasn't been frozen by the cold heart I thought I had… And apparently, Monty did too. That comment I made about my minor experience with audio design stayed in his mind, and so he made me an offer. "If you would be willing to work as my assistant, helping me as a second pair of ears as well as helping manage my equipment and projects, I will allow you to stay here with us as long as you need to." Monty's more than generous offer reappears in my mind. "And I would even be willing to teach you some tricks with audio design here and there if you want." The following days spent with him usually involved working on projects he's taken on for various clients. Lately, we've been working with a lot of indie filmmakers with audio editing for some short films happening with the Volcadera Film Festival next year in January. I've learned a lot of really cool tricks from him since starting, like making the audio feel more grounded in the film's reality as well as learning how specific sound effects are made here and there or how commercials get their audio mixing just right, it's a lot more complex than I would've thought. I've also been taking some calls here from his clients periodically, one of them I'm expecting sometime today. I'm fortunate enough to have a working phone plan since the government's still letting me leech off them since they don't view the Baudelaire's house as a permanent residence for me. I mean, yeah… They're French, but that's pretty shitty that their house doesn't qualify as a real residence because of that. …Anon, what the fuck are you talking about? Stop talking like a Redditor. Nevermind… Plus, I've been able to help out here and there, too. Whether it's keeping the house tidy, taking Ghibli for walks during the day when her parents are working and whatnot. Ańgel keeps on telling me how much of a godsend I've been with what I've been able to do. Although I haven't even really done much, to begin with, it's the very least I can do for them, letting me stay with them. I seriously feel like I'm in a fever dream at times. Not only is he allowing me to stay with them, but also practically gave me a free internship! That is definitely not the type of response I expected from the man whose daughter I'm dating… and slept with… I… slept with her. I've done the deed. I laid down the pipe… I did the devil's dance. God, I'm making this sound more silly than I actually feel about it all. Part of me is happy I finally reached that point with Stella. I love her and want to make her as happy as I can. That night with her, I have never felt more vulnerable than I was with her in that moment. Being able to share that night was beautiful… On the other hand, I feel very conflicted. Conflicted that no matter how hard I move on, I haven't been able to get the image of Fang out of my head… I'm haunted by the memory of her final visit to my apartment, the actions of a girl who didn't want to die a virgin. And I feel ashamed of what was popping into my head while with Stella. I didn't tell her, and I have no intention of it… But it feels really unfair to her. She's doing her best, and she deserves better than to give herself to some bald weirdo whos haunted by dead people, one of them being his ex-girlfriend. It's all so fucked… But… Yeah, I guess there's only so much I can do… I feel my fingers growing more tired as I begin to write down the last letters on the white-lined sheet of paper before me. As the ink sinks in, I let the pen fall from my fingers onto the notebook out of relief. A couple of days after coming here, I began to keep a journal where I write down my experiences or whatever I'm feeling in the moment. I found a cheap one at the dollar store, but it does the job. I remember hearing on some Lithuanian wine-tasting message board that having a journal like that helps, and… I'm honestly surprised that it does… "WOOF WOOF WOOF WOOF!" "Anon! She's here!" The muffled voice of Stella that followed Ghibli's barrage of barking indicates the arrival of an unexpected guest? Wait… Who's even? Oh- FUCK! I FORGOT ROSA WAS COMING OVER!!! "C-Coming!" I call out as I waddle towards the door, the crack in my voice making it sound like I'm hitting puberty a second time. Opening the door, I'm greeted with the sight of the corridor of the Baudelaire household. I'm still getting used to the concept of bedrooms on the ground floor. I've only ever slept in rooms several stories high before. The house's front entrance is where the bubbly Stego girl and happy Samoyed are waiting with anticipation, a big smile blossoming across their faces. "RAOWRRRRR ROUW ROUW ROUW" Ghibli vocalizes at my presence. That might be dogspeak for 'Wow… Took you long enough.' "Kept you waiting, huh?" I quip as I carefully walk towards the entrance, chuckling over the clever reference. "It's all good! No worries!" Stella flashed a brief smile before turning to face the front entrance. She's wearing that classic outfit consisting of the white shirt with colored short sleeves paired with blue short shorts. I've noticed she's been wearing that a lot more frequently again. She moves in front of the door, possibly to avoid having Ghibli get too excited and make a run for it. A second later, her hand move goes to open the door revealing the joyful Ankylosauraus girl waiting patiently behind the door, also… wearing the same outfit I saw her with back in school. Is… there something going on I don't know about? "Rosa! Thank you for coming. It's great to see you again!" "Same to you, Hermana! Thank you for having me!" The two friends greet each other with a warm hug as they stand in the doorway, Ghibli panting, eager to be a part of the affection. The ankylo takes notice of her as she lets go of Stella to stroke the walking ball of white fluff, Rosa chuckles as the dog begins to tell her about her day. "Hey, Rosa! How have you been?" I smile as I make my presence known to her. "Hola An-on! It's great to see you too!" Rosa lifts herself up to greet me at eye level, smiling as she opens her arms for a hug. "I have been doing muy bien! I have just been getting everything ready for Volcano High's botanical showcase! It's been a hot minute since we last hung out with Rosa. Apparently, the new principal has her in charge of some kind of event thats happening at Volcano High regarding the campus's garden. And I thought Spears was a hardass about the school's 'beautification'. "Awesome! Did you want to come over to the living room? We got snacks ready and I can bring you a drink if you want!" Stella chimes in with a bubbly smile, his positivity having an infectious influence on both Rosa and I. "That would be really nice! Gracias, chica!" As Stella left us to make her way to the kitchen, Rosa and I made our way into the living room with Ghibli tailing us from behind like a Shark eagerly waiting for it's next catch. "Wow… You all really outdid yourselves setting up decorations for Navidad this year!" The house's Christmas decoration impressed Rosa as she glanced around the living room. Snowmen, Nutcrackers, and snowflake statues scattered across the shelves like sentries guarding over their domicile. As well as the strips of glowing colored christmas lights spread across the room that would put most streamer setups to shame. Plus there's a sign above one of the statues that says 'Joyeux Noël', which I assume is French for Merry Christmas? Or something to do with omelettes or fromages, And of course, what house wouldn't be complete without a christmas tree? The large green shrub layed adjacent to the fireplace, decorated in beautiful ornaments ranging from snowflakes, angels, or various souvenirs the Baudelaires have collected from their travels. It doesn't surprise me one bit to see a few Eiffel Tower pieces in there. I was never really too big on christmas growing up, probably since my family was never too big on it either. But it really warmed my heart to see the love and effort Stella and her family put into celebrating the holiday and how it's brought them together, maybe my heart grew a couple sizes since then. As her eyes break away from the decorations, Rosa sits down in the couch next to the table containing of an array of sweets. The tray containing a set of plates and enough cookies and chocolates to send us into diabetic shock, my mouth salivates at the sight. My eyes break away to hear a whine coming from the fluffy Samoyed, sitting impatiently as she stared at the tray longingly, I'm pretty sure Dogs aren't supposed to have chocolate. "No Ghibli, stay!" Affirmation causing Ghibli to begrudgingly complied, as she walked away from the table and laid down by the christmas tree, placing her head between her paws with the saddest looking eyes imaginable. I can practically feel my heart melt at the sight of it, maybe just one cookie won't hurt her- "Here we are!" My thoughts are cut short as Stella came back into the room carefully carrying a tray of three drinks. And among the two glasses of water, I can spot the small white mug with steam radiating from the top. Oh my god… Stella? I love you so much. Stella lets out a giggle as she sets the tray down next the snacks on the table. "I love you too, Anon! Now sit down and enjoy, baby!" Baby? …Honestly I can't even complain. She brings me god tier coffee from her fancy Keurock machine, she can call me whatever she likes. We all sit down and get settled in and grab a plate, Stella and I sit together on the couch on Rosa's left. All of us very eager to dig into the sugary goodness, the three of us make small talk as we make our selection ranging from our mornings or comments about the sweets on the table, especially towards the cookies. When Ańgel comes home tonight, I'm going to have to give her the biggest hug possibly… Although considering how tall she is, I don't wanna accidentally get a face full of- Yeah… Let's maybe not think like a complete coomer over your gee eff's mom. "So Rosa! How is the school's garden coming along for the event?" Stella's question for Rosa helps prevent me from continuing that perverted line of thought. "Oh, it is coming along well! Thank you for asking, Stella." The Ankylosaur sports a confident smile toward Stella. However, the tired look in her eyes hints at exhaustion. "Although, I must confess all of the last minute preparations has made it a little bit stressful." Rosa lets out a tired sigh, her shoulders drooping at the reminder of the task she's taken on. "Mierda… I still don't know if I am still able to get everything done by the new year, or if I can give a whole presentation in front of all of those people! I can definitely understand where she's coming from, stage fright is a massive bitch. Especially when you're already dealing with an enormous amount of pressure from the school's faculty. "Aww don't be nervous, I know it's scary but I know you can do it!" Stella sets her plate down before taking hold of her friend's hand. "You've been working so hard on the garden since the beginning of the school year, and I can't think of a better person than Rosa Castillo As the Stego comforts her friend and offers assurance, a smile begins to break through the doubtful look on her face, her lips curling upwards ever so slightly. Stella's love for her friend causes me to smile too. "Gracias, Stella… Lo siento.." Rosa raised her head toward us, the uncertainty in her presence still there. "I am just a bit nervous about it I suppose." Okay Anon, time to make yourself useful and stop sitting around doing nothing while your friend talks about her fears. I lean forward so I can adequately face Rosa. "Is… there anything in particular you're nervous about?" Really? C'mon Anon you can do better than that, Raptor Jesus help us. Rosa's eyes meet mine, her face uncharacteristically showing a lack of confidence as she sighs once more. Billions must sigh, after all… "Si, Principal Roberts has been very insistent that the event goes exactly how she planned and there's something else too…" "What's that?" I inquire, giving her a slightly confused look. Stella's lack of a change to her facial expression tell me she already knows the reason why. Rosa closes her eyes, steeling herself for her response. "I am doing Volcano High's Botanical Showcase… as a memorial to those I have lost." I can feel my heart grow heavier as the words left her mouth. Her Stego friend gives her hand an encouraging squeeze to soothe her forlorn demeanour. "I want to honor everyone… Not just who died that day, such as Naser or Naomi, but those I have lost that were very close to me…" I know exactly who she's talking about. Sage, a good friend to both her and Stella. She seems like a pretty cool person from the way both of them speak about her, I wish I got to meet her. And of course, her father… The man who introduced Rosa to her love of gardening, handing her the torch as she tries to continue on his legacy. Both of them left this world way too soon. They all deserved better. "I think they would be very proud of you, Rosa." The ankylo's heavy breathing falls silent to better hear my words, Stella turning her gaze towards me as she smiled gently. "Do you really think so, An-on?" "I'm sure of it." I lift myself off the couch so I can sit beside Rosa, the process being rather awkward thanks to my leg still not being fully healed and how I don't wanna knock over my coffee all over the snacks. That would be a fucking waste of good coffee and sweets. "You are one of the most kind, thoughtful, and hard-working people I know." I take the seat next to Rosa. Stella and I practically cornering her now. " Plus, I have never met anyone who grows Flowers as beautifully as you can. If there's anyone who's gonna kick ass at this thing, it's you." Rosa remains silent. However, a tender smile appears across her lips as my words seem to reach her. "You are an insanely talented gardener, and not only that." I reach for her right hand, taking hold of it gently. "You're an even better friend, sister, and daughter too…" A few seconds pass as I begin to hear sniffles coming from Rosa. However, there's no sadness in those crimson eyes of hers. Only gratitude, admiration and happiness. I quickly glance over at Stella, who smiles lovingly at the sight of her consoled friend, which causes a wave of relief to wash over me because I was worried about how she would react to her boyfriend holding another girl's hand. "T-thank you… Thank you both…" Stella lifts herself off her seat as she moves toward Rosa. "Awww of course, Rosa! That's what friends are for." The Stego wraps her arms around Rosa as she continues to hold back tears, I take this opportunity to join them as we embrace each other in one big group hug. "Gracias… This means more to me than you-" RING RING RING RING FUCK! I FORGOT I WAS WAITING ON A CALL. The three of us break away from each other's grasp. The confused look on both of their faces contrasts my embarrassment. "Sorry! Your dad told me to keep an eye out for a call from one of his clients. I just gotta take this real quick." "Oh! No worries at all, baby! Go right ahead!" Stella nods with a reassuring smile. I lift myself off the couch once more as I leave the room to go into the hallway to take this call as the phone continues to ring. Ghibli starts to follow me in earnest pursuit to see if where I am going will have food. Not wasting any more time, I press the green button on the phone, not even paying attention to the caller ID. "Hey there, sorry about that! How can I help you? You're one of Mr. Baudelaire's clients, right?" My question hangs awkwardly in the air as I'm met with the sound of a faint background nose. "Uh… Hello?" I ask again. "I'm coming for you, skinnie…" That voice… What the fuck? A wave of fear washes over my body as I'm caught off guard by the venomous voice on the other line. Taking one glance at the entrance to the living, I walk down the corridor to get some privacy, each step feeling difficult, as if my legs are frozen with fear. "Trish? How the fuck did you get my number?!" I spoke to hear as quietly as I entered my room and closed the door behind me, separating me from the saddened Samoyed, who only wished to follow me. My question hangs in the air as I can only hear the faint breaths from my phone's speaker. "I guess they let you out of jail finally. What are you trying to pull here? I'm not afraid to get the cops here if-" "You can't stop what's coming… You and your little whore of a rebound are getting what's coming to you both…" You bitch… Don't you fucking dare… The adrenaline and anger melts away the fear inside me as my grip tightens around my phone, solely focused on protecting Stella to the point where I feel detached from the world around me. "You listen to me, Trish. Your fight is with me and me only. Leave Stella out of this!" It takes everything in my power not to yell it out at Trish. "Leave her out of this? Why should I?" Trish spitefully scoffs at my assertion. "You hurt the only person in this fucked up world I truly loved, so why shouldn't I do the same, hmm?! I close my eyes and take a deep breath, trying to gain composure as I try to steel myself for my following words. "You're right." "No shit, I'm right. You only just now realized tha-" "I did hurt Fang. You're not wrong about that at all. There isn't a day that goes by where I don't regret what I did to her, what I didn't do for her. Fang deserved far better than what the world gave her. If I had the chance to take it all back and be a better man and offer Fang the support she needed at that time, I would in a heartbeat." My fingers loosen slightly around the handset as my choice of words elicits a conflicted grunt from Trish's voice. Angered that I referred to Fang with female pronouns or how I don't sound like the monster she was expecting to hear over the phone. But the sigh tells me that my words strike a chord with her as if she's starting to think, 'maybe he's right…' "I'm doing everything I can to atone for what I did and to never let what happened to Fang happen to anyone else." My fingers tighten around the cell phone once more as determination returns to my voice. "But don't you pretend for one second that the blame is all on me. If you're gonna start pointing fingers over who fucked up Fang's life, then maybe you should take a good hard look in the mirror. I'm expecting Trish to respond with rage over the accusation that she would have the audacity to hurt someone she loved so dearly. Still, my words are only met with a defeated sigh. "I won't deny how much you loved Fang or how you thought you were helping when she needed it most. I can't imagine you had any bad intentions." I tell her calmly as I take a seat on my bed. "But if you really thought setting her against the world and making her think everyone in her life was her enemy, then you're fucking mistaken." "...fuck you…" My eyes widen with surprise at the sudden change in emotion in Trish's voice. Her once wrathful voice turns into sorrow. I need to tone down my approach. "Trish, I am sorry for everything. I know how much you loved Fang… But coming after Stella and I won't bring her back… A couple of seconds pass, feeling like an eternity as she begins to wrap her head around my words until she lets out a sniffle." "I k-know…" Her voice shakes slightly. "But I don't care… I'll kill you if it's the last thing I do, you fucking ape…" BEEP I lower the phone from my ears, blanking staring at the Saturnia themed wallpaper of my phone's lock screen as a sense of terror begins to grow inside me now that reality hits me like a truck. Trish is back… Trish is back, and she knows my number. Fuck… What else does she know?! Did Moe sell me out?! My eyes fall to the ground, and chills run through my spine as a million thoughts race through my head as I figure out how to do this. Should I tell Stella? She's already worried about me enough as it is right now… No, she doesn't know that Trish essentially just told me she's coming to the both of us. God, Anon, stop being such a selfish piece of shit! Of course she does! She deserves that much. I could also call the police… Although, how the hell did she get out so quickly, considering they arrested her on charges of multiple instances of attempted murder? The air begins thin as I try to scramble for a solution and an answer for this fucked up mess of a situation, just when I thought things were getting better. Fuck… What am I gonna do? [POST-NOTES] Kept you waiting huh? I wanted to thank you all for reading the newest chapter of Bad Apple! I've been hella excited to write this chapter since I had an idea of where to take the story a year ago, and now that it's out! The third act of Bad Apple is complete and we are now in the final act with only three more chapters after this! For example, here is the names I have for the acts of Bad Apple! The Tower: Chapters 1 - 3 The Lovers: Chapters 4 - 6 Strength: Chapters 7 - 9 Death: (Coming Soon!) Chapters 10 - 12 Author Notes: - This chapter was originally going to be the one that came right after Chapter 7 which was released back in December, but I decided to create an additional to expand character growth as well as Anon and Stella's relationship! - Some major changes are happening in my life soon which will most likely allow me to have more time to work on Bad Apple, which I am really looking forward to utilize. Ideally, I would love to have Bad Apple finished before Goodbye Volcano High comes out, but I give you all permission to punch me in the balls if I fail to live up to that. -Speaking of which, I plan on streaming the GVH demo to my YouTube when it comes to Steam on May 4th so stay tuned ;) - This chapter more reworks than any chapter I worked on so far. The first scene wasn't even supposed to be Stella and Rosa meeting, it was just Stella and Anon at a Christmas event when he gets the call (part of this was reworked into the previous chapter) or how the scene at the end was supposed to be Anon talking with the Baudelaires rather than Rosa. - The next chapter is going to be a very interesting one I like to think, it's easily one of the darkest chapters I have planned right now, you'll definitely realize why I listed this story as Explicit on AO3 once it's out. - Once Bad Apple is complete, I mayyyyy have a very special announcement to make related to Snoot Game. (Once it's finished though so don't get too excited) - Special thanks to CandleBird for making some incredible Snoot related art, some of them is even fanart of Bad Apple! It really warmed my heart to say that and I wanted to express my deepest thanks! Thank you guys again, you guys are the absolute best and it means the world to see the! Be sure to follow my twitter for more updates about Bad Apple and other possible Snoot-related content! My handle is @ItsUmbruhh, and I also update my YouTube Channel (Umbruhh) as well create snoot related videos (although I am prioritizing making more Elden Ring content for YT right now), see you guys next time!