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Chapter Text

The blue covers on the agencies chairs never fails to make Jinx uncomfortable. The bright blue material was itchy against her legs and peeled back to reveal white padding with yellow spots.

She swung her legs whilst waiting for her social worker to return to her office. She was 17 years old and over the last 11 years she had probably spent half of her time in this square room. The walls were painted millennial grey, and the wooden desk was crowded with paperwork of forgotten children. There was a square window opposite the door, but it was dark outside. Her only entertainment being the slow ticking clock above the door.

It is currently 12:32, and jinx had just been removed from her last foster home. She had forgotten to take her schizophrenic medication and had woken up to the ghosts of her past surrounding her, it had became violent and she was deemed ‘too dangerous’ to stay in her current, well now previous placement. She didn't know why they were still trying to find her a place to stay, surely, they knew she Jinx's everything, sooner or later she always ruins everything. Anyway, she only had just under a year in the system till she ages out, and she didn't plan on staying alive once she left.

Just as her train of thoughts were about to spiral the office door opened and Melanie, her social worker came in. She was a short, plump woman and jinx’s opinion too pure for this world. Her colourful outfits were a refreshing contrast the dull grey office and her positive outlook on life was naive but refreshing. She always supported her and Vi, and despite never fully trusting woman she knew the woman only wanted what's best for her.

Jinx watched Melanie quickly glanced at her never-ending paperwork before sitting behind her desk, “how are you feeling dear, did you want any more water?”

In all honesty jinx felt like shit. These last few hours have been mentally and physically draining. Packing up her life into a suitcase in a matter of hours has never an easy task, however at this point it came naturally “I'm fine”. She knew she was being blunt but at this point she couldn't bring herself to care.

“Right, well good news! I found you somewhere to stay for the forseable future it is a group home, and you will be one of five children. The couple that owns the house have worked with our organisation for years and recently had a space open as a child aged out. Children's ages range from 13 to 17 so you will be like big sister to them, how exciting!”

Jinxed at her with a blank face. Was she serious right now, jinx was going to age out in a year, she was currently moving placements again and she was supposed to be excited at living in a crowded house!!!

“However, due to your, excessive history we've had to look a bit further afield. They live about two hours away- “

No

“How am I supposed to visit Vi? No-one would be able to drive me, it's too far away!” At this point how weekly visits with Vi with the only thing keeping her going, she couldn't bear imagine what the look on her sister's face would be if she doesn't walk in one week only for her sister to discover she's dead.

“I understand this is upsetting news, but no one else can take you. Think of this as an opportunity, a fresh start! You will be in a new placement, in a different part of Zaun. You will be at a new school where no one will know you. This could be really good for you” jinx watched Melanie’s mouth continue moving but she couldn't hear anything, she felt like she was in some cruel sick twisted dream and was wishing she could wake up. Why her? She couldn't leave Vi, she couldn't survive without her sister, there is no way this is happening. It must be a sick dream.

“Jinx, are you listening to me?” Jinx looks up at Melanie, then to the clock. It was 1:22, shit she must have zoned out for a while. Melanie sighed, then reached for jinx’s hand and said “Look, I understand this is a lot to take in, it's a massive adjustment and you haven't had any time to process it. You will still be able to call Vi and you know she has a court date coming up, if you're lucky she could be out in 10 months. The couple are driving here as we speak and should be here in an hour.”

Jinx life was crumbling beneath her, and she couldn't do anything to stop it. She felt just as helpless as the day she had watched the enforces drag Vi off to juvie. Screaming and begging for her sister to come back to her.

“I have already sorted out the paperwork for the school transfers. Their school term has just started but don't worry, I know how smart you are, so I doubt you have fallen behind. I know you didn't get along well with your classmates but try and make this work Jinx’s. This could be an amazing opportunity for you”

“I... but...” Jinx didn't know what to say, there was nothing she could say. She felt empty, she was in shock. She wanted to cry and scream but also kick and punch everything that has ever wronged her.

“They will be here soon, I'll give you space to gather your belongings, if you need anything give me a shout” Melanie got out of her chair and gave jinx a sympathetic glance as she left the room.

Jinx curled her knees to her chest and sat there for what felt like forever, looking back and forth whilst humming a tune her mother would sing to her when she was little. All her belongings were in the little black rucksack to her right to, it was now just a waiting game. At precisely 2:30 jinx saw a light outside, one that could have only been created by a car. She knew they had arrived to get her, but she couldn't move. This was her home, sure she had lived in different houses, but the market was the same one she had visited with her parents, the school was the same one Vi had been to. It was where her parents were buried and Vi’s juvie location. Knowing their presence lurked here was what made it feel like home, and now she was going into unknown territory. She wasn't excited, she was angry and scared!

Just then that was a knock on the door, it was Melanie, again. In what jinx could only guess was an attempt to sound cheerful, she said "There here now sweetie. Grab you're belongings, its time for a new beginning" but it came out sorrowful, and sad. She knew Melanie probably felt bad, after all she was practically sending a lamb to her slaughter. The woman motioned for Jinx to follow her, feeling numb as she grabbed her bag from by her chair and made her way out of the room. Before leaving it she gave it one last look. She wasn't sure if she would ever see it again, it was a bittersweet moment. So many horrible memories had been made in that room, yet so had so many happy ones too.

They walked in silence towards the main reception. The tension in the air was so thick it could have been cut with a knife.

Main reception was decorated in the same bland style as the office. The anomaly was the couple sitting on the grey sofa. From what Jinx could make out the woman was in her mid 40's, she had blonde hair and wore a grey maxi skirt with a white button up blouse. She had a lean build with a kind long face. The man seemed to be in  his late 40's or early 50's, his hair was brown with some grey hair starting to show through. He wore blue jeans and a stained white top. Jinx just stared at them, watching how they reacted to her.

Finally Melanie broke the silence "Thankyou for making it here so fast, I understand this must have all been rather last-minute and unexpected". Jinx watched the couple chuckle before the woman responded "I guess it was, although it's nothing we cant handle" The woman then turned to face Jinx "I'm Aubrey, and this is my husband John". If they expected a reply, they weren't getting one. After an awkward pause, Melanie replied for her, "This is Jinx, I know we have spoken a bit about her on the phone but please don't hesitate to ask her anything else. She's usually a lot more chatty, Id assume she is just tired. I believe everything else is in order"

Melanie then turned to face Jinx one last time and said “Please try and make this work, I know it may be hard at first but I'm just a phone call away, so is Vi. This is an amazing opportunity, don't let it go to waste” She placed a hand on Jinx’s shoulder but Jinx couldn't move or speak, it all happened so fast. In 24 hours her life has completely changed, she hasn't even told Vi she is moving. When is the next time she will get to hug Vi, what if she forgets what she looks like!

As her thoughts were beginning to spiral she saw John grab her bag for her, his voice was deep and reassuring “I’ll put your bag in the car, we will wait there. I understand this is a big change”. He then gestured for Aubrey's hand, which she took, and they walked into the gaping dark outside.

“Are you sure there is nowhere else I can go? Did you check-" Melanie quickly interrupted her, her face a mix of pity and slight annoyance "I checked everywhere, this is your only option Jinx, and running away won't do anything but make the situation worse.” “I wasn't going-” “You forget how long I've known you Jinx, now you can't stand here all night. They are good people, just give them a chance ” 

Jinx felt Melanie's hand leave her shoulder, then watched her walk away. She saw her head back towards her office. Jinx knew it was for the best, otherwise she would have probably stood there for the rest of the night. But the world isn't going to stop moving just because she had another shitty night. So she gathered up the last of her strength and walked outside.

The cold air hit her like a brick. It was eerie quite outside the agency, on most nights she would hear the enforcers sirens blasting through the city, the loud music from clubs, or shouts from teenagers causing havoc. But now it was peaceful, a moment of calm before the chaos.

Jinx wrapped her arms around herself and walked along the side of the building to reach the car, which was parked at the far left of the car park. Despite the dark she still tried to take in her surroundings. She had a bad feeling she wouldn't be back here in a very long time. She didn't trust the couple, but she knew she had no other choice. Once she reached the car park she realised it was less of a car and more of a minivan. It was a sandy yellow 2014 Ssangyong 7 seater. She watched John and Aubrey talk inside the car as she came up behind it. She took in her surroundings one last time, then got in the car.

The conversation stopped as she closed the car door and did up her seat belt. The only noise being the gentle lull of the car’s heater. Jinx watched Aubrey look at her husband, then at Jinx as she said "We understand you've been through a lot tonight, and if you don't want to speak to us that's fine, just know we're here if you need to talk". Jinx nodded in response and looked out the car window, since it was still dark outside she could only see her reflection. As the car started to pull out of the agency carpark she leaned her head against the window, her breath started to smudge the window so she could doodle designs on it. She sees John turn on the radio out of the corner of her eye and the song California Dreaming comes on.

The further away from her home they drive the more frequently Aubrey turns around to check that Jinx is still doing ok, like she expects her to try and jump out of the car. Some faith! After a while she stops guessing where they are, it only hurts her more. Questions like have we gone past the graveyard? Have we gone past Vi's juvie centre? Have we gone past my old house, school, playground etc linger in in the back of her mind, screaming to get out. She closes her eyes and pretends to be asleep, hoping it will quite her mind and stop fucking Aubrey from constantly looking at her! However she must have underestimated how tired she was as within minutes she was fast asleep.

When Jinx woke up the first thing she noticed was how sore her neck was, then that she was in a car and not her bed, then however the events of that evening/early morning came back to her. The pain, the move, the new life. She had really hoped it was all a bad dream. She sat up and looked at the digital car clock, it was 4:28. 

"Welcome back to the land of the living" she was going to make a sarcastic remark back before she remembered Melanie's begging. Then John continued speaking "Were about half an hour away so I thought id give you a run down of everything that's going to happen. I'm not sure what Mel has told you or how much you remember but I'm John and my wife Aubrey is the one asleep in the other front seat, we have been married for nineteen years and have been fostering for the last thirteen. We currently have four other foster children, Zach and Zoe are twins and are both 13, Esme is 15 and Finn is 17, same as you. The twins share a room, Finn has his own room and we have just finished halfling Esme's room into two rooms because there all getting older and need more privacy. We only have you're room left to decorate so I thought on Sunday you could come with me to pick decorations and get to know you're way around town a bit?"

Jinx nodded in response, she could tell they were trying to make an effort with her so she could at least be cordial till she decided if they had the green flag. Then she remembered the golden question to the place she hated the most "When do I start school?" She hated school, the girls in her old class were always idiots begging for the boys attention, and when the teachers managed to actually teach it was all stuff she already knew! It also didn't help that no-one at her old school liked her much, apparently stuck up idiots and geniuses who aren't afraid to humble said stuck up idiots don't go hand in hand. Who would have guessed.

 "You start on Monday so you still have Saturday and Sunday, though I guess you'll probably sleep all of today" He was right there, Jinx had only had an hour of sleep before her episode so the last time she got proper sleep must have been Thursday. "you have been enrolled at 'Vander's School for Gifted Youngster's', they officially started last week but I doubt you've missed much"

She stayed awake for the rest of the drive, although her and John didn't speak again. She was trying to grasp her surroundings when they drove and pulled into the garage. From what she saw of the house it seemed to be a townhouse, maybe 3 floors, with houses on either side of it. It was made from brick and had a small front garden next to the driveway that led to the garage. It seemed that the arrival had woken Aubrey up as she said "It's still early morning so we won't give you the house tour just yet, but so you have a rough idea the kitchen, lounge and garage are on the ground floor, the twins, Esme's and your room are on the first floor and our room and Finn's room are on the second floor. your room isn't-" "honey I already gave her the rundown, don't worry"

Jinx undid her seatbelt and got out of the car. John was holding her bag and told her, "we will show you to your room, you can unpack in the morning, just try and sleep for now. If you need anything our room is on the floor above yours". 

The house was nice for Zaun standards, it certainly wasn't anything as grand as Piltover but compared to the outskirt, drug and gang ridden part that she was from this was very different. She couldn't see much of it in the dark but they reached her room after going up the first flight of stairs. The couple showed her to her room, it was small but cosy. It was certainly more than any other foster placement had ever offered her. As she walked into her new room the wardrobe was pushed against the left wall, next to the wardrobe was her desk. The wall opposite was plain, she would have to change that, and on the wall to the right was her bed, above that was a window that overlooked the front garden. 

Jinx dropped her bag in the middle of the room and quickly changed out of her day clothes. After everything that had happened she just wanted to go to sleep and forget all her worries for the next few hours. She imagined she was back home with Vi, laughing and joking, instead of being trapped in this unknown house, with people who she didn't know or trust. Thankfully, she managed to fall asleep quickly, dreading the introductions, deep talks, and all the other bullshit she would have to deal with once she woke up.

Chapter Text

Fish and chips was one of Zaun's signature dishes, it was simple to make and the ingredients were always easy to collect. The river running through Zaun carried an endless supply of fish, and potatoes were a household staple. They were easy to grow and had appeared on their tables as rations after the war and never seemed to leave, except now it was in the form of chips. Which is why it was no surprise to Jinx to be woken up at 6:24pm by the smell of beer battered cod.

She didn't want to open her eyes. If she did that meant she was accepting whatever life she was expected to now live, someone would walk by her room and see her awake, meaning she would have to go downstairs. Meet the family, and play happy house till she turns 18, then be booted out of the system and have all her support systems taken away from her because she would be a 'legal adult'. Such bullshit!

However if she kept her eyes closed she could pretend to be asleep for at least another few hours, or maybe she could convince them that she had slipped into a coma. Yes! Then she could stay in bed all day, they may even let Vi out of Juvie to visit her. However much she hated this sudden, stupid, unplanned change in her life, laying on this bed whilst the last bits of sunlight streamed over her body and face, was a rather peaceful feeling. She wondered what the sunsets looked like here, back home they still had lots of smoke lingering in the air from the factories and mines, so the sun would only shine at midday, sunsets or sunrises were a rare occurrence.

She wondered if they even got sunsets here, she doesn't even know where she is. On the drive here it was dark outside so all she could see was her reflection in the window. The house was definitely nicer than most of the ones back home, the car ride had taken about 2 hours. If she were to guess she would say she was at the northern end of Zaun. From what she had heard people here usually did better than those living down south, something about stable jobs instead of drug deals and a better education system.

Just then she heard a door open. Janna, what would she say to the other people in this house? It wasn't like she could walk up to the kid's and go "Hi I'm Jinx, nice to meet you, quick warning everyone near me dies or has bad things happen to them, I've just been removed from my last home for a 'dangerous outburst' and I'm probably going to die soon". She frankly didn't care about them, all of her past foster placements had been terrible without Vi so she doubted this one would be any different.

Just then she heard the sound of feet slowly walking along the creaky wooden floors, whoever it was, was obviously trying to be sneaky and failing terribly. She turned to face the window, hoping to get back to sleep and who-ever was outside would go away. Unfortunately, luck wasn't always on her side and a slow creaking noise filled the room, she assumed it came from the door. Jinx could feel herself being watched, then she heard two voices start to whisper.

"I don't think she's awake, see her eyes are closed" A girl's voice was recognisable, still rather young. It must have been one of the twins. "Just because her eyes are closed doesn't mean she's asleep idiot! See, she's breathing too deep to be asleep" this time the voice came from a boy, Jinx assumed it was the other twin, or the 17 year old still hadn't gone through puberty. She should really try and remember their names. "That's so stupid, you can't tell if someone is asleep by their breath!" "can too, you're just stupid", their whispering was becoming louder as the argument escalated. However Jinx still pretended to be asleep, telling herself 'not my circus, not my monkeys'.

Heavy footsteps then began climbing up the stairs, ones she could only assume belonged to John. However from the sound of things the twins were so caught up in their own argument that they hadn't heard him slowly start to creep up behind them. If she wasn't pretending to be asleep she would probably find the situation quite funny.

"I thought we told you troublemakers to stay out of here and give her some room, don't you remember what it was like when you both first came here" the boy, who jinx guessed was the more confident one of the two spoke up "we just wanted to meet her, she's been here for hourssss. And it's not like she's asleep, she's awake!" "It doesn't matter if she's awake, it matters that you give her privacy and space, dinner is about to be ready. Go downstairs and help lay the table" the boy didn't seem to want to go down without a fight "But that's not- " "downstairs, now". Whatever look John gave the twins must have made them leave the room as in a matter of seconds there was a shuffling of feet leading towards the door.

"I'm sorry about them, if we could install locks on your doors we would but it's against guidelines". Mabey if I ignore him he will go away "It would be good if you could join us though, the younger ones have been asking about you all day, especially Esme and Zoe, there both so excited for another girl to be in the house" she wanted to curl up into a ball and sink into the floor, but Vi had always told her not to ignore her problems, and she would need to meet them at some point. "Is it fish and chips? I can smell it" "Yeah, it's Esme's favourite, I think you probably want to get showered and changed before dinner. We didn't know if you had any other clothes with you so we sent Esme to get you some, they are folded by your towel in the bathroom. The girls bathroom is at the end of the hall, dinner should be ready in about 10 minutes".

Jinx waited for him to leave the room before getting out of bed. Now that she could see her room in daylight she could get a better grasp of it, her desk and wardrobe were made out of wood, it was a few tones lighter than the wooden flooring she was standing on. She would definitely need to get a rug tomorrow. The walls had all been painted white apart from the one her desk and wardrobe were standing against. It was still plaster boarded, like the wall had been put up recently. That must be what John had meant when he said they had split Esme's room in half. Her bedding was white too, when they said they hadn't decorated this room they had meant it.

Jinx made a mental note to unpack her bag and plan out how she would want her room to look like when she went shopping tomorrow. She wasn't very keen on the idea of looking at different paint samples but she had never had her own room before, let alone one she could decorate however she wanted. Maybe she should paint the walls black.

Leaving her bedroom she came onto the landing/corridor, it was rather narrow and was painted a deep forest green, photos of that she could only assume were past or current placements hung on the walls. True to his word the bathroom was at the end of the corridor, white tiles covered the floor and came halfway up the walls, the upper half of the walls and the ceiling were painted baby pink. The shower, sink and toilet were all white, on the sink was a pot with two toothbrushes in it, she needed to add her to that later. However it was just another reminder of how she was no longer home and had moved again, this time far away. On the other side of the sink was a fluffy white towel she could only assume was hers, because on top of it was a pile of clothes and a hairbrush with hair bands.

She got out of her clothes and got into the shower, putting the temperature as high as possible. She had always loved warm water, there was something so soothing about it, how it constantly surrounded you with warmth. Stepping under the shower she let the water get in her hair for her to wash it. Her hair just reached her waist, whenever it got any longer she was always made to cut it, but maybe now she could finally grow it to her knees, or maybe even the floor, fuck it ill have hair as long as Rapunzel. The water cascaded down her shoulders and she felt the worry and weight of the last 24 hours start to wash away.

Only when white steam filled up most of the room did she get out of the shower. Her hair was not washed and she now had the long process of waiting for it to dry. Looking down at the sink she saw the outfit Esme had chosen for her. There was a pair of black fluffy socks, dark blue joggers, black vest and a black oversized hoodie. Jinx had her own underwear. It wasn't her usual fashion style but the girl could have definitely picked something worse. She quickly got the outfit on, brushed out her hair and put it in a plate, and made her way downstairs.

After opening the door to the garage, lounge and downstairs bathroom, Jinx managed to find the kitchen. The house wasn't big by any means, it just had so many doors! She held her breath before she entered the room, for the first time in a while she was willing to admit she was scared. Usually she would meet the new foster siblings before or had a meeting with the household but she felt like she had been thrown in the deep end, she was about to turn around when the kitchen door swung open revealing Aubrey. "Oh Jinx dear, good you're awake. I was about to call everyone to the table, you can take a seat by the orange cup. Kid's Dinner's Ready".

John was already sitting at the table, sitting at her place at the table Jinx watched two kids bound into the room. They both had dirty brown hair and big puppy dog eyes, if it weren't for their nickname of 'troublemakers' you may believe they were the most innocent things in the world. They were both already in their pyjamas, if Jinx knew that was an option she would have gotten straight into hers too. The girl, who Jinx thinks is called Zoe sat in-between her and John, Zach sat opposite his sister. Next was a girl with blue eyes and curly blonde hair, the girl smiled at Jinx before taking her seat opposite her. She assumed this girl was Esme. Finally a tall boy came in, he had black hair and despite being underage had some tattoos showing under the neckline of his top. He took a seat next to Esme and didn't say a word. She thinks she remembers them saying the boy her age was called Finn.

Finally Aubrey sat at the opposite end of the table to her husband and said "As you all know we got a new placement last night, this is Jinx. I'm sure you all remember what it was like when you first arrived here so please treat her like you would have wanted to be treated" And John added "Now lets tuck in before it goes cold"

Jinx looked down at her plate. She hadn't had a proper home cooked meal in years, all of her prior placements would give her a microwavable meal and call it a day. Once she's taken her first bite she looks to her right and sees the twins practically shaking with excitement, she could only guess how many questions they would have, she had a feeling this was going to be a very long dinner. It was after her fifth mouthful that Zach asked the first question "so...do you have a boyfriend". Jinx nearly choked on her food then and there, what happened to what's your favorite colour, or animal. His sister hit him and said "you can't ask her that!" Jinx found it rather comical, "no, I've never had one, do you?" That question caused the boy to go bright red, before he could ask anything else Esme started asking her about her hobbies and interests.

It had only been half an hour but Jinx felt like she was in an interrogation. Zach and Esme took turns asking her questions whilst Finn sat there, he hadn't said anything except 'pass the salt'. Finally Zoe asked her first question "Do you have any siblings? Like me and Zach are twins". She froze, she didn't know how to answer this. She did and Vi would always be her sister, she would always be with her sister no matter what but their situation was so complicated she didn't know what to say. Shit! She was meant to call Vi and tell her about the move.

Thankfully John picked up on her reaction as he went "Why don't you tell Jinx what school is like, she will be going to the same one as you." Jinx looked around the table, Esme started to talk about her year, and how much work she got but she couldn't shake the feeling something was wrong, this entire dinner Finn had watched her like a hawk stalking its prey the entire time. Jinx just continued to nod to whatever Esme was saying, at this point she just wanted to get back to bed.

Thankfully dinner ended not long after that and Jinx went straight back to her room. She didn't even bother unpacking, she just got out of her clothes, into her pyjamas and climbed under the covers. At least she had gotten the awkward first introductions out of the way, she was starting to look forward to tomorrow. Mabey once she had decorated her room she would feel safer here, yeah, it must just be superstition. She wondered if there was a good pawn shop nearby she could get some decorations from. Thankfully, much like last night, sleep found her quickly.

Chapter Text

Sunday for jinx was her usual lazy day. It consisted of waking up 12ish, staying in bed till noon, and only emerging from her bed to grab some food. Today however, was very different.

John had surprisingly kept to his word and wanted to take her out shopping for her room. So at 7am sharp she was awoken by the constant knocking at her door, and then light streaming into her room.

“Goodmorning, I hope you slept well”

If he expected a reply he wouldn't be impressed. It was clear that he was trying to build a relationship with Jinx, and as wonderful as that sounds Jinx knew she wouldn't be around for much longer. It would be easier to just not get close with John, you can't hurt anyone if you're not close to anyone.

She let out a grumble of incoherent words, whilst trying to hide herself under the covers. It was too early for her to be awake. It was too early for anyone to be awake!!! Despite this, John didn't take the hint and kept on talking.

“Well, were quite close to town but we will take the car anyway so we can bring your stuff back here after, I was hoping to leave around 8 as the shops can get quite busy after lunch”

When Jinx did not respond John left the room. She knew she should get up and ready but her bed was so warm, and comfy. So instead she told herself she could lay there for 5 more minutes. Whilst lying there she couldn't help but take in her surroundings, the sights and sounds were all so different to what she was used to. She found that she quite liked having her bed under the window (unlike in her past placement where it was in the corner of a room, with no windows around it) . It allowed the morning sun to cascade over her body, and they had birds here, actual birds! The last time she saw a bird was years ago, they stopped visiting her home once the mining industry started to boom and grey clouds cascaded into the sky.

Jinx has always thought if she were an animal she would want to be a bird. They have the ability to be free, and can go where they want whenever they want. They aren't burdened with responsibilities. All they have to worry about is how they will get their next meal.

These quiet few seconds gave her a rare chance to reflect how she was feeling, she wasn't scared. She had moved houses and schools more times than she could count, obviously she could hope she would have a good time here, however thinking back on past experiences she doubted she would. No, instead she was angry. She hadn't even been given the chance to properly say goodbye to her sister. Hell she hadn't even called Vi yet, she probably still thought Jinx was in her old placement for fucks sake! And it wasn't even like she knew where she was. Jinx felt alone and isolated, she's in a new part of Zaun, she is with people she has never even heard of and all of her memories with Vi and her parents are two hours away, her old life may have been unstable but at least she felt secure.

However, her peaceful 5 minutes was interrupted by John shouting from the floor below “Jinx, I know you're not out of bed yet!”. Asshole, she thought, despite not finishing her 5 minutes of warmth she knew she had to get up, so she savoured the last moments of warmth in her bed before ripping off the covers and walking over to her suitcase. She then remembered that she still needed to unpack so she grabbed the clothes from yesterday evening and took them to the bathroom.

The cold tile floors stung against her bare feet, once she finally managed to get the water to a hot enough temperature she welcomed the warmth. Feeling it burn against her skin and watching as the room heated up, becoming more and more foggy till she nearly passed out was one of her faverout things. She knew it was unhealthy but she couldn't stop doing it. Once she was finished in the bathroom she quickly got into her clothes and put her hair into two French braids, which were a workout themselves. Only once her arms felt like they were going to fall off did she manage to finish her braid's.

Breakfast was a non existent word in Jinx vocabulary, she was never that hungry and in her past foster homes there usually wasn't much food to be had anyway. As she made her way down the stairs she saw Esme waiting at the bottom. As she started to get her shoes on the girl explained that she was going with John and Jinx to town, but meeting friends instead of going shopping with them. Then she asked "aren't you going to have any breakfast" to which Jinx replied "nope". She knew she should give context, or just say something else but even if she wanted to she didn't know what to say. Jinx had never been close with or gotten along with other girls her age, instead choosing to stick with Vi. However Esme didn't seem offended, if anything she just seemed happy to have gotten a response out of her.

At last night's dinner Esme had surprised her, she had expected the girl to be a bitch like the girls at her old school. With her thick curly blonde hair, big brown eyes, tall build and hourglass body she looked like your typical school popular bully, however she was kind, compassionate and empathetic towards Jinx. If there was a person that embodied the word 'sunshine' it would be Esme.

The girls stood in an awkward silence, Esme eventually turned to the hall mirror and started re applying her makeup and Jinx just played with her shoe laces. Finally, John came out of the kitchen.

“Right girls, are you both ready to go?”

They both replied “yes” in unison, and the three of them headed towards the garage and sitting in the car, John and Esme sat in the front whilst Jinx sat in the back seat.

When the car pulled out of the garage Jinx got her first chance to have a proper look at her surroundings. The house was part of a row of houses, each with identical builds, however each house was painted a different colour, from what she could tell the neighborhood was one compared to luxury from back home, however she knew they were closer to Piltover, so maybe all homes here were like this. The road was long, however once they reached the end of it she could already see some smaller shops, he really wasn't lying when he said they lived close to town

As they continued driving they drove over a river, with actual clear water! Back home all unfiltered water was murky gray. As they started to get closer to the town's centre the streets became busier and harder to navigate, most of them looked the same except for the different items being advertised in windows. Most of the buildings were made of brick, stone or wood. However, unlike back home, where the shops had been built focusing more on speed than quality, these buildings looked like they took weeks to make.

Finally John stopped on the side of the road, outside a shop called ‘paint and pom-poms’. It had different colour paint buckets in the window display and the rims of the window were painted pink, so was the door. There was multi coloured pom-poms hanging from the ceiling of the display.

Once the engine had died down he turned to face the girl’s, “So the plan for today is me and Jinx are going to go to ‘Paint and pom-poms’ to get some paint for her room, afterwards we will go to ‘Floyds furniture shop’ to get some quilts and decorations and finally go to ‘Benzo’s ‘ so I can grab some stuff to fix the upstairs shower, the leak is just getting worse”. He then turned to Esme, “we're probably going to leave at 12ish so if you want a ride home you'll need to be back at the car before 12, otherwise we will assume you're still out with friends”.

“Yeah that sounds good, I probably won't be back till the afternoon so don't worry about waiting for me”

“You know i'll always worry about you, but if you don't need taking back I guess we should get started” John then turned to Jinx and she offered him a weak smile and got out of the car, whilst John hugged Esme bye Jinx headed into the shop. She didn't want to see them like that, she had never had a chance to have a proper father figure, she had a dad but he passed when she was still young. Watching them interact only hurt Jinx's feelings. God! She was starting to sound like Powder with all her whining and moaning.

A bell rang as Jinx entered the shop, and the inside could only be described as a 'whirlwind of rainbow'. Different paints and paint samples lined the walls, whilst the checkout was in the centre of the room. An older lady with crazily dyed hair was working behind the till.

Jinx had thought about what she wanted her room to be like. In the past she had never had a space to decorate, this was all so new to her. Usually her and Vi wouldn't even bother unpacking their belongings because of how little time they spent in each foster home. After a while of looking around she settles on Purple or black. The moody and darker colors brought her more comfort, and they were more calming. However she wasn't sure which one would be better.

Just then John stood beside her, "You've been staring at those two cans for 10 minutes, you're having trouble picking out a colour, do you have a favourite?"

"I don't know, it's between purple or black"

"Why don't you get both, you could do one wall purple and the rest black, or all walls black and the ceiling purple"

"What". Back home no one would be so casual about buying something extra, barely anyone had spare money to spend on surviving, let alone decorating.

"It's just £10, put it in the basket and we can head off to the furniture store"

Jeez, how much money did these people have? Still in shock Jinx put the paint cans in the basket and watched John pay for the items, before leaving the store and putting the paints in the boot of the car.

"‘Floyds furniture shop’ is only a short walk down the road, and since were just getting decorations, not massive pieces of furniture we can walk"
Great! Jinx though, even more bonding time, ffs. The walk to the furniture store was quiet, John stayed a few steps ahead of Jinx whilst she trails behind him. Other people were starting to arrive and the further they walked the busier the street got, however that didn't interest Jinx much, instead it was everything going on around her. Back home shops rarely had window displays in case someone smashed the store's front window to steal things, whereas here every window was decorated, there were restaurants and coffee places too. They definitely weren't as fancy as Piltover but compared to home this place felt like a royal palace.

‘Floyds furniture shop’ was a large grey building, it looked like the owner had bought two buildings and knocked down the middle wall. It had two glass windows that looked directly into the store and there was a white door in the middle of them. Through the left window Jinx could see leather sofas, cushions, armchairs, kitchenettes, and beds whilst the right window looked onto pillow covers, posters, plants, and lamps.

As they entered the store a rush of cold air hit her, her arm hairs automatically going up to try and keep her warm. A deep voice booms through the shop "Morning folks, looking for anything in particular. Oh John! how are ya mate, and who's this with yer?", shit jinx didn't really know what she wanted, she hoped she would just see stuff, like it and then John would buy it. Also how did this guy know who John was? Before she could say anything, John responded. "Morning Floyd, we're doing good. The kids started school last week and Aubrey has a new collection coming out in a few weeks. This is Jinx by the way"..."Hi ""She joined us a few days ago and will be with us till her 18th".

Oh yeah, how could she forget. This isn't permanent, in about 9 months time, after her 18th birthday she will no longer be part of the foster system and officially homeless. How lucky was she! Mabey Vi had the right idea to get locked up, at least she still has a way to get a bed and food since she has aged out. Now that she was thinking about it, why was Vi still in Juvenile detention, only minors are allowed there? Before her thoughts could carry on she heard a boisterous laugh, clearly she must have zoned out for part of the conversation.

"Well happy shopping, let me know if y'all need any help" "We will do, good luck for tonight!"

Jinx saw John start to walk towards the decorations so she picked up her pace and followed him there, and holy shit. If she thought they had a lot of stock from the window she must have entered fucking Narnia. The store seemed to stretch back for miles, with rows of posters, quilts, fake books, mirrors, and candles stacked to the ceiling. "I'll let you look for stuff on your own, I need to get some new bedding for Esme"

Jinx could help but let her curiosity get the better of her "why, didn't you do he room when you did the wall thingy"

John took a while to respond, it seemed like for once he didn't know what the correct thing to say would be. Just when Jinx thought he wasn't going to respond he said "We did, but it's not my place to say why she needs new bedding. Let her open up to you in her own time, just know that you all have traumas from the past and different ways of coping and reacting to them"

Right... Well that was the vaguest answer anyone could ever give. Thanks for the great information John, by the time she opens up I would have already opened up my wrist! No, you shouldn't think like that, you need to live for Vi. But not if she never gets out of Juvi. Just then a hand touched her shoulder "Right well, come find me when you have everything you want", and then he walked away. Leaving jinx staring at the massive wall of posters in front of her.

Before she really knew what she was doing she started grabbing them. If it had a cool looking band on it, she would grab it. If it had a purple or black design on it, she would grab it, if it even looked remotely interesting, into the basket it went. She wanted to cover all of the walls with posters except one, which she would spray paint, then she would paint the ceiling purple, because why fucking not.

Once the basket was half full with posters she moved onto the plants, none of the flowers interested her. Well they did, as a child her mother would spend hours in the garden, her sister was even named their mothers favourite flower, well she thinks that, she never actually found out why she was called Violet but it made sense!. However, they now only pained her with bittersweet memories. Instead she got a few cactuses, she liked them because they were simple, easy to keep alive, spiky and could sometimes have a pop of colour. Some of them could go on her desk whilst the others could go on her windowsill.

Once the cactuses were secured in the basket she continued walking down the aisle, there was a cool hanging plant that she put in the basket, and then she grabbed the biggest handful of fake vines she could manage and shoved them in the basket too. She wanted to see just how much money John and Aubrey really have. As she continued down the aisle she saw a very interesting plant, a cannabis plant, weed to be exact. She had never done that stuff before, Vi made sure of it. But it was pretty and she wanted it so into the basket it went. How it was even legal for him to sell that here went beyond her, but that wasn't her problem. Anyway, it wasn't like she would ever get tempted to do that stuff…

Afterwards she went to the bedding aisle. There were so many options but none of them stuck out as interesting or fun. Instead they were floral, white, pink with bows, basically everything that the bitches back at her old school would have loved. In Fact she was sure this row had everything but what matched the style of the room. That was until she reached the very end of the row. There were only 3 sets of bedding that caught Jinx's attention. The first was purely black, black pillow sheets and black bedding. However it was too plain. The next set was the exact same but in purple. Once again it was too plain and boring, where was the fun, the originality. However the final set of bedding was perfect, The pillows were a dark purple, whilst the bedding had a black background with ripples of purple going across it.

Usually Jinx didn't care about how things were decorated, with some of the houses she has been placed on she would be glad if a place had working warm water and walls that didn't have any mould on them. But this was the first place she could decorate herself, the first time she could even have an opinion on how something looked. Even if she wasn't going to be here for long it would still be nice if it felt like a home, and she wanted to leave her mark, and this black paint will be a nightmare to go over.

Jinx put the bedding in the basket, which was now practically overflowing and went to try and find John. He was no longer in the bedding section but the loud talking and laughing coming from the till gave away his new location immediately. She slowly approached them, and the put/flung the basket onto the counter.

John spoke up "Ah Jinx, I was wondering where you had gone to, seems like you have everything you need"

"yep!", she made sure to emphasise the p

"That's a lot of posters, are you sure they will all fit on your wall?"

"Yeah" she said nonchalantly, "I want all my walls to be covered with them, except one which I will spray paint"

"Alright, well it's your room. You should be able to get some spray paint from Benzo's, just make sure to wear a mask when you do it"

That's it! No telling off for grabbing too much stuff, or being told she can't spray paint her room. Jinx had been expecting at least a week of arguing over it until they caved in. Pushover.

Just like at the last shop, John paid for the items and walked out with a bag in each hand, he even insisted that she didn't carry anything. Claiming it was 'her treat'. The walk back to the car was less quiet. John would ask her simple questions about herself, school, what she thought of it here and Jinx would answer truthfully. It wasn't like they were best buddies all of a sudden, but it was an improvement to the beginning of the day. There were also a lot of things that Jinx wanted to ask him, like what he and Aubrey did for work, how he seemed to know lots of people. She also wanted to know more about the school. Her first day was tomorrow and she didn't even know what subjects she would be taking.

Once they reached the car John opened the boot and put the bags of decorations by the paint buckets. Jinx was already getting tired and hungry, she hoped they would have been done by now and she could be having lunch. "How far away is the next shop?"

"Not too far, we pass it to get back home so we don't need to walk there. It should only be about a five minute drive"

Thank Janna. If she had been made to walk around on an empty stomach again she swears she would have collapsed in the middle of the street. In another life she would have probably bombed the street!

John entered the driver's seat and Jinx went to sit in the back row of seats, before she could sit down, he said. "You can sit in the front, you know. You should really make the most of it, usually the twins argue over who will have the 'golden seat' for so long that Esme or Finn get to it before them. Honestly, with how competitive they get over it you would think it was made out of actual gold"

Jinx just gave him an awkward smile and sat in the front. She knew he was trying to be funny and get her to open up again, but she needed to remind herself that she couldn't get too close. If she gets too close to any of them they will either leave her or have terrible things happen to them. Anyway, she barely knew who he was. He had all of her files following her through the system whilst all she knew was that he was called John, and she would be living with him for a while.

Well, there's never a better time than the present. At least that is what Melanie would always say when they had to do something last minute.

Once John had started driving she asked "What do you do, like how do you know so many places and people. I get that you live here and everything but still, you have like, insider knowledge or something". John kept his eyes on the road but Jinx could see a little smile forming on the side of this mouth.

"I work in council planning, I basically say if people can or can't renovate part of their house. I can say whether houses should be built in a certain area. It sounds rather boring but I enjoy it. Anyway I contact about half of the shops on this street so they are always trying to stay on my good side so I have a higher chance of approving their planning ideas. Well, this is Zaun, if I say no they will probably still do it but then they won't have insurance”

“What about Aubrey?”

John's face seemed to light up at just the thought of talking about his wife “She designs dresses for people in Piltover. Especially for galas or balls, whatever those posh people call them. She has her designs made and sold in different shops in Piltover, although she also does custom designs for those who require them. She really took off when a councillors daughter started wearing her designs, I think her name is Caitlyn. Since then the girl has worn her designs religiously, I think it is to annoy her mother that she isn't using their family's personal stylist, however she's also extremely popular so whatever she does, the rest of the elite will eventually do too. I'm not sure if you heard me mentioning her new collection coming out later this year”

Woah, so that explains where these people's money is coming from, however she was still wondering about her school, Esme had done an ok job of describing it but she just told Jinx about her classes, not what the school is actually like. She knew she would probably get her lesson plan on the first day but some more information would be nice.

“Why is it called ‘Vanders school for gifted youngsters?’”

“Vander was the school's founder. I see him from time to time. Although I must admit it's not as much as I'd like. He’s constantly busy. He also has quite the life story, he fought in the Great Piltovian War when it was at large. Once it was over he saw how many orphans and children were roaming the street without any access to education, so he opened the school. Most people thought he was crazy, however it became a pillar in our community. He would say ‘every child is gifted in something, we just need to help them find what that is’. Once the school was self sufficient enough to run on its own he opened up a bar in town, it’s rather popular despite being open for so many years. In fact him and benzo are both best friends, and talking of Benzo we have arrived”

As John got out of the car Jinx just sat there. That was the war her parents died in, could he have known them? Surely not, the chances of that must be like 0.00001. Images of the night her and Vi found out their parents had passed started to plague her mind, the constant crying, social worker after social worker coming to talk to them, being asked if they wanted to say anything at the funeral.

Before her brain could spiral more there was a knock at her window

“Come on, we don't have all day”

Sighing, she got out of the car and finally took in her surroundings. The shop was on a quiet street, possibly a lane that led off of the main row of streets. These shops were smaller and closer together. However jinx preferred this, it made her feel safer and it actually felt quite cozy, compared to how before all of the shops were in the open. The only way to describe the strange looking shop John had started to walk towards was unique, it was unlike anything she had seen before. Hanging outside of the shop were large crystal rocks. The outside walls were painted red and there was a giant circular window, which seemed to be made out of oak wood, so was the main door to the building. Leaning against the front of the store was a motorbike that looked like it had been refurbished.

Once inside the shop it was like walking into a chest of treasures. The wooden walls were lined with knick-knacks and the till had a glass surface, showing jewellery and botches. Behind the till was a man who seemed to be in his late 40's or 50's. He was wearing a white top and brown trousers and had a kind face which had a beard on either side of it. Jinx and John approached the counter, however before they reached the counter the man started saying "John! Good to see you again, I was starting to worry you had been buried under all your paperwork! And who is this?"

Again! How many people was she going to need to be re-introduced to?

"I'm doing well mate, the paperwork is piling up but it hasn't gotten me yet. This is Jinx, she will be staying with us for a while"

"Ah Jinx, well it's lovely to meet you. What year are you in, you look about the same age as my Ekko?"

As his what? Jinx stood there momentarily, waiting for John to respond for her. When he didn't she realised he was trying to get her to interact with more people. Not cool John.

"I'm going into year 13, but I think the school year has already started"

"Yeah it has, Ekko went back last week. Since then I've missed my little man helping in the shop. Anyway what can I help you find today"

Thankfully John answered this time, and Jinx manages to zone out whilst John name's the items he needed to renovate the bathroom. After a while a loud bang ekko's around the shop, looking around it was just Benzo putting the now rather full box of equipment on the counter.

"Can I get anything else for you John, or should I ring up the bill?"

"I think-" Jinx interjected whatever John was going to say by going "Spray-paint! I need spray paint for my wall"

"Oh why yes, I almost forgot, Benzo you wouldn't happen to have any in stock"

"Luckily for you we do, a few boxes of the stuff came in this morning, Ekko is unboxing it right now. Tell me the colours you need and i'll get him to bring them out"

"Umm, pink, blue and purple, actually also some white"
“Got it, i'll be back in a moment”, then he walked through a door at the back of the store.

In the time it took John to get his card out to pay, Benzo and who Jinx assumed was Ekko walked back into the shop carrying each spray paint colour she asked for. Good, they did have them all in stock.

However, once she saw Ekko her attention immediately shifted. Jinx would be lying if she said he wasn't handsome, his hair had been twisted into dreads and then put into a bun/ponytail to keep out of his face. He wore a white T-shirt that had some oil and dirt stains on it and some grey joggers, which were also dirty from presumably sitting on his knees when unpacking. However that wasn't what captured her attention, it was the muscles on his arm and how at ease and confident he seemed. Sunlight from the window cascaded over his skin, causing him to look like some type of angel. If he went to her school he must be popular.

And if he was popular, he was also probably an asshole

"Well I think that's everything you asked for, feel free to come back if you need any more parts" Benzo said as he places the spray cans into the box of bathroom parts

"Thanks Benzo, I will do" John then paid for their items, just before he went to grab their box of items Benzo said "Don't worry about carrying them, I'll get Ekko to do it. He needs the weight training for basketball"

Jinx watched as Ekko gave Benzo a strange look, before shrugging his shoulders and picking up the box, and then looked at John

"Your car is the one in front of the shop, right sir?"

Who calls people sir? John looked a bit taken aback too, however also didn't seem to be offended

"Yeah, I'll unlock it for you now" then he leaned towards benzo and said something Jinx couldn't make out, however it made benzo chuckle.

"Right, we best be off then, thanks again"

"Anytime"

Leaving the shop was a bit of a disappointment, she had hoped to have spent more time there. The walls were lined with so many cool gadgets and tools for tinkering she could have been kept busy all day. As they approached the car, Ekko was just closing the boot. When his arm lifted, his shirt rode up, revealing a six-pack that most boys back home could only dream of. Jinx looked away and quickly got in the front seat of the car, she wouldn't let herself get close to or distracted by anyone, this boy included. The more she liked someone, the worse off they became, and she didn't want any more innocent people to be hurt because of her.

John then slid into the driver’s seat, and started the engine at a low hum, and began the drive home. True to his word, the ride back felt noticeably shorter than the trip there. A thought crossed her mind as they were driving back home, this route might just be the perfect path for a late-night walk.

Once they arrived at the placement Aubrey was waiting for them by the door, when the car had fully parked she came out to help them with the bags. Jinx half heartedly listened to their conversation as she grabbed a bag of decorations to take to her room.

"Has Finn come out of his room yet?"

"No, I was going to check on him in about an hour, if he hasn't emerged by then"

It wasn't hard for Jinx to remember Finn or how he had acted last night, with his cold and distant demeanor, he was the complete opposite of everyone else in the house. As they made their way up the stairs, John broke the silence with a casual comment.

"I wonder what he's doing up there"

His wife let out a soft laugh before replying "He's a teenage boy, do you really want to know"

When they reached her room all of the boxes were piled in a pile in the middle, next to her suitcase.

Surprisingly, Aubrey spoke up first "If you unpack tonight, we can start decorating tomorrow, if you’d like. But honestly, if I were you, I’d save your energy for school tomorrow"

Not really knowing how to respond, Jinx simply nodded and just went " I will, thanks"

After that John and Aubrey went back downstairs to prepare lunch. Looking around her room felt surreal, it still felt weird to think or say, 'her room'. It was crazy to think about how much her life had changed these past few days. She didn't want to try and fit in, or get along with these people, however they were making it extremely hard not to.

As she lay on HER bed thoughts started to plague her mind. What will her new school be like? How much of a danger is Finn? She knew she needed to call Vi, but how could she even begin to explain that she had been moved? When will her next episode be?. What is Esme's past? However for now all she is going to focus on catching up on the sleep John stole from her earlier that morning.

Chapter Text

The oxford dictionary defines routine as ‘a sequence of actions regularly followed’. Jinx was a rather unorganised person, she wasn't afraid to admit it. However, there was one routine that had followed her through her life. Finding a new house placement, going to a new school, feeling like she may finally belong somewhere, then messing it up again.

Whether that is by having an episode, getting in an argument, not getting along with the other children in her placements, or maybe just by the Jinx curse she carries around with her, she always manages to mess it up.

She wasn't sure why she was bothering to make an effort this time, maybe it was because she was finally in a decent foster home, or maybe it was because, for once wanted to have a good chance of actually doing well for herself, since it seemed like no-one else was going to help her. Well whatever it was, was the reason she was currently waiting for Zoe to finish in the bathroom so she could make sure she looked half presentable.

This was the fifth time jinx had knocked/tried to open the bathroom door, and each time a response sling the lines of “yeah, I’ll be five more minutes” or “hold your horses, im almost done!”. Spoiler, Zoe wasn't almost done.

Just then, another distinct voice came from behind

“I think it’s a lost cause, she's probably going to be in there for hours. Last week, she left me 10 minutes to get ready. I love her dearly but at that moment, well lets just say the love was less tender. I should have warned you to get ready before she woke up”

“Yeah, do you know why she is taking so long anyway?” 

Usually Jinx wouldn't bother speaking to other placements, back home with her history and reputation everyone would avoid Jinx like the plague. However, whether it was fortunate or unfortunate (she wasn't sure yet) Esme and the others living here were constantly trying to engage with her. So she might as well make small talk.

“Could have a crush on some guy, I'm not really sure. She never used to care about her appearance. Probably peer pressure or something”

Jinx hummed in response. Knowing what she was like at that age, it was a likely answer. It was also 7:23 in the morning and school started at 8:05, so either way Zoe needed to get a move on. After a while Esme retreated back to her room, leaving Jinx standing aimlessly by the bathroom door, silently willing it to open.

Thankfully, Zoe emerged from the bathroom not long after. “See, I didn't take too long”

Jinx shot Zoe a look, half-exasperated and half-amused look, as she stepped into the bathroom. “You’re lucky I’ve got zero time for a fight this morning,” she muttered under her breath, as Zoe walked back to her and her brother's room. 

Closing the bathroom door, Jinx relished in the rare moment of peace, she quickly did her teeth and stripped her pajamas off, and made an effort of trying to fit all of her hair into a claw clip. Once it was all secured she turned on the shower and stepped in it.

Warm water quickly caressed her skin, the burning sensation was welcomed bittersweetly. Jinx didn't want to continue on with the day, hell she didn't want to continue life point blank. It was practically routine by this point. Start a new school, get put in new un-challanging classes, not bother making any friends as within weeks social services would have to move her again due to hallucinations or her experiencing an episode.

Jinx stopped taking her medication a few months ago, they dulled her and never fully worked. They caused the world to feel black and white, her senses were dulled and reactions were slower, so it made sense to stop taking them. Anyway it's not like anyone has realised. However because of this the voices keep on torturing her, continuously trying to destroy her. Whispering things like…

It won't last

You're just going to ruin every life you come across

No one loves you, why would anyone want to be your friend

Whore, you know you liked it

Vi would be so disappointed is she saw you like this

It was so easy to fall into the darkness when you can barely remember what the light looks like.

A loud thumping extracted Jinx from her thought “You alright in there, the shower’s been on for 15 minutes. You have 5 minutes to get downstairs” If Jinx didn't know any better she would assume John has served in the Navy, as his obsession with time and being ready on time was unmissable.

Shouting back “Yeah, I'll be there” before muttering “because missing this upcoming shit show would be sooo unfortunate”

Rushing out the shower Jinx wrapped herself in a towel and ran to her room, shit, shit, shit, shit, shit. Why the fuck did Zoe have to take so long in the bathroom. Grabbing and putting on the first pair of clothes she could find (dark blue cargo trousers, dark purple vest, a black hoodie and black combat boots) out of her backpack, which still needed to be unpacked. 

Once Jinx was dressed she brushed through her hair, although time was of the essence and the hair was too long to style in a short amount of time, so it stayed down.

After brushing through her hair, Jinx quickly dumped the insides of her rucksack onto the bed, and ran downstairs. The other children were just getting their shoes on as she reached the last step.

“A little last minute?” Finn remarked in a mocking tone

“Yeah, well I wouldn't have been so late if I had more than twenty minutes to get ready” Asshole

Then Zach piped up, defending his sister “Zoe always take long showers, its not her fault you take so long to get ready, twenty minutes is plenty of time”

Before Jinx could clap back John stepped in “Lets leave the arguing and fights for the debate club and karate, alright?”

All the other children grumbled a incoherent line of yeah, whilst Jinx kept her mouth shut, staring daggers at Finn. There was something off about him, she just couldn't pinpoint what.

“Right, well I’m walking in with you today as I need to fill out some paperwork for Jinx and I don't want to be too late for work, so let's start moving people”

The walk to Vanders school for gifted youngsters was only 10 minutes away from the townhouse. Whilst Finn walked ahead and the twins chatted between themselves in their own little world, probably planning some school prank, Esme walked beside her in silence. Jinx wasn't sure why the girl was so hell bent on being close to her, but she could also use the company… sometimes.

As they approached the school gates an overwhelming sense of dread began to engulf Jinx

What if I hurt someone

What if I set the science block on fire… again

What if, what is, what if…

“Are you okay?” Esme’s voice broke through her thoughts, and Jinx looked up, startled.

“Yeah,” she said, not entirely convinced herself. “I’m fine.”

Esme seemed to buy it for now, offering her a soft smile. “You know, you’re gonna be fine, right? Don’t let it get to you today.”

Once they passed through the school gates they had to walk up the driveway, where buses were stopping and dropping other students off, on either side of the driveway was grass, like actual grass. At Jinx’s old school all they had was pavement and weeds. The building was a towering three floors, and was made from mostly red and creme bricks, however some parts seemed to be made of metal or plastic.

Esme spoke up again, “When the school was first built they had to use materials from the street that had fallen off of other buildings. Over the years they managed to gather more funding from Piltover, and Vander still donates money to the school every year, the last drop has really good business so he mainly works there, but he still visits from time to time”

By this point the girls had reached the entrance to the school, John placed his hand on Jinx’s shoulder, stopping her from walking any further, instead steering her towards the main reception. As they walked John called out  “See you later Esme, don't forget curfew is 9pm” to which she shouted back “See ya” before Jinx saw her running off to join a group of girls who seemed to be her friends.

“We just need to sort out the paperwork and then you should be able to go to lessons, the paperwork should include-”

“John, I've done this before, Jeez you're acting like it's my first time. Been to like 20 schools, remember.” Jinx tried to act as nonchalant as possible, but in reality this school was bigger and nicer than any of the ones she had been to in the past.

Sitting down in reception John let out a chuckle “I guess you're right, I'm just so used to the other kids being nervous, its ok if you are worried Jinx, despite doing it a lot before a new school is still a big change”

“Im fine” It was a lie, Jinx was not fine. She was currently dealing with so much shit that this may just be the icing on the cake. But she wasn't going to open up to him, years in foster care had taught her no matter how much you trust someone they will always go and stab you in the back”

At that moment, the principal called them into her office. 

After what seemed like hours (30 minutes) of exchanging pleasantries, signing forms, reading through forms, listening to the school's code of conduct and a load of other boring stuff the meeting was finally coming to a close.

“So Jinx, before you start your lessons I just want to go over a few important details with you. It said here that you were out of education from the ages of 15-16. Did you receive any education during that time?”

This time of her life was always a sensitive topic for Jinx

“I tutored myself with books from the library if that counts” 

“Rignt… Do you mind me asking why you were out of education, any history we should be aware of?”

“None that is any of your business”

John gave her a look from the corner of his eye, like he was telepathically saying ‘be polite’. But she didn't care, that time of her life was her business and no-one else's.

“And your A-Level subjects are Chemistry, Physics and Maths, is that correct?”

When saying “Yep” Jinx made sure to emphasise the P.

“And you're constantly getting all A*’s/9’s in your subjects, that's very impressive”

Jinx wanted to say ‘Yes, I know you fucking idiot. I'm probably smarter than most of the people in this building’ because a girl has to stay humble somehow. Instead she said “Thank’s”

“Right well that is everything I needed to check, if you have any worries the support team is always here” The headmistress then opens one of her draws and pulls out on envelope “Inside here is everything you need, a map of the school, your timetable, and staffs name with their pictures beside it, John if I could speak with you privately now about Finn’s recent behaviour that would be terrific”

Taking that as her cue to leave, Jinx walked back to the main reception. Sitting on one of the sofa’s, (which were just as itchy as the agency's chair) she opened up the packet. 

The first thing she saw was her timetable. She would be in school from Monday to Friday, however since she was doing A-Levels she had less lessons and more time to revise, or as Jinx saw it, more break time. It read as…

Monday - Maths and Physics

Tuesday - Physics and Chemistry

Wednesday - PHSE, Maths and Chemistry

Thursday - Physics and Maths

Friday - Chemistry

The next part that fell into her hands was the map. The school was built in a square shape with a courtyard in the middle, the food hall was centred near the back which overlooked the playing fields and what looked like a basketball court. Whilst each department had its own section of the building, thankfully the sciences were next to each other, however maths was on the opposite side of the building and a floor below.

After stuffing the map in her pocket she looked at the last sheet of paper with all her teachers' names on it. 

Headmistress- Mis Medara 

Chemistry - Victor (like no formalities, just his first name)

Physics - Mr Talis

Maths - Mrs Young (Sky)

After what seemed like an eternity of wandering around, Jinx finally found her Maths class. It was currently 8:50, so class must have started around twenty minutes ago. 

Looking through the glass on the door she could see the walls had been painted a white which has been stained beige/yellow over time and lining the walls were covered with white boards and colourful plastic sheets of paper with maths equations on them. And of course the ceiling had the iconic square white tiles with a square light every so often. The desks were made for two people, and were all placed around the room to face the electronic whiteboard and teachers desk at the front (Just imagine your average British secondary school maths classroom). Which is also where Jinx was currently standing.

The door creaked as Jinx pushed it open.

Heads turned.

The volume dipped, then spiked again like a wave after the pull of a tide. But the eyes lingered. A girl in the second row nudged her friend, both of them whispering behind their hands. A lanky boy spun a pen between his fingers and raised an eyebrow, smirking.

Jinx felt the stares dig into her like pins.

The teacher, Sky, had blonde hair, and was wearing blue jeans, a loose blouse and a cardigan. “Can I help you?”

“Uh.. Yeah… Hi, im -”

“Oh are you Jinx!”

“Yeah…”

“Ok class. This is Jinx, she has just transferred here. Please dear, let me know if you need anything, and never be afraid to ask for help.”

In all honesty Jinx really couldn't care about the bullshit ‘help will always be given to those who ask for it’ speech, she had heard it a thousand times before and every time she has been let down.

“Right…”

Now if this sky lady followed the routine of other teachers, she will now tell her where to sit

“Well Mai can be your assignment buddy and she has an empty spot on her row, why don't you partner with her”

Like fucking clockwork, all of them

Just then a girl with dark blonde hair and an uncanny resemblance to Vi waved at her before returning to her work. 

Walking to her seat Jinx could feel the eyes of her peers follow her as she walked to the back row whilst gulping and rubbing her hands along her thighs. Jinx’s nervous system was all over the place.

Mai’s desk was scattered with graffiti and stationary, unorganised and messy. Just like the girl sitting behind it.

 “So you're the new girl, right?”

“Yeah, I’m Jinx,” she found it surprised by how easy it was to speak to her

“I’m Mai,” The girl said, from the seat next to hers. She raised her hand as if she was expecting a handshake, however she wouldn't be receiving one. “Nice to meet you… If you need help figuring anything out, just let me know. The first day here is a mess, but we all survive it.”

As the lesson continued Mai’s rambling faded into the background. Her uncanny resemblance to Vi had thrown Jinx through a curveball, as despite it being extremely disturbing, it also brought a mild sense of comfort.

Once the lesson had finished Mai was still persistent as ever to become Jinx’s friend, and having finally realised she wasn't in the mood to talk, or quite frankly attempt to be friends, the girl decided to drag Jinx along to meet some of the other girls in their year . 

Inclusion wasn’t something Jinx was used to, usually she would walk into a new school, keep her hood down, and avoid talking to people until she was eventually moved due to another ‘incident’. People had never bothered learning her name, or become her friend as quite frankly she had always kept to herself.

But Mai had done the opposite, she wouldn't stop talking and asking Jinx questions about herself (however well she tried to ignore her) and instead of becoming deterred, the girl became more determined. Unfortunately this meant Jinx had to work hard to avoid the constant flow of conversation and questions aimed towards her from Mai and the other girls. 

Jinx knew she was probably coming off as rude or obnoxious, and wasn't doing much for herself by trying to further isolate herself, but after spending as much time as she had in her own company, it also made it hard to integrate back into normal teenage society, having people other than Vi and the ghosts of her past who were willing to sit, talk and walk with her was an uncanny and un-welcomed experience.

Five minutes before the lunch bell rang Mai jumped up and started screaming “Lynn, Lynn, Lynn” at the top of her lungs.

A girl who Jinx could only assume was Lynn started to make her way towards the group. She had wavy dark brown hair, brown eyes and tanned/olive skin.

“Where have you been, girl! You need to meet the newest member of our group”

Group member! Well that wasn't fucking happening. Jinx knew she was only in this situation because she gave in to Eve’s persistence, however if these girls expected her to just become a part of her group and play fucking house with them. No way. She has only let herself come this far due to the uncanny resemblance Mai holds to Vi causing her to unfortunately naturally gravitate towards the girl.

“Our group? It's just us here babez. The boys are at basketball or probably getting a BJ from a girl in the bathrooms, and I've been in the music studio most of break”

The boys? Jinx had expected the group of girls they were talking to, to be Mai’s’s friends, however looking at the group dynamics closer, all of the other girls seemed to be a lot closer, and the fact that as soon as Lynn came into Mai's eyeline she dragged Jinx over to meet her was a massive give away too.

“LYNN! You know you shouldn't use language like that. Anyway this is Jinx and I'm her ‘Assignment Buddy’. I haven't got her to speak much yet, but I know it's only a matter of time. She is like my own personal project!”

“And you're speaking about her like she isn't right next to you because…”

Damn good point Lynn, why was Mai acting like I wasn’t there. Knobhead

“She has barely spoken, like at all and I need to fill in the silence somehow”

Ok fair point, Jinx could only tilt her head as a reaction to that

“Please ignore her, Im Lynn”

“Jinx”

“Well Jinx, welcome to the group”

Shortly after, the school bell rang and the day continued.

Throughout the week Jinx would learn Lynn was the opposite of her "Assignment Buddy”. Whilst Mai would come into school in a boy's trousers and trainers, uncaring of what anyone had to say about her appearance. The girl dressed according to her mood and projected vibes the same way. She would do what she wanted to do, when she wanted to do it, uncaring of anyone else's opinions.

She oozed a lazy sort of confidence with her short, dark blonde hair and makeup-free face, emphasising her emerald green eyes.

Jinx also noted that throughout all of their lessons together Mai would receive plenty of male and female attention regardless of the baggy trousers and messy hair. A genuine smile and nice personality went a long way.

However Lynn was the polar opposite, she was pristine at all times with a full face of makeup and her uniform was always perfect on any occasion. Almost like she would die if she wasn't perfect all the time.

Whilst Mai was outgoing and, at times a little overly exited, Lynn was laidback and slightly introverted

Mai was mostly unfiltered whilst Lynn took her time to make a decision, or sometimes say something

Mai doesn't care so much about her studies and is here to have fun (despite being super smart) whilst Lynn was always focused and never faltered away from her studies 

Regardless, the girls had some similarities. Jinx was surprised to find out the girls were sisters (Lynn was adopted) and both of them are sickeningly beautiful.

Meanwhile Jinx was the scrawny, messy bluenett who seems to have accidentally/unfortunately been partnered with the best looking girls in class.

Sigh…

It was Thursday afternoon, lunch had just finished and the girls were walking towards Maths, whilst Lynn had music. 

Once again this morning Mai had been waiting for her by the school gate and hadn't left her alone since, just continued following/dragging Jinx around. 

The girl either didn't know how to take a hint, or was the most persistent person she knew.

“You ok Jinx, you're extra quiet today?”

No, tomorrow I'm meant to be visiting Vi, but instead I have to call her from two hours away and explain this whole mess. But obviously Jinx didn't say that, as the girl didn't even know who Vi was, instead she just went.

“Im fine”

But then Jinx stopped mid stride, causing a pile up of students

“Oh for fucks sake” She mumbeld, suddenly realising her mistake “I left my bag in the lunch hall”

Mai, who was on her left, turned and frowned “Go and get it, we’ll wait for you”

“The lunch hall is on the other side of the building,” Jinx replied with a groan. Vanders School for Gifted Youngsters was annoyingly large. Not to mention all of the different floors with different classes being on opposite sides of the building or different floors.

“I have to get it back” she added. Feeling anxious at the thought of someone finding her bag and going through it. The bag itself was barely worth anything, well in all honesty she had stolen it, but details were irrelevant. What mattered was that it was hers and her phone was inside of it. It was filled with private text messages, voicemails and thoughts. If someone found it and went through it they would practically know her whole history/life without ever meeting her.

“Dammit!”

“I think she's spoken more just now than she has all day!” Mai exclaimed excitedly

“Shut-up Mai, no one cares” Lynn interjected ”Don't panic about it, we can walk you over”

“No” Jinx held up her hand and shook her head “I can get it myself, anyway both of you would be late for class” She also didn't trust the two girls and had no clue why they were so persistent on being her friend, it was fucking creepy. She also just wanted a moment alone.

Mai frowned “are you sure?”

“Yeah, I remember the way” She didn't need a babysitter to walk her across the school.

Just then second bell rang, however the girls still seemed unconvinced.

“Go on” Jinx urged “I’ll be fine”

Turning on her heels before the girls had a chance to respond, Jinx made her way down the hallway and eventually broke into a run, winding through corridors, apartments and students. It took her 8 minutes to reach the other side of the school.

Thankfully, her bag was where she had left it - underneath the chair she had been sitting on. Sighing in relief she quickly opened her bag and checked for her phone, it was still there and hadn't had any attempts at unlocking it. If this had happened at her old school her bag would have been gone in twenty seconds, let alone twenty minutes.

When she walked out of the lunch hall, she looked at the long, winding corridor of classrooms and corners that appeared so suddenly you're more likely to walk into them than not. Biting back a moan she thought through her options.

She wasn't running back, she physically couldn't, all of her energy was gone from a measly quick run to get here.

Her gaze flickered from the un-appealing corridor to the courtyard. For the past week it had been taken over by the basketball team, apparently practicing for an important upcoming game. She could see it was occupied by a group of boys and a teacher shouting at them.

She debated her options but decided on cutting across the courtyard, it would cut several minutes off her walk, additionally it was one of the rare sunny days Zaun had. 

She was small and quick, and was also tired and annoyed at her inconvenience and well, just the world in general. Cutting across the courtyard was the logical thing to do.

Checking her phone again, a dismay rose inside of her as she realised she had already missed fifteen minutes of class. Normally she wouldn't care, but today they were meant to be doing a practical! One of the few lessons she enjoyed as she could blow shit up.

Decision made, she pushed on the glass double doors and walked through them, power-walking to the other side of the courtyard. 

She swiftly made her way through the courtyard, with her heart hammering (from anxiety or anger she didn't know) and sweat starting to form on her head from the raging sun. She hesitated only when she was near the part the boys were practicing on. 

Sweaty boy’s, Muscled boy’s, Angry looking boy’s

Why were they glaring at her, it wasn't like she had stolen their ball, in fact looking at them they looked like they wouldn't have big balls at all themselves. But then they started shouting.

Oh Jannah

“What are you doing”

“Get off the fucking court”

“Janna what is she doing”

“Fucking girl”

“Move will ya!”

Jinx wanted to respond, to tell them that they shouldn't have taken up the whole courtyard, or that shouting wouldn't change anything, so they should just shut up. However she didn't, because she couldn't be asked to shout and she couldn't care less about those ‘boys’ and their feelings. If anything it was funny watching them get so worked up over her walking on a literal courtyard. How pathetic!

The last part of the courtyard was a slope which was an extra challenge in the already boiling heat. Once Jinx neared the edge of the court, she felt like crying in relief/joy as she had nearly reached the shade and cool aircon of the inside of the building. 

Unfortunately, relief was a momentary feeling that was quickly replaced by a searing pain as something very hard and very heavy smashed into the back of her head, taking the air from her lungs and feet from beneath her.

Moments later she was freefalling backwards, falling down the stone slope. The pain ricocheted through her head, making it impossible to think clearly to break the fall.

Before the darkness consumed her, she heard a boy who sounded a lot like Ekko shout “Oh shit!” Before she could hear anything else, she was cloaked by darkness.

Everything changed after that day

Everything.

Chapter Text

BOY WONDER CAPTIVATES COACHING STAFF AT ACADEMEY

Young Ekko Jones, 18, a native of  Southern Zaun, currently residing in Northern Zaun, flew through his medical evaluation to secure his position at the prestigious Basketball Academy in Piltover. Nursing a chronic leg injury since the start of last season, the youth has been in the all clear from tram doctors. The 'Vanders School for Gifted Youngsters' student is set to win his first game of the year for the school this weekend, having been named as Center 5 for the esteemed youth team. The natural center has been drawing attention from coaches at international level, including clubs in Iona and Demacia. When asked to comment on the schoolboys accelerated rise through the ranks, the Zaunite's U20's head coach had this to say "We are excited about the level of skill in the up and coming players throughout the country, the future of basketball is looking bright" When asked specifically about the Zaun school boy, the coach said "We have been aware of Jones since his playing days in South Zaun, and have been in close talks with his coach and trainers for the last eighteen months. U20 coaches are impressed. We are keeping a keen eye on his progression and are impressed with the level of intelligence and maturity he naturally exudes on the muga. He is certainly one to watch out for once he graduates"

Ekko was exhausted.

Seriously, he was so tired he was having a hard time keeping his eyes open. His day from hell was turning into his week from hell, and that was impressive considering it was only Thursday. 

To be honest he had been running on empty since last summer, having returned from an international campaign, where he was playing/practising with the best in Zaun, only to head right into an intense six week camp for U20’s.

Afterwards he had a ten day break before returning to school and resuming his commitments with the club and school team.

Ekko’s day had started like any other when he was home. Wake up to the smell of Benzo trying (and failing) to cook, get up and make his bed, the best way to start the day is by being productive. Then he would make his way to the kitchen.

Breakfast with Benzo was usually the same ordeal, Benzo always cooked eggs on toast and added a bit too much salt to it, however Ekko didn't mind, it was a labour of love, and salty food was better than no food at all.

Benzo would usually ask Ekko the same questions, like what time will you be back today, how is school, any gossip, if Ekko fancied a girl or guy. It was a routine but goddamn he loved it, at the end of the day he thrived on routines and the quiet, relaxation of the morning was Ekko’s favourite part of the day. He’d usually answer the questions with the same “practice/clubs finishes at 4 so maybe 4:30”, “School is ok, same old”, “no new gossip, just some people being idiots”, and he would just laugh at the last question and shake his head.

After breakfast Ekko would head to the bathroom and shower, he made sure the temperature was always on the coldest setting, the extreme change in temperature was always a shock to his system and a brilliant way to properly wake him up. Feeling the cool water trickle down his back and legs was also extremely grounding.

After his shower he’d head back to his room to get ready for the day. He would usually pick his outfit the night before, however the coach had decided that since their first match of the season was this weekend the team would spend all week training, only being excused to attend this morning's PHSE lesson as apparently the school had a ‘guest speaker?’ so instead he put on his Basketball kit.

Around that time Benzo would come knocking on his door, letting Ekko know he should leave for school soon and that he was going to open the shop, which was on the floor below them.

Once Ekko was dressed he would grab his bag from beside his desk and start walking to school. Benzo’s shop was in town so it wasn't too far from Vanders School for Gifted Youngester’s, only a 10 minute walk or so.

Most of the time he would meet his friends outside of school, usually waiting on one of the benches, or if it was sunny sitting on the grass, despite the fact they would all go to separate lessons they liked to meet up in the mornings and quickly check in on one another (it was mainly to see how Scar was after everything, but Ekko didn't want to think about that right now). It was the simple things like that which made Ekko stick around with them.

He had built a solid friend group over the years. After moving here in year 4 after the incident he was placed in a mixed primary school. For the first few months his only friend had been Lynn, they had bonded over both being moved there at a similar time,they were also both on scholarship and from South Zaun. However whilst he was on a sports scholarship she came on an arts one. 9 years later her paintings had only progressed in skill and beauty. 

They had also both bonded over the fact that her parents had been in the incident too, but they tried not to talk about that too much, as the memories were too painful.

However a few months into their friendship Lynn’s adopted sister, Mai had a falling out with her friends because they kept on insulting Lynn, calling her ‘Poor trash’ and an ‘unwanted orphan’, so she quickly joined their trio. 

Mai could be the sweetest girl one minute and in a right mood the next, however she was nice for the most part and clearly cared about her sister, if not a little bit overprotective. She was clever but had always valued having fun over education, which is where they clashed most. However Ekko could tell she had stuff going on that he clearly didn't know much about, so he tried not to push her too much, and let her mature in her own time. Out of everyone in the group she was the worst influence, and her and Remi are practically an unstoppable duo in causing mischief.

During that time Ekko had also befriended three boys at the basketball club. Scar, Dave and Remi. 

Scar was extremely levelheaded, always stuck up for the underdog and was not afraid to do the right thing, even if it meant breaking a few rules. Surprisingly Scar didn't live too far from Ekko either, his parents owned an end townhouse on a street only a 5 minute walk away, so the boys would spend most afternoons practicing together, quickly becoming close friends. Scar had met his girlfriend in year 7 and all was going well until…, well now wasn't the time to be thinking about that.

Dave, well in all honesty Ekko still hadn't really figured Dave out. He was an interesting character to say the least. The boy was kind but rather paranoid, since he was 10 the boy had claimed birds were sent by Piltover to watch them and several other conspiracies had emerged over the years. Ekko partially blamed Dave's parents for this, since Ekko could remember meeting Dave's parents, they had always said things like ‘shoe’s on the table bring bad luck’ or ‘step on the crack, break your mothers back’. However in general he was a decent lad and a good friend.

Remi… well Remi (full name Remmington) seemed to be adored by everyone. His parents were extremely well off, well more like his mum marries rich politicians, then divorces them a year later and takes half the money. About half the boys in his year fancy her, having been nicknamed ‘The ultimate MILF’. Remi had inherited his mothers looks, charm and flirt, ever since Ekko could remember Remi had had girls chasing after him, however Remi always only flirts and hooks up with girls or guys, he's never actually once been in a proper relationship. Remi was also extremely sarcastic and no topic was off limits for him - he said what he wanted to, when he wanted to. Remi blamed it on his ADHD.

As year 4 ended and Ekko started year 5, Scar, Dave and Remi transferred to Ekkos school for the better basketball team. The boys quickly joined his trio and the group had been inseparable ever since.

However with the pressure of exams this year and the sudden basketball practice his group hadn't all been able to make it to their morning meet up. This morning Ekko could only spot Mai and Remi, already a bad duo, standing by the gate, seemingly waiting for someone. As Ekko got closer he started to overhear their conversation.

“I mean, I asked for it months ago, last year right before we broke up! And I assumed they overlooked me for that shitty past pupil talk before we broke up, but I was wrong. They actually listened to me, it was all set up and everything. This is the best day of my life!” Remi announced

“Youre joking” Mai replied, “They seriously bought them in for the PHSE talk”

Remi just nodded his head enthusiastically, acting almost childlike.

“What suggestion” Ekko heard himself ask

“Youre really better off not knowing, Just go into class and try not to be traumatised by him” 

“Three of them, they have actually bought three of them to the school” Remi continued to say excitedly

“Three what Remi” Ekko asked, starting to get agitated

“Nurses, but not just any nurses, sex nurses”

As if this week couldnt get any more fucking exhausting, Ekko now had to sit in a classroom learning about sex and all that shit, stuff he learnt years ago.

Mai started to get at Remi again, “They are just regular nurses who work in the sex department of the hospital, its not like they are going to use you as a demonstration on how to fuck someone”

“I know” Remi replied joyously “but what they give out is even better”

Ekko arched his eyebrow this time “Have you ever even learnt what the Sex department is for?”

“I know they are handing out free condoms, lollipops, and bottles of lube,” Remi exclaimed gleefully. “Thats all I need to know” Slapping Ekko's shoulder, Remi started to head towards the buildings main doors, calling out “Hurry up - Ive emptied my schoolbag, were going to save a fucking fortune today”

Ekko grimaced, then told Mai “I better go reign him in” However the girl was now paying no attention to the conversation, but waving and making her way to someone coming up the school drive, although Ekko couldn't tell who it was. Shrugging, he turned around and followed Remi.

“Nice of you to join us boys” Mr Murphy, Ekkos PHSE teacher exclaimed, after he and Remi made it to class, ten minutes late.

After almost making it to lesson on time Remi made them take a detour so he could ‘grab another bag from his locker’ which turned into a run in with almost every one of Remi's admirers, in the end both boys had forgotten about the bag and just wanted to escape the teenage girls. 

“Find a seat quickly, our visitors want to get our presentation underway”

As Ekko started to find them a desk he heard Remi start to speak up

“Hey there” The boy purred (I DIDNT KNOW WHAT OTHER WORD TO USE BUT IT MAKES ME CRINGEE) whilst winking at the three nurses standing by the whiteboard ”I just wanted to let you gorgeous ladies know that im eighteen, im single, and I'm one hundred percent willing to be a example for any hands on demonstration-”

“Remi I've found us a seat” Ekko said loudly, trying to stop his friend from traumatising the nurses any further

Once the boys sat down and the presentation started Remi leaned over to Ekko and whispered in his ear “Now listen - I have the most brilliant plan -” setting his elbows on the desk, he put his hands together, looking intently at the front of the classroom “When they come around with the freebies, ill hold the bag open, and you grab as many as possible, yeah?”

“You act like a fucking nut case sometimes, you know that, right?”

“Im being serious, and I know you wouldn't have me any other way! My mother said im perfect just the way I am”

“Janna, you're being serious”

“There mine” he replies, grinning devoutly “and im taking them all”

The lesson carried on and Remi didn't try anything for the remainder of it, the boy just watched the presentation, or more like the ladies giving the presentation, whilst Ekko just hoped his friend wouldn't actually go through with his plan.

He went through with the plan, and even worse his idiot friend actually made Ekko fill up his schoolbag with condoms, lube and lollipops too, claiming “one bag full isn't enough”.

The sex health talk that Remi unintentionally orchestrated lasted an extra hour - and included a small break, due to the fact that some tall, brunette knobhead wouldn't stop asking questions.

The boys were now making their way to basketball practice and Ekko was hoping to Janna and all that was holy that they wouldn't be pulled aside for a bag check, as he had no clue how he could explain the contents in his bag.

Whilst giving his friend the side eye, Ekko said “You are in a league of your own mate”

Remi's brows shot up “ Me? ”

“Yes you” Ekko shot back “What are you planning to do with all of these? Make water balloons, because you're not going to use all of these, it's physically impossible”

“You underestimate me my friend, you haven't seen me in a rager.” Remi then leaned in closer to Ekko “One time I had a girl on the tabel who I was fucking, then another who I was fingering, and a third who I was toe fucking on the floor”

Ekko didn't know how to respond to that, sometimes Remi shared or said stuff Ekko wouldn't tell in a life or death situation. So instead he gave his friend a long look

“Say what you want, but im being practical” he replied, licking his lollipop “and sensible, one of us has to be. That's why I made you fill up your bag too”

Ekko narrowed his eyes “Are you being serious? You honestly think you are the sensible one in this relationship”

“Well would you have grabbed any condoms if I hadn't made you?”

He narrowed his eyes “Im not having sex, so I don't need any”

“Sure” Remi said in turn, rolling his eyes to the heavens "Famous last words”

“I can't deal with you today Remi” Ekko exclaimed, growing his hands up in sheer desperation “I really can't!"

Remi reached into his bag and grabbed a lollipop “Here, have this to make you feel better. You're probably hangry”

“No”

“Take it”

“No”

“Take it”

“No”

“Take it”

“Did they adjust your medication?” 

“Not lately - Now take it”

“Janna Remi-”

“Take it or ill cause a scene”

“Fine!” Ekko sighed, grabbing the lollipop and putting it in his mouth “Happy now?”

At that point the boys had reached the courtyard. Ekko could spot his teammates already playing, watching the ball soar from player to player he could already tell where the team needed improvements.

“Ready captain?"

“You say that like coach isn't in charge”

“Yeah, but at the end of the day, the boys will always respect you over the coach. You're the one that got us this far, not him”

“Thanks mate”

And with that, both boys dropped their bags by the wall and joined in with practice.

Ekko had been on the court less than 2 hours and he had already proven that against his teammates, this was child's play. He was too aggravated to tone it down a notch on the boys he was practising with who weren't anywhere near his level.

Boys was the appropriate word in this case

These were boys

Ekko played with men

Last year they won the league cup because they had a decent team, with the ability to play good basketball.

But with the absence of players from last year, who had now left for university or work. Ekkos agitation and concern of them winning this year was growing by the minute. No wonder the coach had called an emergency practice week.

And Ekko wasn't the only one who thought that, Scar and Remi were also exceptional players (Dave played more for fun) and even they had mentioned during this practice how the practice seemed slower.

Schoolboy’s league or not, this wasn't good enough. And as captain of the team their performance would reflect on Ekko, affecting the chances of him losing his scholarship. Ekko could understand that it was boiling hot, hell this heatwave was getting to him too, however that wasn't a reason to not try their best.

Just then a blue haired girl strolled through the middle of practice, Ekko couldn't tell who it was but she somehow looked familiar. She was just strolling right through the training ground.

Ekko knew the team was bad, but were they really so terrible that other students didn't even care that they were training?

Several of the boys started to shout at her, but Ekko couldn't understand why they were shouting at her.

This was their fault

The ones shouting or ranting were the ones who needed to up their game or quit the team.

“Great display of captaincy, Jones” Finn, one of the latest recruitments, and a complete asshole taunted as he jogged past Ekko. Ever since Finn had joined the team he hadn't liked him, the boy had a god complex and thought he was better than everyone else, which he wasn't. The boy was chosen for the team since he was tall, and the coach said he could learn along the way. There was also something off about Finn that Ekko just couldn't name.

“Overated much?” the younger guy continued to taunt

“Keep fucking running” Ekko warned him whilst debating how much trouble hed get in for punching the guy, he really didnt like him.

“Maby you should take your own advice” Finn taunted “Southern scum”

Using all his strength Ekko tried to pay no attention to Finn, knowing if he got into any fights he could risk his scholarship, so instead he just chucked the ball in his hands with all his strength, not caring where it would land, he just needed to let his anger out.

As Ekko started to walk away Finn muttered “Pussy” 

And just as he was about to lose it coach came over to them

“Whats going on here?”

“Just Finn being an assho-” As Ekko was about to finish his sentence one of the other boys shouted “oh shit!” 

“What?” Ekko demanded, startled

Following the boys horrified gaze to the crumpled ball on the edge of the court, and next to it was the girl who had been crossing the court. She was laid on her back next to his bleeding ball.

Horrified, Ekko's feet were moving before his brain could catch up, heart hammering against his ribcage every step he took.

“Shit-are you ok?”

“Dont fucking touch me!” The girl said, when she looked up at him Ekko finally realised why he recognised the girl, it was Jinx. After seeing her in the shop she was hard to forget. The one person Benzo had told him to watch out for, he had just hit in the head with a basketball. What a great fucking start!

“Ok” Ekko automatically took a step back, holding his hands up in surrender “Im really, really sorry”

Slowly, Jinx climbed to her feet, swaying from side to side.

Ekko had to push down the urge to hold her up, or carry her to the nurses office, he really hoped he hadn't actually hurt her.

Jinx’s eyes looked to the ball by their feet, then her gaze shifted back to Ekko's face

A glazed over fury was in her eyes as she half staggered, half stalked towards Ekko. Her hair was a mess, with pieces of gravel entangled into it.

“Was that your ball”

Ekko was so struck by the sight of tiny, scraped up girl that he just nodded like a fucking idiot

Clearing his throat, he said “Yeah, it's my ball”

“You owe me a new pair of cargoes” 

“Sure” because what else was he supposed to do in that situation

“And an apology”

“Im sorry, I didn't mean to”

Jinx then started to grab her head and sway even more, Ekko moved forwards but she batted his hand away.

“Are you ok?” Ekko asked, unsure of what to do

“Ill be fine I just need some - Augh” Jinx clutched her head again

Oh shit! He'd probably given her a concussion

“EKKO” Coach shouted “IS THE GIRL OK”

“I THINK SHE HAS A CONCUSSION” Ekko shouted back

“Can you stop shouting, its doing my head in, literally”

“Shit, yeah, sorry”

“TAKE HER TO THE NURSE, MAKE SURE SHE IS OK”

“Im fine, Ill be fine, I just need a minute”

Ekko could tell Jinx was lying, the girl was swaying back and forth, and could barely still stand. “Bullshit, I'm taking you to the nurse, and before you can protest that you'll go on your own, it's your first week, so I know that you don't know where it is”

Jinx gave him a long look, before sighing, clearly deciding that a fight wasn't worth her time.

“Fine, but I swear it'll be a wast of your time, im fine”

“Yeah, and pigs fly” Ekko retorted, quickly grabbing his bag chrome the side of the court and Jinx’s bag off the floor, they headed to the nurses office.

Now the two of them were walking side by side toward the nurse’s office, and Ekko was trying not to die from secondhand embarrassment. Jinx kept rubbing her forehead, and Ekko kept sneaking glances at her — not because he was checking for a concussion or if she may fall (okay, mostly because), but also... damn. Even with a fresh bruise, she was really pretty. Like, really pretty. Blue eyes that had this sharp edge to them, like she could cut you down with a look and laugh about it after.

“So,” he said, trying to fill the silence before it swallowed them both, “how’s your first week going so far?”

Ekko knew he had messed up, clearly from how mad Jinx was at him earlier, but he did want to at least be her friend.

It took Jinx a while to answer, so long that Ekko thought she may just be avoiding talking to him, although after a few minutes she shrugged, still not meeting his eyes. “It’s fine. Nothing special. Just another week in a new school, you know?”

“Yeah, I get that. New schools suck.” Ekko offered a small smile, he knew from experience how nerve wrecking a new school was, he wondered why she moved, if she was with John she was probably in the foster system too. Oh now he felt extra bad. “But hey, I didn’t exactly make the best first impression, did I?”

Then surprisingly Jinx actually laughed. A little forced, but still a laugh. That was something.

“No, you didn’t. But I guess it’s a memorable one.”

They didn't talk the rest of the way to the office, just walked whilst warped in a comfortable silence. Once they arrived Ekko held the nurse’s office door open for her, watching as she stepped inside, hugging her arms around herself like she didn’t quite know where to fit in. The way she moved — guarded but stubborn — reminded Ekko of himself a little.

The nurse looked up from her desk. “What happened?”

“She got hit with a basketball,” Ekko admitted, scratching the back of his neck. Guilt was sitting in his throat like a stone. “I think it’s just a bruise, but we wanted to make sure she’s okay.”

The nurse came over and started her exam. Ekko hovered awkwardly by the side of the bed, watching Jinx as she sat there stiffly. She didn’t like being fussed over — he could tell. Same.

“You really don’t have to go through all this trouble for a stupid ball,” she muttered,still not looking at him.

Ekko smirked, trying to lighten the mood. “I know, but I’m not gonna take any chances. You might think you’re tough, but I’m not letting you get hurt on my watch.”

And he meant that, he had promised Benzo he would watch out for her, and after speaking to her she seemed like a nice person, who he would watch out for anyway. He also couldn't help but feel overprotective of her, like he was just drawn to her presence.

Just the Jinx glanced over at him, just for a second, and Ekko could swear — there was something in her eyes. Like she wanted to believe that. However it soon vanished, and she just looked to the floor.

After the nurse checked Jinx over and gave the all-clear, the duo stepped back outside into the corridor, since school had almost finished there was no point in returning to lesson or practice, so instead they both headed for main reception to leave early. 

As they exited the building her hair caught the light, and Ekko had to look away for a second just to think straight.

“So,” he said, trying not to sound like a complete idiot, “do you always get hit by random basketballs, or is today just your lucky day?”

She rolled her eyes, but the smile tugging at her lips gave her away. “Trust me, it’s not a regular occurrence. You just have a talent for aiming at the new girl, apparently.”

Surprisingly, Ekko laughed — a real one this time. She had that effect. Like the awkwardness could lift for a second and just... be easy.

“I swear, I didn’t mean it. But hey, if it’s any consolation, you’re now officially part of the team. You’ve been baptized in basketball.”

“Yeah,” she said, grinning now, “and now I have a bruise to prove it.”

Once they made it to the gates Ekko slowed his steps. He didn’t really want this conversation to end yet.

“I’ll walk with you to town, you need to pass my place to get to the village.”

She nodded, and they kept walking.

“Well, if you’re ever at another practice — hopefully without the basketball collision — feel free to stop by. I’m sure the team would love a fan.”

She raised an eyebrow. “A fan, huh? I’ll think about it. Don’t get too cocky now.”

Ekko laughed again, shaking his head. “No promises.”

And then he hesitated, just for a beat. Looked at her — really looked at her.

“You know,” he said, voice a little softer now, “it’s good to have someone new around. Makes things feel a little less... routine.”

She didn’t answer right away. Just watched him like she was trying to figure him out. Honestly, he didn’t blame her. Ekko wasn’t even sure what he was trying to say. He just knew that he didn’t want her to think she didn’t matter.

And maybe — just maybe — that he didn’t mind that she was here. Not one bit.