This is a one-act-play that I wrote in college. As a special treat, you're getting to read it in it's entirety.
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PLACE: London, England.
ELIZABETH weeps in an armchair. Her son, ANDY kneels beside her and tries to console her.
DETECTIVE SMITH and BRAD arrive at Elizabeth’s door.
Detective Smith knocks on the door. Elizabeth answers it.
ELIZABETH
Detective Smith, thank goodness you’re here.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Good evening, Elizabeth. We came as soon as we could. This is my partner, Brad. I’m training him to be a detective. This is his first case.
BRAD
Good evening, ma’am.
ELIZABETH
Please come in, gentlemen. This is my second son, Andy. The only son I have left.
Detective Smith and Brad enter the room and shake Andy’s hand.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Good evening, Andy.
ANDY
Hello, Detectives.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Sorry to hear about your loss.
Elizabeth wipes her eyes with a tissue.
ELIZABETH
Thank you, Detective Smith. Yes, it came as a shock to us as well. When Andy told me that my husband Herbert killed my Terrance, I couldn’t believe it.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Write this down, Brad.
Brad takes out a notepad and pen.
DETECTIVE SMITH (cont)
You didn’t witness the murder?
ELIZABETH
No, I was in the kitchen making dinner. It was almost finished, when Andy came bursting in. I’ll never forget the look in his eyes. Once he caught his breath, he said that he saw Herbert stab his half-brother Terrance to death.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Is Herbert the real father of Terrance?
ELIZABETH
No, Andy’s his son. But he’s always gotten along with Terrance. I just don’t understand it.
DETECTIVE SMITH
You witnessed the murder, Andy?
ANDY
Yes, I saw the whole thing.
DETECTIVE SMITH
What caused Herbert to kill Terrance?
ANDY
I heard Terrance and father arguing in father’s room. I was in the bathroom across from them. I was getting washed up for dinner.
DETECTIVE SMITH
What were they arguing about?
ANDY
I didn’t get close enough to hear what it was about. Father sounded furious at Terrance. I never heard my father scream at anyone like that before. Anyway, I was minding my own business when I heard Terrance scream “Herb, put the knife down!”
DETECTIVE SMITH
What did you do then?
ANDY
I ran into the room. Father had Terrance cornered. Then, before I could stop him, he stabbed Terrance in the chest. Before I could run for it, he spotted me.
DETECTIVE SMITH
What did Herbert do then?
ANDY
Father tried to escape through the window. I came to my senses and tried to stop him. I reached for him and he swung his knife at me. It cut my arm.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Then you ran downstairs to tell your mother what had happened.
ANDY
Yes, I nearly broke my neck to get to her.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did any of the neighbors see or hear any of this?
ANDY
No, the window was closed and the blinds were down.
Brad stops writing and stares hard at Andy.
BRAD
How could Herbert escape if the window was shut and the blinds were down?
ANDY (annoyed)
He opened it, obviously.
BRAD
If you were trying to prevent him from escaping, how did he have enough time to open the window and fight you off at the same time?
ANDY
I was frozen in shock until I heard him open the window.
BRAD
Well if Herbert was escaping, why didn’t you shout for help?
ANDY (angrily)
What good would it have done?
BRAD
Someone could’ve stopped him before he got too far.
ANDY
It is your job to chase down murderers. If not, then why are we paying you?
ELIZABETH
Please, everyone just calm down. Andy, why don’t you show Detective Smith where the murder took place?
ANDY
As you wish, mother.
EXIT: Andy leads Detective Smith offstage.
ELIZABETH
I’m terribly sorry, Officer. Andy has a dreadful temper at times.
BRAD
No harm done. What is Andy’s relationship like with Herbert?
ELIZABETH
They weren’t really close, but they weren’t always fighting with each other. Herbert spent more time with Terrance than with Andy. Terrance wasn’t his son, but Herb didn’t want Terrence to feel that way.
BRAD
How did Andy get along with Terrance?
ELIZABETH
Andy always seemed jealous of Terrance.
BRAD
Did Herbert ever yell or hit Andy?
ELIZABETH
Oh, heavens no. Herbert was a peaceful soul. He and Terrance did everything together, but Andy was always left behind. All that Andy really wanted was to spend one day with Herbert without Terrance around.
BRAD
This makes no sense at all. Why would Herbert kill Terrence?
ELIZABETH
I’ve asked myself that same question.
BRAD
You said that Andy has a temper. When was the last time that Andy expressed anger?
ELIZABETH
Last Saturday. The circus was in town. Andy loves the circus and he wanted Herbert to take him. Herbert had made plans to spend the day with Terrance at the park.
BRAD
What did Andy do when Herbert wouldn’t take him?
ELIZABETH
He started screaming and shouting at Herbert. He called him every bad word he could think of.
BRAD
What did Herbert do in retaliation?
ELIZABETH
He stood up and told Andy to calm down or he wouldn’t be going anywhere for a long time.
BRAD
How did Andy respond to that?
ELIZABETH
Andy didn’t calm down. In fact, Andy threw a bigger tantrum. Andy threw a chair at Herbert. It hit his bad knee and he took a big fall. Andy yelled that both Terrance and Herbert would be very sorry.
BRAD
What did Herbert do after he got up?
ELIZABETH
Andy stormed out of the house before Herbert could do anything. He was gone for hours. I almost called the police to go look for him, but he turned up the next day. He wouldn’t say a word to Herbert or Terrance all day. He just shut himself up in his room.
BRAD
From what you told me and from what I heard today, it seems to me like Andy could be the real culprit behind this murder.
ELIZABETH
No, you must be mistaken, Officer. Andy has a bad temper, but he would never kill anyone. Herbert and I didn’t raise him like that.
BRAD
You also thought that Herbert wouldn’t kill anyone, but according to Andy, he murdered Terrance in cold blood.
ELIZABETH
Yes, it’s unbelievable. Still, Andy would never lie about something as serious as that. I believe him with all of my heart. Dear me, I forgot my manners. Would you care for some tea, Officer?
BRAD
I’d be delighted.
ELIZABETH
Wonderful, if you would follow me into the kitchen.
EXIT: Brad and Elizabeth walk offstage.
ENTER: Shortly after they leave, Detective Smith and Andy walk back onstage.
DETECTIVE SMITH
I’ll talk to the neighbors after I leave here. Maybe they saw Herbert escape after the murder.
ANDY
I doubt anyone would have seen him. They keep to themselves mostly.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Still, maybe they caught a glimpse of him as he was climbing down from the roof.
ANDY
Well, just as long as you’re questioning them. I don’t like your partner’s attitude.
DECTIVE SMITH
He did come up with some good points. Why didn’t you scream for help?
ANDY
It wouldn’t have done much good. Mother was downstairs and the neighbors wouldn’t have heard me.
DETECTIVE SMITH
If he spotted you after just murdering your brother, how come he didn’t kill you too?
ANDY
I wasn’t in father’s reach. I could’ve escaped in time before he could stab me.
DETECTIVE SMITH
If you were frozen in terror, he could’ve walked right up and stabbed you just like Terrance.
ANDY
I guess he didn’t want to chance it.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did your father always have a knife on him?
ANDY
I didn’t even know he had one until I saw him use it on Terrance.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did Herbert always have a bad temper?
ANDY
I’ve never seen anyone have a temper as bad as my father’s.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did he always yell at you and Terrance?
ANDY
He only yelled at Terrance once and that was before he killed him. He was always yelling at me. Last Saturday, I asked him to take me to the circus. I love the circus and he always took Terrance everywhere. I felt that he should take me to the circus.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did he ever hit you?
ANDY
On that same Saturday, he threw a chair at me. It hit my bad knee.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did anyone else witness this?
ANDY
Terrance saw it.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did Terrance try to stop Herbert from continuing the assault?
ANDY (bitterly)
No, he just sat in the armchair and laughed his head off.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did he throw anything else at you?
ANDY
If he did, I wasn’t there for it. I got to my feet and ran out the back door. I didn’t come back until the next morning.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Where did you go?
ANDY
I went to my friend’s house a couple blocks down the road.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Did Herbert apologize when you came home?
ANDY
I didn’t give him the chance. I went up to my room and that’s where I stayed.
ENTER: Elizabeth arrives on stage.
ELIZABETH
There you are, Detective. Would you like some Tea?
DETECTIVE SMITH
No, but I would like to ask you a few questions about Herbert’s outbursts.
ELIZABETH
Herbert rarely had any outbursts. He was a gentle soul.
EXIT: Andy sneaks offstage before Detective Smith can question him any further.
DETECTIVE SMITH
I just heard about an interesting incident that occurred last Saturday.
ENTER: Brad appears onstage and heads over to Detective Smith and Elizabeth.
ELIZABETH
Oh, yes there was an incident here on that day.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Where were you when it happened?
ELIZABETH
I was right here when it happened.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Why didn’t you protect Andy from the abuse that Herbert was inflicting?
ELIZABETH
I beg your pardon?
DETECTIVE SMITH
Why did you let Herbert throw a chair at Andy?
ELIZABETH
You have it all wrong, Detective Smith. Andy threw the chair. (She looks around for him) Where did he run off? I’ll go get him and we’ll clear up the confusion. I don’t know why he’d lie about something like that.
EXIT: Elizabeth walks offstage hurriedly to get Andy.
BRAD
I’m starting to suspect, Andy. Elizabeth told me that he has a temper on him. He was jealous of Terrance and he didn’t get along with Herbert too well.
DETECTIVE SMITH
It sounds like Andy and Herbert didn’t have a healthy relationship. I don’t think Andy’s being completely honest with us.
BRAD
If that’s the case, where is Herbert now?
DETECTIVE SMITH
That could be the real mystery. I fear the worst in that case.
BRAD
Do you think Herbert was killed too?
DETECTIVE SMITH
It’s a possibility. Whoever killed Terrance, knew what they were doing. No witnesses and no evidence.
BRAD
I still suspect Andy. He had plenty of motives for getting rid of the two of them.
DETECTIVE SMITH
He did get jumpy when you were questioning him. Still, we can’t prove it. Unless he confesses and we hear it, there’s nothing we can do.
ENTER: Elizabeth returns to where Detective Smith and Brad are.
ELIZABETH
I can’t find him anywhere. He must have run off again.
DETECTIVE SMITH
I think I know where I can find him. He mentioned a friend’s house a couple blocks from here. He might have gone back there.
ELIZABETH
I think I know which house he meant. I’ll come with you. I know the friend’s mother really well.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Brad, stay here in case he comes back.
BRAD
If he does come back, I’ll hold him here until you get back.
EXIT: Detective Smith and Elizabeth leave the stage. Brad sits down in the armchair and becomes trapped in deep thought.
ENTER: TERRANCE walks on stage covered in blood and playing with a ball.
TERRANCE
Hello, who are you and what are you doing in my house?
Brad jumps out of the armchair in shock.
BRAD
My God, you’re injured! I’ll call an ambulance immediately.
TERRANCE
It won’t do you much good.
BRAD
Just calm down and think positive! They’ll be here in no time.
TERRANCE
They’re already too late.
BRAD
Don’t talk like that. You’re going to be just fine.
TERRANCE
You don’t understand. I’m already dead.
BRAD
No, you’ll be fine. You’re not going to die.
TERRANCE
Here, check my pulse. You’ll see that I’m already dead.
Terrance holds out one arm. Brad hesitates, and then checks his pulse.
BRAD (surprised)
You don’t have a pulse!
TERRANCE
I told you so.
Brad jumps back and stares at Terrance in fear.
TERRANCE (cont)
I’m a ghost. I was killed yesterday evening.
BRAD
Stay away from me!
TERRANCE
Take it easy, sir. I won’t harm you.
Terrance steps towards Brad. Brad backs away out of his reach.
BRAD
My partner will be back any minute now. You’ll never escape in time after you kill me.
TERRANCE
I don’t want to kill you. Relax, sir I’m not going to do anything to you.
Terrance takes another step towards Brad. This time, Brad doesn’t move.
BRAD
Why are you here? What do you want with me?
Terrance extends his hand as a peace offering.
TERRANCE
Calm down, sir. I’m not here to hurt you. My name is Terrance, what’s your name?
Brad slowly approaches Terrance. His hand is still extended. Brad hesitates, and then shakes his hand.
BRAD
My name is Brad. Actually, it’s Detective Brad now. This is my first case.
TERRANCE
You’re a detective? Wow, I’ve always wanted to be a detective. What is it like?
BRAD
It isn’t easy. Right now, my partner and I are investigating a murder. It happened yesterday evening. (Brad stares at Terrance suspiciously). What did you say your name was?
TERRANCE
I’m Terrance, but you can call me Terry if you’d like.
Brad points at Terrance excitedly.
BRAD
You’re…you’re…you’re…you were…it was you!
TERRANCE
No, it wasn’t me.
Brad lowers his head in disappointment.
BRAD
Oh, sorry. I just thought that…
TERRANCE
No, I never killed anybody in my life.
BRAD
You’re the one that was murdered!
TERRANCE
Yes, it was just before dinner. Pity, we were having my favorite that night.
BRAD
I need your help, Terrance. Andy says that Herbert killed you. However, Elizabeth told me about Andy. From what I’ve heard, he was extremely jealous of you. I’m starting to suspect Andy, but I can’t prove it. Just tell me, who was it that murdered you?
TERRANCE
It wasn’t Herb. He gave this ball to me. Do you want to see how high it bounces?
Terrance bounces the ball and catches it.
BRAD
Terrance, did you see the one who killed you?
ENTER: Andy slowly creeps on stage. He’s walking backwards and is crouched down. He is unaware that Brad and Terrance are behind him.
TERRANCE
Certainly, he did it.
Terrance points behind him without looking. Andy bumps into Terrance and freezes. He has his back to Terrance and Brad.
TERRANCE (cont.)
Hi, Andy.
Andy turns around. At the sight of Terrance, he jumps back and screams like a girl.
ENTER: Detective Smith and Elizabeth rush onstage.
ELIZABETH
Andy, we’ve been looking all over for you. Where have you been and why did you lie to Detective Smith?
EXIT: Andy doesn’t answer. He continues to stare in horror at Terrance, and then he storms offstage.
ELIZABETH (cont.)
Andy, come back here this minute.
TERRANCE
Hi, mom.
EXIT: Elizabeth doesn’t answer. She rushes offstage without even looking at Terrance.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Brad, this man is hurt! Is the ambulance on its way?
BRAD
You can see him too?
DETECTIVE SMITH
Of course, I can see him! How can anyone not see him?
Detective Smith stares hard at Terrance.
TERRANCE
I’m a ghost.
Detective Smith jumps back and pulls Brad in front of him like a shield.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Keep him away from me, Brad!
BRAD
Relax, he’s not going to harm you.
DETECTIVE SMITH
How can you be sure? He’s dead, but he still walks and talks like he was alive! He could be evil for all we know!
TERRANCE
No, Detective Brad is right. I mean you no harm. Do you want to see how high my ball bounces?
DETECTIVE SMITH
How high…what?
Terrance bounces his ball. Detective Smith drops down and crouches like he expected a bomb to go off.
TERRANCE
Herb gave it to me. Do you know where he is? I wanted to thank him for giving it to me. I didn’t get a chance to thank him last night.
BRAD
I’m telling you that Terrance is harmless. He’s here to help us solve this case. He told me who murdered him.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Isn’t Terrance the name of the man that was murdered last night in this house?
BRAD
Yes, the very same one. Now, will you please relax?
DETECTIVE SMITH
He told you that Herbert killed him?
BRAD
No, it wasn’t Herbert. He told me that it was Andy.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Then, where the devil is Herbert?
BRAD
I don’t know.
DETECTIVE SMITH
How do we prove that Andy is the murderer?
Brad looks at Terrance, then back at Detective Smith.
BRAD
Terrance, will you help us make Andy confess to killing you?
TERRANCE
Ok, I’m getting kind of bored anyway.
ENTER: Elizabeth drags Andy back on stage.
ELIZABETH
Now, tell the detectives the truth, Andy. You really shouldn’t lie about things like that.
TERRANCE
Hey, Andy do you want to see how high my ball bounces?
Andy cowers in terror as Terrance bounces his ball again.
BRAD
Andy, why don’t you tell us the truth? Where is Herbert?
ANDY
I’m not telling you, anything.
BRAD
Fine, we’ll find him ourselves.
TERRANCE
Yeah, Brad and I will go look. I need to thank Herb for the ball anyway.
EXIT: Brad and Terrance walk offstage to find Herbert.
ELIZABETH
Detective Smith, aren’t you going to assist Officer Brad?
DETECTIVE SMITH
No, he’ll be fine. Terrance went with him.
ELIZABETH
Terrance is dead, Detective. (She looks at Detective Smith with concern) Are you feeling alright?
ANDY
Mother, Terrance isn’t dead! He was standing between Detective Smith and what’s-his-name!
ENTER: HERBERT storms on stage followed by Brad and Terrance.
HERBERT
Andy, just wait until I get my hands on you!
EXIT: Andy runs out the door and Herbert chases after them.
TERRANCE
Go get him, Herb!
DETECTIVE SMITH
Brad, wait here with Elizabeth.
EXIT: Detective Smith walks out the door hurriedly.
ELIZABETH
I hope Detective Smith gets to them, before Herbert kills Andy.
BRAD
I wouldn’t blame, Herbert if he did.
ELIZABETH (surprised)
I beg your pardon, Officer?
ENTER: Andy bursts through the door and hides behind Elizabeth.
Herbert and Detective Smith arrive shortly after.
HERBERT
You’re dead, boy!
Elizabeth points to Herbert.
ELIZABETH
Detective Smith, arrest that man!
DETECTIVE SMITH
Herbert is innocent, Elizabeth.
ANDY
No, he’s not! He killed Terrance and now he wants to kill me!
HERBERT
I did no such thing! You’re the one that killed Terrance. You hit me over the head, so I couldn’t be a witness. However, I managed to remain conscious just long enough to see you stab Terrance in the chest.
TERRANCE
That wasn’t very nice, Andy.
ANDY
He’s lying, I didn’t do anything!
ELIZABETH
I’m so confused. What is going on?
BRAD
I found Herbert tied up in the basement. There’s no way that he could have tied himself up like that unless he had an accomplice. I can prove that Herbert innocent.
DETECTIVE SMITH
Andy, all of the evidence points to you. We can either settle this the easy way or we can settle this the hard way. It’s your choice.
ANDY
They’re threatening me, mother!
HERBERT
I’ll do more than just threaten, boy!
TERRANCE
Take it easy, Herb. Remember your blood pressure.
Herbert doesn’t hear Terrance. Brad realizes this.
BRAD
Take it easy, Herbert. Don’t let you blood pressure get too high.
TERRANCE
Thank you, Detective Brad.
ANDY
Father killed Terrance! I’m a witness!
DETECTIVE SMITH
If you are innocent, then why did you lie about the incident that happened last Saturday?
ANDY
What does that have to do with father killing Terrance?
TERRANCE
Check the cut on his arm.
DETECTIVE SMITH
You said that you have a cut on your arm from where you tried to stop Herbert.
ANDY
Yes, I do have a cut on my arm from my father.
DETECTIVE SMITH
I would like to see that cut, Andy.
Andy rolls up his left arm and shows Detective Smith the cut.
DETECTIVE SMITH (cont)
It doesn’t look too deep, Andy. In fact it looks like it was carefully cut just enough for there to be a scratch. Are you right handed, Andy?
ANDY
Of course I’m right handed. What does that have to do with anything?
BRAD
It has to do with a lot, Andy. The cut is on your left arm. Normally, right-handed people don’t reach with their left hand. If Herbert wanted to escape badly enough, he wouldn’t be too careful to cut your arm and it would be on the right.
ANDY
Alright, I confess! I killed Terrance and tried to blame my father. He always liked Terrance better than me. All I wanted was to go to the circus! I hate you, father. (He glares at everyone around him) I hate all of you!
HERBERT
Detectives lock him up and throw away the key!
EXIT: Brad and Detective Smith arrest Andy and drag him off the stage.
ELIZABETH
Oh, Herbert. I’m so sorry. Andy had me convinced that you were a murderer.
HERBERT
It wasn’t your fault, Elizabeth. I’m going to miss Terrance, too. He was such a good boy.
Terrance puts his arm around Herbert. Elizabeth and Herbert look at Terrance in terror.
TERRANCE
I’ll miss you too, Herb. Thanks for the ball, it bounces really high. Do you want to see?
EXIT: Herbert and Elizabeth scream offstage. Terrance chases after them.
THE END
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Chapter 1 or 20
This is the first chapter of my "six years in the making" novel. I was gonna just choose a random chapter, but I think this will make things less confusing. Let me know what you think.
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CHAPTER 1
What I didn’t tell them
The police officer asked me to tell my side of the story. There were some personal things that I left out, because they didn’t matter. I’ll never forget the day when all of this started. It was Friday during the first week of spring. Abigail Williams was throwing a party that night. D.J was given an invitation. He was allowed to bring a friend. I’ve had a crush on Abigail for years. She was smart, beautiful, and her parents were richer than dirt. She had long blonde hair, blue eyes, and silky smooth skin. She was the most popular girl in our grade. The thing that I really liked about her was that she wasn’t a stuck-up snob. I only had one class with her and it was English. Ken and Zach were also in our class. Everyone feared them because they were in a gang. There were three gangs in Back Alley. The B.A.P and the Blood Brotherhood were rivals. The third gang was the Black Demons. They were an all-black group. They were racist against whites and any colored guy that befriended them. Everyone in the B.A.P went to school. Only a few members from the Brotherhood were enrolled. None of the Black Demons went to school. If you were in a gang, everyone treated you like you had AIDS. Although the B.A.P never attacked civilians like the other two gangs. Anyway, we were all in English class. We were having an in-class discussion about violence on the streets. Usually, Ken and Zach didn’t say a word in class. Today, they had much to say on the topic. “It’s either kill or be killed on the streets. It’s been like that for years. When you have punks like the Brotherhood and the Black Demons out there, you gotta have eyes in the back of your head,” said Ken. “You guys are a gang too. You guys kill people and terrorize the streets,” said Pete Shaw. Ken and Zach glared at Pete. “Just because we’re in a gang, doesn’t mean that we’re thugs, Shaw. It’s people like you that need to have your skull kicked in,” Ken growled. “That proves my point! You’re threatening me!” yelled Pete as he leapt out of his chair. “Do you live on the streets?” Zach asked coldly. “No, I live in an actual house,” said Pete. “Then you have no idea what it’s like for guys like us,” Zach retorted. “That’s because I’m not a thug,” Pete sneered. “Sit down and be quiet, Peter. You have no idea what you’re talking about. Ken and Zach don’t have it as good as the rest of us, but they still deserve our respect,” said Abigail. This caught me off guard. I’d never expect Abigail to stick up for guys like Ken and Zach even though she was extremely nice to everybody. “Well you have it better than anyone in this entire school, Abigail. If you pity these guys so much, why don’t you let them live with you? I know that you have more than enough room,” retorted Pete. Abigail sank in her chair clearly embarrassed. “Shut up and leave her alone, Shaw. You’re nothing but a punk,” I replied. It just sort of came out of me. “Stay out of this, Miles. If you ever call me a punk again, I’ll smash your teeth in,” he said menacingly. “Hey, if you’re such a tough guy, why don’t you meet us on the street tonight? Unless, you’re nothing but a coward,” Ken challenged. Pete glanced over at him nervously. “I don’t deal with thugs,” he sneered. “You won’t deal with us, but you’ll belittle a girl and threaten guys like him. You’re pathetic,” said Zach softly. Pete’s face turned red and he sat down. The bell rang and the class scurried out of the room. I was getting my things together when Abigail approached me. “Thank you for sticking up for me, Jacob. Peter’s such a bully,” she thanked me. “Well…um…I…uh…yep,” I stammered. She was beaming at me.
“Are you coming to my party tonight?” She asked. I nodded and she smiled again. “Great, I’ll see you later then,” she said. Then she swiftly left the room. I grabbed my stuff and left shortly after. Pete was waiting by the door. He knocked my stuff out of my hands and shoved me against the wall. He was the class bully. A no good punk that nobody liked. I’m not much of a fighter. I’m not that strong or that aggressive. D.J’s pretty buff and he usually was around to back me up if I needed it. He wasn’t around right now. “Nobody around here to save you now, Miles. Why don’t you run your mouth to me now huh?” he sneered. “Hey, get off me!” I shouted. Everyone was watching, but no one came to my aid. “You’re not so tough now, are you?” He barked. “I’m going to beat you down,” he threatened. “Hey, get off him!” someone shouted. I thought it was D.J at first. To my surprise, it wasn’t D.J. It was Ken. The B.A.P stood side by side with him. Pete let go of me and backed up a couple inches. “That’s how its gonna be? Five on one huh?” said Pete. He had gone pale and his voice was slightly higher than it had been. “It doesn’t take five of us to take you on,” said Ken. “Now get out of here before someone gets hurt,” he continued in a dangerous voice. Pete glared at Ken, then hurriedly left the scene. Everyone else scattered back to their lockers. The B.A.P approached me. “Are you alright, kid?” Ken asked. My back was still against the wall. I nodded and tried to leave. Zach blocked my path. “Hey man, relax. We’re not gonna hurt you,” he told me gently. “We have a reputation, but we’re not like that. Everyone thinks we’re bloodthirsty thugs. They act like we’re the Disciples of the Apocalypse. We’re not punks like Pete Shaw. We’re better than that. All I want to say is that if he messes with you again, let us know and we’ll put a stop to it,” said Ken. I nodded again. Ken shook my hand and then they left. D.J clapped a hand on my shoulder when I got to my locker. I jumped a few feet. “Whoa, are you alright, Jake?” he asked. “Man, a lot happened this afternoon,” I told him. “What happened?” he asked. I told him about the classroom discussion, Abigail inviting me to her party, and the run-in with Pete. “You’re kidding! The B.A.P made the save?” he said in disbelief. “Yeah, then they said that if he bothered me again to let them know and they’d take care of it,” I told him. “Where were you, D.J? Usually, you have my back,” I said. “Sorry bro, I was talking to Victoria,” he said. “Abigail’s friend, Victoria?” I inquired. “Yeah, her. She wants me to hang out with her at the party,” he bragged. D.J had a reputation too. He was a ladies’ man. He’d have six or seven of them around his arms at once. The only thing that I didn’t like about that is that he’s also the world’s biggest player. He never would commit to just one girl. Sometimes, he’d have a one-night stand with one of these girls. Other than that, I have no problem with him. He’s like the brother that I never had. We arrived at my place. Katie was waiting for us on the porch. “Hey guys, what’s up?” she greeted us. “Katie, you’re not going to believe this,” I said. “What happened?” she asked. “Pete Shaw was belittling Abigail and Jake defended her honor,” D.J told her for me. “Really? Good for you, Jake.” She said. “That’s not all. Pete tried to jump Jake after class, but the B.A.P came to his rescue,” D.J continued. “Why did they get involved?” she asked. “I dunno. One minute, I’m against the wall all by myself. The next minute, the B.A.P drives Pete away,” I said. “Well, good for you anyway,” she said, smiling. Only D.J and Katie know about my crush on Abigail. For brother and sister, Katie and I get along great. I love her to death. We hung out on my porch for a little while. “You guys are going to Abigail’s party tonight?” Katie asked us. “Oh yeah, I’d never give up an opportunity to pick up chicks,” said D.J.
“Man, you really gotta stop treating girls like that,” I told him, shaking my head. “Like what? I’m giving them what they want…. me!” he replied. Katie laughed, “D.J, it’s just not right, bro. You know?” I pleaded with him. “Jake, you need to get out there, man. You can’t wait your entire life for Abigail, bro. That reminds me…when I was talking to Victoria, she told me that a certain someone has a thing for you,” he said. “Who?” Katie and I said at the same time. D.J smirked slyly, you guys wouldn’t believe me if I told you.” “Who is it?” I demanded impatiently. “Dude, it’s Marsha. She’s the one,” he finally told us. “Oh, she’s very pretty. You should go out with her, Jake. She’s a nice girl,” said Katie. “You’re kidding! Marsha?” I replied. D.J nodded, “Yeah, bro. She’s had her eyes on you for a while now. She’s never given you a hint because of the whole school Hierarchy.” Abigail had two best friends, Victoria and Marsha. Their parents went to school together. Their parents are also rich like Abigail’s family. They’re the popular upper-class girls in our school. Guys like me went unnoticed. “Why me though? I asked. “You know who her ex-boyfriends are. Brad, Jeff, Matt, Kevin, they’re all a bunch of losers. They didn’t treat her right. You always have a certain respect for girls and she wants to date a nice guy,” he explained. “D.J, I might as well be invisible at school. I go unnoticed most of the time,” I told him. “You just need to loosen up, bro. I mean c’mon. Marsha’s a lot better than Jessie Brown,” he said flatly. Jessie Brown was the most ugliest girl in our school. She hates almost everybody with good reason. They’ve all made her life miserable. That is everyone but me. She developed a crush on me a few years ago. Even I have standards though. There’s no way that her and I would ever date. I just don’t have feelings for her. “True, Marsha has a lot of things that Jessie doesn’t,” I agreed. “Most of them are looks,” D.J replied. Katie laughed and playfully slapped D.J on the arm. “Darren, that was mean!” she laughed. “It was also true,” he said grinning. “I’m telling you, man. You should’ve treated her like a dog the way the rest of us did,” he told me. “That’s not my style, bro. You know that,” I replied. “She doesn’t count,” he countered. “Well, even though she doesn’t look or act it, she is still a human being,” I retorted. “That has yet to be determined,” he said. “You treat girls like objects and you’re telling me how I should treat them?” I countered. “They do it to us! ‘Darren, I’m cold, Darren, I’m hungry, Darren, rub my back,’ they try to wrap us around their fingers,” he replied. “Hey, I’m nothing like that!” said Katie. “You’re still young. Give it time,” D.J joked. Katie laughed and slapped him again. We got ready to go the party shortly after that. On the way over, D.J told me what his goal was for tonight. “Both of us are going to be surrounded by the hottest chicks there,” he said. “Yeah, ok.” I said sarcastically. “I’m telling you, man. Tonight is the night. You’ve gotta get your name out there, bro. You have Marsha waiting, I have Victoria waiting, we’ve already started,” he said smoothly. “Whoa, hold on. Who said I was going to make a move on Marsha tonight?” I replied. “Bro, you’d be stupid not to make a move on her,” he countered. “If I do anything with Marsha tonight, I’m just gonna get to know her,” I said flatly. “That’s the idea, Jake. You’re starting to catch on,” he replied. We arrived at Abigail’s place. She has a house like one you’d see on a soap opera. D.J rang the doorbell and Abigail let us in. “Hey guys, come in,” she beamed at us. She led us to where Victoria and Marsha were. There were a lot of kids that I didn’t recognized. They must have been from different schools. I caught Marsha’s eye and she smiled nervously. “Hello,” I said. “Hi, Jacob. How are you?” she replied. D.J escorted Victoria to the living room.
The girls on the couch made room for them. D.J said something looking at all of them and they giggled. “Abby tells me that you stood up to Pete Shaw today,” said Marsha. “Yeah, he was just being Pete,” I said. “Yes, Peter is an obnoxious little thing isn’t he?” Abigail chimed in. “I’m glad that you put Peter in his place,” she said. “No problem, he was way out of line,” I said. I could feel myself growing hot. “Yes, he has no idea what Ken and those guys go through,” said Abigail. “They’re all good guys too. Pete has no right to try to bully them,” said Marsha. I couldn’t believe my ears. I thought everyone feared the B.A.P. Abigail read the look on my face. “Ken and those guys saved my life a long time ago. I was walking home and the Blood Brotherhood tried to kidnap me. Ken and the guys came just in time. They’ve walked me home ever since,” she explained. “The B.A.P did that for you?” I asked astounded. “They’re really great guys. They’ll help out anybody as long as they deserve it,” she replied. “They helped me out today come to think of it,” I said offhandedly. “They did? When was this?” asked Marsha. “After school today, Pete tried to jump me. The B.A.P came before anything could happen though,” I told them. “They said that if he ever messed with me again to let them know,” I finished. “See? They’re good people. Everyone is afraid of them because they’re a gang and all gangs are supposedly bad. Not them though. I admire what they’re trying to do,” said Abigail. “What are they trying to do?” I asked. “They’re trying to save the city. We’re fortunate enough to live on the outskirts, but we’ve walked down the streets. The Blood Brotherhood and the Black Demons have raised so much chaos and destruction. It’s a nightmare that doesn’t end,” she answered. “Their intentions are good, but to save an entire city? That’s impossible,” I said skeptically. “At least they’re trying. I don’t see anyone else trying to put an end to the city’s suffering,” said Abigail. Before I could reply Victoria and D.J came back. “Abby, Ken’s waiting for you outside,” she told her. “Is he ok?” Abigail asked with concern. “Yeah, he’s fine. He said that he needs to talk to you immediately,” she replied. Abigail excused herself and Victoria and D.J went back on the couch. I watched the two of them for a few minutes. D.J was whispering in her ear while rubbing her neck with one hand. “I warned her about him. Now, she’ll have to find out the hard way,” said Marsha. “What?” I asked in an offhand voice. “We were at the homecoming dance. I was with Abby and Vicky when he approached all of us. Abby excused herself to go to the bathroom and dragged Vicky with her. He started to smooth talk me. It was weird…he made me feel like I was the only girl in the room,” she continued. “Then what happened?” I asked her. “We went to a party afterwards. He had his arm around me, whispering softly in my ear. I have very sensitive ears. Then, he started to rub my neck just like he’s doing with Vicky now. Soon, him and I were in the bedroom,” she said. “What did he do then?” I asked. “He took off his shirt, I took off mine then we started to kiss. One thing led to another and both of us took off our pants,” she told me. “Did you guys…I mean did he?” I started. “Yes, he slept with me. Then, he hung out with the other girls at the party and he slept with two other girls that same night,” she said. “I never really did like how D.J treated girls. Except for that fact, he’s actually a great guy,” I replied. “I thought he was…until he did that to me,” said Marsha. “What he did to you wasn’t right. If you want, I’ll make sure that it won’t happen to Victoria,” I offered. Marsha smiled at me, “That’s sweet of you but it won’t be necessary. Vicky will find out the hard way. She didn’t believe that Darren did that to me,” she said. “Why didn’t she believe you?” I asked. “She has a big crush on Darren,” she replied. “Who doesn’t?” I said annoyingly. “I don’t anymore,” she said. “So…who do you have a crush…for? I asked nervously. D.J’s words were still running through my head. Marsha turned red and smiled nervously. Before she could answer, Abigail returned. “Hey you guys, sorry to interrupt but Ken asked if he could speak to Jacob,” she said. “What does he want?” I asked. “You’ll have to talk to him. Come on, he’s in the office,” she replied. Abigail led us to the office and the B.A.P were sitting around the table. Ken was standing with his hands on the table. “How’s it going?” Ken greeted us. “Hey Ken, what’s up?” said Marsha. “A lot’s happening, babe. We have a situation,” he replied. “What’s wrong?” asked Marsha with concern. “Why don’t we all have a seat and I’ll explain what’s happening,” Ken suggested. We all sat down around him. “The Brotherhood has our backs against the wall. They’re moving closer to this area. They were last seen on Greenhill Street,” he began. “We’ve also been informed that they have a new member,” he said solemnly. “Who?” Marsha asked. “Her name’s Jessie Brown. They beat her in tonight,” he answered. “What do you mean by ‘beat her in’?” I asked. “When someone gets ‘beaten in’ a gang, it means that the entire gang surround you and just start beating on you,” he explained. “You mean that they hit her?” I asked in horror. “Repeatedly,” he replied. “That’s not right!” I said. “It gets worse. Earlier today, they sabotaged Principal Moresque’s car and pinned the blame on us. They scratched our logo on the car with a blade. We don’t carve our mark when claiming possessions or territory. We use spray paint, but that doesn’t mater to Moresque,” he explained. “Moresque and I aren’t friends by any means. He considers us nothing but low-life thugs. He won’t care if the mark was made by a blade instead of spray paint. He’s pressing charges against us,” he continued. “Ken, I’ll talk to him about it Monday. I’ll tell him to drop the charges and that the Blood Brotherhood are responsible,” said Abigail. “That won’t do us any good, Abby. No one can be our alibi,” said Ken shaking his head solemnly. “There’s more bad news,” he stated. “The Brotherhood attacked Jessie’s brother. They put a bag over his head and beat him pretty badly. They carved our mark into his skin. That’s why Jessie joined the Brotherhood. She wants revenge,” he finished. Abigail buried her hands in her face. Marsha put her arm around her. She too looked worried. “How did you find all of this out?” I asked. “We have someone keeping tabs on the Brotherhood. That’s another thing, they’re starting to suspect that someone’s watching them. He can’t keep doing this much longer,” said Ken. “There is some good news in light of all of this,” he added. “What’s the good news?” Marsha asked. “He provided us with some useful information that helped us plan a counter attack,” Ken replied. “What did he tell you?” Abigail asked. “That’s where our little friend comes in,” Ken told her looking at me. “Jessie has fallen in love with you,” he told me. I groaned in disgust. “I’m willing to bet my life that she’d tell you anything that you wanted to know. I’m also willing to bet that she’d believe anything that you told her,” he began. “I think I know where you’re going with this. If I were to talk to her on Monday, I could get her to admit that the Blood Brotherhood sabotaged the car and I could tell her who really jumped her brother,” I said. “Yeah, that’s half of it,” said Ken. “What’s the other half?” I asked confused. “If it were just the two things, then all you’d have to do is talk to her on Monday and clear our names, but there’s still one more thing that we need to know,” he explained. “What’s that?” I asked. “We need to know what the Brotherhood is doing around this area. They almost kidnapped Abby a few years ago. We never found out why they tried. Jessie won’t know about that. You need to talk Axel and find out what they’re planning,” he explained. “How am I supposed to do that? Axel’s not just going to tell me what they’re up to,” I stated. “I know that. That’s why you need to join the Brotherhood,” he replied. “Are you nuts? That’s suicide!” I refused. “It is dangerous, but it’ll get a lot worse if you don’t help us,” said Ken. “Jacob, please help them! What if they try to kidnap me again?” Abigail pleaded. I looked at Ken, then at Abigail and finally Marsha. I could see it in their eyes. They were begging me to help them. I was their only hope. If I refused and the Brotherhood kidnapped Abigail, it would be my fault. I couldn’t let that happen. “Alright, I’ll do it on one condition,” I replied. “What’s that?” asked Ken. “Look after my sister Katie,” I told him. “We will,” he answered. “Alright, so what’s the plan?” I asked. “Brian is a former Brotherhood member. He knows their signs and slang terms. He’ll teach you everything that you’ll need to know. We have a battle for a bit of territory in the center of the city with them. It would be nice to claim that area, but it’s not crucial. During the fight, you’ll get involved and blast me in the jaw. Then, you’ll pledge your loyalty to the Brotherhood. You’re going to need a back-story to explain why you hate us, so start thinking of one. If we play our cards right, they’ll beat you in,” he explained. “When you get in, start working on Jessie. It shouldn’t be hard. She’d probably tell you what size shoe they all wear if you asked her. You’re going to have to earn Axel’s trust before he’ll tell you anything. Once he’s convinced that you’d die before betraying the Brotherhood, he’ll tell you anything. After you get him to tell you his plans, let Jessie know who really jumped her brother. She’ll believe you over Axel,” he finished. “That’s good and all, but how do you plan on getting me out of the Brotherhood alive?” I asked. “Zack’s gonna meet you at Sapphire Hills Park every night at Midnight. When you’ve found out everything, just let him know that you’re ready to get out of there and he’ll take you back home,” he explained. “Jessie’s most likely going to confront Axel about the attack on her brother. If my name is dropped, he’ll probably kill me before I can get to the park,” I said concerned. “Save that task for last. Let Zack know that you’re planning on telling Jessie about her brother the next night. He’ll arrive earlier that night. That gives you an hour to tell her. If midnight comes and you’re not at the park on that night, we’re assuming you were killed in action. In fact, if there is one night that you don’t meet him in the park, we’re assuming that you were discovered and killed. He won’t return the next night, so make sure that you keep an eye on the clock,” he explained. I nodded in understandment. “Your training starts on Monday. Just stick with us after class,” Ken instructed. “Let’s get out of here,” he said. We all left the office. I found D.J and told him that we had to go now. He protested until I whispered a few choice words in his ear. He stared at me, and then said good-bye to the girls around him and we left.
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CHAPTER 1
What I didn’t tell them
The police officer asked me to tell my side of the story. There were some personal things that I left out, because they didn’t matter. I’ll never forget the day when all of this started. It was Friday during the first week of spring. Abigail Williams was throwing a party that night. D.J was given an invitation. He was allowed to bring a friend. I’ve had a crush on Abigail for years. She was smart, beautiful, and her parents were richer than dirt. She had long blonde hair, blue eyes, and silky smooth skin. She was the most popular girl in our grade. The thing that I really liked about her was that she wasn’t a stuck-up snob. I only had one class with her and it was English. Ken and Zach were also in our class. Everyone feared them because they were in a gang. There were three gangs in Back Alley. The B.A.P and the Blood Brotherhood were rivals. The third gang was the Black Demons. They were an all-black group. They were racist against whites and any colored guy that befriended them. Everyone in the B.A.P went to school. Only a few members from the Brotherhood were enrolled. None of the Black Demons went to school. If you were in a gang, everyone treated you like you had AIDS. Although the B.A.P never attacked civilians like the other two gangs. Anyway, we were all in English class. We were having an in-class discussion about violence on the streets. Usually, Ken and Zach didn’t say a word in class. Today, they had much to say on the topic. “It’s either kill or be killed on the streets. It’s been like that for years. When you have punks like the Brotherhood and the Black Demons out there, you gotta have eyes in the back of your head,” said Ken. “You guys are a gang too. You guys kill people and terrorize the streets,” said Pete Shaw. Ken and Zach glared at Pete. “Just because we’re in a gang, doesn’t mean that we’re thugs, Shaw. It’s people like you that need to have your skull kicked in,” Ken growled. “That proves my point! You’re threatening me!” yelled Pete as he leapt out of his chair. “Do you live on the streets?” Zach asked coldly. “No, I live in an actual house,” said Pete. “Then you have no idea what it’s like for guys like us,” Zach retorted. “That’s because I’m not a thug,” Pete sneered. “Sit down and be quiet, Peter. You have no idea what you’re talking about. Ken and Zach don’t have it as good as the rest of us, but they still deserve our respect,” said Abigail. This caught me off guard. I’d never expect Abigail to stick up for guys like Ken and Zach even though she was extremely nice to everybody. “Well you have it better than anyone in this entire school, Abigail. If you pity these guys so much, why don’t you let them live with you? I know that you have more than enough room,” retorted Pete. Abigail sank in her chair clearly embarrassed. “Shut up and leave her alone, Shaw. You’re nothing but a punk,” I replied. It just sort of came out of me. “Stay out of this, Miles. If you ever call me a punk again, I’ll smash your teeth in,” he said menacingly. “Hey, if you’re such a tough guy, why don’t you meet us on the street tonight? Unless, you’re nothing but a coward,” Ken challenged. Pete glanced over at him nervously. “I don’t deal with thugs,” he sneered. “You won’t deal with us, but you’ll belittle a girl and threaten guys like him. You’re pathetic,” said Zach softly. Pete’s face turned red and he sat down. The bell rang and the class scurried out of the room. I was getting my things together when Abigail approached me. “Thank you for sticking up for me, Jacob. Peter’s such a bully,” she thanked me. “Well…um…I…uh…yep,” I stammered. She was beaming at me.
“Are you coming to my party tonight?” She asked. I nodded and she smiled again. “Great, I’ll see you later then,” she said. Then she swiftly left the room. I grabbed my stuff and left shortly after. Pete was waiting by the door. He knocked my stuff out of my hands and shoved me against the wall. He was the class bully. A no good punk that nobody liked. I’m not much of a fighter. I’m not that strong or that aggressive. D.J’s pretty buff and he usually was around to back me up if I needed it. He wasn’t around right now. “Nobody around here to save you now, Miles. Why don’t you run your mouth to me now huh?” he sneered. “Hey, get off me!” I shouted. Everyone was watching, but no one came to my aid. “You’re not so tough now, are you?” He barked. “I’m going to beat you down,” he threatened. “Hey, get off him!” someone shouted. I thought it was D.J at first. To my surprise, it wasn’t D.J. It was Ken. The B.A.P stood side by side with him. Pete let go of me and backed up a couple inches. “That’s how its gonna be? Five on one huh?” said Pete. He had gone pale and his voice was slightly higher than it had been. “It doesn’t take five of us to take you on,” said Ken. “Now get out of here before someone gets hurt,” he continued in a dangerous voice. Pete glared at Ken, then hurriedly left the scene. Everyone else scattered back to their lockers. The B.A.P approached me. “Are you alright, kid?” Ken asked. My back was still against the wall. I nodded and tried to leave. Zach blocked my path. “Hey man, relax. We’re not gonna hurt you,” he told me gently. “We have a reputation, but we’re not like that. Everyone thinks we’re bloodthirsty thugs. They act like we’re the Disciples of the Apocalypse. We’re not punks like Pete Shaw. We’re better than that. All I want to say is that if he messes with you again, let us know and we’ll put a stop to it,” said Ken. I nodded again. Ken shook my hand and then they left. D.J clapped a hand on my shoulder when I got to my locker. I jumped a few feet. “Whoa, are you alright, Jake?” he asked. “Man, a lot happened this afternoon,” I told him. “What happened?” he asked. I told him about the classroom discussion, Abigail inviting me to her party, and the run-in with Pete. “You’re kidding! The B.A.P made the save?” he said in disbelief. “Yeah, then they said that if he bothered me again to let them know and they’d take care of it,” I told him. “Where were you, D.J? Usually, you have my back,” I said. “Sorry bro, I was talking to Victoria,” he said. “Abigail’s friend, Victoria?” I inquired. “Yeah, her. She wants me to hang out with her at the party,” he bragged. D.J had a reputation too. He was a ladies’ man. He’d have six or seven of them around his arms at once. The only thing that I didn’t like about that is that he’s also the world’s biggest player. He never would commit to just one girl. Sometimes, he’d have a one-night stand with one of these girls. Other than that, I have no problem with him. He’s like the brother that I never had. We arrived at my place. Katie was waiting for us on the porch. “Hey guys, what’s up?” she greeted us. “Katie, you’re not going to believe this,” I said. “What happened?” she asked. “Pete Shaw was belittling Abigail and Jake defended her honor,” D.J told her for me. “Really? Good for you, Jake.” She said. “That’s not all. Pete tried to jump Jake after class, but the B.A.P came to his rescue,” D.J continued. “Why did they get involved?” she asked. “I dunno. One minute, I’m against the wall all by myself. The next minute, the B.A.P drives Pete away,” I said. “Well, good for you anyway,” she said, smiling. Only D.J and Katie know about my crush on Abigail. For brother and sister, Katie and I get along great. I love her to death. We hung out on my porch for a little while. “You guys are going to Abigail’s party tonight?” Katie asked us. “Oh yeah, I’d never give up an opportunity to pick up chicks,” said D.J.
“Man, you really gotta stop treating girls like that,” I told him, shaking my head. “Like what? I’m giving them what they want…. me!” he replied. Katie laughed, “D.J, it’s just not right, bro. You know?” I pleaded with him. “Jake, you need to get out there, man. You can’t wait your entire life for Abigail, bro. That reminds me…when I was talking to Victoria, she told me that a certain someone has a thing for you,” he said. “Who?” Katie and I said at the same time. D.J smirked slyly, you guys wouldn’t believe me if I told you.” “Who is it?” I demanded impatiently. “Dude, it’s Marsha. She’s the one,” he finally told us. “Oh, she’s very pretty. You should go out with her, Jake. She’s a nice girl,” said Katie. “You’re kidding! Marsha?” I replied. D.J nodded, “Yeah, bro. She’s had her eyes on you for a while now. She’s never given you a hint because of the whole school Hierarchy.” Abigail had two best friends, Victoria and Marsha. Their parents went to school together. Their parents are also rich like Abigail’s family. They’re the popular upper-class girls in our school. Guys like me went unnoticed. “Why me though? I asked. “You know who her ex-boyfriends are. Brad, Jeff, Matt, Kevin, they’re all a bunch of losers. They didn’t treat her right. You always have a certain respect for girls and she wants to date a nice guy,” he explained. “D.J, I might as well be invisible at school. I go unnoticed most of the time,” I told him. “You just need to loosen up, bro. I mean c’mon. Marsha’s a lot better than Jessie Brown,” he said flatly. Jessie Brown was the most ugliest girl in our school. She hates almost everybody with good reason. They’ve all made her life miserable. That is everyone but me. She developed a crush on me a few years ago. Even I have standards though. There’s no way that her and I would ever date. I just don’t have feelings for her. “True, Marsha has a lot of things that Jessie doesn’t,” I agreed. “Most of them are looks,” D.J replied. Katie laughed and playfully slapped D.J on the arm. “Darren, that was mean!” she laughed. “It was also true,” he said grinning. “I’m telling you, man. You should’ve treated her like a dog the way the rest of us did,” he told me. “That’s not my style, bro. You know that,” I replied. “She doesn’t count,” he countered. “Well, even though she doesn’t look or act it, she is still a human being,” I retorted. “That has yet to be determined,” he said. “You treat girls like objects and you’re telling me how I should treat them?” I countered. “They do it to us! ‘Darren, I’m cold, Darren, I’m hungry, Darren, rub my back,’ they try to wrap us around their fingers,” he replied. “Hey, I’m nothing like that!” said Katie. “You’re still young. Give it time,” D.J joked. Katie laughed and slapped him again. We got ready to go the party shortly after that. On the way over, D.J told me what his goal was for tonight. “Both of us are going to be surrounded by the hottest chicks there,” he said. “Yeah, ok.” I said sarcastically. “I’m telling you, man. Tonight is the night. You’ve gotta get your name out there, bro. You have Marsha waiting, I have Victoria waiting, we’ve already started,” he said smoothly. “Whoa, hold on. Who said I was going to make a move on Marsha tonight?” I replied. “Bro, you’d be stupid not to make a move on her,” he countered. “If I do anything with Marsha tonight, I’m just gonna get to know her,” I said flatly. “That’s the idea, Jake. You’re starting to catch on,” he replied. We arrived at Abigail’s place. She has a house like one you’d see on a soap opera. D.J rang the doorbell and Abigail let us in. “Hey guys, come in,” she beamed at us. She led us to where Victoria and Marsha were. There were a lot of kids that I didn’t recognized. They must have been from different schools. I caught Marsha’s eye and she smiled nervously. “Hello,” I said. “Hi, Jacob. How are you?” she replied. D.J escorted Victoria to the living room.
The girls on the couch made room for them. D.J said something looking at all of them and they giggled. “Abby tells me that you stood up to Pete Shaw today,” said Marsha. “Yeah, he was just being Pete,” I said. “Yes, Peter is an obnoxious little thing isn’t he?” Abigail chimed in. “I’m glad that you put Peter in his place,” she said. “No problem, he was way out of line,” I said. I could feel myself growing hot. “Yes, he has no idea what Ken and those guys go through,” said Abigail. “They’re all good guys too. Pete has no right to try to bully them,” said Marsha. I couldn’t believe my ears. I thought everyone feared the B.A.P. Abigail read the look on my face. “Ken and those guys saved my life a long time ago. I was walking home and the Blood Brotherhood tried to kidnap me. Ken and the guys came just in time. They’ve walked me home ever since,” she explained. “The B.A.P did that for you?” I asked astounded. “They’re really great guys. They’ll help out anybody as long as they deserve it,” she replied. “They helped me out today come to think of it,” I said offhandedly. “They did? When was this?” asked Marsha. “After school today, Pete tried to jump me. The B.A.P came before anything could happen though,” I told them. “They said that if he ever messed with me again to let them know,” I finished. “See? They’re good people. Everyone is afraid of them because they’re a gang and all gangs are supposedly bad. Not them though. I admire what they’re trying to do,” said Abigail. “What are they trying to do?” I asked. “They’re trying to save the city. We’re fortunate enough to live on the outskirts, but we’ve walked down the streets. The Blood Brotherhood and the Black Demons have raised so much chaos and destruction. It’s a nightmare that doesn’t end,” she answered. “Their intentions are good, but to save an entire city? That’s impossible,” I said skeptically. “At least they’re trying. I don’t see anyone else trying to put an end to the city’s suffering,” said Abigail. Before I could reply Victoria and D.J came back. “Abby, Ken’s waiting for you outside,” she told her. “Is he ok?” Abigail asked with concern. “Yeah, he’s fine. He said that he needs to talk to you immediately,” she replied. Abigail excused herself and Victoria and D.J went back on the couch. I watched the two of them for a few minutes. D.J was whispering in her ear while rubbing her neck with one hand. “I warned her about him. Now, she’ll have to find out the hard way,” said Marsha. “What?” I asked in an offhand voice. “We were at the homecoming dance. I was with Abby and Vicky when he approached all of us. Abby excused herself to go to the bathroom and dragged Vicky with her. He started to smooth talk me. It was weird…he made me feel like I was the only girl in the room,” she continued. “Then what happened?” I asked her. “We went to a party afterwards. He had his arm around me, whispering softly in my ear. I have very sensitive ears. Then, he started to rub my neck just like he’s doing with Vicky now. Soon, him and I were in the bedroom,” she said. “What did he do then?” I asked. “He took off his shirt, I took off mine then we started to kiss. One thing led to another and both of us took off our pants,” she told me. “Did you guys…I mean did he?” I started. “Yes, he slept with me. Then, he hung out with the other girls at the party and he slept with two other girls that same night,” she said. “I never really did like how D.J treated girls. Except for that fact, he’s actually a great guy,” I replied. “I thought he was…until he did that to me,” said Marsha. “What he did to you wasn’t right. If you want, I’ll make sure that it won’t happen to Victoria,” I offered. Marsha smiled at me, “That’s sweet of you but it won’t be necessary. Vicky will find out the hard way. She didn’t believe that Darren did that to me,” she said. “Why didn’t she believe you?” I asked. “She has a big crush on Darren,” she replied. “Who doesn’t?” I said annoyingly. “I don’t anymore,” she said. “So…who do you have a crush…for? I asked nervously. D.J’s words were still running through my head. Marsha turned red and smiled nervously. Before she could answer, Abigail returned. “Hey you guys, sorry to interrupt but Ken asked if he could speak to Jacob,” she said. “What does he want?” I asked. “You’ll have to talk to him. Come on, he’s in the office,” she replied. Abigail led us to the office and the B.A.P were sitting around the table. Ken was standing with his hands on the table. “How’s it going?” Ken greeted us. “Hey Ken, what’s up?” said Marsha. “A lot’s happening, babe. We have a situation,” he replied. “What’s wrong?” asked Marsha with concern. “Why don’t we all have a seat and I’ll explain what’s happening,” Ken suggested. We all sat down around him. “The Brotherhood has our backs against the wall. They’re moving closer to this area. They were last seen on Greenhill Street,” he began. “We’ve also been informed that they have a new member,” he said solemnly. “Who?” Marsha asked. “Her name’s Jessie Brown. They beat her in tonight,” he answered. “What do you mean by ‘beat her in’?” I asked. “When someone gets ‘beaten in’ a gang, it means that the entire gang surround you and just start beating on you,” he explained. “You mean that they hit her?” I asked in horror. “Repeatedly,” he replied. “That’s not right!” I said. “It gets worse. Earlier today, they sabotaged Principal Moresque’s car and pinned the blame on us. They scratched our logo on the car with a blade. We don’t carve our mark when claiming possessions or territory. We use spray paint, but that doesn’t mater to Moresque,” he explained. “Moresque and I aren’t friends by any means. He considers us nothing but low-life thugs. He won’t care if the mark was made by a blade instead of spray paint. He’s pressing charges against us,” he continued. “Ken, I’ll talk to him about it Monday. I’ll tell him to drop the charges and that the Blood Brotherhood are responsible,” said Abigail. “That won’t do us any good, Abby. No one can be our alibi,” said Ken shaking his head solemnly. “There’s more bad news,” he stated. “The Brotherhood attacked Jessie’s brother. They put a bag over his head and beat him pretty badly. They carved our mark into his skin. That’s why Jessie joined the Brotherhood. She wants revenge,” he finished. Abigail buried her hands in her face. Marsha put her arm around her. She too looked worried. “How did you find all of this out?” I asked. “We have someone keeping tabs on the Brotherhood. That’s another thing, they’re starting to suspect that someone’s watching them. He can’t keep doing this much longer,” said Ken. “There is some good news in light of all of this,” he added. “What’s the good news?” Marsha asked. “He provided us with some useful information that helped us plan a counter attack,” Ken replied. “What did he tell you?” Abigail asked. “That’s where our little friend comes in,” Ken told her looking at me. “Jessie has fallen in love with you,” he told me. I groaned in disgust. “I’m willing to bet my life that she’d tell you anything that you wanted to know. I’m also willing to bet that she’d believe anything that you told her,” he began. “I think I know where you’re going with this. If I were to talk to her on Monday, I could get her to admit that the Blood Brotherhood sabotaged the car and I could tell her who really jumped her brother,” I said. “Yeah, that’s half of it,” said Ken. “What’s the other half?” I asked confused. “If it were just the two things, then all you’d have to do is talk to her on Monday and clear our names, but there’s still one more thing that we need to know,” he explained. “What’s that?” I asked. “We need to know what the Brotherhood is doing around this area. They almost kidnapped Abby a few years ago. We never found out why they tried. Jessie won’t know about that. You need to talk Axel and find out what they’re planning,” he explained. “How am I supposed to do that? Axel’s not just going to tell me what they’re up to,” I stated. “I know that. That’s why you need to join the Brotherhood,” he replied. “Are you nuts? That’s suicide!” I refused. “It is dangerous, but it’ll get a lot worse if you don’t help us,” said Ken. “Jacob, please help them! What if they try to kidnap me again?” Abigail pleaded. I looked at Ken, then at Abigail and finally Marsha. I could see it in their eyes. They were begging me to help them. I was their only hope. If I refused and the Brotherhood kidnapped Abigail, it would be my fault. I couldn’t let that happen. “Alright, I’ll do it on one condition,” I replied. “What’s that?” asked Ken. “Look after my sister Katie,” I told him. “We will,” he answered. “Alright, so what’s the plan?” I asked. “Brian is a former Brotherhood member. He knows their signs and slang terms. He’ll teach you everything that you’ll need to know. We have a battle for a bit of territory in the center of the city with them. It would be nice to claim that area, but it’s not crucial. During the fight, you’ll get involved and blast me in the jaw. Then, you’ll pledge your loyalty to the Brotherhood. You’re going to need a back-story to explain why you hate us, so start thinking of one. If we play our cards right, they’ll beat you in,” he explained. “When you get in, start working on Jessie. It shouldn’t be hard. She’d probably tell you what size shoe they all wear if you asked her. You’re going to have to earn Axel’s trust before he’ll tell you anything. Once he’s convinced that you’d die before betraying the Brotherhood, he’ll tell you anything. After you get him to tell you his plans, let Jessie know who really jumped her brother. She’ll believe you over Axel,” he finished. “That’s good and all, but how do you plan on getting me out of the Brotherhood alive?” I asked. “Zack’s gonna meet you at Sapphire Hills Park every night at Midnight. When you’ve found out everything, just let him know that you’re ready to get out of there and he’ll take you back home,” he explained. “Jessie’s most likely going to confront Axel about the attack on her brother. If my name is dropped, he’ll probably kill me before I can get to the park,” I said concerned. “Save that task for last. Let Zack know that you’re planning on telling Jessie about her brother the next night. He’ll arrive earlier that night. That gives you an hour to tell her. If midnight comes and you’re not at the park on that night, we’re assuming you were killed in action. In fact, if there is one night that you don’t meet him in the park, we’re assuming that you were discovered and killed. He won’t return the next night, so make sure that you keep an eye on the clock,” he explained. I nodded in understandment. “Your training starts on Monday. Just stick with us after class,” Ken instructed. “Let’s get out of here,” he said. We all left the office. I found D.J and told him that we had to go now. He protested until I whispered a few choice words in his ear. He stared at me, and then said good-bye to the girls around him and we left.
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