Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hello!! Welcome to my story!! Before we begin. There are a few things you should know.

1: I am a beginner writer. So most of the dialogue might sound corny and out of place. I apologize for that and I plan on improving in the future.

2: I sometimes use references from other pieces of media to help me write. I will provide credits for any references I use in my chapters.

3: This is a South Park AU so I'm sorry if any of the characters seem out of character. Like I said, I'm a beginner writer. So it's a bit difficult for me to write characters efficiently at the moment.

4: This fic will have a few mentions of tegridy farms. I know that the marshes sold tegridy farms in the new season, but I already posted the first couple chapters so you’ll just have to roll with it. (I doubt that Matt and Trey are actually going to get rid of the arc forever anyway)

I will probably add more disclaimers in the future. But for now. You can just enjoy :)

Chapter Text

Happiness.

Hurt.

Heartbreak.

Hope?

Kenny’s POV

These are all the things I have experienced in the small mountain town I call home. It’s all I think about every time I wake up in my bed.

Well that and my inability to die.

I rub the sleep out of my eyes and slowly get out of bed and go towards my closet to get my orange parka. For some reason it always manages to stay intact. I’ve been burned alive, crushed, torn apart, you name it. Yet it still ends up in perfect condition every morning. I wonder why…

I stumble in the kitchen. Before I can even say “good morning” I am greeted by the sounds of a screaming match from my dad and brother while my mom screams at them to “SIT THE FUCK DOWN!” The three of them always fight. Some days dad fights with mom, some days dad fights with Kevin, and a few lucky days they don’t fight at all. But today is not a lucky day. They’re all mad at each other.

I love my family. But they don’t always make the best choices. I would’ve been quite bitter about it if it weren’t for my sister, Karen. I always try to set a good example for her. Speaking of which. I feel a gentle tug on my parka. I turn around to see Karen with that timid expression she always had. “You okay?” I asked in a soft voice.

Karen glanced over at dad and Kevin, then looked back at me. “I don’t like it when they fight…” I reached out and patted her head. “I know, Karen. But they’ll stop soon enough. We have to focus on getting you to your bus stop.” Karen nodded her head, I took her hand and we headed out the door.

After dropping Karen off at her bus stop, I starting walking towards mine. As I walked I took notice of the snow that covered the trees, the few cars that would pass me by, and some of the townsfolk passing me by on the sidewalk.

I always preferred to walk alone. It was one of the only times when I could forget about my troubles. I’ll be honest though, South Park isn’t exactly the… Best place to live in. But no matter how many push factors there are compared to the pull factors, once a home, always a home in some sense.

At last, I reached my bus stop, where two of my best friends, Eric and Kyle were waiting for me. They didn’t pay too much attention to me at first because they were bickering, as usual. But then Eric (who the guys and I called Cartman) Finally noticed me. “Took you long enough, Kinney…” He grumbled. I just chuckled at him. “C’mon dude. Are you really gonna let that be the first thing you say to me?”

Eric’s lips pursed into thin lines. “Well. As I was saying before your poor ass decided to interrupt me. I was just trying to explain to Kahl” He glared at Kyle. “That he shouldn’t be calling me fat for the… whatever-ish time… Cuz we all know I’m big boned” Kyle scoffed. “All I did was call you fatass. And anyway I only said that because you insulted my religion. Again!”

At some point, I tuned them out. I could recite these fights in my sleep. I was kind of already preoccupied with some other thoughts. Like my other friend, Stan, who couldn’t be on the same bus stop as us anymore after he and his family moved to the country side. My parents refused to let me go to his new house because they didn’t wanna waste what little money we had on gas for the family truck. Oh well, least I can see him at school.

A lot has changed in our town. Some of the changes were good, Others… Not so much… One good thing in particular is that i don’t die as often as I used to. Which I appreciate. Though, I can’t help the feeling of being on high alert. Like if an oncoming car comes flying at me or if I get shot by some random assassin hiding in the bushes. I know I’ll just wake up in my bed like I usually do. But dying is still painful sometimes. And I don’t like-

“Kenny!” Kyle called out, startling me out of my thoughts. “You okay, dude?” I just blinked at him before finally getting myself together. “Uh… Y-Yeah! Sorry. You say something?” Kyle and Cartman just stared at me. “I said the bus is here. We gotta go.” Said Kyle as he walked ahead of us. Cartman put an arm around my shoulder and whispered “Least neither of us have to sit with the Jew” I just rolled my eyes and got on the bus.

I was happy to still be able to talk to the rest of my friends on the bus. It helped distract me from the haywire of emotions I was experiencing. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I don’t usually think this many thoughts at once.

I’m probably boring you right now. Aren’t I?

“Okay, children let’s take our seats” Mr. Garrison clapped his hands. “We have a lot to learn today- KENNY MCCORMICK YOU PAY ATTENTION!!” I reluctantly looked up at the teacher, my arms crossed, and a stupid look on my face, prepared to listen to Mr. Garrison vent about his own personal love quarrels.

Meanwhile, some of the class stared whispering about all manners of things. What crazy shit happened to a random kid in our school, A pathetic roasting match, The new girl coming next week, all that stuff.

Wait? There’s a new girl coming next week?

“Well, that’s what Stacey told me.” Said Bebe with an undertone. “Apparently her dad is super loaded, and they’re moving into Tolkien’s old house.”

“Well what’s the girls name?” Asked Butters.

Bebe shrugged “Dunno, But I think she was from that dumb kids choir… What was it… Uh, ‘Getting Gay With Kids’

Getting Gay With Kids? That can’t be right… Are they talking about her?

Kelly? Kelly! Kelly… What can you say about Kelly that doesn’t make you sound like you’re the voiceover for a Disney channel movie? Very little… Kelly was my short-term girlfriend back in third grade. She was the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen. Long, golden hair kept in a neat ponytail, and the voice of an angel  

And she’s the first girl I ever kissed

I don’t know what exactly happened, we talked all the time the first few months, then one day we just… Stopped… We just drifted apart. Maybe it was because we were only eight years old, or maybe it was the fact that we live in opposite sides of the country. I don’t know. All I know is that we didn’t work out. I ended up trying another relationship with an older girl in my school. You can guess how that went…

BRIIIIIIIIIING

The sound of the bell quickly brought me out of my thoughts. Everyone had gotten up, I started walking through the hallways when I noticed something.

My locker was wide open. I didn’t remember leaving it that way. “What the fuck?” I muttered to myself. Feeling even more dumbfounded when I noticed the little letter inside.

I hesitantly took it out and unfolded it. And when I saw what it said…

“Oh. My. God.”

Chapter Text

Kenny’s POV

As my shock slowly settled in, I felt another emotion I couldn’t seem to pin point. Was it Confusion? Skepticism? Relief? I just wasn’t sure. More importantly, how the hell did someone know I was immortal in the first place? And how did they even get into my locker?

Well, whatever this mysterious person had in store for me, I was willing to go through with it. I wanted my curse gone. And I’d be willing to do whatever it took to be rid of it. And if it was a scam. Then I’d track down the cult of cuthulu myself. I’ll make it work.

I always do after all.

Usually I would wait for Karen so that I could walk her home, but she had a project she had to work on. So she would be going to her friend, Nevaeh’s house. Nevaeh is Nicole’s little sister. She, Karen, and this other girl (I think she’s Kevin Stoley’s little sister) have gotten really close. I’m happy that she finally found some friends to play with.

Since I didn’t have to worry about her right now, I felt it would be best to head to stark’s pond. I know I should’ve told the guys beforehand. But I didn’t think to do so. I was unable to think of anything really due to the anxiety that was eating me up inside.

What if this was a mistake? Yet again, how could someone know I was Immortal? Every time I died. People mourned over me, people were shocked. But once I woke up, everyone forgot. Even my own family. Why would someone remember now? This was all just… really confusing…

But whatever happens, I will bounce back from it. And If whoever this person is just some asshole fraud. I won’t give them the satisfaction they so desperately want.

Despite my overwhelming thoughts, I managed to find my way and make it to Stark’s pond. It was empty. People mostly came to Stark’s pond on weekends, mainly couples and families wanting to have a picnic. I looked around, trying to find someone, or possibly the person who told me to meet them up here. But nothing. Maybe I did get tricked after all.

“Huh, I didn’t think you’d actually show up.”

I quickly spun around when I heard the quiet voice behind me. It was Dahlia, one of the goth kids at school. She was in the third grade, and was known for her very… How do I put this… Very odd perspective of things… She was usually found standing alone, didn’t bother playing at the playground during recess, and most of the school was scared of her.

“So… Do you truly want to be a mortal?” Dahlia asked with a rather unsettling smile. I asked her another question back. “Wait, hold up, you can actually get rid of my curse?” Dahlia slowly nodded her head. “Yes… Now I assume you have some questions that you believe shouldn’t remain unanswered…” She added softly.

I still couldn’t believe she was actually willing to help me. I still felt skeptical though. And I did need some questions answered. “Uh… Yeah I do actually, One. How did you get in my locker, Two. How the hell do you know I’m immortal in the first place?”

Dahlia let out a deep sigh. As if she was expecting this. “I broke into lockers before. And as for the other question, well… This is actually my Mother’s idea, she’s been watching you for some time… She’s a lot like you y’know?”

The hell does that mean??

“She…” Dahlia pinched the bridge of her nose. “How do I say this… She was also involved with cuthulu… Many years ago… She received the same curse you have now…” I just stared at her blankly. God. No wonder this kid was such a weirdo. “Wow. That’s a… Lot to take in…” I chuckled nervously. “Are you sure your Mom’s not just screwing with you?”

Dahlia’s blank expression turned into a frown. “Don’t question my mother.” She spoke in a sharp, almost cruel tone. Where did that come from?? “You don’t have to believe me. But you are not allowed to judge her. I don’t fuck around when it comes to my mom.” The last sentence was spat out. I couldn’t really blame her. I don’t fuck around with my family either. But she lost her temper REAL quick.

I knew that if I wasn’t careful. She’d probably kick my ass. So I had to tread lightly. “Whoa! Okay! Chill out would ya? I didn’t mean to shit on your mom. But… Am I not allowed to question stuff like this? I mean… This is a big deal.”

Luckily for me, that seemed to calm her down. Because she quickly went back to her blank expression. “You’re right. It is a big deal. Which is why I-“

“What are you doing?” Said a tiny voice. We both looked down and saw the youngest goth in school, Firkle Smith. What was he doing here?

It seemed like Dahlia had the same thoughts as me. Because she looked down at the smaller goth and asked. “Little crow? What do you need?” Firkle looked down at his book before looking back at her. “We were supposed to all meet up at Benny’s remember?”

Dahlia blinked at him, then replied in a softer tone. “I’m in the middle of something… As you can clearly see. I cannot join you in your silly little rituals right now…” I stayed behind her, not wanting to say a word. I really shouldn’t be so invested in her voice as much as I am, but…

Firkle pulled on Dahlia’s sleeve. Not wanting to wait on her any longer. “Firkle. That’s enough.” Dahlia tried to pull the boy away from her. But Firkle kept pushing. “Look, Asshole. You haven’t spoken to us at all these passed few months. And we wanna know why.”

Dahlia sighed and turned her head towards me. “I apologize but I have… Errands to attend to… In the mean time…” She handed me another note before continuing. “Collect these things for me. And I might consider helping you.”

“Wait, hang on I-“ But it was too late. They were gone in the blink of an eye. I carefully opened the note. I read through it. It seemed okay at first. But when then I got to the last two items. I gulped nervously.

• A few apples
• A notebook
• Dead roses
• Drops of blood

Damn, that girls weird, even for a goth.

Btw. Dahlia is supposed to be this girl right here.

I just gave her a name lol

Chapter Text

Kenny’s POV

Where does she expect me to find all of this??

This is what I was thinking about as i was walking through the town. I was confused as all hell. How could Dahlia expect me to find dead roses and… blood!? And i don’t even have enough money for a simple piece of gum, let alone a journal.

I guess it would be best to start with the easiest item on the list, which was apples. I could try to get them from the apple tree near the public library. Trying to get the apples off the tree was my main concern. I mean, I’m a good climber and all. But those apples are hard to get off. My friend, Butters tried to climb up there once. Ended up with a broken ankle and getting grounded for a week. Poor butters…

Once I arrived to the library, I looked around to see if anyone was watching. No one was around, so I was safe to get to the tree. I don’t know if I’ll get in trouble for climbing the tree or not. Maybe I should try shaking them off.

“No way! We’re matching!” I peered over at the sound of the voice and saw my friend, Kyle’s little brother, Ike. He was wearing an orange parka similar to mine. Only difference is the size. “Well, would you look at that? We really are!” I replied. We both found it rather amusing and found ourselves in a fit of laughter.

“Hey… where’s Karen? I wanna show this to her.” I chucked when Ike asked that. He and Karen were good friends. He was in first grade at only five years old, because according to Mr. And Mrs. Broflovski he was a ‘little genius’ And he was in the same class as Karen. And since both me and Kyle’s dads were good friends I guess they kinda stuck with each other like glue.

I replied in amusement. “She’s at a friend’s house, bud. Maybe you can see her tomorrow.” Ike frowned at that. “Aww… I wanted her to see my new ‘coat’…” he muttered sadly.

Does he know that’s a parka?? 

Just then, Kyle hurried over and hunched over his little brother. “Ike!” He called out. “There you are! You can’t run off like that. You know what mom would do to me if she found out I lost you.” Ike rolled his eyes playfully. “Sorry. I saw Kenny playing by the tree and I wanted to show him my new coat! I wanted to show Karen too!”

Kyle glanced over at me. “Kenny!? Dude, where were you? I didn’t see you at the entrance. You had me scared to death!” Kyle was the most cautious one of our group. He didn’t like to get into trouble and sneak off. He’d usually scold the rest of us if we did something that stupid. (Mostly Fatass though)

“Sorry, Sorry.” I chuckle nervously. “I was just trying to get some apples.” Kyle’s frown only deepened at that. “Is your family low on food again? I can give you some of my food at home. You don’t need to try to get the apples off. It’s not gonna work.” He lightly scolded. Whenever my family had no food left in the house, My friends (Mainly consisting of Stan, Kyle, and Butters) would let me have some of their leftovers to take home.

I usually don’t like being given handouts. But starving to death sucks, (trust me, I know from experience) so I accept it. I give most of them to Karen, then I eat what’s left.

“Oh! Uh… They’re not for me… They’re for… Uh…” I struggled to come up with a good excuse. “I’m just… Goofing around!” I don’t know wether Kyle looked annoyed or baffled. Maybe both. “Your trying to climb an unstable tree just to goof??” He asked in a scolding manner. I just put my head down in embarrassment. “Uh… Yeah…”

We were both interrupted by the rustling of the tree. We looked up and saw Ike dangling from a branch, Dammit! He must’ve snuck up there while Kyle and I were talking. “IKE MOISHA BROFLOVSKI YOU GET DOWN FROM THERE RIGHT NOW!!” Kyle shouted. God, he sounded like his mom sometimes.

Ike was having none of it. He was dangling from the tree branch and had taken hold of one of the apples. He looked like he didn’t have a care in the world. But like Kyle said, the tree wasn’t stable. And the branch broke. “IKE!!” Kyle screamed, he and I ran over trying to catch Ike.

Fortunately, he landed in a bush with a little “oof” And I got to him first. “You okay, Buddy?” I asked him. He held up at least three apples. “For you.” He said with full confidence. I awkwardly took the apples from him. “Th-Thanks kid…” I stammered. I did feel a bit thankful that he climbed up there for me, but Kyle… Not so much.

“Ike! What were you doing!? What were you thinking!?” He reprimanded. Ike just giggled sheepishly. “Sorry… I was trying to get the apples for Kenny myself and I didn’t think-“

“You don’t ever think.” Kyle interrupted. “You might think in school since you’re five and already in first grade, and you can read up to 5th grade level. But do you ever use your head for common sense? No, you don’t. You should’ve know not to climb things like that after what happened to butters.”

I tried to calm him down. “Hey, cut the kid some slack. I appreciate it really. It’s not his fault he likes to take risks, kids climb shit all the time.” Kyle glared at me. “When I want you to try to help me with my little brother, I’ll ask you.” Then he sighed. “Sorry… We have to get home anyway… C‘mon Ike.” Ike took Kyle’s hand and they walked home. But before they left Ike whispered to me. “Tell Karen I said hi!”

Okay… I got apples, so now maybe I should find some roses. I still don’t know why Dahlia wanted dead roses specifically. But I guess it’s a goth thing… I paced through the neighborhood for a little while, when I realized I had stumbled into The park

I remember the last time I came here when I was four, Me and my brother, Kevin had to stay at our grandpa’s house while our parents were at the hospital delivering my little sister. Grandpa had taken us both out on a little ‘road trip’ and we stopped at this park and went up the nearby hill to take in the view.

He said that he and my grandma used to come up and take my dad here when he was little. I always felt at peace in this park- Dammit. I’m getting distracted again. I have to focus on finding roses. I looked around the park. I looked behind trees, in bushes, on the picnic tables, everywhere.

I know I shouldn’t care this much about some dying plants. But I can’t help myself. Especially since they may be my one way ticket to getting out of my curse. ‘Why did Dahlia specifically want dead roses again?’ I was lost in my thoughts when suddenly…

“Hello! Can I please pet your possu-“

*THUD*

“Flora!”

“I said please!”

“Yes but- Ugh… Wait here… I’ll go get him some water…”

I slowly came to, blinking away the last remnants of unconsciousness, once I fully woke up, the first thing I saw was girl with a pair of light green eyes and strawberry blonde hair staring down at me, “W-Where am I…?” I asked, still feeling disoriented. “Still in the park…” She responded with a southern drawl. One I instantly recognized as Millie Larsen. A girl in my class, alone side her was her little sister, Flora.

“Why are ya playing in the bush? Ya trying to stalk us or somethin’?” Millie asked. All I could do in that moment was clap back with “I was not!”

“Yes you were.”

“Was not.”

“Yes. You. We’re.”

“Was not!!”

“YES YOU WERE!!!!”

“WAS NOT!!!!”

Flora started laughing loudly. Both Millie and I turned to look at her. “What’s so funny!?” Millie snapped, Flora just giggled and pointed to me. “He was just trying to find a rose bush!”

How did she know that??

Millie’s expression went from annoyed to embarrassed real quick. “Oh.” For some strange reason, Millie started laughing too. I chuckled nervously. Know knowing what the hell was going on. “Um… Why was I passed out again?” I asked. “Beats me.” Millie shrugged. “You’ll have to excuse my sister, she likes to come up and startle people. I guess she must’ve started you so bad that she made you pass out.” She explained, looking down at flora with a disapproving, but slightly amused look.

“Ah, jeez…” I rubbed the back of my head in embarrassment. “I was getting awful worried. I thought she gave you a heart attack!” Millie continued. “Flora, don’t you think you owe Kenny an apology?” Flora looked up at me blankly. “Sorry, Ken…” I looked down at her and laughed. “It’s cool. But um… How did you know I was looking for roses?” I questioned.

“I’m psychic!” She said simply. Which made me laugh even more. Millie held out her hand to me. “If you want roses. We have some in our compost pile… But they’re all dead so…” Oh! That was easier than I thought. “That’s cool with me.” Flora took my hand before Millie could. “C’mon! I can make you a rose crown if you want!”

So it turns out some people do keep dead roses around. I took the dead ones (Plus a crown of fresh ones, curtesy of Flora Larsen.) And i decided to stay at Millie’s house for the night since it was getting late. Millie’s mom was nice enough to call my parents to let them know I was staying over

It was nice to catch up with Millie again. I remember when my friends and I filmed our finger bang music video. In which we made Millie ‘fall for me’ And I remember I tried to kiss her too. I think I was so attracted to her because she was apart of the Same choir Kelly was apart of.

God I missed Kelly. I know she had gross habits but isn’t every kid a little gross? I then thought back to what Butters and Bebe were talking about earlier in class. About a girl from the choir moving to our town. I was silently praying that maybe. Just maybe it would be Kelly. And I could find out what exactly happened between us.

I was interrupted by my thoughts by a wave of exhaustion washing over me. Man, it’s getting super late now. Tomorrow, I’ll try to find a cheap journal to buy. I’m so glad the Larsen’s gave me this nice guest room. I’ll sleep like a baby tonight!

The next day I left Millie’s house and headed on my way to the store to get a journal. I viewed through the store, hoping to find a cheap journal that would be good enough for Dahlia’s standards. But I got a little distracted by the books that were there.

I know I’m supposed to be looking for a journal. But I don’t think looking for a book would hurt either. Maybe I could find a cool one for Kyle since he likes to read. I scanned through the novel category when a cheerful voice rang out of the blue.

“If you’re thinking of buying ‘Bridge to Terabithia’ Then you should at least buy a box of tissues to go with it.”

My heart skipped a beat. I knew that voice.

“Um… Are you okay?”

Since I didn’t trust my hearing one bit, I quickly twisted my head to look at the speaker who sounded exactly like-

“Kelly!?”

Chapter Text

Kenny’s POV

Kelly and I just stared at each other for a good few seconds.

“Uhh… Wait-“

“OH MY GOD!” I accidentally shouted, which caused some other people in the store to stare at us. I cleared my throat, already feeling embarrassed.

“You uh… Is that you Lenny?” Kelly asked warily.

I laughed, feeling both excited and a little nervous. “No! It’s me! Kenny!”

“Benny?”

“No… Kenny.”

“Jenny?”

“Kenny!”

“Oh! Oka- Wait, Kenny!?” Kelly exclaimed. I couldn’t help but chuckle at her shock. “Remember me?”

“KENNY!” She shouted, before immediately wrapping her arms around me. “Oh my God! It’s been so long!” She exclaimed again.

I was startled by her sudden hug. I wasn’t really expecting it. I thought it would be quite awkward. But I quickly brushed my inner thoughts away and hugged her back. I wasn’t really expecting silently hoping it would be her that was coming, and here she was! Finally, we parted, and I smiled when I saw her spring green eyes and her dimpled grin. I was about to say something, but she caught up to me.

“I can’t believe I ran into you!” I chuckled again at her enthusiasm. “Yeah, It sure has been a while, hasn’t it?” Kelly hugged me again. “I’m so happy to see you, Kenny!” I hugged her back. Again. (Why do I keep saying ‘again’??)

“I missed you!” Kelly beamed. “I’ve thought about you often, like what were you doing, do you miss me, do you think about me-“ Kelly kept on rambling. I let her do so, I missed the sound of her voice like hell, but also because I was glad I wasn’t the only one who couldn’t stop having so many thought and saying so many things.

She’s still the same sweet girl I met in third grade. It’s strange how she never seemed to change at all. (Though she hasn’t picked her nose once since I started talking to her. So maybe that is what changed about her)

“So… What have you been up to, Len- I mean Kenny?” Kelly stammered.

I took a second to think. “Well… I’ve been in a couple bands, I role played medieval times, I visited Romania and Peru… There’s a lot of shit that goes on in this town” And That’s not just an understatement either.

“You’ve been in bands!?” Kelly exclaimed. “Kenny, that’s so cool! Are you the lead singer? Or do you play any instruments? You gotta teach me!”

I laugh again. Her enthusiasm just rubs on me. I can’t really explain it. “Well… Maybe if I can find my guitar I can teach you a little something.” I answered. “But anyway, enough about me. What’s been going on with you? I haven’t heard from you in a bit.”

Kelly’s expression turned a little guilty. And she turned away before speaking in a hushed tone. “I… Uh… Well…”

Okay, now I’m getting worried. “Kelly. What happened?”

“I was in the hospital… For most of last year…” Kelly sighed. “I don’t really wanna talk about it.

I gently grabbed her by the hand. “That’s okay. You don’t have to. At least we’re together now, right?”

Alright, I know i said that she didn’t have to say anything, but I can still be curious, can’t I? I mean… If she was stuck in the hospital for almost a year, it’s bound to be serious. Maybe I’ll talk to her about it later, but right now probably isn’t the best idea. I’m just glad I’m able to talk to her again.

Kelly glanced back at the bookshelf. “Oh! Were you going to get a book?” She asked. I just laughed sheepishly in return. “No… I was gonna buy a journal…” Kelly looked back at me with that pretty smile of hers. “There on the other isle. Come on, I’ll show you.”

Kelly ended up helping me find the journal I was looking for. Since she helped me I offered to walk her home. And she agreed! So that’s what we ended up doing. I know I should be more excited about that. But my thoughts began overwhelming me again… Just great…

“Whatcha thinking about?” Kelly asked me after a little while, I guess she saw I was deep in thought.

“Ah… It’s nothing to worry about…” I reassured her. “Sometimes I just get lost in thought, y’know?”

Kelly gave me a tiny smile, which means I managed to convince her I was okay. (Well… For now at least) I really didn’t wanna worry her, especially since we only just started catching up. So I gave her a weak smile back. I didn’t want to ruin the nice scenery we’re having.

I watched Kelly as she placed her hand on my shoulder and once again give me the warm smile that made me feel all fuzzy inside. I don’t think I’ll ever grow tired of that smile. “Hey, I just realized I never got to meet your family.” I said, trying to keep the good mood going strong.

“I’ve never met yours either.” Kelly chirped. “Right…” I chuckled in spite of myself. I didn’t know if it would be a good idea to vent about my family issues to Kelly. I didn’t want her to feel pity for me. “Let’s just say my folks are rather… complicated people…” I manage to get out. “What I mean by that is… They can be good, but they do stupid things and… They rarely ever put me and my siblings first.”

Kelly frowned. “Well… I’d still like to meet them some time… if it’s okay with you”

“They’re doing a bit better nowadays. But I don’t know if they’d want any visitors.” I looked up and gave her a smirk. “But I’ll still try to ask them ‘bout it. ‘Kay?”

I take a quick glance at a house in front of me, it was the same structure as most of the houses in the neighborhood, this one was a baby blue color. “Hey, There’s my house!” Kelly exclaimed, then she turned around and shooked my hand “Thanks again for walking me home! I hope I run into ya again soon.”

“Kellyyyy” I scratched the back of me neck, I almost forgot she’s the type of girl who can get you flustered from anything that comes out of her mouth. I bid her farewell also and watched her walk up to the front door before turning around to get to my house. I thought I’d be able to walk home perfectly fine, my mom was probably at work right now and my dad was either at the bar or asleep on the couch.

But just when I was almost at the sidewalk, I heard the sound of an oncoming car

Goddammit.

Chapter Text

Kelly’s POV

“Oh my God, Kenny!” I shout when she saw Kenny bleeding out in the middle of the street. I practically bolted over there. “Kenny!” I cried out “What did you do!?” I half screamed at the driver, my heart shattering into pieces. I can’t lose him again.

Everything became a blur. The ambulance came, they tried to save him but to no avail. My dad ended up driving me home because he was a doctor at this hospital. That’s one of the main reasons why we moved. He wait a job here in South Park and he hoped it would give us a new life.

He and mom tried to talk to me… But I don’t remember what they were saying. I just stayed silent, until a relentless stream of tears rolled down my cheeks. I had never experienced anything this intense in a long time.

I thought I could see him again. I thought we could reconcile. But I guess not everything’s meant to be.

I lost the one boy that I loved unconditionally.

Today was Kenny’s funeral. I know it may seem a bit odd that the new girl who just moved to South Park would go to the funeral. But I visited South Park once a couple years ago. Plus a few of Kenny’s friends knew we were dating long distance. So when they found out I was here, they invited me to the funeral. And of course I agreed.

I sat somewhere in front, next to an older boy, apparently he’s Kenny’s brother, his mom and dad were there also. I felt sorry for them, I mean… Who wouldn’t feel sorry for a family who lost a child? My thoughts were then interrupted by the voice of the pastor.

“We gather here today to mourn the loss of Kenneth McCormick.” He began. “Let us all take the time to remember the Impact this young boy had on us all… He was kind, sweet, and loved to be with his friends. He touched all of us in one way or another. To some of us he was a brother, To others he was a son, and to most…” He paused before looked out on the crowd “…He was just a great friend.”

I stayed silent through most of the service. I did try to talk to the others at the funeral, but no words would come out. What could you possibly say to someone who lost a friend? Or a parent who lost a child? All I know are empty words that won’t do anything, let alone make it better.

When the service was over, I looked over at the older boy again. He was standing quietly

“Hey…” I stammered. Struggling to find the right words. “Kenny was a good person and friend…” The boy glanced over at me “Who are ya?” He asked with a hint of skepticism. I shifted slightly. I guess Kenny didn’t tell his family about me. I didn’t really blame him though, maybe he wanted to keep me all for himself, (which I personally think is adorable)

“U-Uh… My name is Kelly! I was his… Uh… ex… girlfriend?” It felt weird to call myself an ex. Even though we technically broke up. I stared at the boy nervously, studying him for a moment before I spoke again “W-What’s your name?”

“…Kevin…” He said in an uninterested tone. “You must be Kenny’s brother, right?” I asked, trying to lessen the tension a little. Kevin just stared at me. He looked away nervously for a moment. Scratching the back of his neck. “Why are you here if you’re his ex?” He asked bluntly. Seeming to have snapped out of it.

I hesitate for a moment, biting my lip. “Well… I missed him and I wanted to pay my respects-“

Kevin scoffed “Your kidding, right? You really expect me to believe that? You’re not even dating him anymore. Why do you care so much?” He said bluntly, I don’t know whether he was being sarcastic or I just struck a nerve. I backed up. “Okay… um…. I’m gonna go…” I mumbled as I slowly walked away.

I quietly walked back to my seat. I know I probably shouldn’t have, but I can’t help but think about what Kevin said. If I’m being completely honest. I don’t know why I care so much, I mean… We haven’t spoken in two years. I know I must’ve broke his heart in some way. I look up at Kenny’s casket and held my breath.

I couldn’t even bother telling him why I was in the hospital. I couldn’t be fully honest with him. He was always honest with me… So why couldn’t I do the same for him? Never in my wildest dreams did I even consider lying to the people I care about. But i did. And now he’s dead.

When the funeral ended, I quietly went upstairs to my room. I didn’t have the strength to deal with speaking to anyone else. I just lied down in my bed and put the covers over myself without even thinking of changing into my pajamas. I only thought about Kenny.

Why did he just… die like that? Why was he taken from me as soon as I tried to reconnect with him. I felt disgusted just reminiscing on that. I feel terrible. Why didn’t I tell him what was really wrong with me?

No one’s POV

Dawn slowly came up and into South Park. It was a nice day outside. The birds were chirping, children were getting ready for school, couples were holding hands on the sidewalks, it was perfect! Well… Almost perfect… For there was a young girl still lying in bed. Looking rather blue.

Kelly didn’t even bother getting up from bed. She didn’t have the strength to. She was far too stricken with grief. She barely even registered the knock on her bedroom door. Or the creak it made when it opened.

“Kelly, wake up. It’s time for school.” Her mother gently reminded. Kelly shifted a little in bed. But she did not get up. “How come?” Kelly mumbled. Her mother’s expression twisted into confusion. “It’s your first day at your new school, don’t you remember?”

“You’re really telling me that I just need to… to go to school and pretend nothing happened!?” Kelly suddenly snapped. Her mother looked startled. Kelly had rarely snapped like this. “What are you talking about?” She asked.

Kelly sat up in disbelief “Wha- DID YOU SERIOUSLY FORGET WHAT HAPPENED TO-“

“Uh… Is Everything okay, ma’am?”

That voice. It was too distinct for the distressed Kelly to ignore.

It was the voice of Kenny McCormick.

Chapter Text

Kelly’s POV

“You… You can’t be!” I exclaimed. “…Can’t be what…?” Kenny asked. I don’t think he knew what to say, I didn’t either. As our eyes met, chills shot down my spine. What the hell was going on!? Why was he here!? I literally witnessed his death! “W-What are you doing here?” I finally managed to say.

“Kelly? Why are you so surprised? You told me you wanted to walk to school with him.” My mom said.

I never said that. He died before I could. What was going on??

“Uh… Could we um… Have some alone time Mrs… Um…” Kenny mumbled, My mom chuckled. “Please, call me Brenda!” She said sweetly. Meanwhile I kept staring at Kenny. I couldn’t help myself. We were both thinking the same thing: He had a lot of explaining to do. But I just couldn’t get anymore words out.

“Well, I’ll leave you two alone!” My mom stated before walking away. I could vaguely hear her mumble to herself: ‘I hope the memory loss is just a temporary side effect’ I ignored her and turned back to Kenny.

“So… You mind telling me why you’re here in my house? Only a day after your FUNERAL!?” I yelled. I didn’t want to come off as mean or anything but I think I have EVERY right to be mad. How could he just… fake his death like that!? Was his family in on it too??

Kenny face turned puzzled. “Wait… You remember?”

Is this boy for real right now??

“Of course I remember! I’m the one who watched you die for Christ sake!” I shouted again. Kenny stood. Bewildered. Then he spoke in a quieter voice. “Kelly… No one’s ever remembered before…” I guess he was attempting to calm me down. But what he said made me even more confused. “W-What are you talking about?”

Kenny sighed. “Tell you what… After school I’ll take you down to the ice cream parlor and I’ll explain everything… And then you can explain everything to me… That is… If you still wanna walk with me?” He said the last of his sentence with an awkward but apologetic smile.

I managed to calm down a little. “Yeah… I’ll still walk with you… But you have to explain everything. Okay? You owe me that.” Kenny nodded his head. “Yeah! Of course!” He seemed genuine. And I believed he did feel bad. But I still don’t know what he meant by ‘no one’s ever remembered before’ As if he died on multiple occasions??

Photo edited by: me!! :D

Well… This is it… South Park Elementary…

I didn’t expect it to be so… Yellow… Not that I’m complaining, in fact, I LOVE the color yellow!! It’s so bright and happy and-

“Hey, Kelly…” Kenny called softly.

I glance back at him. “Yeah?” Kenny scratched the back of his neck. “Listen… Don’t tell anyone that I died or anything… Nobody else is gonna remember… I think…” I slowly nodded my head. I still don’t know what’s going on. But Kenny promised he would explain everything after school. So of course, I’ll believe him. I gave Kenny a smile before walking inside.

Even though I was a bit mad this morning. I was also glad that Kenny was alive!! Somehow… Whatever happened. I hope I can be able to help Kenny in some way.

No one’s POV

“Okay children, let’s take our seats.” Mr. Garrison announced. Kelly could hear him from behind the door. Soon she would be entering her new classroom. She felt a mix of emotions swarming through her. Nervous, excited, and also hopeful. Hopeful that she could start anew and move on from what happened last year.

“Now that y’all have finally shut up. We have a new student joining us today.” He glanced at Kelly. Who had just entered the room. “Go ahead and tell us about yourself or whatever…” He waved his hand dismissively. Kelly quickly walked over to the front.

“Hello! My name is Kelly! But I’m sure some of you already know that, right?” She said with a chuckle, recounting the time she and the South Park class went to that field trip to the rainforest. She looked around the classroom until her eyes landed on Kenny, who was sitting at his own desk.

“Okay, hurry up and sit in the back.” Mr. Garrison coughed. Kelly nodded her head and walked over to the back. She could hear two boys whispering to each other but she paid them no mind.

Meanwhile, Kenny was sitting quietly in the front. He felt confused. And frankly, a little guilty. He didn’t understand why Kelly remembered he died. No one else remembered. No one remembers any of his deaths. Not even his own family. He felt a bit bad for Kelly, mainly because she has to live with the trauma of seeing his bloodied body in the middle of the street.

How the hell am I gonna explain all this!?