Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Sixth period, the end of the day. It couldn’t have been sooner for Louise. She’d felt so endlessly alone in class, her only company being whispers from other kids. Each voice spoke of one thing; she wasn’t normal. She was a balloon, her yellow plastic skin not matching a human’s. Her left arm was purple and right was green, along with her legs, but the colors swapped places. Two brightly colored long balloons popped out of her head like dog ears, with a “tail” the same color as her torso and face. She tried to hide it under her baggy light sunflower hoodie and jean cargo pants, but she was still an easy target for bullies.

“Louise?” Mr. P asked, tapping on the girl’s desk, “Are you still there?”

The balloon girl shot out of her thoughts and looked up at the teacher. Her geometry teacher stared down at her with a slightly concerned stare.

“This is the third time you’ve zoned out. Are you okay?” He pressed.

“Y-yes! Just tired! I’m s-so sorry!” Louise blurted out, tripping over her words awkwardly.

The teacher just sighed, clearly annoyed at his plastic student. Giggles could be heard from the back of the class. They were from Noah, the main problem student, sat in the back laughing at Louise. His rich brown curly hair and white chocolate skin made him a treat for the eyes. The only issue? He was a bully, specifically to Louise.

“Noah,” He scolded, tapping his foot, “If you’re so witty today, why don’t you answer problem 4?”

The rich kid fumbled up and started to stutter out a response, but just grumbled before shutting up. Mr. P smirked maliciously at him, smug about his victory. Louise just sighed with relief and looked at the clock. 3 minutes till the end of the day. Maybe she could survive a little longer.

Just then, a familiar face appeared at the door. It was Confetti, her cousin, passing the classroom door. She was a piñata with bouncy confetti hair and green eyes. Her cousin waved to her with a toothy grin. Louise waved back, feeling a little better from before. Noah glanced over at the door then Louise. An unsettling smile formed across his face.

“That’s your cousin?” He said, pointing to the door.

Louise nodded before going back to her worksheet.

“No wonder you’re an outcast. You hang out with one all the time!” Noah cackled, thinking he was the shit.

Chris joined him, laughing like they just heard the funniest thing in the world. Louise felt her eyes sting and ears fall behind her. She should be used to his comments now, but they still stung. Especially when someone joined in.

“Noah and Chris!” Mr. P snapped, “Outside!”

Both boys froze, panic setting in as they knew what was going to happen. The teacher matched both boys out of the class and to the principal’s office. Chris turned the Louise with a death glare before being forced out. She didn’t even look up, just kept trying to hold back her tears. All she ever wanted was to be somebody in this high school. Yet she’d the one always mocked and laughed at. Why couldn’t she just be normal like the other kids?!

Just then the bell rang, finally ending her suffering. In a blur her stuff was pack as she was darting out the door. She bolted through the halls with tears leaking out her eyes. She’d always been pretty speedy, so it was an easy breeze to the doors of freedom. She tumbled out the door before limping into the sunlight.

The outside was packed with kids and buses alike, boarding and waiting. Chatter filled the air with the beat of life. Laughter echoed through the expansive parking lot. The sights and sounds made Louise’s head spin. She didn’t like loud noises, especially many of them. Her legs wobbled a bit as she stumbled through the loud parking lot. Kids horsing around and cackling surrounded her in a noxious rhythm. Her ears shot down behind her, overstimulated. A sudden tugged of one of her ears behind her didn’t help.

“Hey Sweet Pea.” Asked a blunt voice, one she knew as home.

“Bruiser!” Louise cheered as she turned around.

A shorter girl stood behind her in the crowd. Her brown almost back eyes pierced anything they saw behind black bangs. A wolf cut going to her shoulders cradled her face. The outfit she wore was just as emo; hoodie with a skull on it, cargo shorts, and converse. All black of course. A bandage covered her nose, completing her look. This was Smokey, or as Louise called her, Bruiser. The mostly black theme was because she was made of smoke, hence her name.

“Hello to you too daydreamer How was your day?” Erin chuckled loosely.

“Lonely.” The balloon sighed, a little exhaustion leaving her voice.

“Mine too. Idiots wouldn’t stop trying me.” The emo one huffed, “People are such asses at times!”

“I figure! Where’s Sea?” The brunette asked.

Just then, a sudden tackle from behind slammed into Louise. She fell into Erin with a shriek. The other girl yelled out a curse when she fell, both girls falling onto each other like in the rom-coms.

“Here I am!” The missing maiden yelled cheerfully, squeezing the poor girl below her.

Melody was her real name, but her friends call her Sea. Her long pastel blue hair went halfway up her thighs. Curtains bangs hid her sky blue eyes, taken straight from the ocean itself. Her eyes slightly matched her pale blue shorts and graphic T. She also wore converse, but they were white with jellyfish, kinda like Sweet Pea’s sunflowers on her shoes. The only catch, Sea was a fishbowl. Her skin was glass and filled with water. Even though she was fragile, that didn’t stop her from getting into clumsy shenanigans.

“BRO WHAT THE FUCK!” Bruise yelled, squinting up at Melody.

“What?! I missed you guys!” Sea laughed, sun passing through her skin.

“GET OFF ME! YOU KNOW I DON’T LIKE HUGS!” The smokey girl shrieked, squirming under Sweet Pea.

“Never!” The fishbowl grinned, holding on tighter.

Sweet Pea laughed manically as Bruiser shrieked under her, Sea yelling taunts from above. The emo girl squirmed and crawled until she escaped from Sweet Pea’s grasp, immediately storming over to Sea and ripping her off the balloon.

“WAIT, WAIT!” Sea squeaked as she was hoisted in the air.

“Time to pay water girl!” Bruiser giggled, wrapping her arms about the other girl’s love handles.

“Guys, we’re gonna miss the bus!” The balloon said while still laughing, pulling herself off the floor, “Let’s get a move on!”

Bruiser huffed before releasing Sea. The fishbowl scrambled off the floor, panting from joy.

“Thank you!” She gasped for air.

“You’re welcome Sea.” Sweet Pea sighed, starting to head over to their bus stop.

Both her friends followed with Sea behind the balloon and Bruiser trailing close behind. Without thinking, the smoke girl blew out a puff of smoke. It swiped the other two girls' backpacks and her own and floated next to the group. Sweet Pea squeaked a little and looked back at the emo girl, who was giving her usual bored face.

“Wait, you could do that?” The brunette balloon asked timidly.

“Of course I could. I’m made of smoke, remember?” Bruiser bluntly stated, in her usual brutally honest way.

“Oh yeah…” She stammered.

Even though she was silent, her mind was loud with critiques and embarrassment. Her face felt hot as a pink tint covered her cheeks. She always did this, tripping over her own brain and lips. The doctor said it was ADHD and Austim. So it wasn’t her fault. But still, she couldn’t help but hate herself for it. Just another reason while she wasn’t normal.

A short walk later, the trio was at the bus stop. It was on the other side of the road in front of the school. A few houses lined the road with white fences and overgrowth lawns. The sideway was cracked and uneven under their feet, patches of grass stemming from the cracks. But it was their bus that took them to their block. The tree girls stood waiting for a minute before it came. Bruiser went first, hands in her hoodies pockets. She slid into a long seat as her friends followed. Bruiser took the window, Sea took the middle, and Sweet Pea the aisle. The smoke cloud hung above them with their backpacks at the ready. A low hum of the engine signalled the bus was driving.

“So… Wanna hop on Overwatch later?” Sea asked, breaking the silence.

“Sure want time?” Sweet Pea nodded, head moving with the pulse of the engine.

“Can six work?” The fishbowl hummed.

“Yeah! What about you, Bruise?”

“Roles with me.” The emo one confirmed.

Her eyes were glued to the window, watching the cloudy sky. Cars flew past and trees blew around in the breeze. A blue bird was soared into view. Its blue wings and gentle nature intrigued the smoke girl as it drifted next to the window. She brought her hand to the dirty glass, her finger frozen in thought. Just then the bus slowed to a stop. The puff of smoke dropped Sweet Pea’s bag into her lap as she got up.

“Guess it's my stop. See you guys later!” The balloon smiled as she pranced over to the door.

“See ya Sweet Pea!” Sea called from her seat.

“Later.” Bruiser looked up.

Her hand removed itself from the window and waved at the brunette. With one last wave, the girl skipped off the bus into an apartment complex. A content sigh left her mouth as she walked home. Sea’s stop followed closely after. She lived in a small house on Apple’s street, just a few blocks away from where Bruiser lived. The bus only had to make a few turns into a white collar neighborhood to get there.

“Aww I’m already home!” The fishbowl sighed, a dramatic one for Bruiser’s taste, “Gotta go now!”

The puff of smoke tucked the water girl’s bag onto her shoulders. A low hum left her mouth at the feeling.

“Have a fish-tacular day Sea.” The smoke girl chuckled.

A surge of laughter left the fish girl’s mouth. It was a warm sound, something that warmed the emo girl’s eyes and heart. A soft smile crossed the emo girl’s face when Sea’s back was turned.

“Have a good day too, Bruiser!” Sea cheered, running off the bus.

The smokey girl didn’t notice how the fishbowl’s shoulders shook as she left the bus. A quiet whimper left her mouth too, but also went unnoticed. Bruiser’s stop came a few minutes later at a rundown looking apartment block. She slowly pulled herself up, her puff of smoke dropping the final backpack. As she began to leave, a gruff voice came from ahead of her.

“See you tomorrow Smokey.” The bus driver said, giving a small wave.

“See you later too…” Bruiser nearly mumbled.

With that she finally stumbled off the bus, ending her school day. But it would only get harder from here, and she knew that.

Chapter Text

The clouds in the sky whirled above Bruiser’s head as she stared at the place she called home. It was a rundown-ish apartment block with dirty red bricks and worn fire escapes. Smoke would rise in the early mornings and late nights from one apartment, the unofficial curfew if you wanted to live. Gang fights would break out ofter midnight, gunshots often being heard ringing through the block. Bruiser knew the chaos all too well as she’d lived here all her life. The apartments did look pretty in the rain though.

“Here we go again…” The smoke girl murmured to herself as she walked in, ignoring the gnawing dread in her gut.

The smell of dank bricks and Mary Jane drifted into her nose. It whirled around her as she surveyed the area. Allies between apartments reeked of smoke and bad decisions. People hung out in those allies, sharing blunts in mutual silence. A man walked past her holding something in his coat. It wiggled a bit until its head popped out; a small puppy. A wholesome moment in this area of The Bronx. The emo girl didn’t take her eyes off the man as he disappeared into the apartment next to hers. A black door marked where she lived, stained with mud splatter. Red mud splatter. She gaslit herself into thinking it was mud, even though she already knew what it was. The smoking girl was about to grab her keys when the door unlocked and opened from the inside. A tall shadow loomed above her, towering over her small frame.

“Hey kiddo.” A gruff voice spoke, dull and monotone.

It was her father. His shaggy black hair looked identical to Bruiser’s, only shorter with a white streak. Dark green eyes stared back at hers with her same sharpness. They contrasted his pale skin covered in tattoos. The white loose T-shirt he wore was soaked in sweat, his gray sweatpants dry but barely. He smelled of ink and body spray that almost choked her. Yet his slight alone struck a heavy unease on the girl. He was never home during the day to avoid her mom, so he at home shocked her.

“Pa?” Bruiser asked, taking in the rare moment.

“Yes it's me,” He said, “Anyway come inside, it's drizzling.”

She obeyed without a word as his hug hand found its way to her back, pushing her up the carpeted stairs.

“You typically aren’t home during the day, get the day off?” The emo girl murmured awkwardly, keeping her hands in her hoodie pocket.

“Mom’s been having trouble getting off the couch. So I came home early to get you.” The larger smoke sighed.

He eyes hit the floor as the finally made it up the stairs. There Bruiser could see her mom. She was face-down on the brown couch, wrapped in a black blanket covered in stars. Brown eyes met the emo girl’s gaze nearly covered by thick brown bangs. From where Bruiser stood, her mom watched with such hate that she couldn’t help but shudder. Dad quickly rushed over to the couch and tucked the blanket over her eyes.

“What’s wrong with her?” Bruiser said worried.

Her dad didn’t respond at first, drawing his eyes to the floor in quiet sorrow.

“... She took something. I don’t know what but it was in a glass pipe.” He groaned, barely above a murmur.

Her eyes blurred with tears unfallen, and her shoulders fell a little. He didn’t need to say more, she already knew was she took. That glass pipe has been a problem for a while now. It's been the reason she didn't have a mom ever since she was a baby. Mom didn’t even try to hide the reason why; she wanted a normal child. Bruiser wasn’t normal.

“Don’t you cry my young smoke,” Dad reassured her, walking over and putting his hand on her shoulder, “I love you more than any pipe.”

Bruiser just kept staring at the floor. She knew he didn’t mean it. After all that’s happened, she knew better than to trust him to be there for her.

“It's probably better if you went to your room.” The older smoke said, slightly pushing her past her mom’s glare.

“Ok…” The broken girl mumbled.

She stumbled past the couch, glancing over at her mom one last time. Her eyes were as cold as the drug she relied on. A low growl left her cracked lips before she said anything.

“I should’ve had an abortion when I had the chance.” Mom snarled, glare burning a hole into her daughter’s skin.

A choked sob left Bruiser’s mouth as she dashed into the hallway and into her room. Tears fell after she slammed the door shut, throwing herself onto her bed. Posters of bands were plastered all over her messy room. The color pattern followed her own; different shades of black. A some dried blood stained her pillow, one from a nosebleed she had from stress. Her hands patted around her blacken navy sheets until she found her headphones. They felt cool as she pulled them close, staring intently.

“I don’t know how I’d survive without you…” She mumbled to herself as she slid them on.

The familiar feeling of the soft pads against her ears was comforting. They toned out the fighting that was bound to happen close to 4 or 5, probably now from how her dad glared daggers at her mom when she left. Bruiser held her hands in her hoodie’s pocket when her phone buzzed. It must be Sea or Sweet Pea. She pulled it out of her jeans and checked the time. 6:32.

“Time to hop on.” The emo girl murmured again.

She dragged herself out of her bed to her desk. It was black like everything else in her room, but was filled with sketchbooks and school stuff. Her computer was there in all its glory, along with its keyboard. Both were black with drawings of fish, balloons, and shrimp drawn on with white marker. Bruiser took pride in the fact she customized her gaming setup, with it only taking 2 days to do. Just as she took her seat in her gaming chair, her phone rang. The name of the caller was “Balloon Shrimp Warrior”, their group chat’s name.

“Guess it's go time, finally.” The emo girl smiled, a faint one, but still as a smile.

The second she answered the phone, Sea’s voice came bright and lively.

“HI GUYS!” Sea cheered.

The sound of her voice brought a calm over the smoke girl. A low chuckle escaped her throat as she turned on the noise-cancelling feature on her headphone, drowning out her reality for just a moment.

“Well hi to you too, Sea.” Sweet Pea chirped, “Which games are you on?”

“Overwatch. Hop on bitches.” Bruiser laughed, a chorus of joy coming from the phone.

As the emo girl slipped into a world far from her reality, she felt at home. Only here, never anywhere else.

Chapter Text

The morning breeze drifted into the open window of Sea’s room. It flowed past walls filled with drawings of Nintendo characters like Link and Luigi, ruffling the papers. Squish mellows were scattered around the room and her bed all sea related. In fact, most of her room was decorated with sea creatures. Jellyfish hung from the ceiling and schools of fish swam on her walls. Whale sharks wandered above her desk, filled with school supplies and assignments. The breeze drifted past her crowded desk and to her bed, where Sea was asleep. Light ocean blue sheets cradled the fishbowl under a white comforter. The gentle breeze tickled her face till the teenager’s eyes fluttered open.

“It’s already morning?” Sea moaned, stretching with a yawn.

The fishbowl sat up in her bed. She still felt so sleepy, like she’s just gone to bed. Probably something to do with the late-night call she was on till 1am. Don’t blame her it was a good match.

“Yelp,” She sighed to herself, “Morning was gonna reel me in. Time to get up.”

The comforter held her back as the fish girl pulled out of bed. Her hands led her to her closet, eyes still droopy. They finally opened all the way when footsteps came from the hallway outside her room. She froze when a fist knocked on her door, hard and firm.

“Melody it's 5:50am.” Her stepdad spoke from the hall.

“I’m up!” Sea chirped, trying to sound calm.

“Good.” He said with a dull voice.

His footsteps echoed through the hall as he walked away. A quiet exhale came from Sea. She slouched a bit, panted quietly. Her stepdad was this tall, brunette man with broad shoulders and aged muscles. His dagger-like hazel eyes cut through anything they set themselves on. Especially Sea’s fragile self. The fishbowl tried to ignore those thoughts as she pulled open her closet door. A million shades of blue ran throughout her closet, separated by pauses of others colors. Two pieces caught her eye; a white tank top, a pair of seaweed green shorts, and an oversized zip-up hoodies covered in orange fish.

“Well I’ve found my outfit!” Sea chirped, pulling the clothes out of her closet.

Two things were missing though. Underwear and a bra. The fishbowl thought to herself. She technically was already wearing a perfectly good pair of underwear, so why not keep them on. Even if they had Link’s face all over them. So all she needed was a bra. Her favorite one was pearl white with thick cups. Thankfully they were in their spot in her dresser. She grabbed them and went about changing, humming a tune to herself. Soon enough, the fishbowl was ready for school. It was just in time too as a knock came from the door.

“Hurry up won’t you.” Stepdad grumbled loudly, impatient.

“I’m coming now!” Sea panted as she stumbled out her bedroom door.

The man stared at the fishbowl, clearly judging as he glared.

“Really? Did you have to dress like a slut?” He said, “It’s only 70. Not that hot for full summer clothes.”

Sea’s previous confident slid through her fingers like ice under the sun with his comment. She tugged her hoodie lower around her thighs, feeling as though she was under a spotlight. Her stepdad didn’t even look at her before heading down the stairs in front of them. The fish girl went the opposite way into the upstairs bathroom, brushing her teeth and cleaning the inside of her head. The scent of coffee and pancakes greeted her as she came downstairs. Sliding into a wooden chair, she stared blankly at the stack of pancakes in front of her while her parents chatted on the opposite side of the table. “Hey sweetie, are you okay?” Her mom asked, just then noticing her.

She was also a fishbowl, like her daughter, only with blue eyes and shorter hair. The tailored navy suit she wore looked too slick compared to the rest of the house. Even though she was her mom, Sea didn’t recognize the woman that shared her face. The mom she remembered was messy and gentle. Not the corporate woman that replaced her.

“Yes.” The fish girl answered quietly.

“Isn’t it a biology today? I’d figured you’d be happier.” Mom said, a dismissive tone in her voice.

“It’s a B day mom,” Sea explained, “I have bio on A days.”

“Oh yeah, sorry.” Mom smiled before turning back to Stepdad.

This is why Sea didn’t recognize the person that was her mom. She barely even looks at her anymore, like a forgotten item. In fact, she couldn’t remember when Mom actually talked to her beyond the surface. Something in her gut stung like it had been stabbed. It felt so cold just then, enough to make the fishbowl shiver.

“Ignore it, ignore it.” Sea whispered to herself.

She just shoved the pancakes down her throat, something heavy weighting down her head. They went down smooth once she got up from the table.

“Hey, aren’t you going to stay a little longer?” Mom asked, “It's only 6:25.”

“The bus comes at 6:30 often.” Sea said, even though she knew it came at 6:45.

“Oh okay then, have a good day my mermaid!” The older fishbowl called out as Sea threw on her backpack and ran out the door.

“You too!” The fish girl waved.

Once she was down the street, a few tears fell down her cheeks. Her eyes squinted as she tried to hold the rest in. A low whimper gagged her throat in sadness that clung to her. Each step after felt like an escape she desperately needed. The fishbowl’s hands found their way into her bangs, ruffling the light blue waves. More whimpers left her mouth as she stumbled over her own feet. Just a few more steps and she’d be at the bus stop. A sudden hug from behind caught her off guard.

“Sea!” Sweet Pea cheered, wagging her tail.

The brunette wore a sky blue sweatshirt with clouds floating across. Pale jeans covered her legs with rips in them. Her hair was in a messy bun and ears floppy, a sweet sight after this morning.

“Oh Sweet Pea!” The fishbowl smiled, hoping the balloon couldn't hear the relief in her voice, “How are you?”

“As good as I could be. And you?” The balloon asked, putting Sea down.

The glass girl just shrugged since everything inside her wanted to shoot out her mouth. Her gut was in knots over this morning, so she didn’t trust herself to talk.

“Wanna keep going to the bus stop?” Sweet Pea hummed, glancing over to their stop.

“Sure. Bruiser should be coming soon too.” Sea said.

Just then an amused voice came from behind the two. There the smokey girl was, coming up from the sideway behind them.

“Hey guys!” The emo girl called out, waving.

She didn’t wear her signature hoodie this time. Rather a black crop top that exposed her shoulders. A dark indigo choker covered her neck, matching her loose jeans. Her hair was in a half-up half-down style with her bangs in her face. The smoke girl’s face was already pink, clearly already feeling self-conscious as she approached her friends.

“How do I look?” Bruiser stammered, not taking her eyes off the ground.

Her friends gasped at their emo friend’s look with their jaws on the ground. Sweet Pea especially, a line of blush shooting across her face and ears.

“You look STELLAR Bruise!” Sea rooted, jumping with excitement.

“I t-think you’re stellar too!” Sweet Pea stammered, fidgeting with her hands with pink ears.

“You don’t have to lie you know.” The smoke girl murmured.

“I’m not lying though!” The fishbowl yelled, “You really are a hot bitch!”

“I THINK THE BUS IS COMING! The emo girl screamed.

Bruiser turned the shade of strawberry jam and her eyes went wide. Sea’s eyes were full of awe, taking in her friend’s new outfit in. It was all so exciting to find her typically depressed friend trying something new. Sweet Pea’s tail violently wagged behind her like a fan. She shoved it in between her legs as the trio started walking towards the bus stop, Bruiser speed-walking while trying to calm down. The bus stop was at the end of their street, next to a large tan house. Thankfully the bus was pulling up at the time the group arrived.

“Guess you were right!” Sea giggled, a little blush tinting her cheeks.

“Yeah, yeah sweet cheeks. Hope on.” The embarrassed girl grumbled.

Sweet Pea went first, followed by a blushing Bruiser, then Sea who was still giggling. The balloon kept her tail between her legs as she took her seat. The other two kept going at it while she was just silent with a warm feeling she couldn’t describe. One word could though, one she didn’t want to admit.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4: Smokey

Sitting in History felt like a snail’s crawl. Bruiser sat in the first desk to the right, next to the window and secluded from everyone else. The teacher, Mr. H, rambled about the Civil War in front of the class. He wasn’t preaching to a large audience with there only being about 12 kids in total. Everything was silent except for the teacher’s voice echoing through the classroom. Everything except for Bruiser’s mind, which would not shut about this morning.

The crop top was baggy on her frame and left her shoulder’s to the elements. Her pale skin reflected light like a mirror, glinting in the morning sun. It felt like a spotlight had been placed on her by the way people stared. Most eyes came from boys with blush-filled cheeks like Sea. If she were honest, the only ones who could stare were Sea and Sweet Pea.

“Hey Bruiser, can you answer this question for me?” Mr. H asked with big innocent eyes.

The emo nodded before looking at the board. It was a thankfully easy one about the Confederate struggles in the Civil War.

“Lack of supplies and economic crashes.” The smoke girl answered.

“Great job! You’re correct again!” He smiled, a light cheer dripping from his voice.

Bruiser shrunk a little more in her chair. The sudden praise made her head spin and her face feel hot, something she didn’t know how to hide. She could feel the spotlight of eyes on her again.

“Does anyone have any more question?” The teacher inquired to his little audience.

None came up, a mix of awkward silence and comprehension. Mr. H nodded before waving his hand to signal the class was dismissed. Bruiser looked up to the clock. 10:00, ten minutes before the bell rang.

She pulled out her white ear buds from her backpack and pulled them into her Chromebook. They clicked as they connected, filling her ears with Japanese pop. Her head unconsciously bounced along to the beat. Tingles ran up her back with each good spike in rhythm. It felt good, even better than being high if she could be genuine. Just as things were reaching heaven, someone poked one of her sensitive shoulders. She jumped in surprise and whipped around to find Toffee sitting behind her. His cute curly hair and light honey eyes made Bruiser’s frenzy soften. He twiddled his fair fingers with pink blush on his face.

“Umm, y-you look pretty today.” The curly hair boy said timidly.

“Oh! Thank you!” The emo girl chuckled, the rage in her eyes melting away.

He was just too cute to be mad at. She could only laugh at the little guy, a small smile crossing her face. A louder laugh came from the desk beside her.

“At-a-boy Toffee,” Dewy cheered, his blonde locks framing his face, “Way to be brave!”

Bruiser sighed heavy when she heard his voice. He had a reputation of being a middle-class bitch, this being one of those situations. The silky soft pink vest he wore above a white shirt screamed fem boy. And what she meant by scream was shouted it from rooftops.

“Dewy don’t start the bullshit.” Bruiser groaned, annoyance leaking out her voice.

“Oh come on! You’re eating so hard with your fit!” The fem boy giggled, resting his pretty head on his hands.

“You don’t have to shout it to the class.” The emo girl mumbled as the sudden praise broke down her loner walls.

“But I really do!” He grinned, putting a hand on Bruiser’s exposed shoulder, “Your shoulders are as polished as pearls!”

An explosion of blush shot onto Bruiser’s face and ears. She barely could contain her overstimulated self as Dewy started stroking it. Her pulse was in her ears, unrestrained. She just froze while he did his thing, heart in her throat and brain malfunctioning. Dewy’s hand felt smooth and delicate as he ran his fingernails over her skin over and over, which kinda felt good. But if she wanted to not explode she had to stop it.

“Dewy, what the fuck?!” The flustered girl croaked, glaring at the offending party.

His eyes sparkled with awe and wonder. They almost looked like magical orbs floating above her shoulders. He looked almost hypnotized, under a spell that froze him where he stood.

“Dewy?” She asked, now more concerned than mad.

The emo girl poked his forehead a few times. The fem boy instantly snapped out of it, eyes wide and face flushed. He yanked himself off Bruiser and buried his head in his hands as the emo girl gave him an amused smirk.

“You just tired or were you hypnotized by my shoulders?” She grinned while raising her eyebrows.

“Shut it!” Dewy yelled, refusing to pick his head up.

“Ok, ok, sorry! The was just too cute!” Bruiser cackled, kicking her legs under the desk.

Thankfully the bell rung to cut the awkwardness short. The smokey girl let out another puff of smoke that scooped up her backpack for her. A chuckled came from her lips as she got up from her desk with everyone else. Dewy also got up but refused to take his eyes off the floor. The emo girl walked over to his and patted his shoulder, making him finch a little.

“Don’t fret about it. I also have autistic quirks.” She smiled softly.

Dewy slowly turned his head to watch her leave, eyes wide with gratitude and awe. She didn’t care about what he just pulled even though he knew she didn’t like to be touched. His mind raced with fantasies of the two on dates, romance no one else would ever have before he could stop himself. All the while Bruiser walked out and to her next class still giggling about his dorky self. For all he pretends to be, she loved that idiot’s whimsical side.
— — — — — — —
Block 2 few past in a blur of gym and dunking on people in basketball. Her feet ached from all the running, but she felt good. Hell she didn’t even notice her exposed shoulders anymore, which was a win in her book. The lunch bell and rung and she was making her way to the gym, when an unwelcome hand yanked on her ponytail.

“The hell?!” Bruiser yelped, whipping around to the jerk.

It was Techy, another rich kid known for being a prick. She had dagger sharp green eyes and shiny black hair she straightens every morning. Her perfume choked the emo girl in citrus, matching her outfit fulled with greens and white. Not like Bruiser expected anything else from a girl that wears a white tank top and greenish shorts every day.

“I heard you called Dewy a creep!” The TV spat.

“And why would I call him that?” The emo defended herself as the TV angrily crossed her arms.

“You said he was hypnotized by your ugly ass shoulders!” Techy yelled, pointing a long nail at Bruiser.

“Get your panties out of a bunch, I was joking. Hell he actually DID seem to be.” The smoke girl rolled her eyes, trying to calm Techy down.

That only got her a slap to the face from an even angrier Techy.

“YOU BITCH!” She yelled, shoving her nails in Bruiser’s face.

“Dude calm down!” The emo girl yelled back, “I was only telling the truth!”

“AND THAT WOULD BE?!” Techy demanded.

Bruiser paused before responding, knowing these next words could start a fight. Her hands balled into fists and her tongue dragged across her teeth. No matter how much she craved to dropkick this asshole, she had to think rationally. That’s when a truly devilish plan crossed her mind. Her lips curled into a grinned even before she opened her mouth.

“... Your gay friend’s got good taste in chicks,” Bruiser clapped back, “And you ain’t it.”

Techy froze with this very pissed off face as Bruiser walked away. The emo girl’s shoulder’s swayed about in sassy glory. That devilish smile never left her face as she walked away, knowing she dropped the best clap back she ever did.

“AT LEAST I’M NOT EMBARRASSED TO BE MY SEXY SELF!” Techy shouted from behind her.

“THAT’S YOUR PARENT’S JOB!” The smoke girl yelled back as she disappeared into the lunchroom, still holding that wicked grin.

Chapter Text

Lunchtime always felt lonely for the balloon. She never had anyone to sit with for most of her life. Well, not until now. Sweet Pea stood next to the main cafeteria door, waiting for the rest of her friends. The cafeteria was loud with teenage chatter and shenanigans. Fluorescent lights shown down from the cafeteria ceiling, making the balloon’s head swim. All the noise didn’t help as she struggled to herself up. Everything was just too much for the brunette. Just when she started to dissociate, the popular kids passed by. They consisted of the rich kids who lived in Garden Brook: Miette, Starry, Fossily, Strawberry, and Techy. Their laughter suffocated the balloon. Her breath sped up as they all turned to look at her.

“Hey, isn’t your friend the one the called Dewy a perv?” Techy asked, approaching the balloon.

“Um… What?” Sweet Pea stammered as the group started to surround her.

“Oh yeah she is! That’s Sweet Pea, one of Bruiser’s closest friends.” Fossily barked, her dusty blonde waves covering her pale hazel eyes.

Miette stood at the front of the group with the rest of her group cornering Sweet Pea. Her shiny fare skin matched everyone else’s, her milky brown hair in pigtails. The rich girl’s light blue eyes cut right through the balloon. She wore a bumblebee yellow skirt with a white shirt and long socks. She also rocked black platform heels, with she tapped furiously on the floor.

“We don’t tolerate people bullying our friends.” Miette growled.

“I promise Bruiser didn’t bully your friend!” Sweet Pea panted with terror in her eyes, “She has a habit of coming off mean most the time!”

“Then why are you friends with her?” Fossily asked.

She had a similar outfit to Miette, only in maple brown and a half up-half down hairstyle. The history girl stood next to Techy in an offensive stance.

“She really does have a good he-” The balloon rushed before Miette grabbed her by the collar.

“Save it, dumbass.” The flower girl snarled with venom in her voice, “Since you’re her friend, you must’ve known she was a bully.”

The brunette’s ear shot behind her head. Tears threaten to leave her eyes, but she fought them back.

“I’m serious! Let me go!” She yelled, struggling to yank herself out of Miette grip.

A sudden kick to her stomach stole her breath. The balloon gasped for air as the flower girl shoved her back into the cold wall. Another hit came to her face from Techy, hard and fast. Then another from Fossily to her side. Each left her breathless in pain and gasping for air. The hand on her neck was yanked off, and the brunette glanced up to find Strawberry had yanked Miette off along with Techy and Fossily.

“Guys stop!” The strawberry blonde yelled, “We could be suspended for this!”

Sweet Pea just stared at him, eyes twinkling with relief and gratitude. His stunning forest green eyes seemed to sparkle under his bangs. The outfit he wore was a strawberry red sweater vest over a white shirt and dark green pants. He towered over the rest of the girls, even a little taller than Sweet Pea. Even though he was richer than most of the school, he was pretty down to earth. He was always friendly to anyone he met with a warm goofy smile. That goofy smile sent shivers down Sweet Pea’s spin and flushed her face. He was just so gorgeous after all with his freckles and shining eyes. Just when she was about to speak up, a war cry came from behind the group.

“GET AWAY FROM HER YOU BASTARDS!” Bruiser shouted, shoving Miette and Strawberry aside to run in front of Sweet Pea.

The smoke girl stood between the group and the balloon like an iron wall, bulletproof from her stone heart. An army stood in front of the emo girl. They enclosed around Bruiser and Sweet Pea, lead by Miette, surrounding the two. Bruiser stood on offense as they approached. The balloon’s pulse thundered in her chest with the beat of a war drum. She shakily bared her fists, prepared to fight. Thankfully a teacher came in just in time.

“LADIES BREAK IT UP!” He shouted.

The popular crowd fled as soon as they saw the teacher approaching, dispersing like roaches that were found in their hiding spots. The two girls remained at the spot, panting wildly.

“You okay, Sweet Pea?” Bruiser asked, turning to the shaking balloon behind her.

“I-I guess. Only a few hits to the gut, face, and side.” The brunette panted.

The smoke girl ran up to her and grabbed her cheeks.

“Where exactly?” The emo girl commanded, checking on her inquired friend.

Shocked into silence, Sweet Pea pointed to where she’d been kicked. The smoke girl inspected each spot and tended to her, rubbing the newly forming bruises. More footsteps came running to the door along with screams.

“BRUISER! SWEET PEA!” A frantic Sea screamed, crashing into the lunchroom.

“Sea!” The smoke girl responded, “Where were you?!”

“In guidance! What happened?!” The fishbowl demanded, rushing over to hug Sweet Pea.

“She got jumped by the popular gang! That bitch Dewy must’ve spun a tale about me calling him a pervert!” Bruiser explained, frustrated smoke coming off her hair.

Sea gasped and hugged Sweet Pea closer. The balloon rocked back and forth in her friend’s arms, the reality of it all hitting her.

“Let’s jump them back!” The fish girl suggested, “Make them pay with force!”

“Hold it, hold it! Let’s make a plan first.” The brunette stated, feeling the urge of revenge in her blood.

The group darted out of the cafeteria, Sea holding Sweet Pea up as Bruiser held the door for them. They ran through the halls with the wind under them. Sweet Pea was barely run keeping up, being practically carried by Sea. Blurred voices ran with her, probably from people watching the three run. But the trio could’ve care less. All that mattered was to avenge their balloon and smokey friend.

Chapter Text

The group had taken refuge in the bathroom close to the gym, far from the cafeteria. Sweet Pea was on the floor of the disability stall, bandages covering her bruises. Sea and Bruiser also sat on the floor, with Sea holding her icepack to the balloon’s face while Bruiser sat in thought in front of them. The door behind them was locked and barricaded with a solid smoke cloud as the group recovered.

“This means war…” Bruiser growled, tapping a finger against her cheek, “No one bruises up one of my friends.”

“What do we do to fight back though? We’re only three people compared to their five.” Sea asked, checking their stats like video game characters.

“Oh we ain’t just three Sea. I’ve got a plan.” The emo girl stated.

“And what would that be?” Sweet Pea asked groggily.

“Make those girls realize WHO they’re starting shit with.” The gangster answered, a devilish smile on her face.

Both the fishbowl and balloon gave each other a look, one a mix of concern and confusion.

“Let’s all gang up on them with knifes.” The smokey girl declared, puffing out her chest.

“WAIT WHAT!” Sweet Pea shrieked, shooting up in shock.

“You heard me! Let’s gang up on them with knifes!” Bruiser repeated with that devilish grin smeared across her face.

“Maybe it’s better to just ignore them before it comes to that?” Sea stammered.

The emo girl gave Sea an annoyed glare, her shoulders slumping in disappointment.

“Come on! We’ll do it after school in disguises!” She pleaded, trying to convince them.

“Something tells me something fishy would go down if we did.” Sea reasoned.

“We should be fine as long as no one snitches! Plus, I know you wanna get your hands dirty.” The emo argued, reaching out towards the fishbowl and balloon and wringing her fingers.

“EEK! Don’t do that!” Sweet Pea squealed, “It looks like you’re gonna put a spell on us!”

She pushed Bruiser’s hands away with her eyes squeezed shut. The cute angry face the brunette made was addicting to Sea as she watched her friend in slight distress. The smoking lady’s cackling after also made her heart flutter. Or her fins, if she could make a joke.

“Ok, ok I’ll stop!” Bruiser laughed, finally putting her hands away from the balloon, “But you know that’s funny!”

Sweet Pea just huffed angrily and rolled her eyes. The emo girl turned her attention back to Sea, whose eyes were glossy like marbles.

“Finny?” The puff of smoke asked.

Still no response from the fishbowl, only glossy eyes and a blank stare.

“Finny?” She asked again, waving her hand in front of the fish girl’s face.

She instantly snapped back into reality. Her eyes went wide and darted away from Bruiser’s rough hand. Her light blue lips quivered in embarrassment, refusing to look at her friend.

“Are you good girl?” Sweet pea asked.

“Yeah, sorry! I just zoned out!” Sea rushed, refusing eye contact.

“Sure dumbass,” The emo chuckled while rolling her eyes, “You guys sure you don’t wanna beat some bitches up?”

Both the balloon and the fishbowl nodded in unison. After all it was a no-brainer; they wouldn’t last thirty seconds in a jail cell. Bruiser could but they couldn’t. The smoke girl sighed deeply and let her shoulders fall a little.

“Fine, we won’t do it. I’ll find another idea by tonight.” She groaned, heavy with disappointment.

“Please don’t do anything stupid.” Sweet Pea pleaded.

“I won’t… even though I should.” Bruiser remarked, ignoring how both her friends gave her a worried yet annoyed look.

The bell rang right when the trio’s counsel was finished. Bruiser got up first, holding a hand out for Sea to take. Sea leaned heavily on the emo to get up and held out her hand for Sweet Pea. It was a little thing they did, kinda like a human chain only without the “human” part.

“Thanks for having my back there.” Sweet Pea said for the hundredth time.

“You’re my friend dummy. I HAD to save you.” Bruiser insisted.

She waved her hand to blow away the smoke cloud guarding the stall door. The door opened and the girls left the stall, wandering toward the bathroom door. Chatter boomed from the halls now fill with teenagers. Before they all split, Sea grabbed both her friends’ hands.

“If everything goes to shit, I’ll defend you guys.” The fishbowl stated, a passion in her voice.

Sweet Pea’s eyes glimmered at her friends, a wholesome smile on her face. Bruiser turned away abruptly with a tinge of blush on her cheeks.

“We’ll be fine Sea,” The emo grumbled, “But thank you.”

The fishbowl only grinned as they all entered the hallway, breaking up in the turbulent halls.

Chapter Text

Bruiser sat in fifth period, a fierce storm brewing under her skin. Her mind was ablaze with ideas of revenge. The voices in her head spouted ideas like a fountain, all ending with the popular kids at her feet.

“Bust up their cars!” One claimed.

“Jump them with a baseball bat!” Another yelled.

All ideas were considerable to the emo, until that one sick voice whispered in her ear.

“Get your gun.” It said.

The smoke girl froze, going stiff from shock. That was very uncalled-for impulsive thought. It was actually one of the sicker ones she’d had in a while. The last impulsive thought she had… she didn’t want to talk about it. That one was for revenge too. But this one, this one was too far even for revenge.

“No,” Bruiser told herself, “It’s not worth it.”.

“But it is. Just for this once.” The voice claimed, a sickened sweetness in its voice.

“I’m not using that thing only unless someone's life’s in danger.” The emo growled.

“But someone’s life IS in danger. Sea… Sweet Pea… They’re both in danger because of them.” The voice insisted, growing more convincing by the minute.

“I already said no.” She snarled, finally losing patience, “Fuck off already.”

The sick voice grumbled under their breath before it responded.

“Fine. But don’t blame me when you’re in a puddle of blood on the floor.” It huffed.

Before Bruiser could quip a remark, the voice vanished. Peace finally fell over her mind and she let out a relieved sigh. Her head slumped down to her Chromebook which had a Spanish assignment pulled up. It wasn’t hard for the emo as she knew fluent Spanish, but she couldn’t focus. Something in her gut told her the sick voice wouldn’t leave her alone.
— — — — — — —
Sixth period came with the wind. Bruiser barely even had time to breathe as she threw herself into the desk closest to the door. At least now the voices in her head had shut themselves up, so she didn’t have them to drive her insane. But Mr. N will, and his lectures about Shakespeare. Other kids started filing in the classroom while running their mouths. Bruiser couldn’t have cared less, at least until a very special someone walked into the room.

“Hey Starry, are you okay?” Strawberry asked.

The smoke girl perched up, trying to be subtle. She looked up with her eyes to find Strawberry and Starry walking into the class. The moon girl was slouched over, her black hair flowing past her shoulders. Her pale-almost white skin contrasted her midnight eyes. She wore a royal blue hoodie that was bigger than her frame and a pleated white skirt. The faded white converse matched her socks. You wouldn’t have thought she was friends with the social butterfly Miette, let alone her best friend, but she was.

“Yeah. Just sleepy.” Starry stuttered, practically dozing off as she spoke.

“You’re always sleepy Star.” The berry remarked as he held her up.

“And you’re always a little too safe. Especially back at lunch.” The moon maiden.

The emo couldn’t have cared more about their conversation, but she had to be subtle. Each word was weighted with a simmering worry. One that Bruiser could only place as guilt.

“Like duh! We can’t just beat up an entirely innocent girl over her friend’s comment!” Strawberry stated.

“She must’ve known about her friend being a pervert! After all, Dewy said Bruiser ran her mouth to her friends!” Starry argued.

“Louise clearly didn’t know what we were talking about!”

“We both know she was gaslighting!”

“Well I know Sweet Pea! She’s a sweet girl, won’t hurt a flea!”

“Goddammit Strawberry that’s just from passing glances and you being a creep.”

The angry strawberry just froze, face turning the color of what his name was. He violently shook his head, shaking his strawberry blonde bangs wild.

“NO, no! Just shut up!” The embarrassed berry nearly shouted.

He rushed past his stumbling friend and to his seat, blush shooting across his face. Starry just laughed with this evil smirk on her face. She held herself up a little more, keeping that smirk as she trotted next to him Bruiser felt her face convulse as she tried not to start cackling right there. Not only did she now know Dewy’s a lying piece of horseshit, she also was gonna run to tell Sweet Pea about Strawberry’s secret observations. This’ll make Sweet Pea feel better about the whole jumping, right?

Chapter Text

The bell had finally rung at the end of sixth period. Kids were filing out of the school and into the pickup area. Chatter floated through the air, fulled but kids and teachers alike. Most kids went to the buses out front and to their cars. But Sweet Pea wasn’t most kids, as she was on the other side of the street to the school joined by her friends. The trio sat at their bus stop, letting the sun warm their skin. Sweet Pea especially enjoyed it with the little purrs she made. She figured Bruiser was enjoying it too, as she wore a weird smile across her face.

“Hey Pea,” Bruiser said, “I overheard something you’d probably wanna hear.”

The balloon perked up at the emo’s words. Sea also looked over, fanning her face with a sea themed fan she got at the local mall.

“Oh, what is it?” Sweat Pea asked.

The emo girl made a weird smile before breaking out into cackles. Both the fishbowl and balloon stared at the puff of smoke in bewilderment. After a bit of wild laughter, she finally explained.

“I overheard Starry and Strawberry in my English class. And Strawberry defended you about the gang up calling you a good girl, saying you didn’t know about that comment!” The emo girl laughed, her face scrunched up with glee.

The balloon froze with lips open for reply. Her eyes went wide as rocks and an explosion of red shot across the young teenager’s face. Did she hear that right? Oh god, her guts her already in knots! She shot a hand onto her chest over her storming heart. A twirl of thoughts spun around her like a web, wrapping her with his smile, his goofy smile that made her head go woozy. Her core felt like it was filled with a thousand butterflies, ready to escape her any minute. The pause between her and Bruiser felt suffocating while the balloon tried to stammer a response.

“S-Strawber-ry?” Sweet Pea stuttered, her throat suddenly so dry.

“Duh! Who else could it be, silly?!” Bruiser confirmed.

The heat of the sun was on Sweet Pea’s skin, she could feel it so vividly. Her ears trembled with each breath. The balloon always watched as he gave the biggest hugs to his friends, with them recoiling as if he was made of slime. Something in her heart would lurch forward. Almost craving those strong yet dainty arms to squeeze her breathless. She could only pray this is what his touch was like; hot and heavy. A breeze on her ears brought her back to reality.

“Sweet Pea?” Sea asked, fanning her overheating friend, “Are you good?”

“YES! Yes! I’m fine!” The balloon rushed, shoving her ears up out of her face.

“Sure you are, Sure.” Bruiser quipped.

Before Sweet Pea could argue with the emo, the bus pulled up. She just about grabbed her backpack and bolted onto the bus. The fishbowl and emo just stared, both clearly amused. They slid into their usual seat to the steady hum of the engine.

“You know,” Sea said, resting her head on a fist, “I wanna boyfriend sooo baadd.”

“Why’s that?” Bruiser asked.

The fish girl paused with pursed lips. She shifted her eyes about, avoiding Bruiser’s eyes like she was Medusa.

“I’m feeling… lonely. Just call it lonely.” The fishbowl stammered out.

“You want someone to blow don’t you,” The puff of smoke hummed, staring out the window, “I’m pretty sure I could fill that void.”

“BRUISER WHAT THE FUCK!” Sea shrieked with blush on her cheeks.

“Ok, ok, sorry!” The emo cackled, clearly in a devilish mood.

Sweet Pea stayed silent throughout the bus ride. Her mind was filled with words she could never say aloud. Thoughts of the smiling strawberry had her by the collar, drying her throat and twisting her guts. Strawberry’s face ran through her mind like a loop until her stop came. The balloon shakily got up and got her bag.

“Hey Pea, before you go,” Sea called as Sweet Pea stumbled away, “We’ll be on Overwatch tonight if you want to join!”

“I will! See you guys!” The balloon waved.

Her friends waved back. Sweet Pea did one last wave once she was off the stairs. With that, the bus pulled away, leaving Sweet Pea stood outside of her apartment complex. She walked into through the parking lot lined with cars. The apartment blocks were split but the main road and a few side streets leading to parking lots. Trees and overgrown grass filled the in between, with nature also surrounding the complex. Sweet Pea strolled through the maze of sideways and trees. A breeze drifted up behind her, pushing her curls around. It was a calm before the storm, and the balloon knew it.

Soon enough, Sweet Pea was wandering through the parking lot leading to her home. There was a line of trees to her left and apartments to her right. Her home was in front, apartment 162 with a red door. She approached slowly, dragging her feet so she could have her earbuds in at least a little longer. The balloon pulled them out once she reached the door. She fetched her keys from her backpack, feeling numb despite the sun in the sky. When the door was open, the sound of laughter could be heard from the living room. The brunette walked into the living room to find her foster parents with her sister. They all turned to look at Sweet Pea, laughter stopping.

“Hi, Sweet Pea!” Her sister chirped.

Her name was Cream, her parent’s real daughter. She had caramel hair that flowed all the way to her lower legs. Her bangs revealed light lemon eyes that stung anyone she didn’t like with a glare. Clear fair skin and plump pink lips could’ve seduced anyone if she tried hard enough. The tight-fitting white shirt matched with a short coral skirt flexed her curves to the world. Both her parents were the same; with here dad having brown hair and light blue eyes and her mom having blonde hair and green eyes. They stood around the caramel blonde as she showed off a test with a fat A+ in the corner.

“Hi Cream.” The balloon waved, putting on a smile despite her numbness.

“Do you see! I got another A+! I’m so happy!” The blonde cheered, shoving the test in the brunette’s face.

“Yeah, nice job.” The balloon murmured.

Her gut clenched in her chest seeing that A+. She never could get any higher than a A- for her grades.

“Sweet Pea, how are your grades?” Mom asked, looking over to the brunette.

The balloon felt her heart pang with heartache. Her hands shook as she put her backpack down onto the couch. She opened it and searched about for her most recent test grade, which was for chemistry. The test was weighted in her already shaking hands. Once it was in the open air, its grade screamed itself into the room in red ink; A-. The silence in the room grew tense with disappointment.

“Oh…” Cream muttered, clear embarrassed, “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you had that grade.”

“It’s fine.” Sweet Pea mumbled, feeling her eyes sting.

“Aww, Sweet Pea, you tried your best. Maybe next time is will be better.” Mom said in a dismissive tone.

Dad didn’t say anything, just sighed with disapproval before looking away. Mom was trying to be nice, but the balloon could feel her disapproval too. Tears welled into the balloon dog’s eyes and threaten to fall. Her throat closed in on itself when she tried to breathe.

“I-I be in my room.” Sweet Pea whimpered as she darted past the couch.

Her family watched her fled into the hall leading to her bedroom. Sweet Pea stumbled into her bedroom door, collapsing onto her bed. She stumbled onto her back and just laid there. The tears that choked her before finally burst down her face, scalding her face.

Why, just why did she have to be so pathetic? Why couldn’t she just be like Cream? She was so much better than her in all the ways that counts. Better grades, better looks, bigger tits and especially; she was human. Sweet Pea was a balloon, a glaring outcast in her own life. The brunette was always gonna be an outsider, never meant to be included. And the world made it clear.

All the while the laughter started up again. Sweet Pea listened to the joy outside, on the outskirts of her own family. It stung like hell. It really did.

Chapter Text

The bus had dropped Sea off at her house, with the fishbowl standing outside in the paved entryway.
She could hear yelling before she even entered her house. It came from both her stepdad’s voice and another one. A deep angry voice, one that was fulled with rage. The fishbowl could feel herself shake as she approached the front door, not knowing what was happening in there. Her hand reached for the doorknob when it suddenly flew open. The fishbowl fell back with a scream, landing on her rear hard. A tall shadow towered over the fish girl’s fragile self.

“Umm… hey kid,” The shadow boomed above her, “Open your eyes. I’m not a demon.”

Sea obeyed, violently trembling. What she saw rather confused her. A very tall man stood at the door dressed in a navy suit. Sweat dripped from his wrinkled forehead and soaked his faded black hair. An annoyed look pieced his from his ice-cold eyes. His arms were crossed as his stared down at the teenage below him.

“Who are you?” The man asked.

“I -I live here with my stepdad and mom!” Sea panted, still terrified.

“Oh, Rodger didn’t tell me about you. Sorry sea glass.” He shrugged.

The man stepped over the still dazed fishbowl and walked to the sideway. Sea watched in bewilderment as he ordered an Uber, seemingly unfazed by the absurdity of the situation. He turned back to face the fish girl when the taxi pulled up.

“My name’s Nathan by the way. You’ll see me next week!” He yelled, waving bye to Sea.

“Mine’s Melody!” Sea yelled back as Nathan opened the car door.

A moment later and the car pulled away from the curb. It sped out of view faster than the fish girl’s eyes could follow it. She just stared perplexed at the empty street. The back of her glass legs were scraped from the fall. They bled a little water. Her hands were also cut a little when she caught herself, and she could feel it. She was too busy being tangled in her own thoughts. Who was that guy? Why was he arguing with Stepdad? Were they business partners? Maybe rivals? Your guess was a good as hers.

“SEA, GET IN HERE!” Stepdad shouted from the house.

The fishbowl scrambled to her feet. Each move of her legs hurt, but she was too panicked to feel it. She stumbled in the front door and to the nearest seat she found. Her stepdad was in the dining room, where the fishbowl sank down on the cold wooden chair.

“You’re looking pale Sea. Eat something.” Stepdad said, passing a big plate towards Sea.

She looked up from her legs to find the plate was filled with sweet treats, mostly truffles and other chocolate confections. The fishbowl instantly perked up at the straight of the plate stacked high. She snatched up the first truffle her hands grasped, mouth drooping with anticipation. The chocolate looked so pretty right there in her hand. But it found its way into her mouth anyway. Its chocolate shell broke open in her mouth, a river of caramel coating her tongue. Purrs left the fishbowl’s mouth in joy no other food could match.

“Anyway, don’t mind that one guy you saw earlier.” Stepdad blurted out, without prompting or even coaxing.

“Why? Is there something wrong?” Sea asked, looking up from her plate.

“He’s just a business associate.” The man blurted out.

So the fishbowl was correct about the business thing. That’s probably why they were fighting, right?

“He’s one of my highest ranking employees. He’s also a pain in my ass, kinda like your antics.” The old man explained with a quick jab at Sea,“ We’re working on a big deal right now.”

“So that was why you were screaming at each other?” The fish girl nagged a bit.

She pried for more answers while still eating, sinking her teeth into truffle after truffle. Stepdad gave an irritated huff and brought a glass of iced tea to his lips.

“Yeah, no shit Sherlock. I’d rather not talk about it.” He grumbled, a clear deflection.

Sea wanted to pry more, but didn’t as her Stepdad started to glare at her. She kept her eyes on her plate on goodies before her. A glass of fizzy lemonade sat next to the plate. The fishbowl picked up the glass and took a sip. It fizzled in her mouth, giving a refreshing burst of lemon. Stepdad watched her eat. His eyes felt tense, like there was something on his mind. The fishbowl knew better than to ask what. Focus on the treats, just focus on the treats…
— — — — — — —
Evening came without much action. The family house was quiet, too quiet for this time of day. Usually Sea would hear Stepdad making calls and Mom in the kitchen. Tonight, only Mom could be heard in the kitchen. Not like Sea could care about that.

She was in her bathroom, filling her bathtub. Steam rose from the hot water onto her face. It felt good especially after finally finishing all her chores and homework. Hell, the only time she has for herself is nighttime, catching evenings were rare. The water called to her, coaxing her to jump in. It took most of her remaining self-control not to surrender. One last barrier stood between her and her watery love: a white short-sleeved shirt.

“Dammit Sea and your airhead self.” The fishbowl groaned to herself, grabbing the bottom of her shirt.

With one pull, the fish girl was free of her binds. A stream of sunlight streamed into her bathroom through a window and hit her bare chest. It made her glass skin shimmer, glittering the water that filled her. Something swam under The fish girl’s skin towards the sunlight. The fishbowl giggled and looked down.

“Hi Seaweed,” Sea giggled, staring at a small green fish in her chest, “Long time no see!”

The fish let out a few bubbles and swam into the fishbowl’s head. He swam onto her chest using her watery hair that flowed down her back and shoulders. The fish blew a few more bubbles onto it, causing the fish girl to giggle wildly.

“Hey! That tickles! The fishbowl laughed, scooping the fish into her hands.

She pet the fish with a finger. He swam under her hand happily, swishing her hair in her hand.

“Mommy’s taking a bath! So can you please stay up in my head?” Sea asked.

Seaweed nodded a little and rubbed against her palm. A content sigh left Sea’s lips as she placed the fish back in her head.

“Thank you!” She giggled and blew a kiss to the fish.

The fish girl finally walked over to the tub, steam rising up from the water. She made sure Seaweed was in her had before putting a leg in. Then another leg went into the steaming water. Sea groaned as she finally lowered herself into the water. Small bubbles rose up from the water and tickled her skin. The water reached up to the middle of her chest, soothing all the parts that were below it. The fishbowl bit her lip to avoid making too much sound. Even though this was pure bliss, she knew better than to trust no one would go looking for her.

“This… this is heaven… pure heaven.” Sea panted.

Her stress melted into the water along with her thoughts. She didn’t want to think anymore. Everything that came with her thoughts were always something about her parents. Nothing good every came after that. She just wanted to feel normal for once. Not have to worry about her stepdad, miss who her mom used to be, or feel suffocated by her own life. If that made her ungrateful, she’ll gladly wear that title if it gave her piece of mind…

“SEA, RODGER, DINNER TIME!” Mom yelled from the dining room.

The fishbowl jumped up, water splashing onto the bathroom floor. Her breathing was shallow from frenzy and hair clinging to her skin. Shit she forgot about dinner. Guess the rest of her bath had to wait. With heavy legs, the fishbowl pulled herself out of the tub. Her eyes were still droopy from relaxation. She limped out of the bathroom sluggishly, unable to move as fast as her parents wanted. More like she just didn’t want to. But one thing was certain; her thoughts are correct. She just doesn’t want to face the truth.

Chapter Text

A swirl of dangerous thoughts stirred in Bruiser’s mind, threatening to spill over. Her hands itched for revenge. She’d been pondering this ever since she got home, sitting on her bed with her sketchbook acting as a blank canvas. Ideas were scribbled out in bullet points going down the page. Some vindictive, some down-right murder. She didn’t care about the murderous thoughts though. That was a line she’d never cross, she only wanted to scare them. Show them you don’t get to harm her friends without a few consequences.

“There’s got to be something that's not too violent just yet.” Bruiser groaned to herself, not satisfied with her ideas, “I only wanna scare ‘em.”

A sudden buzz came from her phone next to her. She turned to open it, kinda annoyed at the timing. The bright light of the screen lit up her face and room like a flash bang. The emo shut her eyes almost instantly at the shot of light, gawking back at the brightest.

“Damn!” She yelped, slowing opening her eyes.

A new message appeared on the screen. It was from Smokestack, Bruiser’s big sister. The emo got a little giddy at the text as she hadn’t heard from her sister ever since she started college in the fall. Bruiser’s always been her sister’s shadow, trailing after her like a moth to its light. Hell, Bruiser took most of her rebellious personality from her sister. The black choker she wore every day was “borrowed” from her sister’s wardrobe. Not like she’d ever admit to that anyway.

Hey, You up? -SS

Bruiser didn’t hesitant to replay. Her fingers racing across the screen, filled with exuberant joy.

Finally, you got back to me! Where have you been? -B

The next text came soon after that just as fast as Bruiser was to replay.

I’m doing fine. How about you? -SS

Good as can be. Things haven’t been so good with mom. -B

Is she hitting the pipe again? -SS

Bruiser paused at that. Her gut wanted to be honest, but she feared Mom’s rage if she were to tell Smokestack. After all, Mom and her haven’t been talking lately. It’s almost like they’re avoiding each other. Mom’s even encouraged Bruiser to cut contact with Smokestack. The younger emo didn’t pay any mind to those comments; why’d she ever want to?

Yes… -B

Oh, just avoid her for now then. -SS

Wait, should I try to help her? -B

It's not worth the yelling matches from trying to help. -SS

What did she mean by yelling matches? Bruiser couldn’t remember Mom doing anything besides whisper how much she hated her from the couch. Her mind pondered for a moment until one quick shrug wiped that away.

Ok. -B

Anyway, I’ve gotta run now. -SS

Why? -B

I’ve got a job at the bar downtown. People gotta work for a living you know. -SS

The younger smoke let a tiny sigh leave her mouth. Smokestack and her used to talk till 2am, now she ends conversations so short. Always with something about working at a bar. A light doubt brewed inside the little emo, but she pushed it away. Smokestack wouldn’t hide anything from her. She was sure of it. But there was one thing she had to ask for first.

Before you go, can you help me with something? -B

Make it short. -SS

I need good revenge plots for assholes that DON’T involve felonious assault. -B

Graffiti their cars or house. That’ll get your point across. -SS

A wicked grin spread across Bruiser’s face. Why’d she did think of that earlier! Determining today was a Friday, those rich bitches are all probably out partying. It was approaching 6:30pm now too. Perfect time to strike.

Yay! Love you sis! -B

Love you too but I’ll be late for my shift if I chat any longer. Later. -SS

Ok, Later. -B

With that, Bruiser click on Instagram. She got it just to have some place to get inspiration to draw, but that wasn’t the main reason anymore. A few searches later and she found Techy’s account. It was pretty clear as it literally was TECHYTV_783 with the profile picture was Techy’s smug face, way too damn obvious. Sure enough, Techy was live at a rave with all her friends. Skimpy clothes and all. To make things even worse, Dewy was also with them. He was closer to the back of the group with some guy on him.

“ Y'all ain’t ready for this, bitches.” Bruiser chuckled, getting up out of her bed and darting out the door.

She dashed toward the stairs leading to the front door, grabbing the keys as she ran out. A few steps later and she was out the door carried by sheer passion. Pants followed her along with footsteps and anticipation. Her short legs carried her far into the night, leading her over to the communal parking lot. There sat her family’s car; a black Honda Hatchback with a few white dots on the hood. She hopped into the driver seat and plucked the key into the ignition.

“Ready for not, here I come.” Bruiser grinned darkly as the car roared to life.

The emo gripped the steering wheel till they ached, the thrill of it all hitting her at once. She could only hope she didn’t get arrested tonight. Probably will, but whatever.

— — — — — — —

The drive there felt so overwhelming for Bruiser. Streets flew past her in a blur of anticipation and a shit-ton of nerves. With each turn she could hear the paint cans rattling in the back. She had to pick some up for this little adventure at a Home Depot, which would leave evidence, but they won’t be able to trace this back to her. The emo’s heart raced in her chest, guts twisting into a knot the closer she got. She shallowed her frayed nerves and tried to focus on the task at hand.

Finally, she arrived at the block the group were partying on; Rolex Road. The street in front of her was lined with houses big enough to fill her whole apartment three times over. Rolling lawns and giant driveways extended to reach the emo. Perfectly trimmed rose bushes followed the car, painting the white fences in front of them red. The air reeked of millionaire money, a reminder of the people she hated most. She grimaced and continued followed until one house caught her eye. It was the largest white manor at the end of the cul-de-sac. Neon lights were streaming from the windows, shouts from rich teenagers coming from it too.

“Bingo.” Bruiser murmured as she approached.

Cars loaded the giant cul-de-sac, almost filling all the parking spaces. But the emo had a backup plan; just park further down the street. She put the car in park and unbuckled from her seat and crawled into the back. A rainbow of spray paint was scattered across the seats. The smoke girl pondered over which one to use until she saw one with a neon peach cap.

“That’ll do perfectly.” She muttered again and also grabbed the neon yellow one as well.

Bruiser soon later crawled out the backseat and into the night air with two spray cans and a purely devilish rush in her veins. Like a bat under the cover of darkness, she descended onto the parking lot. The popular kid’s car was as obvious as Techy’s Instagram account. It was a cherry-red convertible with pretty leather seats and platinum lined tires. A quite fancy car if the emo were to say it herself.

“Must be fun having such a ballin’ car to fuck off in…” Bruiser growled before covering her nose with her shirt.

With a few shakes of the paint cans in both her hands, she started spraying. Neon peach and yellow flowed from the cans onto the car in rivers. A tantalizing mix of colors on a cherry canvas. The artist with mixed morals felt each stroke as a home drawn on someone else. Or something else. An elaborate design covered the car in seconds, an image of a cobra wrapped around the convertible. A satisfied sigh left the emo’s lips. Content with her work, she painted a few parting words on the hood below the cobra’s head.

NEVER FUCK WITH A COBRA’S YOUNG

Just then a scream could be heard from the house’d front yard. Bruiser whipped her head up to find the popular jerks outside, all staring at their car.

“WHAT THE FUCK!” Miette screeched, mouth agape from horror.

“Shit!” Bruiser whispered to herself.

The emo booked it away from the crime scene, snatching any evidence with her. Shouts echoed behind her as the group chase after. Curses and demands followed her as she fled.

“GET BACK HERE, BASTARD!” Strawberry shouted in pursuit.

“YOU’RE PAYING FOR THIS BRAND FUCKING NEW CONVERTIBLE, DAMN IT!” Techy yelled, gaining ground on Bruiser.

Thankfully the emo reached her car while the rich group was still a great distance behind. She dove in through the open driver’s side window, sparking the car to life with one turn of the keys. The smoke whipped the car into the U-turn and launched it down the street. In a cocky, and rather stupid, move she stuck a middle finger out the open window. Shrieks and screams erupted behind her. Those punks must’ve finally got to their car. The smoke girl’s signature cackle echoed through the car.

“Take that, bitches!” Bruiser laughed hysterically, slamming a fist into the dashboard.

Guess the universe had a soft spot for her tonight as it let the emo have a successful mission. Hope this doesn’t come and bit her in the ass next morning.

Chapter Text

Gentle snores could be heard from Sweet Pea’s room They drifted through her beautifully painted room. A forest filled with wildflowers underneath a light blue sky filled with soft cotton clouds. Birds and butterflies roamed free in the landscape painted on the walls along with other animals. A few butterflies floated above the balloon’s heads, tempted into her room by an open window above her desk. They landed in her soft curls, joined by a thriving ivy vine. The morning sun streamed through the open window and onto the soft yellow bed the brunette slept in. The ivy vine tickled the balloon’s face, stirring her awake.

“Good morning…” Sweet Pea mumbled as the butterflies and vine greeted her.

She sat up slowly, stretching up into the sun like a growing sapling. The morning welcomes her with warmth and a gentle breeze ruffling her messy bangs. It seemed like time had slowed, catching the moment in a bubble of time. That bubble popped when Sweet Pea’s phone began to blare without warning. The balloon jumped at the noise, heat spreading across her face.

“Sorry!” She rushed to the butterflies and vine as she reached for her nightstand.

It was a stretch away, but she pulled it off every time. The caller said Sea in pretty blue letters. The balloon clicked the answer button with shaky hands.

“Hi Se-”

“BRUISER DECIDED TO BE A DUMBASS!”

Sweet pea pulled her face away from the phone, fully bewildered at this point. It was fucking 6 in the morning and there’s already an emergency? Can she ever get a break?

“Sea what the fuck?!” The disgruntled balloon spat.

“Bruiser told me to tell you to meet at the Davis Donut’s at 7 so she could explain! She said she’d pick us up! Just go along with it!” The fishbowl panted before abruptly hanging up.

Sweet Pea groaned loudly and dropped the phone back on the nightstand. The butterflies must’ve noticed her annoyance as they landed in her hair again, trying to find out what’s wrong.

“It’s okay guys,” The balloon explained, “It’s just that I haven’t even left bed and there’s already an emergency.”

She brought a hand to her temple, rubbing it slowly. Sometimes the balloon wished her friends weren’t… so… empty headed. But she’d die for them, let alone drag herself out of bed on a Saturday morning just to help. So that’s what she’ll do. Sacrificing a little peace of mind in the process.

— — — — — —

One half hour later and Sweet Pea was dressed, waiting in the living room for Bruiser to pull up. The rest of her family weren’t home. They’re probably having a family breakfast at a local diner or something. The balloon was used to it at this point, but it still burned. She sat back on the couch and sighed a little. Her stomach ached as she didn’t bother with breakfast. She’d get it while she was out. Almost on cue, honking could be heard from outside. The balloon walked down the stairs and opened the front door.

“Hi Bruisy!” Sweet Pea called out from her door.

“Quit calling me that. Anyway hop in, Sea’s already in the back.” Bruiser said, gesturing to the passenger door.

The balloon gripped her purse before walking over. Each step filled with anticipation for what’s to come. She gets in the car to find Sea already in the back, staring at the emo intensely. The balloon pauses confused before finally closing the door. The car revs itself up before pulling off. Once they were on the road, Bruiser clears her throat.

“So… About me being a dumbass…” The emo girl said, “I may have officially started a war.”

“How?” Sea asked, lips pursed in thought.

“Remember when you guys said to not fight back against those popular bitches?”

“Yeah…” Sweet Pea stammered, trying to guess what Bruiser was about to say.

“Well, I gratified the group’s main car last night.” The smoke girl stated.

The backseat erupted in gasps from Sweet Pea and Sea in unison. The balloon’s ears shot up from their relaxed state in horror.

“BRUISER WHY!” Sweet Pea screamed in horror, grabbing her ears.

“YOU’VE DOOMED US ALL!” Sea shrieked.

“You can tell me they DIDN’T deserve it!” The emo girl defended herself, “I painted a cobra onto their car instead of a prune to show mercy!”

“YOU’RE GONNA GO TO JAIL!” The fishbowl wept dramatically as the balloon yanked down on her ears.

“Calm down, calm down! They aren’t catching me that easily!” The smoke girl stated cockily.

That calmed the two down a little, but barely. Sweet Pea finally let go of her ears and tried to breathe. Her ears throbbed from squeezing them, her pulse ringing from the ends. It didn’t help as Bruiser was still trying, and falling, to calm a hyperventilating Sea down. The balloon pulled the fishbowl into her arms. The fish put her head onto the brunette’s shoulder, gasping slowly turning to panting.

“We’re gonna be fine as long as we stick together. Strength in numbers, remember.” She cooed, bushing her light blue hair.

“O-okay.” Sea stuttered.

Sweet Pea’s shoulder felt damp with sweat and tears as she soothed the fish girl into silence. Small hums came from her mouth, filling the now silent car.

“Look, Sea and Sweet Pea, I promise we’ll be fine. With the message I’ve sent, they won’t dare mess with us unless ready to face my bold ass.” Bruiser reassures her friends.

The emo’s voice was steady yet soothing at the same time, carrying the courage of a warrior with them. They felt almost like gospel to Sweet Pea’s nerves.

“…I trust you with my life Bruiser.” The balloon whispered aloud, meaning her words.

“Wait what?” Sea said, lifting her head.

Sweet Pea’s face flushed red and her words tripped over each other on her mouth.

“I DIDN’T MEAN IT LIKE THAT!” The balloon rushed, hands shooting up.

Both her friends stared at her, suspicious but not voicing it. The emo rolled her eyes and turned back to the road. The fishbowl shrugged before putting her head back on the balloon’s shoulder. A quiet sigh of relief left the brunette’s lips. She knew Bruiser meant what she said about protecting them, but could she really? Time could only tell.

Chapter Text

“Are you sure you don’t want any more hash browns?” Sweet Pea spoke with a mouthful of food.

“No, fatass, not at all.” Bruiser quipped, watching her friend inhale her plate.

The group sat in the local diner on Main Street, surrounded by diners and servers alike. They just got up food of pancakes, hash browns, and an omelet that definitely wasn’t gonna sit well later. It was Sea’s idea to get the giant omelet by the way.

“I’m so full right now…” The girl herself giggled.

The emo looked over to her oceanic friend on the other side of the booth. She was slumped over with the ominous omelet a quarter of the way eaten. A few bubbles rose from her hair and in her hands. Giggles left the fishbowl’s lips as she squinted at her smoky pal.

“Sea are you serious?” Bruiser groaned.

“Yess… I feel heavenly right now. So heavenly.” The fishbowl panted.

The emo pinched the bridge of her noise in annoyance.

“God Sea you’re impossible.” Bruiser huffed.

“I don’t care,” Sea hummed, “I’m in absolute bliss right now.”

“Um, guys?” Sweet Pea murmured.
Both friends looked over. Her ears were floppy above her head and syrup was splattered around her mouth. She looked like an unsupervised toddler, but her voice sounded almost terrified.

“Look over there but don’t be obvious.” She whispered, quietly pointing toward a table.

The group turned to look to find the popular kids from school sitting at that table. Miette looked like she’d just crawled out of bed, with the rest looking the same. They were talking in rushed whispers over cups of coffee still steaming, clearly talking about the night before. Little did they know the perpetrator was sitting in the same area of restaurant as them.

“Oh shit,” Bruiser whispered, staring at the enemy group, “We gotta get outta here.”

“How?!” Sweet Pea whispered in a panic.

“The backdoor. I’ll carry Sea. Sweet Pea, you carry the food.” The emo stated, throwing down about $200 bucks enough for the bill.

“Ok. I’ll follow you.” The balloon murmured, grabbing the food container the waiter had left for them before.

Shoving everything into the container, she picked up the heavy thing. Sea grabbed her purse as Bruiser picked her up bride style. The trio slid out their booth with all holding their breath.

“Ready?” Bruiser whispered, ready to run.

Sweet Pea nodded and the truest trio booked it out the restaurant. They ran past the popular group and many baffled servers. Shouts came from behind them, but they kept running until they made it to the parking lot and to Bruiser’s car. All friends were panting from running and their feet hurt, but no one cared. Bruiser unlocked the car and tossed Sea into the passenger seat.

“Hey!” Sea yelped as she thumped onto the seat, spraying water everywhere.

“Quit ruining my seat!” The emo laughed.

Sea gave her a dirty look before the emo got into the driver’s seat. Sweet Pea sat in the back, preferring the elbow room. Bruiser gave a faint smile in the side mirror as they drove off in relieved silence. Next time she didn’t think they’d be so lucky, but she was just relieved that they’d managed to escape.

Chapter Text

The group had been cruising in the car for a few hours since their escape, chatting and singing to their favorite songs on the radio. It’s been so long that Sea had entirely forgotten most of their breakfast shenanigans. Not like she could care less about that, anyway. That reminds her. Stepdad and Mom had asked her to be back by 5 when she left. It was nearly 4:56pm according to her phone. The fishbowl groaned to herself and glanced up at Bruiser next to her.

“Hey, can you drop me off back at my house?” Sea asked.

“Ye. Why?” The emo responded while driving.

“My parents want me home by 5 for something. I don’t know what.” The fishbowl muttered, bouncing her legs a bit.

“Awww, Sea, you’re leaving?” Sweet Pea whined from the back.

The two teenagers looked back to see the balloon sprawled out in the backseat. The window next to her was open, letting the wind play with brunette curls. Giggles left her mouth and her eyes were closed from joy. With the wind in her hair, Sweet Pea looked almost hypnotic, a piece of heaven on earth even. Something gave a flutter in Sea’s chest, but she swallowed it.

“Pea, you good back there?” Bruiser called.

“Yeah just sleeply.” The balloon hummed, sticking her hand out the open window.

“You’re adorable,” Sea giggled, “You look almost drunk!”
“Drunk of love that is!” The balloon girl laughed, throwing her head back in a fit of laughter.

Her bangs danced in front of her face, framing that beautiful smile. The fishbowl couldn’t look away, more in awe than anything. Bruiser noticed and nudged the fish girl’s shoulder.

“I don’t think I’ve seen anything more simpy in my life.” She whispered with her hand still on Sea’s shoulder.

Just then, a love song started on the radio. It was The Glue Song by some girl named bebabobe, a ridiculous name in Sea’s opinion, but damn did that song set a mood. Sea felt her face burn up and Bruiser definitely noticed by how the edges of her lips curled into a small smirk.

“Tell you what, if we ever try to split up, we’ll come running back to each other,” Bruiser announced to the car, taking her hand off Sea’s shoulder and raising it into the air.

Sweet Pea followed suit, and so did Sea as they all linked pinkies.

“Friends forever!” The girls chanted in unison.

With that, they raised their connected hands to the ceiling like a toast one new year. All laughed and laughed until they cried. No one noticed how raw they all sounded though. And even more secretly, they all hoped it was true they’d all stay friends forever.

— — — — — —

When Bruiser’s car finally pulled up to Sea’s house, it was 4:59pm. Sea knew it was a bit early but didn’t pay much mind to it. It took a little pleading for Sweet Pea to let her leave, but she finally dragged herself onto the sidewalk.

“Later guys!” Sea waved as she started towards her front door.

“Later too! And also don’t mind Sweet Pea!” Bruiser called out, ignoring the balloon’s whines.

Sea watched as Bruiser drove off into the evening sun, Sweet Pea waving at her until they were out of sight. A happy smile crossed the fishbowl’s lips and refused to leave until she neared her front door. The same yelling could be heard from Friday, meaning Nathan was back. Sea hesitated a bit before knocking on the door. The yelling paused and footsteps went to the door. It opened to reveal the business man in a red velvet suit and a black tie.

“Hello again Melody!” Nathan smiled.

“Hi…” Sea greeted with a little wave as he let her in.

Stepdad sat in the living room, tapping his foot and glaring at Nathan. Sea just figured he must’ve been losing their debate.

“Before you go, take this.” Nathan said, slipping a gift bag into Sea’s hands.

“Thanks.” The fishbowl whispered before rushing upstairs.

She slipped into her room and closed the door, feeling her heart race in her chest. The gift bag felt ridiculously heavy in her hands as she ripped it open. It was filled with chocolate confections and sweets. Sea squealed from joy and plopped down on her bed, digging in as she went. Nathan was nice for bringing these for her. Maybe he was good news. As Sea tucked into her sweets, she thought of a way to pay him back. After all no good deed goes unnoticed in her big eyes.

Chapter Text

Morning came with Sweet Pea laying in her bed. She didn’t even know how she ended up in bed, hell, she barely remembered the drive back home yesterday evening. All she remembered was the promise everyone made. The balloon had been aimlessly laying in bed for a while now, not wanting to start the day. A sudden knock on her door promptly pulled her out that fantasy.

“Hello, Louise, are you up?” Cream called from the other side of the balloon’s bedroom door.

“Yeah… what?” Sweet Pea groaned in response.

“I need answers about last night. Open up.” The blonde said, a sharp edge to her voice.

The brunette let a low, exasperated sigh escape her lips. Nothing about this could be good and she knew it. Cream was a snoopy little snake, always sticking her nose in at the worst times. It’s a wonder Sweet Pea hasn’t punched her in the face already. But the balloon had a heart too merciful for her own good.

“Fine!” The balloon sighed in frustration.

The door promptly flung open to reveal a clearly angry Cream still in the ratty purple night gown she slept in. Her perfect hair was in a messy bun that resembled more of a bird’s nest. It would’ve been amusing if it wasn’t for the occasion. Cream plopped herself right on the end of her foster sister’s bed with a huff.

“You remember yesterday when your brat friend came over?” The blonde asked, bouncing her legs back and forth.

“What?” Sweet Pea blinked.

Her brain strained to remember last night, but everything came up blank. Cream gave a deep sigh and continued.

“You seriously don’t remember that emo carrying you to your room?” She groaned fumming.

That’s when it all hit the balloon once. Her plastic skin suddenly fell so hot and blush shot across her face. God, NOW she remembered. Bruiser’s arms were rough yet so gentle when she was in them. She could still smell the barbecue smoke and feel dull muscles rubbing against her back. Something inside her liked the ride a little too much, as now her body felt electric.

“She rocked you back and forth, whispering softly in your ear while walking. I asked her who she was and she claimed to be your best friend. Fat chance in hell!” Cream ranted, “Yall must know each other deeper!”

“She’s for real, Cream, we are just friends!” Sweet Pea rushed to defend herself, still blushing wildly.

“Bullshit! You never told me you have a girlfriend!” The blonde insisted.

“I don’t! Confetti can confirm!” The brunette nearly shrieked.

Cream just squinted her eyes, clearly not believing her. The balloon couldn’t blame her as it did effectively look like it. Great.

“Look I’m not homophobic, but that cunt cannot be ANYWHERE near us in public.” The blonde stated, waving her hands to emphasize.

“Why?” The balloon asked.

“She’s clearly a part of a gang or a thug! Plus, she called me a bitchy barbie for telling her to leave!” The golden girl yelled, practically foaming at the mouth with rage.

Now that wasn’t gonna happen. Bruiser was rough around the edge sure, but she wasn’t a fucking thug. Sweet Pea clenched her fist as anger bubbled under her skin.

“How dare you call her a thug! She’s just rough, not a villain!” The brunette yelled back, defending her friend.

“Look at her! She screams gang material!” Cream shot back.

“Well I’ve already made a promise to stick by her regardless!” Sweet Pea stated with her whole chest.

“Fine! See where that gets you in a few days! Probably dead in a ditch!” The blonde huffed, pulling herself off the bed and marching over to the door.

“Well so be it!” The brunette yelled, watching Cream march out of her room.

Sweet Pea growled and let her head fall into her hands. Just too convenient, too fucking convenient. All she wanted was to chill today. But she did mean what she said. She just hoped everyone else would hold up on their end.

Chapter Text

The late morning sun streamed in through an open window, which woke Bruiser up. She laid tangled in her black sheets with no intentions of leaving. But something wasn’t right. The typical argument between her parents wasn’t echoing through the apartment. Nor was the sound of the dripping sink. Instead silence. Unnatural silence that made her skin crawl. With an uneasy groan, the emo pulled herself upright.

“Papa?” Bruiser called out, glancing into the hallway.

It looked normal, only the light wasn’t on. That was weird as Mama needed the light because of his bad sight. Nonetheless, Bruiser dragged herself out of bed and into the hallway. She didn’t even bother with looking presentable; just an incredibly oversized hoodie and thigh-high socks. As she approached the living room, weird noises came quietly. They sounded like… crying… broken breathing… all from the couch. Was Papa crying? What could’ve made her emotionless dad cry? The emo felt dread gnawing at her gut. It persisted until she made it to the living room. There Papa was, sat alone on the couch, head lowered to the phone in his hands.

“…Papa?” Bruiser asked, slowly approaching the crying woman.

The living room was trashed with crumpled tissues and shredded paper, ripped apart with broken hands. Fragments of a picture frame were scattered around the room. The emo couldn’t bear to think what it could be of.

“Papa, what’s wrong?” Bruiser urged again, finally reaching Papa.

Papa pulled his head up, bloodshot eyes staring into Bruiser’s own. His cheeks were stained with tears and hands shaking. But worse of all, his eyes were hollow, like his soul had been ripped out. The emo’s heart began to thunder in fear.

“She’s gone…” Papa whispered, voice soft and shaken.

“W-Who?” The emo stammered.

“Mom. She- sh- just look!” He snapped, shoving the phone in his hands into Bruiser’s.

Her eyes shot down to the phone’s screen, tears forming. His messages were open to the chat named One and Only. A string of messages that started at 9am stretched on for what seemed like forever, all stemming from a single text.

Darrick I’m done. -M

Macy what are talking about? -P

I’m done with this life, can’t you see? -M

Yes, but you can’t just leave. -P

Well I already did. I’m sorry but I just can’t with you or her. -M

But where are you going? -P

Anywhere but here. I need to see a reason to stay. -M

What about Erin?! She still loves you even through your cruelty! -P

I don’t love her! That mistake’s the reason I couldn’t go back to school! -M

Don’t call her that! She’s still your daughter Macy! -P

She’s your daughter, not mine. I’m taking my life back. Goodbye Darrick. -M

Macy, think about this! -P

MACY! -P

Bruiser just stood there for what felt like hours, staring at the screen with the weight of the world on her chest. Mistake… that’s all she was in Mama’s eyes. Was that all she was? Something shameful? Something to be ashamed of? Hot tears spilled down the emo’s cheeks as the dreadful realization hit her all at once.

“Darling I’m so sorry.” Papa said, slowly putting Bruiser’s head on his shoulder, “It wasn’t meant to end this way, I promise.”

His words got lost in the static that surrounded her brain. She didn’t want to hear his reassurances that probably didn’t mean anything. She’d been better off hearing them from a stranger. The puff of smoke yanked her head off of Papa’s shoulder, tears rolling down her chin.

“Bruis-!” Papa yelled as she ran for her room.

She slid inside and ran over to her phone with shaking hands. Tears blurred her vision, but she still managed to call the group chat. The phone rings a few times before someone picked up.

“MOM LEFT BECAUSE OF ME!” Bruiser wailed into the phone, letting herself break apart.

Its silence for a moment before Sweet Pea’s voice comes through.

“… Come over to my house.” The balloon said, more of demanded.

The emo obeyed, pulling in a pair of sweat pants and grabbing her keys. Papa watched as she dragged herself down the stairs. He doesn’t bother stopping her, too consumed in his own grief to care.

Chapter Text

It was a totally normal Sunday afternoon for Sea, who was in the dining room. Most of the dining room table was covered in drawings of sea creatures of many kinds. One the far end of the table sat Sea, a sheet of paper in front of her and a tin box to her right. It was full of drawing supplies; sheets of paper, markers, and colored pencils. The fishbowl loomed over a fresh drawing of a stingray and groaned frustrated.

“Why can’t I get its beauty right, Seaweed?” Sea sighed, talking to the fish in her head.

Seaweed blew a few bubbles from his mouth and wagged his flippers. The fish girl collapsed into the wooden chair, her hair splaying across her shoulders.

“All I want is a stingray living in my room,” She whined, “Is that too much to ask?!”

As if on the script, the fishbowl’s phone started to ring. She glanced over to it to find it was from Sweet Pea, but she didn’t use the group chat. This was weird as the balloon mostly calls on the chat. A pit formed in her gut, but she tried to ignore it as she answered. Muffled sobs could be heard from the other end, which frayed the fishbowl’s nerves even more.

“Sea, you need to get to my house. Now.” Sweet Pea said, sounding almost frantic.

“Wait what happened?” The glass girl rushed.

There was a brief silence on the other end before she muttered a response.

“…Bruiser… just-t needs us right now. Please hurry.” The balloon stuttered before hanging up.

Sea didn’t wait to process what she just heard. Her body reacted before her brain could think, propelling her out the chair and to the front door. She was out the door and in the street, running on adrenaline. The wind whipped through her hair and sloshed water out of her head. The neighborhood blurred around the fishbowl as she ran, trees and houses flying past. And before long, Sea was outside of Sweet Pea’s apartment in sea-themed pajamas and wet hair.

“I’M HERE!” The fishbowl yelled, barreling onto the front steps.

“Oh thank goodness you came!” Sweet Pea called out, “We’re in the living room.”

Sea stumbled through the unlocked front door to find the balloon sat on the couch and Bruiser curled up on her lap. The emo looked distraught with tangled hair and bloodshot eyes. Her cheeks were stained with tears and nose red from frantic rubbing. Sweet Pea rubbed the broken girl’s back as she rocked back and forth slightly, her head in her arms.

“Oh my… Bruiser…” Sea whispered, rushing over to the duo.

The smoke girl looked up with hollow eyes that glistened in the afternoon light.

“What happened?!” The fishbowl pleaded.

“I…um… lost my mom. Rather she left because of me.” Bruiser muttered, eyes going glassy again.

Sea stood in shock and horror. Tears wet her face as she pulled the girl into a gentle hug, clutching her close.

“I always knew I was a burden to her, but I didn’t know I was that much of one…” The emo murmured tearfully, pulling her knees to her chest.

“You’re no burden,” Sweet Pea cooed, pulling the grieving girl and Sea into a deeper hug.

“But then why would she leave because of me?!” The smoke girl cried before falling into deep weeping.

The cries were nothing like Sea had ever heard before. They were guttural and sorrowful, ripping through her throat like knives. Each breath sounded raspy and desperate as if burning her throat. Sweet Pea and Sea rushed to comfort the crying girl, with the balloon rubbing her back and the fishbowl wiping her eyes.

“Go ahead, let it out, it’s ok.” The fishbowl whispered to her friend.

Bruiser sniffed and bawled, trying to contain her enough to speak. Each tear was wiped away by Sweet Pea’s sleeve. With each raspy breath she was helped by Sea rubbing her back. After a few minutes, Bruiser was able to almost speak.

“Yo-you guys shouldn’t l-let me cry l-like this-s!” The emo bawled, “It’s my f-fault sh-she left!”

“Like duh. Who would wanna live in squalor with a problem child?” A familiar voice quipped.

All eyes shot over to the hallway leading to the bedrooms. There was Cream, standing in the doorway glaring at the emo. Her eyes cut into the group with the efficiency of throwing stars to paper. The trio glared back, rage boiling beneath their skin.

“What the fuck was that for!” Sweet Pea demanded.

“Am I wrong? I’d want out if I was living with a dipshit.” The blonde girl rolled her eyes, clearly insulting the emo.

“DO YOU EVER SHUT THE FUCK UP?!” Bruiser yelled at her, tears streaking down her face.

Her eyes were filled with fury, the tears leaving her eyes practically boiling. The fishbowl could kinda relate as the water in her head was boiling too, heated by protective fury. She felt her hands tighten into fists as she glared daggers at the spoiled brat in front of her.

“How dare you insult a girl who LITERALLY JUST lost her mom!” Sea spat at her, boiling water popping out of her head.

“You can’t be talking glass girl! You’re a total moma’s girl!” Cream scoffed, “Probably shouldn’t have come here anyway.”

“THATS PRACTICALLY MY SISTER DAMNIT!” Bruiser shouted, standing up while still in her friend’s arms, “DON’T TALK TO HER LIKE THAT!”

Something fluttered in Sea’s chest when Bruiser defended her like that. Her face suddenly felt flush and her core tinged. Blush scattered across her face watching the emo confronted Cream.

“Oh why’d you open your mouth now smokey? Huh, you wanna take me?” The cocky brat snarled like an angry jaguar.

“I WOULD IF YOU COULD FIGHT, OR DO ANYTHING REALLY!” Bruiser spat.

“At least I’m not in a gang!” Cream yelled.

“I’D RATHER THAT THAN A DELULU BABY!” The emo snapped back.

The blonde gasped as if she’d be stabbed, shoving her hand on her heart. Her face contorted in rage and fists clenched. Sea expected at least a resemblance of a clap-back, none came. Rather she turned to Sweet Pea, still frustrated.

“You really shouldn’t be friends with these rats, they’ll only drag you down.” Cream spat before stomping off to her room.

An annoyed huff left Bruiser’s mouth, smoke raising from her hair in frustration. The smoke faded almost as quickly as it started before sinking back into her friends’ arms.

“God I’m so stupid.” She groaned, shoved her head into her hands.

“No you’re fine,” Sea reassured her while rubbing her back, “Cream was in the wrong here.”

“But I shouldn’t have snapped at her like that, fucking stupid…!” The emo whined, self-loathing plaguing her voice.

“It’s ok, you’re fine.” Sweet Pea cooed gently, rocking back and forth like a baby’s crib.

Bruiser completely fell apart into those gut-wrenching sobs again as anger melted into grief. Sweet Pea and Sea stayed by her through it all, cradling the scattered girl in their arms. Each bawl seemed to cut into the fishbowl’s glass skin, reaching her fragile heart beneath. Her mind went blank and mouth dry as she desperately tried to sooth her friend’s tears. The torment she felt struck with each broken breath, every choked wail. Something deep inside pleaded to never hear them again, swearing to do anything to avoid them. Anything.

Chapter Text

It was past evening before the trio finally let go. By then, Bruiser had exhausted herself so much she couldn’t cry anymore. She just coughed and choked on her own breath. Her friends tried to help by patting her back, she still struggled to breathe outside of shaky breaths. It was still better than bawling her eyes out. Her eyes ached from the sobbing and her voice was raspy, but she finally stopped crying. She’d shut her eyes about an hour ago, letting the soothing words of her friends pierce her heart when a savory smell drifted into her nose.

“Hey, I brought you girls something.” A gentle voice said.

Bruiser opened her eyes to glance up. Sweet Pea’s mom stood in front of the group, holding a bag of Chinese takeout with both hands. A messy bun sat on her head and her red lips in a soft smile. Seeing her made something twist in the emo’s gut. No not disgust, resentment, like a deep simmer that only bubbled when she saw the lady. Maybe because of her spoiled bio kid, or maybe of her treatment of Sweet Pea. But she didn’t like her. Not one bit.

“Thanks mom.” Sweet Pea smiled wearily as the woman placed the takeout bag on the coffee table.

“Anything to help a struggling girl.” She replied, making a little too much eye contact with Bruiser for it not to be accidental.

“Thank you…” The emo mumbled anyway to be polite as she walked away.

The smell of the food made her mouth water. Sea opening the bag made her bathe in them more. Inside the bag were three containers of sesame chicken and fried rice with a few plastic forks to go along. The trio shuffled around to where the fishbowl and balloon were on either side of Bruiser, all with an open container in their laps. Chewing and giggling filled the room with joy.

“So Sweet Pea, where’s your dad?” The fishbowl asked, trying to forget the simmer in her gut.

“Out on a boy’s night with a coworker. He’ll be back tomorrow.” The balloon replied.

“Oh! Mine are out on a business trip!” Sea chirped, “He should be back by next Sunday!”

While her friends talked, Bruiser stared down at her food intensely. Her appetite felt like it had gotten tangled in her stomach. The outside was quiet, but her mind was loud, making her head spin. It wasn’t the dizzy kind of spin you’d expect from a grieving person. More like a dullness that wouldn’t go away. With each bite she could forget at least briefly about her life. It was pathetic really, but she just wanted it all to stop. Pause the words for just a day, let her pretend she was normal. That thought bounced around her head like a ping pong ball, daring her to do it.

“Hey Bruise,” Sweet Pea hummed, “Wanna crash here tonight?”

The emo paused for a moment, weighing up the offer. She had clothes in Sweet Pea’s house as she stayed over often. Her father probably wasn’t in the mood to see her anyway, so she’d be better off staying here anyway. So why not?

“Sure. I’ll stay if Sea sticks around.” Bruiser shrugged, waiting for the fishbowl’s answer.

“I’m in! I don’t have anything else to do!” The fish girl cheered.

“Well that settles it,” The balloon grinned, flashing her favorite adorable smile, “Impromptu sleepover it is!”

Sea bounced up and down in joy, rocking the couch the trio sat on while Sweet Pea giggled like a toddler. It warmed the emo’s heart as she watched her friends shine with joy. A small smile cracked her lips and wrinkled her now-dry cheeks. Maybe the world will pause for a day, just enough to make her happy. Maybe.

— — — — — —

God knows how late it was. The apartment was dark and quiet, soft snoring echoing through the sleeping halls. Everyone was asleep. Everyone except Bruiser, staring into the void. She was laying in Sweet Pea’s bed, cuddling with the rest of her friends like they always did. An arm was in her face and leg over hers, all from Sea, who she was laying next to. They were the only thing that grounded her as her thoughts shuffled about. All of them were about what Mama said, Papa’s face, and Smokestack. Oh, Smokestack. She probably doesn’t know about today. She should know. Slowly, the emo shifted over to the nightstand. Three phones were charging together; one was sea-theme, another was artsy, and hers was black with white marker doodles all over. She grabbed it and turned it on, ignoring the light blinding her as she opened messages to Smokestack.

Hi, I need you to answer. -B

Yeah? What’s wrong? -SS

A relieved sigh left her lips watching her sister reply. Thank god.

Mom just bounced today, and she left because of me. -B

There was a brief pause on the other end of the phone, typing bubbles appearing and disappearing. Each second felt like an eternity of waiting before she replied.

Oh god Smokey. Are you in a safe place? -SS

Yes, currently at a friend’s house. -B

Ok. Want me to come pick you up tomorrow? -SS

No. -B

Why? You know I can. -SS

I can’t leave my friends. You live all the way in Chicago. I can’t move that far. -B

Bro. You’ve vented to me about wanting to leave NY for a while now. You have a reason to leave. -SS

I still can never leave them. I’m sorry, but I just can’t. -B

Another pause with typing bubbles disappearing and reappearing again. The emo knew this time it was frustrated silence instead of shock. Even though she did appreciate the offer, she just wouldn’t leave her friends behind. Chicago was a long way away from New York, a distance far from home. So she wouldn’t budge. Not one bit.

Fine. Just tell me when you change your mind. -SS

Never will! -B

Oh I know you will! -SS

Bruiser could barely keep her eyes open now. Her fingers were slower than before, sluggish and exhausted. She rested the phone back on the nightstand with sleepy hands. A low chuckle left the smoke girl’s mouth as she rested her head back on the pillow. Sleep came soon after, pulling her into the dark that surrounded her. She’ll think about life later. For now, she wants to sleep.

Chapter Text

Morning came too fast and dragged each girl out of sleep with a ray of sunshine. Sweet Pea was the first to rise, groaning with each movement. Her curls were a tangled mess from hands playing with them. Crust has formed around her eyes, almost sealing them shut. Drool had dried going down her chin. Her friends didn’t look much better, rather worse if you count Sea.

“God, it’s morning already?” Sweet Pea yawled, stretching up into the sun.

“Yeah…” Bruiser groaned suddenly.

The balloon jumped in shock, head whipping over to where the emo was laid. She was laying with her hands under her head. Her eyes were still a little red from yesterday, but not as bad. The brunette just stared at the black haired girl before regaining her voice.

“You were up this whole time?” The balloon stammered, shocked and confused all at the same time.

“Yeah, like duh. Could barely sleep.” Bruiser stated with a blank expression on her face.

“Oh…” Sweet Pea mumbled, “Should we wake up Sea?”

“No, not yet.” The emo hummed.

“Oki. I’m gonna make some breakfast, I’m starving.” The brunette stated, dragging the covers off her.

“Thanks. Ima chill a little longer.” The smoke girl stretched and waved softly.

With a little hop, The brunette got out of bed. Her feet dragged with each step farther. Every cell in her body shivered, longing for the warmth of her bed. But her stomach rumbled louder than the cold, so she persisted. The hallway stretched on for what felt like forever until she limped into the living room. Her family were sitting on the couch with the news on the TV, three plates of French toast on the coffee table. Cream glanced up at the balloon with dull eyes.

“Well, well, well. Guess who’s up early?” She chuckled, an unnerving smile spreading on her face.

“What’s up Cream.” Sweet Pea sighed already annoyed.

“Have a good night with your girlfriends?” The blonde smirked.

The balloon whipped her head over to the couch, face suddenly hotter than the surface of the sun. Her breath halted in its tracks and ears shot down. She totally forgot about her sister’s habit of inappropriate comments. And god did she regret it.

“What the?! It’s not what it looked like Cream!” The balloon snapped.

“Oh yes it did,” The spoiled teenager quipped, “You guys literally spent the night in the same bed.”

“It’s just- We’ve all been doing that for years. It’s nothing romantic, I swear!” The brunette explained while Crean snickered.

Both parents sat awkwardly, caught in the middle of their daughters’ bickering. Mom fiddled with her fork and Dad seemed very interested in what was happening in the news. None of them stood up for Sweet Pea in the slightest. Sweet Pea knew this already from past arguments with Cream, so this was the norm. But she wasn’t willing to back down without defending herself. Not without a fight.

“You’re so gay it makes you look stupid!” Cream remarked before bursting into laughter, nearly knocking over her plate.

The balloon felt her face burning, her guts twisting about wildly. Her tail shook between her legs out of embarrassment and fear, even though she wouldn’t say it. She stamped her foot to put it behind her back.

“Quit making fun of me all the time!” The brunette stammered, her words tangled in her mouth before she marched to the kitchen.

Cream rolled her eyes like it was a joke. That annoying smirk never left her face as she opened her mouth.

“Yet you always give me such good content!” The blonde laughed, rolling her eyes as her sister ran off.

Sweet Pea felt her face and ears on the face of the sun. Blush disheveled her cheeks and rocked her legs. God why was she like this? Maybe something sparked in her heart every time she heard Sea’s video game speeches or Bruiser’s happy cackle. They’re just very, VERY close friends… those words taste hollow in her lips. Bruiser and Sea have been with her since she moved her when she was a very insecure 3-year old. They’re more like sisters than best friends, so maybe that’s the spark she feels. Family, not Friends. Sudden hands on her shoulders yanked her back to reality.

“Pea Pea!” Sea cheered, bouncing up and down on the balloon’s shoulders.

“Oh Sea!” Sweet Pea smiled, “When did you wake up?”

“A few minutes ago. Bruiser is also cuddling me when I woke up!” The fishbowl chirped.

“I didn’t!” Bruiser yelled from the hallway, glaring with blush covering her cheeks.

The balloon’s heart gave that spark again, the one that makes her feel warm and fuzzy. This is family as far as she was concerned. Loud, messy, and stupid. Anyone who comments on it can kick fucking rocks.

Chapter Text

Even with the buzzing chatter of all the kids in class, something felt off about Sea’s class. She knew Fossily was in the same 1B class with her. Due to prior events, she are not a person the fish girl should be anywhere near. And she was currently in 1B, biology, sitting in the desk right next to the damn girl’s! The fishbowl was racking her mind to come up with a plan when the history geek herself walked into the classroom. Her hair was in a messy bun and her uniform polished, but her face said she was in a bad mood. As soon as the dusty blonde saw Sea, she shot her a glare. Not a petty glare, one that was dripped with venom and malice. It was one that promised vengeance in bloodshed if crossed by a enemy. Sea froze still, all the water in her body freezing to ice. Her eyes went wider than the notebook in her hands, which shook violently. She just stared straight ahead as the main took her seat

“You’re that emo bitch’s other friend, aren’t you?” Fossily growled, still giving her that death glare.

Sea felt herself go pale as the tiles on the floor. Her mouth opened to respond, but thankfully the bell rung before she could speak. The class soon quieted and the teacher began the lesson. It couldn’t have been a better time for the fishbowl, but the history girl didn’t let up with her glare. Even while Sea was trying to focus on anything else. The heat the fishbowl felt could’ve burned the sigh of her head, melting her glass skin. Seaweed swam toward the angry girl and blew a few angry bubbles toward her.

“Seaweed, no!” Sea whispered frantically, “This isn’t the time!”

The fish ignored her and popped its head out her her hair. The fishbowl’s panic stiffened her as the fish sucked up as much water as it could in its mouth, fins slapping the water in her head. Fossily took another look up from her binder to glare, but paused when seeing the angry fish.

“What th-?” The historian asked, staring at the green gold fish.

With the accuracy of a sniper, Seawed shot a torrent of water straight into the dusty blonde’s perfect face. She screamed as the water splashed all over her face and ran down her chin. Her once perfect makeup ran down her face, black ink running down her pale cheeks and bangs clinging to her forehead. The water pooled in her lap and splattered on her desk. Sea stared in horror as her pet fish drenched the very unfortunate popular girl in a title wave of water. It only lasted a couple seconds, but it felt like an eternity to the fishbowl. The history girl slowly lifted her head to face Sea with a the glare even more intense than before.

“What. The fuck.” Fossily snarled, eyes full of venom.

“I d-didn’t know that w-would happen…” The fishbowl stuttered, eyes now wider than the earth itself.

“You dipshit,” The dusty blonde growled, “You could’ve warned me your fish was feral!”

“He isn’t! He’ve never acted this way!” The fish girl pleaded, suddenly well aware she was made of glass.

“Well fuck you anyway!” The history geek spat before standing up, the chair scraping against the floor as she got up.

The teacher glanced behind him and immediately froze at the slight of Fossily. She didn’t even look as him as she marched out the classroom, with everyone else trying not to look at her sorry state. The silence after she left felt so loud, tense curiosity buzzed in the air. Sea dragged her eyes down to her notes and tried to ignore it. But her mind was loud with panic.

“Fuck, fuck, FUCK.” The fishbowl whispered frantically, “Seaweed why?!”

The fish simply swam into her hand and blew a few bubbles under her skin.

“Couldn’t you have waited under we WEREN’T stuck in the desk next to hers!” She whispered again, heart racing under her skin.

The gold fish just shrugged and rolled its eyes. Sea sighed hard before shoving her hands into her face, tangling her fingers in her bangs. Now she has officially made herself a target as there’s no way she’ll get away with this. Bruiser is gonna kill her.

— — — — — —

Second period had was a blur of stress and worry until the lunch bell rung. Chatter filled the hallway as kids flocked to the lunchroom, including Sea, who was hanging out by the courtyard door. The fishbowl leaned against the side of the black heavy door with her lunchbox at her feet. Even though she looked relaxed, the glass girl was anything but. Her whole body was tense and eyes darted about with each crowd that passed by. Each face tha past looked like Fossily, her voice haunting every conversation. At any moment that history girl could appear. And it didn’t take a genius to see how that would end.

“Yo Sea!” Someone yelled from inside the cafeteria.

The fishbowl jumped, whipping over to where the voice came from. Sweat had formed on her forehead and hands shook. A figure weaved through the crowds like a fox in a forest, slowly revealing itself. It was Lucky, a girl with red hair and a chill vibe. She walked up to the glass girl with a juice box and a gum bubble in her mouth.

“How you doing, girl?” The literal redhead asked, still chewing her gum.

“I’m fine! Just a little tired.” Sea rushed, eyes wandering all over the punk.

The redhead was wearing a low-cut shirt with her red and gold hoodie tied at her waist. The cherry red ripped jeans she wore also looked better with her crimson shoes. The fishbowl knew Lucky was talking by her lips moving rapidly, but she couldn’t hear. Her eyes were on the other girl’s boobs. With each dramatic moment of hers, they would move too. Each bounce and sway were so hypnotic to the fish girl and she didn’t even know why. A fuzzy feeling had also taken over her heart, making it race like a war drum. Hell, she didn’t even realize she was staring until another voice came from behind the duo.

“Lucky!” Boo cheered, floating over to Sea and the redhead.

She had ice blue skin and hair, and a nearly similar outfit to Lucky, only in blue and black. The only difference is she’s a ghost. No not dead-dead; she has the powers of a ghost. Like being able to go through walls, go invisible, and fly. Sea never understood it much, but whatever.

“Boo baby! Finally ya showed up!” Lucky squealed, turning away from Sea to face her.

Something in Sea’s chest pleaded for her to turn back around, but she squashed it. Heat overtook her face as blush spread across it slowly. What the hell was she doing back there? She’s no pervert nor creep, so why did she stare and get all fuzzy? Ugh, she gets like that every time she’s been with Lucky. It’s probably a crush. If it’s like that, at least it’s not like Sweet Pea’s on Strawberry. And just as if on a cue, two familiar voices came from another crowd heading for her.

“Sea!” Sweet Pea chirped, waving from her position.

“Hey sea glass!” Bruiser called out, pointing at the smoke cloud next to her, “We got you something from the cafeteria.”

“Oh, thank you thank you! Get over here!” The fishbowl yelled, a glittering smile gracing her face.

Her friends approached fast with their lunches and that smoke cloud. Sea felt the stress from earlier fad into the back of her mind, relief taking its place. That was until a sudden burst of pain hit the side of her head. The fishbowl stumbled forward, her head spinning and vision blurry. Arms caught her in a tight hug. She looked up to find Sweet Pea holding her up, glaring at someone behind her.

“What the fuck was that for?!” The balloon demanded, keeping Sea in that protective hug.

“For that fuckass fish ruining my outfit!” Fossily yelled back, venom dripping from her voice.

What could’ve Sea have expected? She let her guard down for a second and that geek got the jump on her. An annoyed huff left her mouth. She wasn’t dazed anymore, so she turned to face the girl. Bruiser had gotten in front of the two in a protective stance, ready to fight like a guard dog. She paid no mind and pulled away from Sweet Pea.

“Seaweed’s sure as hell no fuckass fish!” The fishbowl yelled.

“It LITERALLY drenched me in your class!” The popular girl yelled back, pointing her finger and everything.

She’s all dry now as if nothing happened. But still as mad as before. Sea wasn’t gonna back down this time, no one gets to insult Seaweed and get away with it!

“Look, it’s only a little makeup. No need to hit me on the head over.” The fish girl reasoned, trying to peacefully conclude this argument.

“I bet you made it do that on purpose!” The history geek clapped back, clearly wanting the heat.

“And how would I do that? I can’t train a fish to attack you.” The fishbowl replied.

Fossily stood there for a moment, mouth opening and closing like an actual fish. Her eyes frantically darted around the floor trying to come up with another argument. Sea knew there was none, besides her powers of course, but those don’t count. A small smirk dawned the fishbowl’s face when the popular bitch worked herself into tears.

“Just- fuck you!” She yelled before marching off, still teary eyed.

The trio watched as the history girl walked off with her tail between her legs. Bruiser chuckled and turned to see Sea.

“Nice going there, glassy!” The emo laughed, patting the fishbowl on the shoulder.

“Thanks!” Sea chirped, feeling her face get hot.

Another tight hug followed after from Sweet Pea. She squealed and bounced a little in the hug, squeezing the fishbowl while looking her eyes very.

“Sea, you’re okay! I thought that hit cracked your glass for a bit!” The balloon cheered.

“Yeah me too! My head still hurts though.” The fish girl smiled, rubbing the side where Fossily hit.

“Need the nurse?” Bruiser asked.

“No, I’m good.” Sea giggled at all of the love around her.

“But what if she gave you a concussion?” Sweet Pea whimpered, pulling the fishbowl closer.

“I’m fine, I promise guys!” The glass girl chuckled.

“If you say so.” The emo hummed, heading over to Sea’s lunchbox, “Let’s eat.”

She picked it up before walking outside. The rest followed as they went to their usual spot, far from the chatter of other kids. Sweet Pea didn’t let Sea out of the hug until they were at the bench. The fishbowl didn’t mind as she liked it. Her heart loved it, not her by the way.

Chapter Text

5th period, Language Arts. It was a quiet class with only about 8 kids. Bruiser sat in the back of the class, reading a really good book called Finding Jupiter. A few chapters had reminded Bruiser of herself. But the book was good, so she didn’t care. It was just getting good in the book when someone tapped her on the shoulder. The emo turned her head, slightly annoyed at the interruption, and immediately went still. Confetti stood behind her with a scowl that meant trouble. Her two buns sat on her head like horns, one side pink the other orange cause why not. Dusty freckles covered her face as if sprinkled on. Even though she was as strong as a pencil, she was crazy. Like psycho killer level crazy. And Bruiser knew what she was capable of.

“Why’d you drag my bestie into your drama?” Confetti demanded, pointing an accusing nail.

“Its not my fault,” The smoke girl stated, “It’s rather someone lied about me to a few bitches and they’re throwing a fit.”

“Then why are you letting it continue?! Sweet Pea has a bruise on her lower back from a jumping!” The angry psycho hissed.

That made Bruiser confused. A bruise on Pea’s lower back? She didn’t see one last night when she slept over. Maybe she just didn’t see it, or she would’ve helped.

“I didn’t see a bruise. So I’m sorry that flew over my head. I’ll check in with Sweets later.” The emo admitted, feeling a little bad about the whole thing.

“What do you mean ‘Sweets’? You’re acting like she’s your girlfriend.” The piñata snarled, very much not content with Bruiser’s apology.

“Look we’re just close like that ok? I’m like that with Sea too.” The emo groaned.

“Quit acting all stuck-up most of the time! Just keep her safe or I’ll kill you!” Confetti ordered.

“And what are you gonna do? Shove me down the stairs with your mute friend’s help?” Bruiser rolled her eyes, effectively pissing off the other girl.

“Her name’s Mi Mi!” The piñata insisted.

“Fine, Mi Mi. But still, you ain’t touching me.” The smoke bluntly claimed before turning back around.

“Wha-! You’re always such a dick!” The psycho girl huffed before turning around to.

Bruiser didn’t pay much attention after that. Her mind only thought of Sweet Pea not telling her about a bruise. That kinda put a wrench in her throat. Guilt gnawed at her stomach, but she kept it down. If Sweet Pea does have a bruise, she’ll try and help the best she can. That train of thought was interrupted by another tap to the shoulder. This time it was Mi Mi, the one mute friend Confetti had defended. Bruiser called her mute because she was so quiet. And maybe even a little depressed. She didn’t judge.

“Did you by chance see the bruise on Sweet Pea?” Mi Mi asked, swiping a ink black strand out her face.

“No, never noticed anything of the sort.” The emo stated.

“Well Sweet Pea told us not to tell you because she said you were having a tough time.” The quiet girl sighed, “Sorry for Confetti.”

Now that’s what got Bruiser. Sweet Pea didn’t want her to know? She could take it, she’s had plenty of bruises before. And because she’s having a rough time? Umm, she’s fine. She’s always fine. So what if her family fell apart overnight. She has her friends. They’re practically sisters to her, so she’s fine. The inky girl must’ve seen how Bruiser’s face changed as she walked closer and rested a hand on her shoulder.

“I’m sorry about your mom. I’ll offer any help I can.” Mi Mi whispered, trying to comfort the motherless girl.

“… I’m fine. Let go of me.” The emo said, shrugging her hand away.

The ink girl nodded in understanding before walking back over to Confetti on the other end of the room. They talked in whispers for a moment, fast and sharp. Bruiser could make out a words like ‘shouldn’t have’ and ‘mean of you’, but not much else. She was too focused on Sweet Pea telling her cousin and her friend to not tell her something. Something in her gut stung of betrayal, even though it shouldn’t. Sweet Pea shouldn’t have to deal with Bruiser’s insecure ass even time she talks too her other friends. So Bruiser shoved that sting deep down, far below the earth’s surface. The emo trusted her friends with their own lives. Suck it up, Smokey. You’re okay. Like always…

— — — — — —

6th period brought about another pang, this time in the form of where Sea sat. Sea and Bruiser shared a Italian class with a particular frustrating teacher. They sat next together every day, hell, the teacher even called them siblings one time. But when Bruiser walked into that class, Sea was not in her desk. The emo scanned the room for her fishy friend until she saw her. On the other side of the room. Sitting next to Lucky. Lucky was a girl the smoke didn’t get along with, rather beefed with actually. To find Sea sitting next to her…made an uneasy feeling brew in the emo’s chest. She still took her seat in the middle of the room, alone.

Each word from the teacher flew over her head. Most background noise was blocked out by static, a dense thing that suffocated her. The room felt cold and it wouldn’t go away. Like an invisible fog clouded her mind. A sharp tap to the desk shook her from her trance. The teacher, Mrs. J, stood over her with a concerned expression on her lips.

“Hey Bruiser, are you okay?” She asked, confusion and concern lingering above the numb girl.

“Yeah, just tired…” The emo mumbled, avoiding eye contact.

The teacher clearly didn’t believe her as she when to her desk and wrote a yellow pass. She walked back to Bruiser and handed it to her.

“I think it’s better if you clear your head before doing that worksheet…” Mrs. J stated gently.

The smoke girl just stared at the pass for a moment. Then at the teacher’s gentle eyes. Then back at the pass. A sudden sting started in Bruiser’s eyes, getting worse by the second. With a shaky hand she took the pass before sliding out her seat.

“Thank you.” She whispered, glancing at the teacher.

Mrs. J just nodded and waved gently as Bruiser rushed out the door, leaving her backpack behind. She ran through the empty halls at a desperate pace. The hallway seemed almost endless, trying to swallow her whole. But she just needed to get out of there. A stairwell was close by that lead to the outside. She just needed to get there. Finally after a long sprint, the doors appeared. The emo barrelled through the and behind the stairs just in time. Liquid lava fell from her eyes, streaming in rivers down her face.

“Fuck damnit, why am I so gutted?” Bruiser muttered her herself, choking on each word.

It was a genuine question. Why? Sea was just sitting in a different place than usual… far from her. And Sweet Pea had a bruise on her back… that she told her other friends not to tell her. They have their reasons for sure! So why was she so fucking worked up?!

“…Bruiser?” A familiar voice came from behind her.

She snapped out of her tears and whipped her head to the voice. Dewy stood in the stairwell, just staring at her. His eyes were soft with sympathy. But the emo knew it was fake, he’s a snake when trying to. And Bruiser wasn’t willing to fall for it another time.

“What are you here?” The smoke girl demanded, her eyes sharp and wet.

“I just heard crying and went to investigate…” The theatre kid replied, stepping a little closer, “Are you okay?”

“You don’t need to know. Leave.” The emo stated angrily.

Dewy paused for a long moment, something dawning on his face. Reflection, guilt, who knew. He just looked genuinely upset like a switch went off in his heart. Bruiser glared a bit more before he backed all the way to the door. The mirror spared one last pitying glance and left, the door shutting with a loud crash.

“Fucking femboy and his antics,” The crying smoke muttered as she began to cry again, “You’re the reason I’m even in this mess…”

She continued to cry for what felt like hours and hours, unable to stop or think clearly. Hot tears poured down her cheeks and drenched her skin like a storm surge. Each breath felt like swallowing knife, tearing her throat apart. She cried and cried till the bell finally rung. Footsteps filled the halls while the stairwell stayed quiet. The emo got up slowly, wiping her tears away before summoning a smoke cloud.

“Get my stuff from Mrs. J’s room.” Bruiser ordered it.

The cloud flew off out the doors and returned just as quickly with her things. The emo didn’t wait for her friends to find her this time, just left out the exit doors. She needed a little time alone to regain herself. Just enough to act fine. Cause that’s what she told them; she’s fine. She’s always just fine.

Chapter Text

When looking for Bruiser and Sea, Sweet Pea couldn’t find them in the crowd. Swarms of kids surrounded her like ants and chatter buzzed through the air. With everything going on around her, the ballon couldn’t find her friends.

“BRUISER, SEA!” Sweet Pea called out, worry building in her gut.

But still no luck. Each face that passed wasn’t theirs. Every voice was different from the last. The brunette searched for what felt like hours, hunting for any sigh of her lost friends.

“Ugh! Did they leave me?!” The ballon whispered, fear seeping in along with loneliness.

In defeat, she made her way over to the bus stop alone. A labyrinth of thoughts clouded her vision. What are they doing without her? Are they already at the bus stop? Why’d they leave her all alone? Loneliness clouded her vision, threatening to spill out right in front of the school. She just couldn’t understand why they both just… left her. They’ve always gone to the bus stop together l, and she didn’t want to start going alone. Not like this. Just before her hurting heart spilled out her eyes, a sudden honk blared behind her.

“Hey! Sweet Pea!” A VERY familiar voice yelled.

The balloon froze stiff and her ears shot up in surprise. That can’t be who she thought it was. Right? She looked around for the source, but couldn’t find it.

“Umm… over here.” It sheepishly added.

The brunette took a shaky breath before turning around. Parked directly in front of her in the now semi-empty school parking lot was Strawberry, sitting in a red convertible. His hands fidgeted with the steering wheel and eyes refusing to make full eye contact. Sweet Pea felt her breath leave her lungs seeing him. Her mouth opened and closed until she stammered out a response.

“S-strawberry! W-what are you doing here?” The balloon stuttered, barely able to speak.

He pause for a moment, eyes going wide when Sweet Pea saw him. She could’ve sworn her heart were about to explode.

“I-I noticed you di-didn’t have a ride home. Wanna hop in for a joyride?” The berry asked with a weird stutter.

That wasn’t even a question to the brunette. She practically ran over to the car, legs moving before she could think. The blush on her face and ears intensified by 10. God this wasn’t happening. She didn’t believe it until she was at the passenger side door and he opened it. The seat felt so silky against her back, cool to the touch as well. She wasn’t really focused on the seat though, rather the boy himself. A pink and white striped scarf was wrapped around his neck. She’d never seen it before, with its fluffy threads and long frilly end. It was a little bulky for late summer but she didn’t care. The scarf matched the rest of his outfit, just a pale pink vest and dusty green pants.

“Why’d you invite me in?” Sweet Pea asked, trying to understand the situation.

“Well… I noticed you didn’t have a ride home. And maybe cause I’m too nice.” Strawberry smiled.

Butterflies swirled around in the balloon’s stomach with each word. She just stared at the popular boy, her heart racing in her chest.

“You know, you are too nice…” The love struck girl murmured, “Wait, are you waiting for someone?”

The berry snapped up, panic clearly on her face. A sheen of blood rose on his face which the brunette noticed immediately. It was faint, but not invisible, and it made the balloon’s heart flip. Oh god she made him blush?! Is this a dream?!

“Oh yeah! Ha! Sorry!” He rushed before starting the car.

It roared to life, speeding off the school lot and into the street. The wind swept past the brunette’s face, caressing her red cheeks. Her eyes were glossy with awe as she watched the world pass by. Trees swayed in a breeze, dropping leaves like blossoms. Birds flew overhead and their friends raced to follow. Each new sound, every slight captivated the brunette. But something nagged at her.

Her curls were in a ponytail on the back of her head, and she craved the wind to play with them. Her hand slipped behind her head and freed her hair from its bounds. The wind wasted no time to sweep her curls into its grip, flowing behind her like a mermaid’s. Sweet Pea didn’t even notice as she was too busy giggling at the freedom she felt. This was heaven! The wind in her hair, the sun warming her skin, and god, the boy next to her. She couldn’t have felt more free than at that moment. Under the sun with the boy she loved.

“I’ve always wanted to ride a convertible! Thank you!” Sweet Pea cheered, love blooming like flowers.

“D-don’t thank me! This is a g-gentleman’s job.” Strawberry panted.

The balloon looked over to find him glistening in the sun. His scarf fluttered behind him, a striped flag in the wind. Green waves spun and twirled about in the wind. But most of all, he was blushing. Heavy. His face was almost the color of the fruit he’s named after and his ears matched. Slightly yellow freckles stood out in the blush, making him even more beautiful. The pure flush that hit the balloon seemed beyond words. Her heart was ready to explode and toes curled. God was her beautiful in all senses of the word. Her mouth opened before she was ready.

“You know, you’re absolutely gorgeous.” The brunette stated, her words dripping with love, “Like angel singing up in heaven kind of gorgeous.”

Oh the way she froze with the most horrified face she’s ever made. Her entire body stiffened with panic and brain stalled. She could’ve sworn she just fumbled the best man of her life until she saw his face. The berry looked almost in awe, eyes glittering and skin glowing. He was almost radiant with a mix of surprise and love.

“You are too. Especially when you have your hair down and you’re all dewy from the morning air.” Strawberry hummed, genuine love in his voice.

Cupid might as well have shot three arrows through the love struck balloon’s heart. Her ears shook and mouth opened in shock. Was she really that beautiful?! Just a piece of plastic could be so beautiful?! Her eyes stung from sudden tears threatening to leave. But thankfully before they did, the berry started talking again.

“Where do you live again?” He asked.

“I live in Tiffany Banks, the last apartment building there.” The brunette stated, a little embarrassed about her humble abode.

The popular boy nodded and turned his eyes back on the road ahead. It was silent the rest of the way, but comfortable silence. Sweet Pea had zoned out watching the clouds above them, trying to guess which one Strawberry lived on. The berry just tried to not kiss her right there. Which was really REALLY hard. But finally, they made it to Sweet Pea’s block. She didn’t even notice until they pulled up. The brunette started to get up begrudgingly, but the star boy held her hand to stop her.

“Wait, do you mind if I walk you to the door?” Strawberry asked, more like pleaded.

“Oh! Okay!” Sweet Pea chirped as her let go to unlock the doors.

They both hopped out, stupid smiles on their faces. The balloon swiped her backpack and pulled a strap over her shoulder. The berry joined her and started walking with her. His hand wandered over to hers, linking like perfect puzzle pieces. The brunette couldn’t help but to giggle a bit as they approached her door. His hand felt soft and toasty, like a puppy was in her hand. Hers felt buttery and cool in the popular boy’s hand. It felt addictive, sending bolts of bliss through him. But tragically, they reached Sweet Pea’s door.

“Well, thank you for everything today.” The balloon smiled sadly, “It really was the best part of my day.”

“You‘ve made my day too. And a little of tonight.” The berry chuckled, slowly letting go of her hand.

Their eyes never left the others as they let go fully. Neither was ready to say bye, at least until Strawberry’s heart took control of his brain. He suddenly grabbed the brunette’s hand and pressed a kiss onto it. It felt a soft print on the balloon’s skin, filled with longing. He didn’t wait for her reaction as he was already running back to his car.

“Bye! See you tomorrow!” Strawberry yelled, too flustered to say anything else.

The brunette paused in shock before turning to see the berry already in his car. He was covered in brush and he shook with each moment.

“…Bye!” Sweet Pea yelled back as he drove off, flooring in out of the parking lot.

She couldn’t even comprehend what just happened. Her eyes just fell back down onto her hand, where’d he kissed it. Oh fuck was her face hot and eyes sting from overwhelmed tears. She didn’t even know when she unlocked the door and ran into the house, but she did end up in her room. Shriek like squeals escaped her mouth and tears streamed down her cheeks as she scrambled onto her bed. Not once did she think about her friends, at least until she’d composed herself enough to talk. She’ll tell them tomorrow. They’re be there… right?

Chapter Text

Finally done with running around, Sea was being driven back home. She’d had a dentist appointment immediately after school and her parents sent her a fucking chauffeur because they were too busy to drive her. Perks of being privileged, was she right? Anyway, the fishbowl finally got home at closing to 3.

“Have a good day, little miss!” The chauffeur chuckled, watching Sea pull out of the car.

“You too Mr. Valley!” The fish girl waved as she dragged her backpack up to her front door.

The champagne white car soon pulled away, leaving her alone on the front steps. She hiked up and prepared to use her key when someone from inside unlock the door for her. The glass girl jumped, nearly busting her ass on the pavement in shock. A snort could be heard from inside before the door opened. Nathan stood in the doorway in a simple grey suit. His hair was messier than usual and his smile more natural. Almost a healthy vision of the business man, which made Sea happy.

“Hi Nathan!” The fishbowl grinned, bouncing a bit.

“Hi Melody! Your parents asked me to stay here and house sit.” He smiled, stepping aside to leave her in.

But something flared in Sea’s gut when he said her parents asked him to house sit. She never asked in why he was in the house. Not did Stepdad like him at all. But she brushed it off and darted inside. Nathan closed the door behind them, letting it close with a soft thud. The fishbowl noticed how Nathan had made himself at home in the living room. A baseball game was playing on the TV with a big bowl of snacks on the couch. She unknowingly shuddered at that, knowing Stepdad would flip out if even she brought food to the couch. Nathan acted like he didn’t notice, but he definitely did. Or at least the fish girl thinks so.

“So, how long till Mom and Stepdad come home?” Sea asked, trying to sound chill.

“They should be home around… 8:30. I’m kinda skeptical about that, but that’s what your stepdad said.” Nathan shrugged.

“Okay. Wait, what do you mean skeptical?” The fishbowl paused, looking back at the business man.

He grabbed the side of his neck and clicked his tongue.

“Between you and me, he never keeps his word.” Nat explained, “He’s totally time-blind.”

Not that caught the teenager’s attention. Stepdad being time-blind? He’s never mentioned it, rather would snap at anyone who brought it up. Her eyebrows shot up in amusement and and surprised smirk dawned her face.

“Time-blind? He snaps at anyone who even questions his time reading skills.” The fishbowl blurted out.

She immediately froze in panic realizing what she said. There’s a very specific rule Stepdad has: what he says and does in house is private. Meaning she can’t tell anyone else about it. Fuck she just told his business buddy about something private. Oh no.

“I meant that in a playful way! He doesn’t really snap at us!” She rushed, trying to course correct.

But it was clear Nathan was suspicious. He squinted his eyes and let go of his neck. His face… it looked almost like he was expecting that. Like a detective with his suspect right in his grasp. That quickly vanished as he caught himself before talking.

“What do you mean he snaps at you?” He asked, putting on a confused face.

Sea paused for a moment, trying to size up the risk. Nathan was a trustworthy man as he was always nice to her. Stepdad in her opinion was always a dictator with too much power. He can be kinda scary actually, unlike Nathan, who was a teddy bear of a person. But she already knew her stepdad’s wrath. And she couldn’t risk it again. So she just sighed.

“It’s a long story… Can I hang out in my room?” The fish girl deflected, fidgeting with her fingers.

Nathan nodded slightly and smiled sympathetically. His eyes were tender and sweet, not like Stepdad’s icy glares. It soften something inside Sea. Even though she still isn’t willing to admit it, he felt safe. A boat in a raging sea. Something to cling to. That wasn’t something the fishbowl didn’t feel with any adult since her mother… and she knew how that ended.

“Okay, Aqua. Just know you can tell me anything really.” Nathan said.

With that, Sea stumbled up the stairs to her room. She only had time to shut the door before emotional squeals left her mouth.

“Aqua?!” The fishbowl wailed, overwhelmed by the nickname.

She’d hasn’t had a nickname in so long given by an adult. Only by her friends. Which reminded Sea of her friends, especially Bruiser. The last time she saw the emo was in Italian. She walked in a few minutes early and was about to sit down next to Bruiser when Lucky called her over.

L- “Hey there, Sea!”

S- “Yeah? Oh hi, Lucky!”

L - “Looks like your emo friend isn’t here. Wanna sit with me?”

She didn’t even remember what made her, but it practically yanked her right into the seat next to the redhead.

S - “Sure! And her name’s Bruiser.”

That’s well Bruiser walked in when they were chatting. The fishbowl saw her walk in and search until she saw her. Their eyes locked on each other for a split second. Bruiser was noticeably hurt as her face crumbled a bit, her shoulders falling. Sea felt a pang of guilt stab her in the chest. But when she tried to get up, Lucky held her back. She watched Bruiser finally sit down when the bell rung.

Throughout the whole class, the smoke girl kept glancing back at her. Then the teacher came over in the middle and have Bruiser a pass. The emo nodded slightly before just about scampering out of class. After she left, Sea couldn’t help but feel like she was choking. What could’ve prompted her to run out of class? But again when she tried to follow her, Lucky leaned over and whispered in her ear.

L- “Did you know that emo is actually in a gang?”

S - “What?”

L - “Yeah. She has a lot of gang friends and they sell meth and any other drug you can think off.”

S -“But… She’s my friend. She would’ve told me.”

L - “Never trust a gang member. She’ll probably murder you if you knew too much. Stay away from her, she’s dangerous.”

At the time, Sea was caught entirely off guard by that knowledge. And who wouldn’t? She knew Bruiser, ever since she moved her when she was 6. That’s how long they go back. So for her to hide something this big… it made her question whether she really saw her as a friend. The emo was always a bitch in some ways, it’s just part of her nature. She’s static, cold hearted, maybe even cruel. But she’s not a monster…right?

S - “…”

L - “Sorry you had to find out through me, but just kept yourself safe. Can you do that for me?”

S - “…Yes.”

L - “Okay girlie! Did you also know that gangster shot a guy before?”

And that’s all Sea could remember before she blacked out. Her eyes were open but no one was home until it was time to go home. Bruiser never returned to class, even as the bell rung. Sea left without Lucky, heading out to find her lift to that dentist appointment.

Now she was alone in her room, she couldn’t help but think and what happened that day. Pangs of guilt rose in her gut and tried to choke her. Tears pierced her eyes, but she kept them in. If what Lucky said was true, she was friends with a monster. And she couldn’t cry over a monster.

“Why didn’t she tell me?” Sea whispered to herself, waves of betrayal crashing into her.

Bruiser was her ride or die, a friend till the very end, even a fucking sister to Sea. And she could’ve hid that from her? What else could she be hiding? Does Sweet Pea know about it and backstabbed her too? Who knew. Sea just needed some form of explanation. Something to explain why her best friend of 11 years could lie like this. She’ll confront her tomorrow, even though Lucky said she’ll probably kill her. It would be better to die with an explanation than live without one.

Chapter Text

Evening came too fast, too soon. The sun was setting over the town and bathe it in golden light. The perfect place to watch the sunset was the beach about an 20 minutes away. And that’s where Bruiser was, sitting on a ledge of a sea wall. The wall was about a foot tall and was a sandy tan from sun exposure. The stone felt warm against her legs, not like she noticed though. She was watching the sun paint the sky in reds and oranges and yellows. A bright orange sun sat in the middle, radiating its beauty across the horizon. A few red clouds drifted in front of it but didn’t block the view. The emo just watched it with hollow eyes, not really there mentally.

“… Am I meant to be alone?” Bruiser asked aloud, voice cracking a little.

Nothing answered besides the waves crashing. It felt like a mockery really. She really needed one because it always seemed like it. People stay away from her, her mother hated her, and the only friends she has are becoming distant. They were inseparable before, hell they slept in the same bed the other day. So they couldn’t break apart. Never. Maybe if the world was ending: Aka someone moving or a drastic betrayal. They wouldn’t do something like that to her. She wouldn’t even do that. No matter how sick she was of Sea’s rambles or Sweet Pea’s terrible taste in boys. They all made that promise about always coming back to each other, so she was gonna honor it. She just hoped they’d do the same.

“If that’s true, I’m not staying here. I’m nothing without my friends. Nothing.” The emo muttered, tears welling in her eyes.

She knew it was true. The only people who actually saw her were Sweet Pea and Sea. Everyone else ignored her, even her mom. So really… were they just blind to the fact she was a loser? Someone who was snappy, stoic, maybe even abusive? She was a jerk sometimes, and she knew it. Maybe it would be better if they weren’t friends in the first place? They wouldn’t have to tolerate the harassment from the popular kids nor have to deal with her. It sounded nicer than their friendship so… no.

Just no. She couldn’t lose the only people she cared for. She couldn’t even try to break off the friendship without going off a bridge later. They needed her too for protection. Sweet Pea definitely needed it. So she’ll stay, keep herself alive just for them. After all she’s better off with them than without. A tap on her shoulder woke her from her thoughts. The emo turned around to find a cop standing behind her. He had neat black hair and stern eyes, a force to be reckoned with.

“Hey young lady, its getting dark out here. You should go home.” The cop suggested, rather ordered.

Bruiser nodded and pulled herself off the sea wall. Her feet thumped against the pavement, bouncing a little. She looked up at the cop one last time before walking away. He didn’t pry, but she could tell he knew something was wrong. The emo tried not to think about it and headed for her car. It was in the parking lot, close to where she was sitting. After a brief walk, she slid into it and began to drive away. The roads flew past the car as she drove into the night. She could somewhat focus, but her mind was empty. Like hollow empty. The world past her in a blur and she didn’t even notice.

The emo didn’t even remember what she got home. Just got there and parked in the lot she always used. Her head suddenly started to blur, a drowning feeling that choked her. She got out the car sluggishly, almost limping. The feeling got worse as she limped to her door.

“Fuck, my head…” Bruiser groaned, rubbing her temples.

Her vision darken around the edges and eyes left heavy. That’s when she started to panic. Her legs felt heavy, but she pushed on until she got to the door. She fumbled with the keys for what felt like eternity. Her mind felt like it was underwater with each breath. Time was running out faster than she could form a thought. Fear started to creep into her stomach. Fuck, fuck, open already door! She didn’t even know if she’d stay awake any longer.

Finally, the door opened. She stumbled inside and fell onto the stairs. Her head banged against the fuzzy carpet, worsening her state. A low groan left the smoke’s lips. Exhausted tears fell down her cheeks and stole her breath. She tried to get up, but her arms gave out under her. Another bang came and stunned her again. She hit her head again, a fresh wave of pain crashing into her. She didn’t even try to get up as the drowning was just too much.

“Summon s-smoke cloud…” Bruiser panted, her breath slipping away from her.

With that, her body collapsed limp again the cold stairs. She didn’t even remember when. Everything just went black. Cold… empty… black that swallowed her whole.

— — — — — —

The next thing the emo woke to was the sun in her face. She was in her bed, the window open next to her. A faint breeze swept in and toying with her bangs. Her brain stalled for a moment, baffled at how she got her. She passed out on the stairs last night. So how was she in bed, in her sleep clothes and hair loose across the pillow?

“What?” Bruiser groaned, sitting up.

She looked around her room to find it had been straightened up a little. The one poster that hung crooked was straight. A never plugged in iPad she had was on its charger. And especially her phone was plugged in and buzzing wildly. She grabbed it to find several texts from Smokestack.

Hey Smokey, you up? -SS

Smokey? -SS

Are you up? -SS

Guess you’re asleep. Btw, I’m currently coming to visit in a few days. I can’t wait to see you little smoke! -SS

So that explained the little tweaks. Someone had fixed up her room for Smokestack’s visit. Only one person would’ve went through the effort; Dad. The emo chuckled to herself. The last time she saw him he was passed out on the couch surrounded by beer bottles. But she still had to thank him for not leaving her on the stairs.

Speaking of Dad, the smoke girl glanced up from Smokestack’s text to see him in the doorway. He wore a loose work shirt and black ripped jeans, something that suggested he was going to work. His hair was in a low ponytail and he had his teal eye contacts on too. The only thing missing was his wedding ring, leaving a pale ring around his ring finger.

“I found you passed out on the stairs. Do you remember doing anything?” Dad asked, face completely neutral.

“No. I didn’t even eat anything yesterday.” Bruiser sighed, stretching a bit.

“Oh...” He muttered before looking away, “That means it’s… female related.”

All the emo had to do was look at his embarrassed face to know what that meant. A drawn out sigh left her mouth and she dropped her head into her hands. She should’ve known. The day she starts her period, she always passes out regardless of where she is. The warning sign was her body suddenly going underwater. And the overthinking. Goddamnit.

“By the way, the passing out isn’t the worst part this time.” The first older smoke continued, “It’s your powers.”

“What. Why…?” Bruiser whined, growing more drained by each word.

“Well your powers go out of whack with your hormones. It begins when you’re 16 and after that comes with every month.” Dad explained, “Like how currently your hair is smoking.”

The smoke girl glanced behind her to confirm. Sure enough, smoke was drifting off her. It looked almost like a waterfall as it tumbled down her back. The sunlight caught in the smoke, an aura twirling around her. Bruiser stared in awe. The smoke kinda made her look untouchable, mysterious even. She could’ve stared all day if a brick didn’t slam into her gut.

“GAHH!” The emo shrieked and collapsed into her bed.

“… I’ll go get the Ibuprofen…” The older smoke sheepishly mumbled, disappearing from the doorway, “And if you don’t wanna go to school, you don’t have to.”

The emo just groaned in response, in too much pain too speak. This is gonna be a long week.

Chapter Text

Next morning, Sweet Pea awoke to loud clanking right next to her head. The brunette knew who is was immediately; Cream. She grabbed a pillow and chucked it at the other girl, hitting her right in the chest.

“CREAM WHAT THE HELL!” The balloon yelled, royally pissed off.

“FINALLY your sleeping beauty ass is up! Someone’s outside asking for you!” The blonde spat, clearly frustrated as well.

“I take the bus you dipshit!” The brunette shot back.

“Well some dork in a cherry red convertible is outside! He claimed he wants to take you to school.” The golden girl explained.

That caused Sweet Pea to freeze stiff, eyes going wide with recognition. That’s Strawberry’s car, the guy who drove her home yesterday. He drove all the way here to pick her up?! What the?! The balloon darted out of bed, throwing herself out the door.

“LOUISE WHAT ARE YOU DOING!” Cream shouted behind her.

But the brunette didn’t hear her sister, her heart raced in her ears. Fuck she wasn’t ready. He could’ve at least WARNED her he was gonna pick her up next morning! But he didn’t have her phone number. Ugh! None of that mattered! The only thing that did was that he’s outside, right now, waiting for her. And she wasn’t gonna make him wait long.

In the fastest time she’d ever gotten ready, the balloon was walking to the berry’s car with shaking legs. She’d thrown on a soft sweater with strawberries on it, pairing it with a pink skirt. It only went to her lower thigh and has two sets of ruffles. She’s only wore the thing a few times, but it worked here. And maybe because he touched her thigh yesterday. A pair of equally pink shoes finished the look. She actually felt great in this, maybe even beautiful. The baker’s eyes went wide when he saw her. Blush dawn his face in a rosy tint. She giggled a little at that as she got in, butterflies buzzing in her stomach.

“Why’d you pick me up this morning?” Sweet Pea asked, trying to be playful.

“I-I figured you want a ride. It was so fun last time!” Strawberry replied.

“Aww, thank you!” The balloon smiled, blush creeping along her face.

He drove off after waving bye to her parents, which felt nice. She couldn’t help but to notice his outfit too. He had on the same scarf from yesterday and matched it with a dusty pink checkered sweater and green pants. A white turtleneck laid underneath, exposed by the wind playing with the scarf. The brunette watched the wind in his clothes, feeling it wine around herself too. It danced in her hair and played with her skirt. The breeze on her bare skin felt good, really good. It was just cold. She shivered a bit under a warm hand rested on her thigh. The excitement that ran electric through her was exhilarating, almost addictive.

“… Your hand is warm, really warm…” The balloon hummed as she rest her hand on his.

The berry noticeably choked at that, more blush shooting across his cheeks. His mouth opened and closed before he responded.

“You j-just looked cold, that’s all,” The baker replied, “… want me to move it higher?”

Now it was the brunette’s turn to go flush. His hand was already just below her skirt, going higher felt so extra. A shaky smile dawned her face as she tried to come up with an answer. But with one glance over, it was obvious Strawberry was messing with her. A sly smirk spread across his face and he raised an eyebrow.

“Oh you jerk!” Sweet Pea yelled as he burst out laughing.

“You’re so adorable when you’re confused! Oh my god!” He laughed, rubbing her thigh through laughter.

The brunette thought she couldn’t blush any more than she was now. His skin on hers felt so intimate, so close that they may as well be already together. That’s what prompted her. She reached out and brushed his cheek with her finger. His skin was so soft on her fingertips. She ran her fingers over it again and again, almost addicted to the feel.

“You’re also adorable when you’re flustered!” Sweet Pea teased, “And your skin is very soft.”

The baker finches at the touch. Her fingers were cold, but he was burning hot. Maybe from the sun on him. Or maybe it was just him. He didn’t know.

“Oh you’re feisty!” The berry chuckled, running his fingers over her skin.

“Hey! That’s sensitive!” The brunette rushed.

The light tickling felt like heaven with the wind. Her legs tightened and breath cut. Oh did this feel good. It was even better than the car ride before. All before school too. She never thought she’d like the morning ride to school, but she’s changed her mind. As long as Strawberry keeps picking her up and his hand on her thigh.

Unfortunately for the brunette, they soon drove into the school parking lot. The area buzzed with life, students and teachers heading inside the building. Buses pulled into their lanes and cars snuck into the line. She’s figured they’d join the crowd until Strawberry pulled into the student parking lot in the left side of the school. He parked semi close to the building before hopping out. The balloon was about to follow when he opened her car door for her.

“Why thank you, my gentle-berry!” Sweet Pea giggled, getting out and grabbing her backpack.

The berry’s once firm smirk turned into a goofy grin. Blush had tinted his face to the point where he looked like and actual strawberry. But the balloon wasn’t any better. They walked together into the building as a few more cars pulled into the lot. The halls were packed with people, chatter and ughs filling the air. But the couple didn’t care. They held hands as they wove through the crowds, both not really seeing anyone but each other. Sweet Pea was on cloud nine with each step, practically floating besides her berry. Strawberry was no exception as he kept glancing between the balloon and his racing heart. In fact, they were so entranced by each other that they didn’t see Sea just behind them. And by her face, she was not happy.

Chapter Text

“You’ve got to be kidding me…” Sea whispered in disbelief at the scene in front of her.

The fishbowl just got to school after riding the bus alone. She’d knocked on Sweet Pea’s door, a couple times actually, but got no response. Next she tried Bruiser’s place. She had to walk a few blocks away and… she probably shouldn’t have. When she reached the smoke’s apartment, violent vomiting could be hear. Like it was bad. Really bad. She didn’t even bother knocking, just booked it away from the scene. She’d nearly missed the bus from that bullshit. And now this? The balloon she knew all too well with that boy from the popular gang. They were just ahead of her, a crowd acting as their shield.

“Are you serious right now?” The fish girl murmured, growing angry.

Sweet Pea was giggling like a toddler every time he talked. Her cheeks blushed red as well as her ears. Glitter sparkled in her eyes holding her date lovingly. Strawberry wasn’t much better, hell even worse, as he kept giving her these adoring looks. He looked at her like she was a gemstone. A very gorgeous gemstone at that. They strolled together in perfect harmony, seemingly in their own little bubble from the outside world. Sea was just out of reach beyond that bubble. And that’s probably what they want. Bubbles started to rise in her head, heat beginning to boil the water. Betrayal stabbed her heart and choked her throat.

“What the fuck, Pea…” The fish girl growled, boiling over.

She kept her distance as she followed them, unable to stop herself. The offending couple in front walked until they reached Sweet Pea’s home room. The balloon didn’t separate from him immediately though. She turned to face her date, and the berry faced her back. They just stared for a second before he pecked a kiss on her cheek. The brunette flinched at the gesture, turning bright red. He mumbled something to her and rubbed her hands. She eventually regained herself and pecked him back. The popular boy exploded in blush as she giggled.

Sea couldn’t have been more angry at that moment. Her hair boiled angrily, spraying the floor with hot rage. Why didn’t Sweet Pea tell her she was dating an enemy?! She acted fine with it before, but wasn’t at all. He was one of the people that jumped her. He was a part of the group that’s tormenting them. So why the fuck was she DATING him?!

“You motherfucker…” The fishbowl hissed, “Traitor.”

She couldn’t bear to watch anymore. Her legs shook too much and vomit filled her throat. She could barely run, but she did. Run, run, run. All the way to her home room with pure adrenaline and tears. There goes another friend of hers. First Bruiser, then Sweet Pea… fuck.

— — — — — —

A dense static made the morning classes fly by. It was lunch before she even knew it. Not like she was even hungry, just angry. Her head kept boiling no matter how many times she tried to calm down. Hell, her head’s basically hot enough to cook stuff in. So she wasn’t hungry. Just angry. The walk to the courtyard felt endless, echos of chatter ringing from everywhere. She carried her lunchbox with both hands and walked at a snail’s pace. A sudden hug from the back shook her awake again.

“Sea!” Sweet Pea cheered, all happy as usual.

Without a second thought, the fishbowl shoved her off. The balloon tumbled off and stumbled to her feet. Her face screamed off hurt, but the fish girl didn’t bother caring. She’d already backstabbed her by talking with Strawberry. She wasn’t getting away with that.

“Why’d you backstab me?” Sea demanded.

“W-what?” The balloon stuttered, eyes getting teary.

“You were with Strawberry at the start of the school day. And you didn’t bother tell me so I didn’t have to ride the bus alone. The fuck?” The fishbowl stated, growing even more mad.

The brunette paused before nearly falling into tears right then. Her mouth opened, word vomit spilling to the floor.

“Oh god I’m so sorry! I forgot to tell you and Bruiser that he picked me up yesterday and this morning! I’m so sorry!” She rushed, tripping over her own lips.

That only served to anger Sea even more. He pick her up yesterday and she accepted? Did she forget that they were enemies? What the actual fuck?!

“We’re enemies with the popular kids, remember?! They literally jumped you and you’re dating one of the perpetrators!” The glass girl spat.

“He saved me! Hell he even told the rest of them to stop! He’s innocent in all this!” The balloon insisted.

Her ears trembled and tears pooled in her eyes. She looked like she was about to fall apart, and all over a fucking boy. Pathetic.

“Still an enemy! You’re so cowardly sometimes Pea.” The glass girl growled, crossing her arms.

Those words hung in the air before Sea recognized what she said. A wave of guilt slammed into her, stealing her breath. She looked toward the brunette and was immediately struck by her eyes. The balloon shot a truly hurt filled glare at the fishbowl. Tears steamed down her cheeks and her ears lowered behind her head.

“Cowardly? Out of all the things you’d say. Cowardly.” Sweet Pea scowled, hands clenched in fists.

“Wait. I-I didn’t mean it like that.” Sea stammered.

“Yes you fucking did! Why else would you said that if you didn’t mean it?!” The hurt brunette yelled, “You clearly meant it!”

“I swear I didn’t-” The glass girl pleaded before the balloon suddenly turned on her feet and marched away.

“Sweet Pea! SWEET PEA WAIT!” The fish girl shouted.

The brunette kept walking though, ignoring her calls.

“WAIT PEA! PLEASE!”

She didn’t stop. Never looked back as she marched away, clearly hurt beyond words could ever say. Sea didn’t chase her. Her feet wanted to move but couldn’t. A bitter taste coated her tongue, choking her throat. But her pride wouldn’t let her go after. She just watched her friend disappear into the hallway, her heart breaking with each step.

Chapter Text

Bruiser wasn’t even awake for the last 6 hours. Just black void and the occasional dream. Hell, she’s barely even been fully conscious when she was there. Stabbing pain and constant nausea plagued her every waking moment. Low groans left her mouth, tears bleeding from her eyes.

“Fuckk…” The emo whimpered as another wave of pain slammed into her gut.

It felt like she was dying with every breath. She probably was with how bad it was going. It would’ve been welcome at that point, Bruiser wouldn’t have minded it. God it would’ve been welcomed. Then a cool hand rested onto her forehead. The feverish smoke groaned at the touch, the cold working wonders. It stroked down her face gently. Soft skin cooled her own with gentle understanding.

“Hey Smokey, you awake?” A voice asked above her.

That caused the emo to practically rip her eyes open, surprised and happy. She knew that voice. It was Smokestack standing above her, her hair falling over the bed like curtains. Her eyes were soft and her smile sympathetic.

“Y-yeah.” Bruiser coughed, voice raspy from vomiting.

“I took a flight down here about a week ago. I texted you but you didn’t respond.” The older smoke stated.

The emo paused before remembering the texts she got god knows how long ago. Maybe a few minutes, an hour, she didn’t know. But maybe that’s a good thing.

“Oh…” The smoke hummed, too tired to fully respond.

“Wanna eat something if you can?” Smokestack asked.

Bruiser could only nod before another wave of pain shot up her gut. The older emo nodded and walked off to the kitchen. A minute later she came back to her room with Chinese takeout. The smell alone nearly drove the younger emo out of bed. She forced herself to sit up enough to eat. The older smoke sat on the edge of her bed with the soup and a spoon. A plastic spoon, not a metal ones they both hated.

“Here comes the train.~” The older sister teased, floating the spoon toward her sister.

“Fuck you stack.” The little sister snorted, accepting the spoon.

The soup tasted like memories. Memories of when Mom and Dad were happy. Memories when Smokestack still lived with them. Memories of their old home, long before any trouble. Bruiser didn’t want to remember these, but accepted all with open arms. She remembered when she was 10 and still lived back in Virginia at their old house. They were fine until Dad got arrested for stealing over 1.2 million dollars from his job at company.

And well… that’s when everything fell apart. They moved the Manhattan, Smokestack moved out, and money was tight. It was rather really complicated to explain out loud, so she kept it all to herself. Let those memories rot in her gut where they should stay. She didn’t want to feel their sting every time she thought about them. A few tears rolled down her cheeks, a mix of nostalgia and sadness. Smokestack noticed and wiped them away.

“You okay?” The older smoke asked.

“Yeah… Just remembering some stuff…” The young smoke mumbled, sighing to herself.

The older emo didn’t believe her by her face. She rested her hand on the other girl’s shoulder, catching some smokey strands in between her fingers. Her grip was firm but not crushing, like the sisterly kind of grip. She made eye contact with a determined glaze only saved for sisterly speeches.

“You know it’s okay to not be okay with the past. It’s normal to have a grudge because of how is ended.” Smokestack preached, “Just remember that when things change, you’ll always be able to lean on me. I’m right here.”

Bruiser felt herself tearing up, hot emotion filling her eyes. Unsaid emotion came pouring out of her eyes and down her face. Soft sobs left her mouth, her heart spilling into her tears.

“T-thanks.” The emo sobbed.

“You’re welcome Smokey. Love you.” The older smoke said, pulling her into a hug.

“Love you too.” The young smoke whimpered, still crying.

They held to each other in a tight hug, rocking back and forth slowly. Bruiser cried into her older sister’s shoulders in heavy bawls. Her tears soaked into her shirt, drenching it with tears and snot. The older smoke didn’t care. She was just happy she was feeling better. Her sister was her whole world, so nothing was too much. The younger smoke clung to her sister like she was going to disappear. She couldn’t even put into words how much she needed her right then. Could never say how much she loved her. Hell, the emo didn’t know how she’s live without her. Kinda like she really needs her friends. She really couldn’t wait till she could see them again.

Chapter Text

Sweet Pea was currently sat in last period, watching the clock. The numbers ticked by at a snail’s pace. It seemed to do that on purpose to get on the balloon’s nerves. Not like she really wanted to go home anyway, because that would mean taking the bus. Where Sea would be. And she really didn’t want to see her right now. Something twisted her gut at the thought of it. The way she shoved her away, the anger in her eyes, the way she spoke made the brunette wanna cry. And all over the boy she beloved. Strawberry saved her from his friends when they jumped her. He drove her home and back to school the next day. He’s not like his friends, he’s better than them. So why did Sea call him a threat? Why?

“Hey,” Some kid whispered from behind her, “Do you have the answer for number 9?”

The balloon clenched her fists before glancing down at her paper. She had the answer, but wasn’t in the mood to give it.

“No.” Sweet Pea whispered back.

The kid grumbled annoyed and huffed quietly.

“Come on. You always have the answers!” He whined.

“You can do it yourself. I’m not feeling well today.” She stated, trying to sound calm.

Her shoulders shook and breath came out shallow. Another exasperated sigh as the guy fumed behind her.

“Please?!” He pleaded, “I’ll do you a favor!”

“And what is that favor?” The brunette snarled.

“I have all the main’s phone numbers. Tell me which you want in exchange for the answer.” The kid bargained, clearly desperate for this answer.

Now, Sweet Pea considered herself to be pretty academically honest. She’d never shared answers, copied homework, and all the work she’s turned in was her own. But the second this kid brought up how he has all the popular kids’ numbers… that made her risk her clean academic record. Especially at a time like this. She forgot to mention how the class was taking a test that day, one that was kinda weighty in the grade book. Being caught cheating could end in a detention and a zero. But on the other hand was the chance of her getting Strawberry’s number. And she’s beat a jaguar in a race just to have him. So despite pleads from reason, she took the deal.

“7, now what’s Strawberry’s number.” Sweet Pea whispered very quietly.

The kid ripped a small piece from his scrap paper and scribbled the number. He waited until the teacher was staring at his phone before he slipped it into her loose curls. She shot him a glare and grabbed the note, hands shaking at the content.

“Thank you.” She whispered.

“No problem.” He smirked before writing on the test again.

The balloon went back to her test after shoving the note into her hoodie pocket. She made a mental note that this was just this once, only for a lucky opponent, and to never do this again. It was just too dangerous. She needed a clean record to get into an Ivy League college. And this, this could’ve fucked it up. Never again. Never again.

— — — — — —

Twenty minutes before the bell, the brunette went to the bathroom. She limped all the way there with constant paranoia that eyes were on her. Like everyone was judging her every breath. Her legs nearly gave out before she made it into the door. The bathroom seemed to echo her every footstep. She dragged herself into the last stall, collapsing onto the toilet.

“Oh god, what I’d do for this boy…” Sweet Pea groaned to herself.

Her fingers shook as they pulled out the note. They hesitated to unfold it, just cradling the paper like it had the secrets to love. And in some ways it did. It had her crush’s phone number scribbled in, the key to his heart right there. And fuck was the balloon desperate for it. Her heart was breaking her ribs with how fast it was beating. Every breath hung in the air, shallow and filled with fear. Her hands shook so much she could barely hold the thing. After a shaky deep breath, she opened the note.

“732-492-2069…” She read aloud.

The numbers felt heavy on her tongue, hanging in the air like a vow.

“Oh my god.” She whispered again, fumbling to grab her phone.

With a bit of struggle, she managed to grab it. She went to her contacts and typed the number in with her heart in her ears. The contact photo tripped her up bad. She knew she’d never be able to capture his beauty in one photo. So she’d just put a photo of her favorite flower: a forget-me-not. Even if it was a little childish, it felt special. Little giggles left her mouth as she made his contact. The only thing left to do was send the first text. She froze right then, mind going blank.

“Um… what do I do.” The balloon asked.

Her head felt like it was ready to burst. Each and every second felt like an eternity of longing. Her heart reached out towards the phone through her fingers, typing before her brain was ready.

Hi Strawberry, this is Louise. -SP

The brunette breathed a sigh of relief at the thankfully not too embarrassing text. But then text bubbles came immediately after.

Oh! Hi Louise! Are you taking the bus today? -S

That was unexpected. She figured that he’d never use his phone during school. But it was a little nice to know he’d answer so quickly. And the bus situation… yeah. No.

No. -SP

Well, can I take you home after school? -S

Why of course! -SP

The brunette could literally feel her face going bright red. She didn’t even think about the implications with Sea or Bruiser. She just accepted. After all why shouldn’t she? She has free will and Sea already proven she didn’t care about her.

Great! See you after school! -S

See you then! -SP

The brunette’s heart was ready to erupt. Blush shot across her face and glazed her eyes. Holy shit, holy shit. She could barely sit still, bouncing with excitement. Pure joy shot through her veins. Finally! Finally a few steps closer to the berry! Maybe she could be his girlfriend one day! Maybe even wife, but that was too far for now. She’s just be happy that she’s got his phone number. The balloon was practically floating as she skipped back to class. Her eyes sparkled with love throughout the rest of class, far happier than before.

Chapter Text

Even on the bus home Sea couldn’t get that fight she had with Sweet Pea out of her head. An emptiness clung to the fishbowl’s insides, suffocating everything between her ribs. She felt numb all throughout the ride with her lungs tight in her chest. But she still tried to act normal when she walked into her house.

“I’m home!” The fish girl called out as she headed through the door.

No one really answered, which wasn’t new. But what was new was the scent that slammed into her. It reeked of cigarette smoke that burned her throat. Even with all the windows open the smell was overpowering. The glass girl coughed and lifted her shirt over her nose, trying to escape the smell.

“The fuck?” She muttered.

Glancing around, she noticed a paper on the dinning room table. She walked over to the table to get a closer look. It was a letter, professional letters from Stepdad’s company. A very angry letter about extermination. Extermination was a fancy word for being fired. Sea froze at the realization. Stepdad and Mom worked at the same company, with Stepdad being a executive sales manager and Mom a secretary. Stepdad’s role paid over 6 figures, paying for their entire lives. That job literally pays for everything from the house to the golf necklace Mom always wears. And the reason for the extermination letter? He’d been accused of attempting to sabotage another business man. She didn’t have to guess who that other person was: Nathan.

“Fuck,” Sea whispered, disbelief replacing worry, “Holy fuck…”

This was bad. Mom’s job didn’t even remotely pay as much as Stepdad’s. If Stepdad lost his job, Mom’s job wouldn’t be able to pay for their lifestyle. The fishbowl knew that would spell the end to their cushy life. But she didn’t care about the cushy life. She rather kinda hated it. After all it turned her mom into a corrupt shell of herself. She used to be so lively, so vibrant and funny before all the corporate stuff.

The fishbowl still remembered when they lived in a small beach town on the West Coast. Mom and her lived in a shitty house right next to the water, with creaky floors and a leaky roof. They were constantly broke after bills, but they were happy. She could still hear the waves crashing, smell the salty breeze, and feel the sand on her bare feet. Mom was also happier to. Her eyes glowed and her skin looked healthier. Everything wasn’t complicated too. No deadlines, no worries about sales, no corporate bullshit. Just the ocean and two happy women.

That all fell apart after Stepdad came into the picture. He was only passing through, with Mom letting him stay in their home when his business meeting was canceled and he got stranded. That’s all. That’s how they fell in love. And that’s when Mom started drifting away from Sea. After a ton of beach walks and them exploring the town together, Stepdad had to leave. But the damage was done. Mom and her were no longer close. She was more absorbed in her phone texting Stepdad then hanging out with the fishbowl. She felt set aside in a way, replaced by a man Mom felt in love with. She hoped it would get better before Stepdad offered to fly them out to live with him. Mom didn’t even ask Sea about if she wanted to, didn’t even think about how she felt. Just packed up all their stuff and left the only place she knew as home. She never truly forgave him for it. Virgina was far from the small town she grew, and she missed that town. Especially when she isn’t even happy here.

“Melody?” Nathan called out from the front door just when tears fell onto the table.

Low sniffing came from the glass girl, along with quiet crying. Her nails dung into the wood with a grip so strong they might’ve broke. Nathan definitely noticed and ran over to the fishbowl.

“Sea!” The business man rushed, “What’s wrong?!”

She couldn’t respond, just kept crying. The memories just all kept flooding back and she couldn’t hold her tears anymore. It all fell to the table she leaned over, sobs filled with sadness flooding out her mouth. Nathan must’ve seen the letter as he pulled her away from the table by her shoulders.

“Oh Mel…” He whispered, wiping away the tears, “It’s going to be alright.”

Sea just looked up at him with tear stained eyes, really looked at him. His hands felt so warm like his eyes. He really saw her as a person; not something to control nor ignore. That meant the world for the glass girl. The only time Stepdad saw her was to yell at her. And Mom barely even saw her anymore. It was Nathan who saw the bubbly nerd made of glass, who bothered to care about her when she’s not even his. That made her pull him into a crushing hug. Her hugged her back and let her cry into his shirt. They hugged until he suddenly froze stiff. Sea noticed and looked up to find Mom standing just past the stairs. She looked rough: hair tangled, glass dripping with spilled water, clothes rumpled. But the most striking thing was she absolutely reeked of alcohol. Like really reeked, as if she’d been drinking for a while. She just stared at Sea and Nathan with these eyes. Hurt eyes.

“Why are you here?” Mom slurred, pointing a finger.

“I just stopped by to check on you guys,” Nathan stated, “Are you drunk?”

The older fishbowl seemed to ignore the business man, only looking at Sea.

“You never do that to me…” She said, sounding hurt.

The glass girl didn’t know how to respond. She didn’t know how to even spell out what she felt. Maybe it was selfish of her, but she couldn’t say it. Thankfully Nathan said it for her.

“You barely even talk to her.” He groaned.

Mom crossed her arms at that and turned on her feet.

“Well fine if it’s like that, you be her parent.” She grumbled as she walked away, “She barely does much besides ramble about sea vermin anyway.”

A crack formed on the fish girl’s forehead, leaking water down her face. That hurt. Hurt more than anything else in the world, especially coming from her own mom, the one she’d be so close to before. More tears filled her eyes and her fists clenched. Nathan pushed her head into his shoulder with shaking hands.

“Mel, you’re more knowledgeable about the ocean than anyone else in this household. Don’t let your mom call it stupid.” He stated, rubbing her back.

“T-thank you.” Sea stammered back, getting whiplash from her mom and him.

Like she said, he’s the only one who gives a shit about her. He’s even defending her from her own mom. That’s the love she only gets from her friends. Well… not anymore… but still. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to live with Nathan. Maybe, just maybe.

Chapter Text

Finally, fucking finally, Bruiser could head back to school. She’d been dying all of yesterday and couldn’t even text her friends. It’s been too long since they’ve all been together, so she was kinda excited. Smoke still rose from her hair and even leaked out her breath, but she was insist about going. The emo walked to the bus stop that morning with the same off-shoulder sweater that kicked off the whole drama with the popular kids and cargo pants that danced around her legs. An actual smile was on her face as she saw Sea at the bus stop, waiting alone weirdly.

“Yo Sea!” Bruiser called out, coming up behind her.

The fishbowl turned around slowly and literally jumped at the sight of her smoking friend.

“Bruiser! What the hell happened?!” She shrieked.

“I got my period… the first day sucked big time.” The emo sighed, standing idly, “Where’s our balloon?”

Sea paused for a moment at that. Her face twisted in what looked to be hurt. That was concerning, especially since all off them had been on good terms before. The emo stared back growing worried until she spoke again.

“She’s with Strawberry.” The glass girl mumbled, scratching at her neck.

“WAIT WHAT?” Bruiser squeaked way too loudly, “Atta girl! Didn’t she could actually do it!”

“Yeah…” She muttered.

The emo snorted aloud and burst out laughing. Oh the irony. The second she leaves school for a day, Sweet Pea gets that boy. She must’ve finally found the guts without her needing to hype her up like a toddler. But for real, she was happy that the balloon finally got him. It was all too long before someone had to confess. She’d figured Sea would be happy too. But when she looked up, she was clearly not. A scowl scared her lips and her eyes were lowered to the ground. The more Bruiser scanned, the more it became clear something was wrong. Really wrong.

“Hey Sea, everything alright?” The smoke girl asked, sounding chill.

The fish girl didn’t respond. Just stared at the ground with clenched fists.

“Sea?” She asked again.

“Don’t you think it’s a bad idea to get close one of the literal guys who are at war with us.” The fishbowl said without looking up.

“Well he did save her so what’s the harm? Sweet Pea’s not an idiot.” The emo explained, noting how he’s been nothing but nice to them.

That only seemed to anger the glass girl as she looked up with angry eyes.

“Still why? He’s associated with the bitches who gave her that bruise on her back!” Sea blurted out before realizing what she said.

It was too late as Bruiser already heard. More smoke poured out her hair out of shock mixed with heartache. So Sea also knew about that bruiser, and even Sweet Pea’s cousin and her mute friend, and no one told her. Everyone else but her. Like she couldn’t handle a little bruise after she’d lose her mom. The expression on her face must’ve said more than she could ever say in words by the fishbowl’s horrified eyes.

“… So everyone else knew about that bruise and no one thought of me?” The emo asked, heart cracking a little bit more.

“W-we thought you already had enough on your plate! Sweet Pea’s begged me not to tell you because she feared you’d kill them over it!” She rushed.

Bruiser felt more cracks form. Feared she’d kill them over it, like she was a common street thug. She couldn’t lie she would’ve leapt at the chance to snap Techy’s bones, but she wasn’t a monster. She had more integrity than that. And she wasn’t gonna let that slide without an explanation.

“What do you mean ‘feared you’d kill them over it’? You’re acting like I’m a thug without a heart.” The smoke stated, growing mad.

“Well you are one.” Sea muttered.

A sharp pain shot through the emo’s heart with those words. It wasn’t anything she’d felt when her mom left, it was way worse. Did she really look like a thug, street scum, barely even human? All eyes seemed to fall on the smoke girl, their cutting blades to. Ice ran in her blood and froze her stiff. All the while Sea turned her eyes and words into daggers.

“Lucky told me about how you were in a gang the day you left.” The glass girl snarled, eyes glittering with unshed tears.

Lucky. She should’ve figured that she’d make up some bullshit like this. But Sea almost immediately believed her? Did she really think so lowly of her that a rumor as truth so fast? The fishbowl must’ve noticed as she cupped a hand on the emo.

“I just want know why you never told me.” The fish girl asked, “Please. I need to know why.”

The smoke girl pushed her hand away, swatting it away like a fly. The fishbowl gasped quietly before trying again.

“Bruiser I want to help.” She pleased, eyes wet.

“Why would you? You’ve clearly already made up your mind.” The emo said with barely concealed anger.

Her hair was practically entirely smoke as her rage built, waving in the breeze.

“I just want-”

“Just shut up. It’s not like you’re actually gonna believe over that one plastic bitch anyway.”

With that, the bus pulled up right behind them. Bruiser didn’t bother look up. Just darted on without looking back, Sea following after a few seconds. Tears were welled in both’s eyes but not one said a word of apology. It was already too far gone.

— — — — — —

Lunch came in a blur of hard feelings. And the prying eyes from everyone else didn’t help. All throughout the morning, people stared at the smoking girl like she was a fire hazard. But at least someone didn’t see her hair as dangerous. Toffee kept looping his fingers in the smoke, eyes glittering with awe. These adorable giggles left his lips while he played which Bruiser couldn’t help but to smile at. Dewy just kept his face in his Chromebook. She didn’t think too hard until she noticed the pink sheen on his cheeks. So besides that, everything wasn’t so bad.

But then things went south after the lunch bell rung. Bruiser was navigating the packed halls when she bumped into Sweet Pea. The balloon squealed in excitement and raced to hug the emo. She snatched her up in a tight hug, letting the smoky girl feel the silky blueberry sweater she wore.

“Oh my god Bruiser you’re back!” The brunette cheered, pulling the smoke girl in a tight hug, “I missed you so much!”

“Pea! Nice to see you too!” The smoke girl chuckled.

She pushed the balloon’s face away from hers. She looked almost hurt until she saw the smoke pouring from the emo’s hair. Her eyes went wide and mouth fell open in shock.

“What happened to your hair?!” The brunette shrieked, dropping her friend like hot coals.

“I have my period, what else could it be?” The emo shrugged annoyed.

The balloon tilted her head and blinked, clearly confused. Bruiser facepalmed in frustration.

“I hit the age where I smoke during periods!” She groaned, “You can’t be this slow and bag the hottest guy in school!”

Sweet Pea jumped at that. Her ears shot up to the ceiling and blush spread across her face.

“How did you find out?” She asked, clearly flustered.

“Sea told me on the way here. She also clearly doesn’t like him.” The smoke girl stated with a snarl at the end.

An uncomfortable silence fell over the two, both unhappy. The brunette clenched the fabric of her sweater. The emo dropped her eyes to the floor Both silent out of heartache. Chatter rambled around them by students and teachers alike, all ignoring them. That was until a familiar voice came from inside all the chaos.

“Hey guys!” Sea called out behind them, running up behind them, “Over here!”

They look over at the fishbowl as she joined them. Her hair clung to her face from sweat and her skin glistened in the sunlight. Both the balloon and emo stared with uncertain eyes. The fish girl noticed by how her smile got a little more forced.

“The courtyard’s closed today. Do y’all wanna head to the windy steps?” She asked.

“Oki.” The brunette said in a timid voice.

“Sure.” The smoke girl replied.

Without much words that started walking. The trio flowed through crowded hallways filled with rogue freshman and chatty sophomores. They passed a few classrooms along with the auditorium. Each step lead them closer to the steps. Silence followed them like a storm cloud, tense with unspoken words. None of the girls were really interested in talking away. It felt too forced and too soon. Wounds too raw. Heartache still fresh.

After a stroll across the entire school and traveling down a short hallway, they finally made it to the area behind the gym. There’s a set of doors at the back of the gym that leads to a open area where students often eat lunch. To the right there’s another set of doors that lead to the stadium, with a set of stairs next to them outside. That was where they planned to sit. And they did, all on the top steps. No one planned on talking much, but Bruiser decided to open her mouth.

“So Sweets, I heard you got a boyfriend now.” The emo humed, “Have you seen his dick yet?”

The balloon shrieked at the blunt question and exploded into blush. The fishbowl’s mouth fell open in pure shock, staring at her bold friend.

“BRUISER WHAT THE HELL!” Sweet Pea squealed, ears behind her head.

“Come on you got something to you. Why not?” The smoke girl chuckled while making direct eye contact.

“Did you have you say that?!” Sea demanded.

“Always. I need to mess you guys.” The emo said teasing.

The brunette huffed and looked away, clearly embarrassed. But she did answer the question.

“Well no. He just drives me to school in the morning and back home.” She said reluctantly, then sharply, “When y’all bailed on me a few days ago.”

“I left earlier cause I felt sick. And partly because I didn’t wanna be there anymore.” Bruiser explained.

Sea looked down with a guilty eyes. Both noticed and stared a little before Sea explained.

“…I got driven to a dentist appointment.” She finally said.

Sweet Pea’s eyes softened and her lip quivered.

“Oh. I’m sorry then.” The brunette apologized, “I never meant to hurt you guys.”

“On that note, why didn’t you tell me about that bruise on your back?” The emo asked, opting to clear the air now.

The balloon glanced up at her smoking friend without saying anything. Her eyes were heavy with untold thoughts and glittered with tears.

“You already lost your mom at that time. I just didn’t want to push you over the edge.” She pleaded.

“Come on! I was fine with losing her. I don’t wanna see you hurt!” The smoke girl stated, “And don’t call it ‘push over the edge’. You make it sound like I’m a thug.”

“You don’t look innocent to everyone else.” Sea bud in, sounding kinda raw.

Bruiser turned to face her with anger bubbling under her skin. The fishbowl kept looking down, knowing what was gonna happen.

“Don’t you dare talk on this Sea. You literally called me a gang member this morning.” The emo growled.

“Look, am I wrong?! You act the part!” The glass girl defended herself, bubbles forming in her hair.

“People just misunderstand me! Like Dewy and the whole shoulders drama!”

“And why would he think that?! Something must raise red flags!”

“That cunt doesn’t care about anyone but himself! He’s already gotten us into major shit! Hell, his friends literally jumped us!”

“That one spray painting their car shit definitely didn’t help!”

“I’m not just gonna let them walk all over us you dipshit! Stop being a pushover!”

“You stop being a thug first!”

Smoke exploded out of Bruiser’s hair. She glared at her fishy friend with rage streaming out her eyes and hair. Sea was no better as her hair boiled ferociously. Cracks formed in her arms and cheeks, leaking steaming water onto the concrete. Sweet Pea stared in horror at the scene happening before her. Panic tearing from her mouth and straining her voice.

“Wait, wait! Calm down before you guys say things that actually hurt!” She begged.

That only made the fighting girls turn their attention towards her.

“Yeah, you already did that by dating the enemy side and defended him!” Sea spat, venom dripping from each word.

“Hm! That’s rich coming out the girl who literally told everyone else BUT me about that bruise! Shut up already.” Bruiser snarled out of hurt, not malice.

The words cut straight through the balloon’s fragile heart, tearing it to shreds. Tears gushed out her eyes and down her cheeks like a river. Her mouth opened before she could think, full of heartbreak and betrayal.

“Y’all aren’t any better! You’re cold on a good day and she’s fake as fuck! Why’d you think my cousin called y’all toxic?!” She yelled, voice harsher than ever before.

“You pathetic piece of plastic! There’s a reason most people look through you!” The fishbowl shot back.

Just as things reached fever pitch, a sudden punch landed on the back of Bruiser’s head. She tumbled forward and landed in a heap on the bottom of the stairs. Stars shot across her vision and her head pounded. Her friends stared in frozen horror before a familiar voice came from behind them.

“So you’re the fucker who spray painted my car!” Techy shouted, panting angrily.

Her fists were clenched hard and knuckles white with rage. All eyes flew on the girls as Bruiser slowly dragged her up off the ground.

“Nice hit pipsqueak. Got me good.” The smoke girl chuckled darkly, “But it’ll take a lot more than that to knock me out.”

“Oh I plan on doing more.” The tech girl growled.

She took a few steps down the stairs toward her adversary, eyes venomous. Sweet Pea and Sea sat frozen as the emo met her on the middle. They stared each down like in the movies, slowly circling with sadistic grins.

“You’re such a slut for fights are y’all clanker.” Bruiser mocked, lifting her fists to combat position.

“Maybe I am, but at least I’m no fire hazard.” Techy replied, also getting into battle mode.

They stopped pacing and stared for just a moment. That moment felt like an eternity for their friends behind them. The popular kids were hiped with anticipation, everyone except Strawberry, who stood in pure horror. Sweet Pea and Sea watched with tangled guts. But for the fighters, nothing else mattered besides their opponent’s stupid face and their fists. Bruiser especially.

“Go time, clanker.~” She snarled as she threw a right hook into Techy’s cheek.

The tech girl stumbled back a few steps and lunged forward, nailing the emo in the neck. That hit was followed by another. And another. And another till they were in a full blown fight. Kids got up from the sitting area far behind the stairs and cheered like they were in a football game.

“GO TECHY! GO TECHY!” The crowd chanted, surrounding the two.

Techy did not disappoint. She had the emo pinned, landing blows all over her face and chest. Bruiser tore free and kneed her in the gut with vigorous force. The blows knocked the tech girl off balance, allowing the emo to land a kick to the nose. Blood sprayed onto the smoke’s shoes and the ground. Techy grabbed the offending limb and threw it down, taking the emo with it. But the smoke girl managed to grab the other and pulled her down to. They landed in a bloody mess, Techy climbing on top of her opponent. A blind punch broke the emo’s nose, then another landed a bruise on her forehead. But a swift kick to the gut sent her flying off the emo. She landed face up, where Bruiser climbed on top. She paused there, just staring at her masterpiece on Techy’s nose.

“No one fucks with a cobra.” The emo whispered before landing a few more punches.

Techy gasped for breath under the blows, getting absolutely destroyed. Then Bruiser got up. The crowd went silent as she wiped the blood off her face and pulled her opponent up. Techy froze in confusion until the smoke girl addressed the crowd.

“Now I would make you beg for me to stop, but that’s cruel.” She spoke, “So take that bloody nose of yours as a warning. Don’t fuck with me.”

With that, the emo began to walk away. Her smoking hair left smoke streaks in the air. An aura formed around her, a demand for respect that echoed through the crowd. Everyone just stood in awe and respect. Even Miette was speechless, along with her friends. Dewy started a slow clap that soon grew into a massive applause. All jaws were on the floor and an newfound respect dawning over everyone. Everyone except Techy, whose fists shook violently.

“Wait Bruiser.” The tech girl called out with barely contained rage.

The emo turned around to find Techy shaking behind her, eyes frenzied and breathing ragged.

“What?” The smoky girl asked, “You need someone to walk you to the nurse?”

Without warning, the tech girl lunged toward her. She grabbed her head and slammed it to the concrete with a sickening thud. The clapping immediately stopped, horror falling over the crowd. Then she lifted her adversary’s head and slammed in down again. And again. And again. Blood splattered all over her hands as Tech entirely lost control, beating her adversary to a pulp. The crowd went wild in screams, especially Dewy and Bruiser’s friends.

“TECHY STOP!” The mirror screamed, running into the ring.

He grabbed the tech girl’s jacket and tried to drag her off. He was joined by Sweet Pea and Sea, both grabbing the frenzied girl’s arms.

“GET OFF HER YOU PSYCHOPATH!” Toffee shouted, panic rising in his voice as he ran to help.

He wrapped his long arms around Techy and yanked hard, ripping her off Bruiser. She flailed and kicked as her friends rushed in to restrain her.

“WHY ARE YOU STOPPING ME?!” The tech girl screamed, “SHE VANDALIZED MIETTE’S CAR AND INSULTED DEWY!”

“SHE DIDN’T YOU MONSTER!” Sweet Pea cried as she ran over to her friend on the ground.

But before the fish girl and brunette reached their friend, Techy broke free from her restraints and tackled Sweet Pea to the ground. Her hands tightened around the balloon’s throat in a crushing grip. Panic flooded her body as she struggled and thrashed, unable to breathe. Just then Strawberry bolted from his position.

“LET GO OF HER!” He screamed and stomped on Techy’s neck.

She screamed this ragged scream as the berry ripped her off the brunette. He felt to his knees and grabbed her shoulders.

“SWEET PEA OH GOD!” The berry sobbed as she coughed and coughed in his arms.

Her eyes were closed and she clawed at her throat. Tears streamed down her face in terror, gasping violently for air. The baker scooped her into a bridal carry and ran down the stairs. Sea scrambled to follow until Techy grabbed her to. She threw a knee into the fishbowl’s thigh, breaking the glass. She screamed in pain and fear as water poured down her leg from the crack. Thankfully, someone jumped on the tech girl. Sea crawled away and looked back at her savoir. It was Lucky, mercilessly pounding her fists into the frenzied girl’s face.

“RUN!” The redhead yelled as she continued to beat Techy.

And the fishbowl did, bolting past the crowd and to the door to the inside. She didn’t think about Bruiser nor Sweet Pea, just ran desperately down the hall to get help. All the meanwhile, Bruiser woke up. She shook violently as she pulled herself off the concrete. She wiped the blood out her eyes to find pure chaos around her. Techy had been jumped by Lucky and Boo. The popular kids were sobbing and pulling them off and dragging their friend away. Bruiser just watched the pandemonium unfold until Dewy and Toffee ran to her. They held her up and started to run up to the doors, with Dewy bawling. Toffee told her something into her ear. But the emo didn’t hear anything. Tears washed away the blood on her cheeks in rivers.

“Fuck…” She coughed, knowing this wasn’t gonna go down well with Smokestack.

Chapter Text

Strawberry’s footsteps scraping against the pavement echoed with each step. He’d been running for a little while then, adrenaline keeping him going. In his arms was a shaking Sweet Pea. The balloon had somewhat regained her breath to the point she wasn’t gasping anymore, but still coughed and wheezed. Her vision was blurry from tears and mind clouded from lack of air. The only thing that kept her grounded was the berry’s heart with her own. It hammered against his chest like a war drum, fueled by fear and adrenaline. He slowed down in a gradual stop as the rounded a corner. The balloon noticed and opened her eyes. The berry was panting hard with shaking legs. His bangs clung to his forehead, tears mixing with the sweat. A gentle hand wiped them away, which made him look down.

“Berryboo, you can stop running now.” Sweet Pea cooed, calming his thundering heart.

He limped to a walking pace, pulling her closer to his chest.

“Oh Louise…” Strawberry whispered in exhaustion, “You scared me back there.”

“I’m so sorry.” The brunette panted.

“Don’t. Please, I just wanted you safe.” The baker sighed while trying to keep standing.

He dragged himself towards a brick wall and collapsed against it, legs unable to hold him up. The balloon slipped her legs to the ground gently. She stood in front of him with exhausted tears falling after the adrenaline wore off. Her hands cupped his cheeks, warm despite the sight chill in the breeze.

“Thank you for saving me.” The brunette hummed, “I was so scared by there.”

“Why would I have let Techy strangle you? I couldn’t bare to lose you like that.” The berry stated, tangling his hands in her hair.

“I…I would’ve saved you to.” She whispered.

They pulled each other closer till their chests touched. Sweet Pea’s heart was pounding as she felt his do the same, blush growing across her face. His hands were so gentle and so warm, like they were meant to be in her curls. Her hands fit so perfectly on his cheeks to. Everything about them really matched too; the way they talked so effortlessly, the scent on his clothes, the late nights they spent texting last night. It all was so perfect. All theirs, no one else’s.

“You know, we fit so well together. Like we were meant for each other…” The balloon purred aloud.

That mean him go quiet, his eyes filling with glitter. She froze in worry that she said something wrong. She felt him move his hands out her hair to her waist, feeling the slight shift in his breath.

“…Do you really mean it?” He asked.

“Y-yes.” She murmured, butterflies building in her stomach.

“I feel the same. I barely r-remember my life being so bright before you…” The baker mumbled.

He pushed his face close to hers, an unreadable expression covered in blush. Oh god Sweet Pea knew what was coming. She’s read so many romance novels to know what’s to happen. Her ears become floppy about her head, blush creeping on the tips. Her arms wrapped around his neck in a gentle embrace.

“I think I was meant for you. And you were meant for me to… I love you.” He said for only the two of them to hear.

With that, they pushed their lips together. His lips felt soft against the balloon’s. Her knees went weak and heart raced even faster than before. She was practically floating in her berry’s arms. A soft muscle pushed into her mouth, a whimper escaping her lips. He tasted like mint chocolate and vanilla frosting, far more addictive than anything else she’d ever tasted. Soft whines left her mouth as he explored her mouth, running his tongue across her own. Then he retreated. She followed after, his mouth welcoming her tongue warmly. Low moans came from the baker as he let her explore. She tasted of tangy circus and mellow melons. His fingers dug into her waist, shivering with each movement of her tongue. They pulled apart for air. A string of saliva connected their lips for a moment before a breeze broke it. They just stared at each other before saying anything.

“…I love you to.” Sweet Pea stammered, still panting, “So much.”

“Me too.” Strawberry hummed.

The balloon wrapped her arms around him and they hugged tight. Ecstasy ran through her body while she proceeded what just happened. Happy tears flooded her eyes, spilling down her face as she realized she just got the boy she’d always loved. She also never suspected her first kiss would be on the side of the school after a fight. But she didn’t care. She was just happy to finally have the boy of her dreams. They hugged as swayed for a few before Strawberry suddenly perked up.

“Oh wait, shit, it’s probably 5th block right now.” He stated, sounding sheepish.

“Oh no! I’m definitely late!” The balloon shrieked.

She was about to pull away, but he wouldn’t let her. He held her shoulder with a smile she’d never seen on his face before. A daring one, maybe even mischievous.

“Wanna just skip the rest of today?!” The berry asked in this rushed voice.

“Holy shit, are you crazy!” The brunette giggled, eyes glowing at the risk.

“Come on, what do we have to lose? Plus maybe it’s best to avoid Techy.” He replied.

The balloon couldn’t argue with that. The digital bitch literally broke Bruiser’s nose and nearly choked her, so there was no way she could see her. So she shrugged and giggled excitedly.

“Ok!” The baker grinned, “Keep up!”

With that, he took her hand and they took off for the parking lot. The funny thing is that Sweet Pea was pretty speedy. So good luck to Strawberry!

Chapter Text

Sea didn’t know how far she ran nor how many kids she’d barreled through, she just kept running until her legs gave out. The fishbowl stumbled to a halt as the adrenaline wore itself out. Nearly collapsing onto a wall of lockers no one ever used, she looked around where she ended up. The glass girl stood in a hallway full of numbered lockers. A set of stairs led to the 1200s hallway and an exit door, both only a few steps from the fish girl. She stared at the stairs for a moment before stumbling towards them. Coming down onto the bottom three with a plop, she dropped her head into her hands.

“Holy f-fuck.” Sea stuttered, letting a breathy gasp claw out her throat.

She couldn’t believe what just happened really. One second her and Bruiser were arguing, the next Bruiser’s getting her face beat in by Techy. And oh god did Techy finish the job. Dewy and Toffee had to restrain her from potentially killing the emo. Sweet Pea and her also ran to help, but well… she knew how that went. It was a miracle Sea got out with no marks nor any sign of the fight. That was reserved for her all so broken brain.

“Oh god…” The fishbowl muttered aloud, “What have I gotten myself into?”

If she could be honest with herself, all this could’ve been avoided. There was no need for the fight that might’ve killed somebody. There was no need for Seaweed to blast Fossily with water, even though it was hilarious. There was no need for the popular group’s car to be spray painted. And especially no reason for the jumping that gave Sweet Pea the bruise she kept secret. There was no need for anything of that to happen or Sea to be a part of it. Bruiser could’ve just apologized and this all wouldn’t have gotten so bad. Well wouldn’t have crossed into vandalism and murder territory.

But that smoke never apologizes seriously, even when wrong. She’ll just say some half-assed thing like ‘never meant to sting’ or ‘geez I really didn’t know that would hurt so much’. Like what’s that meant to fix? She seems to just say it to say it, never really listening to anything. But always one to run her mouth when pissed off. Sea could still hear what she spat at her during their cut short argument.

‘I’m not just gonna let them walk all over us you dipshit! Stop being a pushover!’

Those words hurt a lot. A lot more than Sea could say in words. They cut deep into her heart like knives, shedding it to pieces. That feeling to… just everything hurt too much. Tears pricked the fishbowl’s eyes and spilled onto her knees. Painful memories flooded the glass girl’s mind with rage. Bruiser’s inability to feel any emotion beside apathy, the constant cold she gave off, her explosive anger, all came in stabbing droves. All of what Sea tried to ignore coming back for her neck. First she felt betrayal, then fire consumed it. The fire burned bright with white hot rage. She should’ve never let herself be entangled with that sociopath. Who knows if she really even cared about her?! How could she care?! No matter what she’s just apathetic. The fucking reason why Sea probably is a doormat! She should’ve never herself be friends with her! It would’ve saved her heart from all this pain.

“SEA!” Someone yelled in front of her.

It was Lucky, the fishbowl knew, but didn’t look up. A year’s worth of tears streamed down her face and soaked her jeans. The redhead ran up to the broken glass, nearly collapsing onto the stairs.

“Oh god Sea! Are you okay?!” She asked, grabbing her friend’s shoulders.

The fish girl could see the bruise on the other’s face. It was just above her right eye, looking almost raw. She lifted her head up to face the sassy girl. The tears burned like fire, not the sad ones. The angry ones.

“Y-you were right about t-them being toxic.” The fishbowl stammered, choking through her tears.

“I know I’m so sorry.” Lucky cooed as she pulled the glass girl’s into a hug.

Cracks had formed on Sea’s neck, which bled a little. But she couldn’t feel the sting. Just felt a sense of eerie calm, like she’d made up her mind on what she should’ve done before.

“I’m not going back.” The glass girl stated, “Not ever for anything.”

Lucky nodded in approval, rubbing her friend’s back.

“You should’ve done that sooner.” She replied.

The fishbowl wrapped her arms around the redhead who saved her life. Geez did those words feel right, like they belonged. Her stomach buzzed with excitement and blush stained her glass skin. The lucky girl pushed closer until her lips scraped against Sea’s, sending a bolt of lightning through the glass girl’s body.

“Umm…Lucky?” She stuttered, “What are yo-”

Just before she could finish, the redhead thrust her lips onto the fish girl’s neck. Holy fuck the lighting that exploded in Sea could’ve powered a whole city. She could feel every lick on her skin, every touch of the other’s lips. Low breathy gasps left her mouth as Lucky lapped up all the water on her neck. Her licks were slow and deliberate, breaking down her walls. The redhead pulled away after sucking on one of the cuts. A devious smile spread across her face at Sea’s flushed face and wide eyes.

“What? Your neck just looked so tasty.” Lucky chuckled, “And it didn’t disappoint.”

The fishbowl couldn’t respond for a long moment. Her mouth opened and closed as she tried to speak. The blush on her face didn’t allow her to even breathe, let alone talk. But her brain had other plans.

“I fucking love you so much.~” Sea whined breathless, not caring how desperate she sounded.

“Me too.” The redhead chuckled before leaning in to kiss her.

Their tongues clashed for a while like two dueling knights, two very good feeling knights. Sea whined and whimpered into it, tasting a little copper in the other’s mouth along with watermelon and lemon. Little moans left the lucky girl’s mouth as the kiss deepened. Sea’s fingers wandered around the other girl’s body, reaching her hips. Lucky gripped Sea’s hair like a lifeline, pushing further onto her. Just before it could go farther another voice came from behind them.

“YOU FREAKY FUCKS!” Boo shrieked, “Not in here!”

Sea and Lucky leaped off each other, both breathless and wet. The fishbowl especially dripped with passion. It was almost too much to handle, too blissfully passionate. The redhead turned to her friend and started to yell at her, but Sea couldn’t hear. Just could taste the other on her tongue and on her neck. Her legs shook violently from pleasure she didn’t even know she needed until then. Maybe this would be better. At least in her pants it felt good.

Chapter Text

If Bruiser could be honest, she didn’t want to wake up. The black surrounding her felt more merciful than the reality she lived in. Plus, she could still hear the argument between Sea and Sweet Pea. It wasn’t meant to happen that way. She just wanted to clear the air, to understand why Sweet Pea didn’t tell her about a bruise on her back. But well, it didn’t go that way.

‘You stop being a thug first!’

…

‘Y’all aren’t any better! You’re cold on a good day and she’s fake as fuck! Why’d you think my cousin called y’all toxic?!’

Those words burned worse than anything else ever had. They shattered what remained of the emo’s heart, killing any emotion left. Was she really that much of a burden? She never meant to hurt anyone nor scorn any hearts. But she got hers shattered to atoms…what was wrong with her? Someone please tell her. What was wrong with her to make her unlovable? What made everyone that ever loved her all abandon her? What makes her a thug to everyone but herself? Please… she needed to know. Just needed to understand the reason why she’s always abandoned. Just wanted SOMETHING to numb the shock. But before that answer came, a splash of color flooded the black. And then she was awake. Laying on the floor with the sun in her face. Panicked cries came from above her, so she looked up. Dewy kneeled on her right side incoherent by how hard he was crying. Toffee was to the left, shoving a bunch of tissues on her nose. Both looked down with wide eyes.

“HOLY SHIT YOU’RE ALIVE!” Toffee screamed as tears ran down his cheeks, “YOU WERE DEAD FOR LIKE 10 MINUTES!”

Dewy wailed ever harder, tears streaming violently. His body shook and breath came out in broken gasps. Bruiser just laid there in the middle of the chaos before speaking.

“Forgive me for asking, but what the fuck is happening?” The emo asked, not knowing if she wanted the answer.

“Well after the fight, me and Dewy carried you away and we thought you were dead!” The fluffy boy cried.

Well that explains it. The smoke girl sat up to assess where she was. She was on a sidewalk spotted with grass. That sidewalk wasn’t the school’s, it was rather anything but the school’s as they were surrounded by a suburb. Shock shot across her face as she realized where they were.

“DID YALL DRIVE ME AWAY FROM THE SCHOOL?!” The smoke screamed.

Both boys stole a glance at each of other before Dewy spoke up.

“…yeah.”

“THE FUCK! This ain’t no war zone!” She panicked, “Y’all didn’t need to flee like we’re fugitives!”

“Well you were in danger! What were we supposed to do?!” Dewy rushed, still crying.

“How’d you even get this far?” The emo asked, scanning the block for any disgruntled neighbors.

Toffee shot the mirror a glare before responding.

“Dewy drove like a madman behind the wheel!” He exclaimed while glaring.

The femboy sheepishly looked away, clearly knowing that he did. Bruiser scanned for the car and there it was right next to them. It was a Barbie pink Toyota Corolla, glittering in the sunlight. The smoke girl couldn’t help but to chuckle at the fact. Of course everything Dewy had was pink. Why wouldn’t it be?

“So y’all, does anyone know we left?” Bruiser asked, weighing up their options.

“No. We just fled.” Toffee stated, “And just so you know, your nose is entirely fucked up.”

“Oh really? How bad?” The emo laughed.

Both boys gulped and Dewy reached into his backpack. He pulled out a sliver makeup bag with glitter all over it. The smoke giggled at it until he pushed a tiny mirror in her face. And boy did Techy do a masterpiece on her nose. Blood streamed down from it and the bottom was split open, more blood flowing down from there. The emo froze in shock at the sight. Her mouth hung open and eyes were wide.

“Holy piss. Yeah that’s bad.” She stated.

Toffee held out a ward of tissues and Bruiser took it, holding it to her fucked up nose. Dewy whimpered and wheezed the entire time. The smoke girl clearly noticed but didn’t wanna say anything just in case she makes it worse. Her mind was more on Sweet Pea and Sea if they were safe. Her eyes grew wet with worry and dread, mouth opening to speak. Dewy opened his first.

“BRUISER I’M SO FUCKING SORRY!” The femboy bawled, “I’M SO SORRY FOR WHAT HAPPENED!”

His sobs were guttural, deep from his gut. His body shook violently with each sob and gasp for air. The tears burst out in a waterfall, loud and messy. Bruiser and Toffee stared in horrified shock as the mirror shattered. The emo girl herself felt a wave of remorse crash into her. She hated that mirror. Really hated him. She’d said so much shit about him to her friends, told him to fuck off in that hallway when she was crying, done so much to him. And he was the one apologizing. She should be the one in tears, the one wailing violently. But instead he’s the one broken. That didn’t sit right. Not at all.

“Dewy…” The smoky girl said, crawling towards him, “It’s not your fault what went down.”

She rested her hands on his shoulders and pulled him into a hug. He sank into the hug, resting his head on the shoulders he loved so much.

“B-BUT IT TRULY IS MY FAULT!” The broken mirror wailed, “THAT DAY I T-TALKED TO YOU, I TOLD THEM AND THEY TOOK IT THE WRONG WAY! AND I LET THEM THINK THAT!”

“You told it, they thought it was the other way. It’s not your fault.” The emo reassured, letting him cry.

Toffee watched as Bruiser soothed the crying boy until he could breathe normally again. His eyes were rimmed with tears and guilt, lips pursed. The smoke girl was too focused on Dewy to see him, so he just said it.

“… Dewy’s always loved you…” The fluffy boy confessed.

Both Dewy and Bruiser shot up to look at Toffee. The mirror’s face was the shade of strawberry jam, flush with love.

“Toffee why?!” He yelled, more flustered than mad.

“I’m sorry I just had to confess!” The adorable fluff squealed.

Bruiser paused for a moment before bursting into her cackling laughter. The irony was just too perfect; the boy she hated liked her. Couldn’t have written a better plot twist. Tears leaked out her eyes and her cheeks hurt from laughing, but she didn’t care.

“Yes Dewy, you can be my boyfriend.” The emo laughed, wheezing at this point.

Both Dewy and Toffee’s jaws hit the sidewalk. The femboy’s eyes glittered and face burned bright with blush. His mouth opened and closed until he just threw himself into the smoky girl’s arms.

“OH MY GOD I LOVE YOU TOO!” He shrieked as more tears fell.

They hugged for a moment before Toffee pulled Dewy off Bruiser. Tears leaked out from her eyes from laughter, fueled by the femboy’s joy. He and the fluffy boy was more friends than her real friends. And on that note, she wondered about where they were this whole time.

“Before things get too sappy, do you guys know where my balloon and fishbowl are?” The emo asked, trying to shake a dread in her gut.

Both boys’ faces fell with noticeable sadness. Toffee’s mouth opened and closed, but no words came out. Tears rimmed Dewy’s eyes and lips pursed. The dread in the smoky girl’s gut only intensified until someone finally explained.

“Sweet Pea was carried away by Strawberry and Sea ran away. The last time we looked back Lucky was whooping Techy’s ass.” Dewy said reluctantly, clearly feeling guilty.

That should’ve hit Bruiser in the gut like when her mom left, but it didn’t. Rather an eerie peace fell over her. After all they had that bad fight before. So she essentially was just freed from the prison of betrayal she’d be in. But a wave of sadness hit her. It didn’t slam, just brushed against her like it was petting a cat. She waited for more and none came. So, she just rolled with it.

“I should’ve seen that coming. We did grow apart, so why not separate?” The emo sighed, “Anyway, y’all wanna just play hooky?”

Dewy and Toffee nodded in unison, causing a chuckle to leave the smoke girl’s lips.

“We can stay at my place! My parents definitely aren’t home.” The femboy offered.

“Oki!” The innocent fluff cheered, bouncing a little in excitement.

“Ok. Who’s driving?” The smoking girl chuckled.

Toffee immediately pointed at her with a face pleading for her to. The mirror looked offended, but begrudgingly agreed.

“Oh buddy! Everyone hope in, let’s hit it!” The emo rooted, standing up.

The group ran into the car and hopped it. Dewy’s Barbie mobile roared to life and jetted off onto the road, leading straight to the mirror’s house. Not once did Bruiser cry over her lost friends. They weren’t her friends anymore, so why cry?

Chapter Text

It was a whirlwind of nerves, but the couple finally made it to Strawberry’s neighborhood. Sweet Pea couldn’t believe the sizes of the homes they drove past, each getting more elaborate than the next. Their chimneys reached high into the sky and all had second floors just as high. They stretched wide, even with personal driveways. Sweet Pea marveled at each house as they flew by. The berry definitely noticed by the blushy smile on his face. After a few more minutes, they pulled in front of the house at the end of the street.

“Here we are!” Strawberry exclaimed, beaming at his girlfriend.

The brunette couldn’t even talk. She just stared at the house before them in complete shock and awe. The house they pulled up to was the nicest house in the neighborhood, as big as a mansion with triple floors. The outside was painted a jam red and windows looked like eyes on all sides of the house. A massive driveway led up to the door in a loop, lined with foliage. The sight alone left the balloon breathless. And her new boyfriend lived there. Holy shit.

“YOU LIVE HERE!” Sweet Pea squealed, jaw on the floor.

“Well yeah!” Strawberry chuckled, “We just gotta drive up to it.”

He drove up the driveway slowly. The trees shaded them as they pulled in front, parking along the way. The baker got out first and opened his girlfriend’s door as well. She giggled before getting up to join him. Her hand held his as they walked to the front door, excitement buzzing.

“You sure you’re parents aren’t home?” The brunette asked.

“No, they’re both probably at their law firm down town.” The berry said, pulling his keys out his pocket, “But Sam’s probably.”

“Who’s Sam?” The balloon prodded, tilting her head.

“She’s our in-house assistant. Her name’s Samantha, but I call her Sam.” The baker explained as they stood in front of the door.

He pulled out his keys to open it, but it opened before he could. Sweet Pea jumped in surprise and the berry went stiff. The open door revealed a woman, tall and bulky. Her orange curls were pulled in a ponytail behind her head and emerald eyes glittered like gems. A pair of glasses taped at the bridge hung lazily on her face. The outfit she wore followed a similar intimidating pattern: red formal vest, red turtleneck, red dress pants. She just stared at the two though, not acting intimidating.

“…What happened to y’all?!” She asked, baffled.

“U-umm what?” Strawberry stuttered.

“Berry you have blood splattered on your shoes and your girlfriend’s neck is red. What happened?” She asked again, a slight smirk on her lips.

Both teenagers burst into red, with the berry shooting down to his shoes. There was in face blood splatter. Sweet Pea touched her neck and it stung, still raw from where Techy gripped. Both didn’t say anything until Strawberry started.

“Well… yeah Techy had pounced on Louise and tried to choke her. So I kicked her in the back to save her.” He explained, holding the back of his neck.

Sam didn’t respond for a moment, just staring at the teen. Her mouth hung agape and eyes wide with horror. Sweet Pea took that as a sign to explain her side.

“Me and my friends were in a war with his and Techy beat up my friend named Smoky then attacked me.” She blurted out, “Strawberry saved me though.”

The baker whipped his head around to the balloon, face heating up even more. She gave him a nervous smile before Sam regained her voice.

“So y’all got into a massive fight and the first thing you do it come here?” She asked.

“School wasn’t safe at the time! And plus, no one’s gonna notice us being gone.” Strawberry reasoned, giving puppy eyes.

The ginger glared before giving a deep sigh.

“Look, just don’t say anything about the missing bottles in the liquor cabinet and I won’t say anything about this.” She bargained, glancing back inside.

Strawberry nodded eagerly and Sam backed out of the doorway, letting both inside. The interior was just as grand as the exterior with polished furniture and chandeliers in every room. The living room connected to the kitchen on different sides, with an island in the middle. And sure enough, there were several bottles on the island. The brunette didn’t really have time to stare as the berry dragged her inside by the hand.

“Now that we’ve home free, I wanna show you my bedroom! Just kick off you shoes! The baker cheered, grinning with all teeth showing.

His smile glittered with a confidence she’d never seen. That propelled her to follow as he led her deeper into his house, leaving her shoes at the door.

“Where?” The balloon asked.

“Just follow me!” The berry laughed, this infectious sound that filled the air.

That sound washed away any doubts she had. He led her up a pair of wooden stairs and into a hallway with two doors on the left side and one on the right. They stopped in front of the 2nd door on the left, hearts racing like drums. Strawberry clutched the balloon’s hand tight and pushed it open. The scent of baked goods flooded out the doorway, wrapping both in the smell of fresh cupcakes. A massive pale red bed sat on the back wall covered in teddy bears. To its left was a wooden desk, way bigger than Bruiser’s. A bookshelf sat on the right wall full of books perfectly lined together. The rest of the room matched a similar studious manner: well made bed, neat desk, and a shit ton of school supplies. Sweet Pea stared in awe at the bedroom as the baker led her inside.

“Welp, this is my room!” He chirped, plopping down onto his bed, “Do you like it?”

The brunette nodded with her eyes glittering like diamonds. She twirled around a bit in excitement before she responded.

“I love it! It’s so neat in here!” The balloon squealed, walking over to join him.

“Thanks!” The berry giggled.

Blush bloomed across his cheeks as she plopped down next to him. Her ears grew floppy atop her head, curls swirling around her face. A small window behind the bed lit up the balloon’s hair like glitter. She noticed the way the berry was staring and giggled exhausted. The weight of the day slammed into her like bricks, falling onto her chest. Tears formed in the brunette’s eyes and heavy emotions rolled onto her.

“Hey, are you okay?” Strawberry asked, noticing the tears.

“Yeah…” Sweet Pea mumbled, “It’s just that fight Melody and Erin and I had before the chaos.”

Now that she was safe, she thought back to everything they said. Guilt clawed at her throat at what she said. She knew calling Sea fake and Bruiser cold was cruel. After all Bruiser had a reason to be cold; she just lost her fucking mom for fuck’s sake! And Sea had a shitty family, so she also had a reason. So she knew she was wrong. Especially for not telling the emo about that bruise. Bruiser could’ve handled it, didn’t need to be coddled. She should’ve known. Maybe it wouldn’t have ended how it did. But what she said during that nasty fight…

‘Hm! That’s rich coming out the girl who literally told everyone else BUT me about that bruise! Shut up already.’

That hurt a lot. A lot more than she could express with words. She was truly sorry, just wanted to protect her from the stress. It only hurt her instead, causing it to spiral into Sea budding in. That got bloody. Very bloody as both spat things at each other. She just sat there while they fought, crying like a baby. It was pathetic really. But she just couldn’t speak. Couldn’t even breathe until trying to get them to stop before they hurt each other. That only made her a target for their venom.

‘You pathetic piece of plastic! There’s a reason most people look through you!’

Maybe she deserved that. She shouldn’t have bud in when things reached fever pitch. Probably would’ve spared some tears. But what Sea said really cut deep. It tore into the balloon’s chest, ripping her heart apart. The pieces bled into her mouth as she proceeded them. But the fishbowl was right. She was pathetic. Pathetic for telling everyone else about the bruise but Bruiser. Pathetic for betraying her friends by falling in love with Strawberry. Pathetic for budding into an argument that she shouldn’t have been in. She didn’t deserve them, really didn’t deserve those lifelong friendships she ruined. Maybe didn’t even deserve to know them in the first place. Just then she could feel warm arms pull her into his lap. The tears were wiped away and a hand cupped her cheek.

“I didn’t deserve them.” Sweet Pea whispered, “I really didn’t.”

“You deserve a lot more than those girls. Honestly I kinda hate them.” Strawberry growled, pulling her closer.

“Why?” The balloon asked.

“I overheard the fight you guys had before Techy beat Erin to a pulp. The things they said made me furious for you.” The berry explained.

He ran his hands through her curls, looping them around his fingers. The feeling sent shivers down the brunette’s back. The good kind that made something tinge inside her. Blush blossomed on her cheeks, lips trembling but she still tried to talk.

“…w-what?” The brunette stuttered.

“I overheard that argument. And I was so mad hearing them call you those names, knowing you are so much more than that.” The baker stated with his voice strong.

He cupped her face with both hands and stared deep into her eyes. She stared back, breath caught in her throat.

“I’ve never been this happy in my entire life until I found you. God you’re so amazing. For just a piece of plastic, you’re one of the best people I’ve gotten lucky enough to meet. Don’t let anyone change your mind about that.”

A whirlwind of emotions swept over the balloon. The tears that fell were no longer sadness, but awe. Then pure joy. The passion in his voice gave no room for interpretation or doubt: he loved her more than anyone else ever could. That love pieced her heart back together like a puzzle, a feat she thought was impossible. But he proved her wrong in the best way. She couldn’t even stammer a complete response. Just opened and closed her mouth until she found courage.

“…You are too.” She wept, “You’re the only guy I’d wanted so desperately. I love you so much.”

The berry didn’t respond, just held her with shaking hands. His eyes glittering in the afternoon sunlight and cheeks glistened with tears. The brunette cupped his face and he tangled his hands in her hair. A brewing tension boiled between them, one that soaked the balloon’s panties and shifted in the baker’s pants. It finally boiled over as both thrusted their lips onto each other. They collapsed onto the bed, feverishly whining and groaning. Strawberry’s hands tugged the brunette’s curls and she moaned in excitement. Her hands traveled down the berry’s chest. They found the collar of his vest and tugged at them, longing for more contact. He purred at the eagerness and pulled out the kiss. The balloon whined in disappointment until he crawled on top of her, a hand resting on her chest.

“You don’t know how long I’ve been waiting for this.” Strawberry panted as he pulled off his vest, tossing it aside.

It fell to the floor in with a soft thud along with his shirt. The balloon salivated at the scene in front of her. Her boyfriend kneeled over her waist shirtless. The sun reflected of the fair skin, soft and alluring. Sweat glistened on it like glitter and freckles were sprinkled all over. The brunette blushed violently as he tugged at her sweatshirt. She let him take it off with her heart racing out her chest. The cold air hit her skin like a blanket, a chilly but soft touch. She whimpered at the touch and scrambled to kick off her pants. The berry chuckled above her, clearly amused.

“You’re so impatient you know! So eager it makes you look so desperate.” He giggled while he kicked off his own pants.

Both pairs fell off the bed with a flop, joined by their socks. Soon enough they were almost completely naked besides their underwear. Strawberry stared with glowing eyes filled with lust. His hands ran over the balloon’s torso. She whined as he reached her panties, throwing her hands over his shoulders. He hooked a few fingers under the black fabric, both practically salivating with excitement.

“Really wanna?” Strawberry asked with more willpower than she had.

“Yes, please!” Sweet Pea begged, desperation obvious.

With that, he pulled her panties away. An excited squeak left her mouth as cold air rushed into her pussy. The berry stared for a moment with eyes wide. Blush shot across his face and his body shook. The balloon noticed and reached up to cup the berry’s face. His skin felt so smooth against hers, so perfect for her. Hers to hold.

“You’re fucking dripping.” The baker panted.

“I mean, who wouldn’t be?” The brunette pouted cutely, “After all, I’m totally yours.”

That made her owner laugh and bite his lip. With renewed confidence, he yanked off his boxers. His dick popped out hard as fuck. A bead of precum fell down the length, turning Sweet Pea on even more. The berry line himself up to where he could enter with both impatient. Pleading whimpers left the brunette’s mouth when he finally was ready. He didn’t slid in yet. Instead he took her arms and pulled them over his shoulders, letting her tangle her fingers in his hair.

“Hope I’m not too large for you.” The berry remarked and made direct eye contact, “I am that big after all.”

With that quip, he finally shoved it in. Both moaned loudly and clung to each other. Sweet Pea tugged on his hair as he squeezed her waist, slowly starting to move.

“God ah- you’re so tight!~” The baker whimpered, eyes closed.

The balloon couldn’t even respond. She felt so good to even use her mouth. Her hands clutched the baker’s hair, losing sense of the ground with each thrust. A haze fell over her brain and scrambled her sense of restraint.

“Ah- faster!~ Faster please!~” The brunette cried, begging.

Strawberry complied at her pleas. Soon enough he lost his sense of restraint too as bliss shot through his body like lightning. Both screamed in pleasure at the relentless pace and threw their heads back. The balloon felt as though she was in utter heaven, bliss flooding her veins. Her eyes were shut and tongue flopped out her mouth. Her brain turned to mush, thoughts muddling together. The pace made his dick hit every part of her inner walls, and jeez could she feel it. One particularly good spot he hit made her throw her head back and a scream moan tear from her throat. The baker caught one quickly and hit that spot over and over, sending waves of bliss crashing over her endless.

“AH!~ Strawberry fuck!~” The balloon screamed, feeling something tighten in her stomach.

The knot got tighter as he suddenly went a lot faster, moaning and whining loudly. It also sent the brunette into a pile of mush. She clung to the berry’s hair with an iron grip, so close she could cry.

“C-close!” The baker wailed, genuine tears falling.

She tightened her hands in his hair and yanked hard. He shrieked above her, holding her waist in a crushing grip. The knot in her stomach broke open at that moment, a guttural scream tearing from her mouth as she came. Hot liquid poured into her as he came too, throwing his head to the ceiling. Both collapsed onto each other in a sweaty mess. With a little teamwork them shimmied under the covers. The soft silk felt cool against their skin, a relief from the scalding heat. They just laid their for a moment until flipping to face the other. Strawberry pulled the ballon into a gentle hug, still very sensitive from sex. She didn’t fight him as she could barely keep her eyes open. Her pussy throbbed with her heartbeat, a pain that didn’t really hurt if that made sense. She didn’t think much and rested her head against his chest. He buried his head in her hair in response. That’s all she could remember as the sleepiness finally won, carrying them both off to cloud 9.

Little did they know, a very drunk Sam leaned outside their room. Her face was flush and a cheeky smirk on her lips. She bit her index finger’s knuckle to keep from laughing, the alcohol messing with her mind.

“Lucky boy,” She cooed, “Ironic he lost his v-card the same way I lost mine. Guess he’s more like me than I figured.”

With that she walked back downstairs, closing his door for him. She’ll definitely tease him about this tomorrow. Or at least when she isn’t drunk as fuck. Maybe indeed as she stumbled back to the couch, happy and amused at the same time.

Chapter Text

The rest of the school day went by in a blur of shock; part from the fight, part losing her bestest friends. And part Lucky sucking on her neck. Mostly that. She didn’t even remember anything about class or the bus ride home, eyes empty and glassy. She expected a lonely walk to the door when she got home. But boy did she get something entirely different. Two police cars were parked on each side of the lawn. Their lights flashed red and blue as the bus pulled up, sirens off. A tightness formed in Sea’s chest with dread leaking into her blood. The fishbowl ran off the bus and onto the sidewalk just beyond her house, watching 2 police officers emerge from the front door. Both Stepdad and Mom were being led out in handcuffs. Mom’s eyes were red with tears rolling down her cheeks. She was silent unlike her husband, who screamed at the police officer holding him. That all stopped when they saw Sea.

“You brat!” He screamed at her, “You weren’t worth the money I spent on you!”

The cop shoved Stepdad into the hood of his police car while the other said something into his radio. The man growled at his officer, but was promptly ignored. Mom couldn’t even look at her daughter as she was led to the second police car. He opened the door and Mom got in, the door slamming behind her. The fishbowl just stood there before walking up the car with shaking hands. The police officer next to it saw her but didn’t stop her as she walked up to the glass.

“…What happened?” She asked, tears already rimming her eyes.

Mom didn’t respond. Just kept staring at the floor, but more tears came. They dripped off the older fishbowl’s face like a leaking faucet. But they didn’t look sad. Rather angry as her face twisted. A scoff left her mouth and she looked up at the fish girl with nothing but malice.

“I wish you’d just been swept away by the sea when you were younger. It would’ve saved me in the long run.” She hissed with such venom Sea had to stumble back.

The glass girl couldn’t respond, just stared at the person she called mom. She couldn’t recognize the woman she one loved at all. Her hair was too short, her outfit too professional, her tone too cold. Nothing reminded her of her mom who was too clumsy to be in the corporate world. Nothing reminded her of the once ocean-loving woman she knew as mom. And maybe she was right. The fishbowl’s mouth opened to drain the venom from her lips when Stepdad took one last jab across the lawn.

“Traitors don’t deserve family!” The disgraced father shouted as he was shoved into the police car, the door slamming in his face.

The fish girl stood in the middle of this mess frozen. Her eyes were wide and rimmed with tears, but none fell. Shock overwhelmed her to the point of numbness. Her body trembled and breath raspy. The world blurred into static, the tears in her eyes finally escaping. A river flowed down her cheeks as violent as floodwater. No sound came out her mouth though. Just silence that screamed. A sudden hug shook her from the worst of her trance. It was Nathan, the only adult who ever cared about her. His arms were always warm to the fish girl. But now she couldn’t feel anything. Not even a hint of warmth.

“Mel oh god…”’ He rushed, “I’m so sorry!”

She couldn’t move to see him, but she knew it was him. His breath was labored, hot against the fishbowl’s ear. He almost sounded like he was crying too.

“Come on darling.” The good business man cooed, “You’re safe with me now. I promise.”

With that, he scooped Sea up into his arms as if he was her father. His heart hammered against the girl’s own enough to break her glass. It almost matched her own, which was also racing. Both beat with each other like an exchange; Sea’s a beat before Nathan’s. The rhythm it captured… it felt unreal. Almost like they had a connection there. But the fishbowl struggled to feel it through the static. He started to carry her away before Mom and Stepdad could object. But of course the disgraced parents screamed their insults while Nathan carried their daughter away.

Their words were utterly pointless as the pair couldn’t hear. The good business man’s chauffeur was parked behind him, waiting for him to return with the guest of honor. So all Nathan had to do was just get in. And he did, holding Sea all the way. They immediately pulled off from the scene the second the got in. The fishbowl watched as her old life faded into the distance. Her heart wanted to reach out to it, but the pain stopped her. It’s better this way. It should be.

— — — — — —

Sea had dozed off about 20 minutes into the ride when someone rocked her awake. She opened her eyes to find Nathan ‘s friendly face above her, grinning more softly than before.

“Hey Melody…” The business man cooed, eager eyes glistening in the dim light.

“Hi…” The fishbowl mumbled, “W-where am I?”

“You’re in the car sleepy! We’re just pulling up to my apartment.” He chuckled as she slowly regained full consciousness.

The interior of his car was way darker now, only lit by passing street lights. The outside was completely dark, meaning they must’ve been traveling far. A low whimper left the glass girl’s mouth as she realized the situation. It had all seemed like a bad dream, but now she realized it was real.

“Don’t worry about your stuff. We swung around the block and went on a bit of a joyride getting you set up with me.” Nathan explained, “It was a shopping spree, but it was worth it.”

Sea glanced behind her to find a few shopping bags on the seat beside the head. That would explain those bags. The fishbowl didn’t wanna think too much as her head was pounding. Her eyes also ached and stung red from crying. So she couldn’t really think too much. The car came to a stop with a click, which Nathan noticed.

“We’re here.” He cooed as a mumbled voice spoke above.

The glass girl felt herself be lifted into warm arms. Her eyes were barely open, but she was still alert enough. She stared blankly at the car ceiling until they left the car. The night sky sparkled, stars shining in the void above them. In the center of the stars was an equally beautiful moon among the darkness. It’s playground could’ve swallowed the girl whole, which wasn’t so bad of a thought. The fishbowl kept staring as Nathan walked up to his home. She thought it was an apartment until giving it a glance.

It was a house; single story, decent size, mellow yellow color with a brick roof. A strange place compared to her old house. But she didn’t really mind as the door swung open. Nathan strolled inside to a mix of pale blueberry and bluegrass living room. Through a short hallway he stopped in front of a white door. He opened it to reveal a similarly colored bedroom. It had light blue walls with light grey furnishings, joined by a plushy bed. The business man placed Sea on the bed before tucking her in.

“Good night Mel, you deserve some rest after today.” Nathan hummed, tucking the covers over her shoulders before walking away.

The door closed behind him with a final click. It was quiet in that room before a noise pieced the dark. Sea tried to contain her tears this entire time, but they finally broke through now she was alone. Hot tears streamed down her cheeks and stuck to her face. God was she was pathetic. Even her mother confirmed it back when she was in that police car.

‘I wish you’d just been swept away by the sea when you were younger. It would’ve saved me in the long run.’

Stepdad’s words hurt too, but those words. She’d have rather been deaf than heard them from her mom. They put the last of her heart into a meat grinder, shredding them to bits. The tears got harsher as the dark closed in on her. This time she knew she was alone. Bruiser and Sweet Pea would only make it worse. Worse and worse until she was drowning. Or drowned if she wasn’t already. If she knew why they were bad for her, why did she have the urge to call them? To reach for her phone and text, call, anything. She did grab her phone, but not to call them. A phone charger was on the nightstand next to the bed. That’s where her phone was. Not in her hand with her in such a state. She had too much willpower to collapse now. So she’ll just cry here. All the way till morning. All alone.