Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

AKEMI’S POV; FIRST DAY OF 7TH GRADE

The house was entirely filled with silence. Every morning, I woke up this way. This house was too old for its own good. I had to step carefully around my room, so that a single creak wouldn’t occur. I knew that if my family was to hear me awake before my designated time, the outcome would be devastating for me. The chance of hearing a small creak above my dad’s perpetually boisterous snoring was slim, but yet…I worried as if I was standing right next to them. Why I decided to get up so early, I don’t know. I couldn’t get a wink of sleep, and the pitch dark setting wasn’t any help to me. I’ve never been able to sleep in the dark. My nightlight died out last night, so I was forced to lay there and wonder if something was watching me. My mom calls me paranoid about that, but I’ve slept with a light source next to me from the day I was born. As far as I know…as long as I’ve been living here.

My dad wasn’t awake, and he wouldn’t wake up for another couple hours. He was the whole reason I was afraid to get up before my personal alarm, my mom, woke me up. I knew that if I made one wrong step…if I made a large noise like a crash or boom sound…if I dropped something, or fell down the stairs…and if I woke him up…I would be going to school with a black eye. And as a kid that has already been bullied his entire life, a bruise is the last thing you want visible. Trust me.

I gripped the doorknob of my door tightly, so that when I opened the door…it made little sound. I quickly but carefully shuffled myself out of my room, and made my way to the stairs. I had to rely on what I knew. I couldn’t turn on any lights. It was still black as black could be out here, and I could not see the outside of any of the steps. It was risky. I took one step at a time…and soon, I stood on the floor at the bottom. I made it…Thank God. 

I sigh softly and work my way through the kitchen and sit at the table. There was no reason for me to be down here or sitting at this table. Nothing for me to do. I was too scared to touch a single thing. I was lucky enough that one of these chairs had never been pushed in. If my father had known that, my mother would have received a harsh argument immediately. That was her job, after the rest of us had gone upstairs to sleep. I knew I was getting hungry, and that I hadn’t eaten much for dinner last night…but if I were to do something as stupid as turn on the tap, or open the microwave, or toast some bread…maybe even open a cabinet or the refrigerator…everyone would hear. I’d be done for.

So…I must sit here until my mom is awake. Then I can eat. And tell her about my nightlight.

The hallway light kicks on. It’s too dark to read the clock, but I’ve been counting seconds. I’ve been down here for about twenty minutes. It’s still quiet, except for her achingly loud footsteps hitting those stairs. She doesn’t care how loud she is. I feel stupid for worrying, since I can still hear my dad snoring just as loud even with all this noise. “Akemi? What are you doing down here?”

I’ve grown used to my name, no matter how uncommon it is. That was the name my parents gave me. My real parents are from back in Japan. They gave me this name before I was adopted. My mom decided to keep it, but they changed my last name to fit theirs and gave me the middle name “Suki” in remembrance of my real mother. My dad hates calling me my first name, so he calls me my last. 

Pierce…why can’t you just say “Pierce”?...

“Did you have trouble falling asleep again? Should I call your therapist?”

“No.” I mutter, but don’t say anything more.

“Have you taken your pills, like you were supposed to?”

“I don’t need pills. There’s nothing wrong with me.” 

She sighs, “...Why are you sitting down here?”

I look around the kitchen for something to say. Something to excuse my behavior. The truth is…I had a really bad dream last night. And the truth is…I probably do need those pills, and there is something most definitely wrong with me. It takes a lot to admit that, and I’m not at that point in my life yet. I have a lot of fight in me left before I finally give into her desires. I don’t want to get better.

“I was thirsty.” I speak quietly. “And hungry.”

“Why didn't you make something to eat?”

“I didn't want to eat anything without permission.”

She gets up and curses my father under her breath. I never acted this way as a young child, but I learned quickly that everything has a consequence in this house. So I try to do as little as possible to make it harder for them to blame me. If I do everything right, or nothing at all…there’s not any reason to blame me. I do my chores without resisting. Unless I’m needed, I don’t say a word. If I’m told to eat slower, I do. I take criticism easily…or try to. Most of the time, I don’t show emotions unless it’s behind closed doors. Only in the safety of my own room, when I know nobody can hear me.

I close my eyes and lay my head down on the table. There would be no difference if I was here in this kitchen or not. My mom grabs a pan from one of the bottom cupboards, places it on the stove, and turns on the heat. I can hear everything. The clacking of the pots and pans, the sound it makes when placed down, and the click of the stove along with the subtle heat change and sound of the flame. I can guess what she’s doing through sound, easily. She takes butter out of the fridge and coats the pan. She cracks a couple eggs above the pan. Five. One for her. One for me. And three for him. Then she reaches to a top cabinet, which she can barely reach, and pulls out a loaf of bread. I hear the bread click down inside the toaster, and slowly start to cook. It will be done within minutes.

“You have to get ready,” My mom says, “Breakfast is almost done.”

I get up and push in the chair. The hallway light is still on. I make my way to my room’s door. It’s the first door you see when you go up the stairs. I turn on the light inside…still clean. I cleaned it yesterday, so that today would be a fresh start for me. So much for that. I look inside my dresser. It’s mostly empty. I don’t need many clothes. Not much of our income goes into that. I have the basics, and a couple special things. Many of those ‘specialities’ were outgrowing me. I only have one hoodie that still fits me, and so I grab it. It brings me some comfort throughout the day…and I’ve found that bruises hurt less when you have that extra protection. I would wear a shirt under it, but that would be wasteful. I quickly grab some pants and change just before breakfast is ready. My door is slightly ajar, so I can hear my mom plating food downstairs. I can also hear the coffee brewing, ready for whenever Dad wakes up.

I adjust the sleeves and hood and then grab my backpack off the floor. It feels empty. There’s only a folder, a notebook, and a pack of pencils in there. “That’s all you need.” That’s what my mom said when she came back from the store. Actually, I heard there was a charity event held at the library…and I think that’s where she got this stuff. My dad would say nobody in their right mind would pay when you can get it for free. My mom tends to agree, as we don’t make much money.

“Today’s a big day,” My mom says as I sit down at the table. I stare at my food. A slice of bread and a fried egg. I poke at the yolk and break it, dipping my bread in the aftermath. I hate eggs. I hate how messy they are. I hate how they taste and their rubbery texture. “You’re in seventh grade now…”

“It’s no different than last year, or the year before.” I speak my mind.

She sighs, “You have to have some hope…maybe you’ll meet someone new.”

I scoff at her, “You think so? You think someone’ll want to talk to me ?”

She doesn’t answer at first, so I know she knows the truth too. “Well…we can be hopeful.”

In all honesty, I’d be fine if no one talked to me at all this year. It causes too many problems when people do. Drama. I want to avoid that as much as I can. All I care about is that I get work done, so I can graduate and move onto work. College, if I’m lucky. I don’t see how anyone can help me get there but myself. That’s what Dad tells me…everyone is a nuisance; the only person that can help you achieve your dreams is yourself. But he also tells me that I can do whatever I want. That life is about freedom. So, if working is my dream…what’s freedom? And what if I truly want to talk to people?

My dad stumbles downstairs while I’m eating. He sits down across from me, and shoves himself in his chair. I quickly get up and rush outside. I got so caught up in thinking that I forgot to grab the newspaper from the mailbox. I grab it swiftly and come inside again, setting it down on the table. The paper is cold…too cold for his liking. I feel embarrassed, and somewhat scared. He was having a bad morning already…based on that look on his face. And his coffee still wasn’t served.

Mom places a hot cup down in front of him. He takes a sip, boiling hot still, sets the cup back down, and gives her a look. She didn't add enough sugar. That’s what that look means.

“Pierce…” He tosses the paper to me, “Just read.”

I nod, and start reading the first page. I swear each paper gets longer every day, but I have to make sure not to mess up once. I have to be loud and clear, so he can process what I’m saying. My eyes drift to the last page number whilst reading the page. 26 pages. Longer than yesterday, which was 24. But it’s not the longest I’ve ever read. I picked up the pace of my reading only slightly, just so I could eat…eventually. I knew this would take me around twenty to thirty minutes, and I only had forty-five to spare. The sad part is…my dad is more focused on eating his food than listening.

. . .

My mom decided to drive me to school. I doubt she had any real reason. The bus worked just fine. I thought she would say something during our ride, but she ceased to say a word. I sat there in my seat silently, listening to the white noise the car produced. No music. I heard every time she turned on the signal light, which was only once. I lived not even five minutes from the school. This was truly a waste of time. I could walk…but she insists that this town is dangerous, even for someone my age.

I look out the window. There’s two boys walking there together. I feel like I’ve seen them before, but I can’t remember any names. I haven’t (willingly) talked to any kids in a long time either. They’re probably in the same grade, and that’s how I’ve seen them. I guess I should talk more…

“...What was your dream this morning?” There it is. 

She pulls over by the side of the school to drop me off. She’s giving me a glare which means I should answer her. I try to open the door, but it’s still locked. I sigh, “I’m not supposed to tell you. That’s between me and her, remember?” The ‘her’ would be my therapist, but I haven’t talked to her in over a month. Things were finally getting better. Well, that’s what I told her. She was dumb enough to believe me. I’ve been having dreams every night. It gets to a point where it’s expected…most of the time.

“Right.” She looks away and unlocks the car door, “Try to have a good day.”

“Yeah…I’ll try.”

. . .

If there’s one thing that I hate most in the world, it’s gotta be introducing myself. Especially in front of a bunch of kids that I don’t know and don’t want to know. Teachers always do this, every year. At least one of them…as a way to ‘get to know you’. What’s there to know? Everyone always has something to talk about, some fun fact…but I have nothing. Nothing, other than the fact that…

“I’m Akemi. You can call me Pierce though. And…I like writing, I guess.”

No one claps. There’s a few nods, from those who are trying to be nice. Then it moves to the next person, and everyone goes back to normal programming. I’ve unfortunately been a background character in this school since the day I arrived here. I’m not known as smart either, so people don’t try to force me to do their homework. I don’t have money, so it’s hard to use me. I’m just there.

“And what’s your name?” The teacher asks another boy. 

Hey, it’s that boy. One of the ones I saw this morning. Honestly, he looks a little stupid. I can tell he doesn’t want to participate either. There’s a small frown on his face, but he smiles when the teacher addresses him. He looks weak. Like…he put more time into looking nice than looking tough. Well-kept blond hair, circular face, a little pudgy…and then he speaks. “I’m Skye. I like taking pictures, and I want to be a professional photographer one day. Actually, a doctor. Well…I’m not sure, really.” He laughs it off, in an extremely awkward manner. I scoff just slightly, but he notices. Then I refuse to look at anyone for the rest of the introductions. How embarrassing…

“Alright, well, now that we know everyone…please choose your seat. This will remain your seat for the rest of the year.” I look around the room. Everyone has found someone to sit next to, and there’s a few empty desks. Only in the front now. That’s better than nothing. I quickly sit at an empty table and sigh, thankful I got here before someone else. I put my head down until the teacher says something again…or until I hear books slam down on my table. I look up. It’s that kid. Skye. 

“Hey, you’re Akemi, right? Or… Pierce ?”

I shrug, “Either or’s fine. Call me whatever you want.”

He laughs a bit and takes a seat next to me. I don’t want to meet anyone. And being around someone like him…it’s not going to help my case any. I stare at him long enough to remember his stupid smile when I look away. I thought staring at him would scare him away, but he didn't move an inch. I wanted to tell him I planned to sit alone, but I looked around the room and saw there’s no empty desks. There’s a few with only one person…but he chose to sit next to me. This has to be karma for scoffing at him. Why me? He doesn’t leave, so I look again. I notice his eyes. They’re different colors…?

It’s subtle, but noticeable. “Your eyes.” I say, “One’s green, and one’s blue.”

He blushes and laughs it off, “Yeah…I almost forgot about that.”

I didn't want to be, but I had to be straightforward with him. “You know…there’s other places to sit. You didn't have to sit next to me.” My personality would drive most people away immediately. I was expecting a scoff, or him to just simply move…but again…he didn't move an inch.

“Well, you’re the only one I really know here.”

“You know me?” I don’t remember when we met…

He grins, “Now I do.”

. . .

Skye did all the talking. I was trying to listen to the teacher, and he kept trying to whisper to me. I finally whispered back “What do you want?” and he asked if we could be friends. When I tell you my heart dropped, it really did. I almost didn't have the strength of voice to say yes. I said “Sure”...

The teacher stopped talking and said we had a couple minutes to talk. Skye didn't say anything the rest of that time, but he had this smile on his face like he had secretly won me over. Did he ?

When the bell rang, I grabbed my things and left as soon as possible. There was this feeling in my stomach. A sinking feeling, but it also excited me. I was excited and scared at the same time. I felt like throwing up. Skye came out of the classroom and trailed after me, “Where are you going next?”

“Gym.” I had studied my schedule for days. I didn't have to look.

“Woah, really?! Me and Tate have that together too!”

“Tate? Who’s Tate?” I look at him. He’s going to ditch me, for sure…

“You don’t know Tate?” He laughs, “I’ll introduce you to him. He’s kind of my best friend.”

…Kind of? Is there such a thing as being ‘kind of’ a best friend to someone?

The second we got into the gymnasium, I saw him. The other kid I saw this morning. The one who was walking with Skye. I heard Skye gasp and suddenly run up the bleachers to meet him. There was no doubt in my mind they were best friends now. I stood by the doorway until Skye called me up to meet him. I took my time up the bleachers. They were sitting at the top, so they could be as far away from the teachers as possible. And somehow…the most noticeable. 

“Akemi, this is Tate. Tate, this is Akemi.”

“Oh hey, I think I know you.” Tate grins, in a mischievous manner. “You're that kid's brother.”

“...Who?” I look away, immediately knowing who. That's the only reason anyone in this town would know me. My brother; Champion. A well known felon.

“I remember reading about that! You have the same last name! Pierce, right?” Suddenly…I'd rather be called by my first name. I thought all of this was old news, but people always surprise me…

“Yeah. That's me.” I just admit it. It's easier.

“Cool!” Tate puts out his hand, “Nice to meet ya’...I'm Tate. Tate Redwood.”

I shake it, “Nice to meet you too.”

Skye looks at us and smiles, “Well…it seems you two are getting along. That's good!” 

After that remark…he ignores me the rest of the time. Well, ignoring might not be the right word. They just kept talking and never mentioned me, and I was too scared to interrupt their conversation. I tried my best to pay attention to them, but I was more drawn to their personality. I studied the way they were speaking instead. At first, I thought Skye was some awkward nerd that nobody hung out with…but now I see there's another side to him. He's truly a popular kid. Dramatic; social; confident. When he's talking with Tate…he's a completely different guy. I think he does it to impress him. But Tate, on the other hand, is oddly the opposite of what I considered him to be. He seemed like one of those kids who was always acting up and getting into trouble. Always saying uncalled things and throwing things across the room. But the truth is that Skye was louder with his remarks than Tate, and Tate seems more down-to-earth than I imagined. He's not afraid to say anything, but he's quiet and isolated from everyone. There's a side to him that I enjoy seeing. He's a troublemaker, but still respectful. He's not one to make fun of someone…not unless they messed with him first. He wouldn't mock someone based on weight like other guys would. He's somehow…really nice. And Skye…well…he seems like the opposite of what I imagined too.

“Oh my god, did you hear about that one bitch in our school? I guess her dad got sent to jail, finally. Everyone's talking about it. I think- Hey, wait…that's totally the same girl who hit on you like a year ago.” I never figured Skye would talk like this. He laughs, “I kind of expected it though.”

Tate shrugs, “Not my problem. I don’t really care.”

“Yeah, I know.” He pouts, “Tate, I don’t understand. She’s really pretty though. Why’d you turn her down? You’re always complaining about how you don’t have a girlfriend…”

“She’s not my type.” He says indifferently, “And I wouldn’t get along with her parents. Obviously.”

“Well, jeez…what is your type?” Skye huffs, “You turn down every girl who asks you out.”

“I don’t have a type.” Tate states, and leaves it at that.

I’m trying to remember if I knew Tate, simply because he knows me. I know that the reason he knows me is self-explanatory but I feel like I knew him before this. Somehow. It must be through my brother…but I can’t remember when we’ve ever met. And I wouldn’t remember if we had. If I want to know…I have to ask. Neither of them are talking, so I speak up. “How’d you hear about me? Was it the newspaper, or did someone tell you?”

Tate laughs, “Everyone knows about you, dude.” I was surprised to hear that. “The entire school talks about it, and besides, my sister’s- uhm…someone I know, I call her my sister, but we’re not really related, you know? Anyways, hah, her roomie was involved with it.” He grins in the same way again, “I guess he was at that party and saw it happen.” He knows more than I do?

“Party? What party?” I question, “What happened there?”

“...You really don’t know the story? Damn, Pierce.” He exhales, “I mean, it’s pretty insane.”

“Can you tell me what happened?” My parents refused to tell me ever since it happened. They said they didn't want to ruin my perspective of him. I’ve always respected him. They said that would change if they told me. Besides, they didn't want me to get any ideas from it. They’ve never trusted me.

Tate leaned forward, “Alright. I’ll tell you. So, it had to be about ten years ago now…my sister’s roomie, Jay, hosted a party. I guess Champion was on a bunch of drugs and things, and then things got physical between him and someone at that party. Then he stabbed the guy, dragged his body out to his truck, and drove away to hide the body. Jay called the cops when he got back and then they arrested him. And apparently, he killed other people too!” 

I pause, then scoff, “My brother’s not like that. Jay lied. There’s no way he didn't.”

“Jay? Lie? Oh, nah, man. Jay ain’t like that! I’m telling you, this is the truth!”

The feeling in my stomach worsened. But the excitement was gone. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I knew that he had killed somebody, but…I never knew it was multiple, and I had assumed the cause was worthy. There’s no way he just stabbed some random person to death. That’s not something he would do. I know Champion better than the rest of my family, even if I was only five when he left.

“W-Why would he do that? Why did he do that? Do you know?”

“Well, Jay said that guy had drugs that Champion wanted. And that Champion was trying to reach inside his pockets to get it, and he was told no. And he didn't take no for an answer.”

“He wasn’t like that! He’s not a bad person! It- It had to be a misunderstanding!”

“Dude, I’m just telling you what I heard.” Tate shrugs, “Fuck if I know what actually happened.”

“So…you agree with me then?” My heart races waiting for an answer.

“All I’m saying is…” Tate lays it down for me, “Either Champion is a really good liar, or he’s not guilty for whatever happened. I don’t want to doubt Jay. He’s a good man, and lying under oath doesn’t sound like him. So, for the sake of Jay, I have to say he’s guilty in my eyes.”

He’s basically admitting that Champion is innocent. “...I understand.”

Skye finally had something to say, “I didn't realize your family was so complicated, Akemi.”

“Well…it’s definitely something. ” If my mom heard me talking smack like this, I’d get one.

. . .

The bell rang. I didn't want to leave. I wanted to talk to Tate and Skye all day, strangely. I was at first a little annoyed at the way Skye was talking about people, but after they started including me in conversations…I started to find it satirical. Skye was obviously being sarcastic, and he was nice under all of this ‘popular’ attitude. A girl complimented his outfit on our way out, and in return, he said she also looked really good today. She smiled and blushed in response. It took me a while to notice that girls really liked him. And he was somewhat attractive, I guess. Not to me. But when you see an attractive person and just say “Wow, they’re attractive”...I guess that’s what I mean. A lot of people in this school stare at him like he’s a reincarnation of Jesus. I think it’s stupid…and now I know I have no place next to him in this school. Why he’d want to talk to someone like me…I truly have no clue.

I made it to English before he did. I never thought he would walk in after me. He started a conversation with someone in the halls, so it gave me a chance to slip right by him. If the things Tate says are true, I have no right ruining Skye’s reputation. I sank my head onto the desk after I chose somewhere to sit, and not even a minute later, I felt someone tap my shoulder. I look up, wondering who could be bothering me…and I see those blond curls again. I knew who it was the second I saw them.

He smiles, “Look, we have English together too! Mind if I sit next to you?”

“...No. You can sit here.” He still chooses to sit next to me? Why? There’s so many people here.

Skye rushes to sit down next to me, and after he does, two girls sit down on the other side of us. The ones he was talking to in the hall. They were quick to continue their discussion. I don’t know what it was about, but they were talking about Skye’s mom and maybe an event he was at. They were saying that Esta, his mother, was really nice. From what it seems like…Skye and his mom helped set up a charity event over the summer, and Skye got some of his community hours in. Of course he did.

I never thought that Skye, this innocent baby-face looking kid, would be the type of person to openly flirt with girls. But here he was, complimenting them on various things. Their hair, nails, outfit…I mean, just about everything and anything. And he kept it going, even when I thought he was done. In return, they complimented him. His outfit. He said his thanks and then told them where he got his clothes from. Various brands that I’ve never heard of, but they seem excited over it. Was he rich?...I guess I wondered that from the get-go. But he doesn’t have much of a rich personality. Just an ego.

By the end of the class…they were excitedly whispering about him. They like him.

On the way out of class, I caught up with Skye. I couldn’t keep my mouth shut about that. Those girls were hanging on his shoulder, and he let them. There wasn’t a care in the world behind his eyes, like this sort of thing happened every day. If anyone talked about me that enthusiastically, I would die. 

“Damn, dude…” I whisper, almost happy for him but utterly jealous, “That was crazy…”

“Huh?” He drops off his stuff in his locker, “What do you mean?”

I huff, standing by his locker, “Those girls! They totally like you! Don’t you see it?”

He closed his locker, looked at me like I was crazy, and then he started laughing. Laughing loud enough that those girls could probably hear him. I was dumbfounded. Was he just that egotistical? How could he blame Tate for his taste when he’s acting like this? But then…he said something rather confusing. “You must be kidding.” He grinned at me, like it was a joke to him.

“What? No. I mean, for real! They were totally into you, dude!” When I said that, he laughed again. It was really pissing me off. I scoff, “You don’t believe me?” It was so obvious. He had to know.

“Oh, no. I believe you. I just think it’s funny…” He left it at that. Really ?

“... Why ?” 

He didn't answer me. We were already near the lunch line, and he rushed to grab food. I got the normal, and he went out of his way to get a salad. I watched him pay for it. My parents had a thing where I didn't have to pay, because we were low-class. So, he had the money to pay. That doesn’t make him rich but…it makes him wealthier than my family. I couldn’t read his personality, no matter how much I tried. I was too quick to call him an asshole. He was all over the place. He was never mean to people when he talked to them. Only behind their backs. I guess that still makes him a bad person.

“Skye! Skye!” A girl ran up to him, “Do you have extra money? I lost mine earlier…”

“Of course!” He smiled back, “Here. This is enough, right?” and handed her a five-dollar bill. Lunch was only three dollars. She was quick to run off with it without ever thanking him. I saw her go up to the snack counter and buy a bunch of snacks instead of a real lunch. Skye didn't say a word about it. I was sure if he had known, he would’ve bought everyone she knew those snacks. But he was unaffected by her rude attitude. Maybe he was rich. There wasn’t a single stain on any of his clothes, and they looked brand-new. So… maybe. 

“Hello? You’re holding the line up.”

I cleared my throat and put in my ID number. “Sorry.”

With my tray, I sat at an empty table and began to eat. I wasn’t going to beg Skye to sit with him. I figured he had plenty of friends. And I was used to sitting alone. It didn't bother me. Yet, I had to look. I watched him sit at a table, almost completely full. Other people would fill up those spaces soon…I’m sure of it. But, to my surprise…by my second bite, someone stood behind me. I didn't have to look.

“Aren’t you going to sit with us?” Skye asks, “Sorry if you got scared.”

“Why would I get scared?” I muttered.

“All the people?” He said, blatantly. I was irritated by how right he was. I sighed and turned around. He smiled at me, all innocent, “Just give it a go. We won’t bite. Well, maybe.” He joked.

I couldn’t believe he was inviting me. I’m not anything special. I figured with one look of me, they would throw me to the curve. A bunch of rich kids…hanging out with someone like me. It would never work, right? Wait, I’m assuming they’re rich. But what rich kid doesn’t hang out with other rich kids, right? Well…if they do hate me, at least it will be over today. The quicker, the better. That way, there’s no drama. I don’t want this to be like last year, or elementary. I won’t say much. I’ll just say hi.

There were four others sitting at the table. Tate was the only one I recognized. But everyone there was a guy but one, which surprised me. Skye talked to more girls than boys, which meant he wasn’t the so-called “leader” I thought he was. I could tell who was though. Another guy, who stuck out like a sore thumb. Literally. His hair was dyed an awful bright red, from the root to the tips. It wasn’t normal for kids to dye their hair around here, especially their full head. And he had hair that went down to his shoulders, which was also weird for a guy. Yet, no one questioned it. He was talking all high and mighty, and was definitely the loudest one there. But not in an obnoxious way…more like, he was arguing and knew his facts. He sounded like a lawyer. He looked like one too. He was wearing clothes I would wear to something formal. Not school. Maybe a wedding or something.

“That’s Harley.” Skye said before we got there, “He can be a bit much sometimes.”

“I heard that!” Harley said before continuing to talk to Tate about whatever they were bickering about. Tate was more focused on our arrival. He gave a small wave. I waved back. 

Skye laughed, “Yeah. That was the point.” I smiled because of his confidence.

“Everyone, this is Akemi.” He pointed me out, and I stood there awkwardly. Harley went quiet pretty fast. He was studying me. My guess is that he knew me by the same ways that Tate did; through my brother. And by everyone’s looks…I’m guessing they all did. I had to awkwardly look away until Skye introduced everyone else to me.

“This is Carly.” 

I look up to notice the girl. She was sitting there with a small smile. She looked traumatized. There was a type of fear in her eyes, and she didn't say a word to me. She acted as if I was Fate myself…which really irked me. Apart from that, she was gorgeous. Her hair was done up in space buns and she was wearing a Converse jacket and NASA t-shirt. She had her own style, which I liked. I could tell she was really into space…not just from the shirt. She had dangling star earrings, and she was reading a book that had something to do with astrology.

“You already know Tate…” Skye skipped over him with a quick glare. He grinned. Skye was right. I knew his type…he's still a troublemaker. There's a difference between an annoying asshole and a troublemaker…and Tate is a perfect example of a troublemaker. He seems pretty nice, even if the others don't see it. But I do. He's putting on this personality to save himself…but in all reality, he probably wants to be more caring and thoughtful than anyone else sitting here. And I respect that.

“And this is Ben…” Skye didn't say much about him. He didn't have to. I observed him. He said greetings to me but something about the way he said it made me uneasy. He's someone you wouldn't be alone at a party with. I can tell he's the one who makes the dirty and unsettling jokes here. And…just by observation…he hasn't slept in days. 

“Here's Harley.” Skye smiles when he gets to him, “He's kind of…the leader, right?” His smile widens when Harley gets annoyed. He doesn't like being called that, but he acts the part. I knew from the second I saw him that he was the leader. Most leaders are really energetic and out-there, but Harley is just well-spoken. He really is like a CEO. He wants to get work done and get out of here. 

“Well…” Skye sits down next to Tate, and I sit down next to him. “That's everyone, anyways.”

It was an interesting group…to say the least. I wasn't sure whether I would fit in here. Now that I'm taking a better look, they're definitely not all rich. Tate looks like he comes from a family just as poor as mine, and Ben does too. And…watching them even more…Harley might be the only rich person here. I knew that through listening. Tate asked him what his family did this summer and Harley said he went on vacation to Tuscany with his family and stayed at a private suite for two weeks, and then they got a plane trip to Japan; after they got sick of land, they took a three-week cruise. Harley said he hated most of it. And Skye said “I wish” so I guess Harley's probably a couple brackets above all of us…

“Since my family wanted to travel to Japan, I had to study common Japanese phrases instead of enjoying my time out in Tuscany. And then when we got to Japan, I didn't have to do any talking!”

Skye laughed, “Well, Harley, you could always be one of those…uh, what are they called? Like…translators or something! Imagine being a translator for the President! Wouldn't that be cool?”

Harley huffed, “Yeah, absolutely not.”

…Lunch was over before I could even finish my tray. I was too busy listening to them. I rushed over and threw out the rest, catching up with Skye. I knew we didn't have the next class together and I was admittedly scared to separate from him. But he didn't seem to feel the same. After he threw out his food, he ran away with Tate and said, “I'll see you after the next two classes! Bye, guys!” My heart was racing again. I was so nervous about how the next class would go…

Hopefully I'll share it with one of them.

. . .

I was one of the first ones to class. The teacher told me to pick any seat. I took a seat in the far back left corner. I hated when people were able to throw things at me. That's the only reason I sit in the back. In any other circumstances, I would sit in the front. But now I don't know who to talk to…

Harley walks in. He sees me, then immediately looks away, and sits at the desk in front of mine. I can't tell if he hates me or not, but I have a feeling he does. He doesn't say a word to me. He observes the people coming in, but no one seems to interest him either. He just wanted this class to be over…and I did too. We were in here for quite a while, since this teacher strangely teaches both History and Science. We'll be trapped here for a good hour-and-a-half every day, so I hope he doesn't hate me. 

Our teacher introduced us to our textbooks in History, and then we watched a thirty minute video and did notes in Science. He was pretty quick with things. There wasn't a day of introductions or anything…but we did have to choose a partner for labs. I was so nervous to ask…but I asked Harley. He said yes, immediately. Apparently, I was the only one he knew here too. But he told me that if we were going to be partners, we would be doing things his way. Basically, an indirect way of telling me not to get in his way…but I knew that before I even asked.

I tried to rush out the door, but he somehow got there before me. He stopped me in the halls, right outside the classroom. His demeanor was tough, like he was about to beat me senseless for lunch money…although lunch was over, and he was rich. He gripped my shoulder, “Where do you live?”

“H-Huh?” I processed his question, “On the left corner of the intersection. Fancy door.”

He seemed to know where I meant. “Okay. Want to meet up with us tonight?”

“Uh…well…I’m not sure if I can.” I was honest. “Where?”

“The elementary park. It’s not a very far walk, right? You can just meet us after school.”

“Guess not.” I shrugged, “I can ask my mom.”

That’s when he let go of my shoulder, finally. I was so tense. I knew I had said the wrong thing with that look he gave me, and how he suddenly grinned in a cruel way. “Ah, I see. Mama’s boy, huh?”

“No!” I tried to defend myself, “But, she’ll get really mad if-”

“Who cares?” He scoffed, “So what?” I didn't sense that he was that type of person at first, but I saw it now. This whole group was just a bunch of loner troublemakers. Just like my brother. Or, how he used to be, I guess. Have my parents been right about me this whole time? What if…I really do belong with people like this? Do I even have a choice? If I say no, what will he do to me?

“...I’ll try.” I said, not sounding too happy about it. Who would be? I knew that after I got home tonight, I would lose everything. But I’d rather accept a beating later from someone I expected it from than one now from someone I was learning to trust. It’s only the first day. I can’t mess up anything.

Harley was content enough with that answer that he nodded and walked away.

I stood there and caught my breath. I wonder what would’ve happened if I said no…

. . .

I was late to my next class, but I told the teacher I got lost. When I saw Skye’s face, I felt a glimpse of hope. In all honesty, I really missed him. “Hey! How’d things go?” He greeted me when I walked into the computer room. “Saved you a seat.” He patted a chair next to him. I smiled, knowing he still thought about me, even though I was gone for so long. 

I sat down next to him, “Alright, I guess.” It was easy to tell that wasn’t the truth.

“Oh no, did something happen?” He frowned, “It’s alright, you can tell me.”

See…the thing about Skye is…you can’t tell when he’s being genuine. I can’t tell if I’m being paranoid, or if he seems a little fake. He seems nice, but I can’t get myself to trust anyone anymore. A lot of people that seem nice usually aren’t, and I’m scared of that. What if I tell him, and he just laughs it off and says he never really cared in the first place? What if we get really close and he ruins everything?

That’s never going to happen…you’re just overthinking again. Stop worrying so much.

“Well, Harley wants me to meet up with you guys tonight…” I was afraid to see the look on his face, so I looked away. “I almost said no, but I don’t think he was going to take no for an answer…”

Skye nodded and played it off, “Oh, he’s like that. Don’t let it get to you too much…he’s all bark, no bite.” He says that, but Harley gripped my arm so tightly I can still feel it. “But if you can, it’d be super awesome! Me and Tate will be there too. Hopefully, the whole group will be.” He smiled softly, “But if you can’t…I understand.” Again…if I didn't go…Harley would be mad, and Skye would be disappointed.

“I’m just afraid that my mom will get upset.” To say the least…

“Oh…” He thought about it, “Yeah…I know someone like that. Well, don’t feel forced or anything! I don’t want to get you in trouble with your parents. And if Harley says something, just ignore him!” That’s easier said than done. “I’ll defend you, don’t worry! I can put up with him.” But can I?

I sit and think about it for a minute or two. At least Skye has my back. “Thanks.”

“No problem!” He smiles, and turns to hear instructions.

. . .

“Only two more classes to go.” I sigh to him.

I could already tell I was going to hate this class. I already struggled enough learning foreign languages, but the teacher really sold the deal for me. He said everything in a monotone voice, and I was almost positive he didn't even like what he’s teaching. If so, he definitely doesn’t act like it…

“I’m surprised you signed up for French.” Skye remarks, “You don’t seem like that type of guy.”

“I didn't get much of a choice. It was that or Spanish.”

“Fair enough.” Skye hummed, “I only chose French because it seemed easier.”

“Yeah, me too.”

We sat at a table of three. We were the only two talking. For once, Skye didn't say a word. I think he was past trying to make new friends for today. Or maybe, he had some old drama with her too. Mine was stupid, really. She made fun of me in elementary. That’s all. She didn't bring it up. In fact, I don’t think she recognized me. She was focused on Skye and the teacher. Later, Skye said he didn't know her.

. . .

The last class of the day. Art. It wasn’t a choice to be here, but that’s okay. I didn't particularly care what classes I was in. Again, we went over the basics. We were at tables with four people, and since Skye was sitting here, two others quickly sat across from us. A boy and a girl. I didn't know either of them, unsurprisingly…but neither did Skye. He was interested to start a conversation and ask their names. I didn't really care enough to remember, in all honesty. But they were friends by the end of class.

The final bell rang. And now…finally…school is over. Thank God.

But it’s still not over for me. 

“Where’s your locker?” Skye asked me.

I barely remembered. “Upstairs, I think. Near the math room?”

“Oh, yeah. Makes sense. It’s typically near our homerooms, so mine too!”

Neither of us had to ask. We started walking there together. It didn't take us long to get there, and we didn't say a word in-between. By the time I grabbed all my stuff, he was still chatting with someone at his locker. A new person; not even someone I had seen today. He really was popular. Plus, he definitely didn't care about catching a bus with all the time he was wasting…

I walk up to him, “Do you take the bus?” I had totally forgotten about the meeting.

“Oh, no. I walk home. It’s only across the street from the school.”

“Oh…okay.” I was a little disappointed, “Well, I’ll see you later then?”

“Yeah-” Then he stopped me, “Wait, aren’t you going to hang out with us? Just for a bit.”

“Uh…I’m not sure…”

“ Please? ” It was so hard to say no to him. “I can even walk you home, if you want!”

Actually, that was the last thing I wanted. But…

“Alright, yeah, I’ll go. Only for a few.”

The bus took around thirty minutes. I could walk home in about five. I just have to get home by the time my bus drops me off, and everything will be fine…

. . .

Damn, it’s 6pm already. I should’ve been home hours ago. I wonder if Mom noticed. Eh, probably not. Realistically, by now, she would’ve called the school and demanded to know where I was. They would’ve called the bus garage, and neither would have an answer for her. Then she would’ve called the police and filed a missing report…maybe try to sue the school… who knows. That’s a slim chance anyways. The police would’ve found me immediately. I didn't run far. Shit, I’m still at school. 

“Well, I have to get home.” Skye finally said, “I’ll see you guys later!”

Everyone else agreed, including myself. It was getting dark. I was nervous to walk home at this rate…and Skye had forgotten about what he said. He only said that to get me here, I’m sure. Nobody else lived my way. Tate and Skye lived West of where we stood, Ben lived South, and Harley had a ride. I lived North, so no one was going my way…

“Am I staying at your house?” Tate asked Skye, like he already knew the answer.

“I mean… if you want to. ” That must be a yes. They walked off together.

I stood there alone until Skye turned around, “Oh, Akemi, it’s pretty late. Want to join us, maybe just to call home?” He made it sound really easy. I wish my life was as easy as his.

“Uh…” I really didn't want to walk home. And at least my mom would be yelling at me over the phone rather than in person. I would have time to think of reasons to explain myself…and maybe by the time I came back, she would calm down. “Yeah, sure, if that’s okay with you.” 

Skye looked over at Tate. He gave approval, “That’s fine with me.”

. . .

And that’s how I ended up here, sleeping in Skye’s bed.

SKYE’S POV; 11:24PM, “MY BEDROOM"

I didn't expect to meet anyone new this year, but I did. A couple kids. I thought I already knew everyone in this school district…but I was proven wrong. Most of these kids, I couldn’t give too fucks about…if I’m really being honest. But he’s different. There’s something about him…this is the first time I’ve ever talked to him, but it feels like we’ve known each other since forever. I can tell even Tate knows something is up. Harley has never invited someone to our group so easily like this. He told me there was something special about him. And my God, he’s right. He’s sleeping next to me, and we’ve only known each other for a day. I cannot believe he’s so comfortable with me. I guess it’s a long story…

Tate always sleeps on the floor. That’s his thing. It pisses me off, but he’s done it since we first met each other as kids. I always ask him if he’ll finally crawl up here and sleep on anything but that cold tile, but he always refuses. He’ll take a blanket and a pillow from my bed and just lay there. And that’s it. One time, he told me he wasn’t “deserving” of it. Shit, that says a lot about his family situation. I wonder if he even has a bed in that house. Anyways, that’s besides the point. Today was different. I’m used to having Tate here, almost every night now. But Akemi’s new to me. I don’t know how he sleeps or what he’s like, or if he’s ever slept at someone else’s house. Something about the way he acts tells me otherwise. He’s too scared to say anything or agree. I asked him if he wanted some chips earlier, and he looked at me like he’s never been offered something like that before. And when I handed him the bag, he took maybe two chips and ate them so…sparingly. It was pretty sad, actually. He’s like a homeless child when it comes to food. And he’s so quiet, sometimes I forget he’s here…but he listens, and he doesn’t seem to mind talking when we ask him or invite him to talk. He’s actually pretty funny. 

Things didn't go over well with his mother on the phone, and Tate was being a bit pushy and told Akemi he should just stay here. Akemi was scared deathless for a couple hours, afraid that his mom would somehow find him…but nothing ever happened. And he loosened up after everything. He was so tired and Tate finally decided to go to bed. When he saw Tate curl up on the floor, I asked him his opinion on sharing the bed with me. I was curious, I guess. Whether he’d be more like Tate or…more like me. And, as it turns out, he’s more like me. Well, all he did was shrug, but we went from there. He refused to sleep anywhere but the inside of the bed, where I typically sleep, but it’s fine.

There’s another thing. Sleeping next to him makes me feel embarrassed. I’m not sure why. It’s probably because I’ve never been this close to someone before. I’m really fighting the voices. We’re close enough that the sides of our bodies are touching. Tate doesn’t trust me enough to sleep next to me, all because I used to have a crush on him. That’s the thing I like about Akemi. He doesn’t seem to care too much, and he’s willing to say yes to just about anything. If he knew…would he change his mind? 

I still feel guilty about getting him in trouble. It’s only the first day of school. Most people wouldn’t dream of doing this type of thing until after a month…or more. Or ever. I got too excited, and he’s too scared to tell Tate no. Or Harley. Harley got him into this whole mess, but I only encouraged it. I could’ve let him go home earlier…and I guess whether he stayed here or not wouldn’t have made much difference. He didn't go home when he was supposed to. He can’t be trusted. Something like that.

But can you blame me? It’s not everyday I meet people like this. He’s so nice…

“Skye…are you still awake?” 

I didn't expect that he was still awake. He hasn’t snored once. I should’ve known.

“Yeah…what’s up?”

He didn't answer me when I first responded. I turned around and looked at him. There was a trace of confusion left on his face, like he was debating his actions. He spoke again, “I can't really sleep…just wondering if you were awake.” I smiled and tucked the blankets around him tighter. I hoped it would help. He's probably just like me; not used to this type of thing.

I want to trust him. I know it's only been a day, but I really want to. I wasn't against any of this. This “new start” I promised myself…and now it's here, and I'm not sure what to do with it. I never even told my mom they were over…maybe I should've. She works late now, and has to wake up early. She'll find out.

“What are you doing?” I whisper. He's inching ever so closer. I laugh at his poor attempts. The bed keeps pulling him back to where he was…he's completely sinked in. I find myself blushing when he stops moving and curses the bed under his breath. He was trying to get closer to me. Why? To be honest, I've never felt like this. I mean…it's not an awakening or anything. Everyone with some type of common sense knows. For some reason, he had no clue. Earlier today when he made that joke, was he joking? He must be.

It's so obvious. And everyone knows that I like Tate, but he didn't react at all. Does he really not see it?

He doesn't answer me. Instead, he grunts and gets comfortable. I can tell he sleeps in a hard bed and that he's not used to a mattress topper. He's not facing me, but he might as well be resting on my chest with that expression. He's oddly situated. He has such a gentle look, compared to anyone I've ever known. A baby face. Maybe it's wrong to stare, but I can't help it.

“Good night…” I whisper again and turn around so that we're back-to-back. I need some sleep.