Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Nova Bright was fairly certain that today was going to suck.

I mean, it’s not like she wanted it to. She didn’t! But she just had a feeling.

It was her first day at Seabrook high. And even though Zoey was going to cheer tryouts with her for moral support, she was certain that something was going to happen. Either the Aceys were gonna make fun of them, the seniors would make fun of them, or-

Actually. Maybe she just didn’t want to start high school.

I mean honestly, who did?

She felt like she had poured her heart and soul into her middle school community. Last year had been spent making new friendships, flirting with boys, and generally having a good time.

Now? Half the people that would be in her grade she didn’t know. She wasn’t even close to guaranteed a spot on the cheer team. And it was almost entirely possible she was going to have to build her popularity from the ground up.

She sighed, finishing tying up her ponytail. She needed to get to the car before Zoey left without her.

She went outside, looking around for her friend. And sure enough, there was Zoey, green hair and all. When she saw Nova, she squealed and came running over.

“Oh my god Nova!! Aren’t you so excited!” She was saying, hooking her arm through Nova’s. Nova laughed.

“Ready for what? Purgatory?” She asked teasingly, hugging her friend back. Zoey just rolled her eyes pulling back.

“Oh come on, Zed says it’s not even that bad. Right Zed?” She called, looking over her shoulder. From the car, Zoey’s older brother honked in a non verbal “yes”

Zed was older than Zoey by about 5 years, but they were closer than most siblings. In fact, now that Zed was a senior and Zoey was in 8th grade, he had made it his personal responsibility to chauffeur her. And Zoey, being Zoey, insisted he take Nova.

This was how she found herself being shoved into the backseat of Zed's car, on her way to school.

“So.” Zoey said, turning to her.

“Aren’t you excited to try out for the high school cheer squad?” Zoey asked, grabbing her arm. Nova groaned.

“Sort of. I’d be a lot more excited if you were going with me.” She sighed, dropping her head into her hands.

“Why did you have to be a year younger, and not go to high school at the same time as me?” She asked, muffled through her fingers. Zoey laughed, stroking her hair.

“Oh come on, it will be find. All the girls are gonna be there. And now, more zombies are going to school, so you won’t be what most people are focusing on!” She said trying to cheer her up. Nova sighed. Yeah. There was at least that.

Seabrook, was divided into a few different parts. But the main two, was the Seabrook main neighborhood, and “Zombietown”.

Now, why was it called zombie town? Well. Imagine a town, where most things are made out of brick, looks like an abandoned building, almost everything looks 20 years old, and run down.

That was Zombietown. The running joke was that it looked like a zombie apocalypse had happened, and started the nickname.

The reality? The people that lived there just had harder lives. Low income, single parents, that kind of thing. It had gotten so bad, that people harassed, and even made fun of the people that lived there. They even started calling them “Zombies”

Nova had never liked it. Especially not when she was a kid. She didn’t understand why people would hate someone who was having a harder time than them. It wasn’t right.

That was, until four years ago. A group of teens, including Zed, had started to go to Seabrook high, after their old school burned down. And in an act of defiance, they dyed their hair green, and dubbed the name “the zombies”

Now, almost all the kids from Zombietown had fully embraced the aesthetic of this, and if they had green hair it was a dead giveaway.

In the beginning, people had resisted them. And they probably would have continued to, if it wasn’t for Zed and Addison.

Everyone knew the story. Addison was the mayors daughter, the golden girl cheerleader. Zed was the boy from the wrong side of the tracks. They had fallen in love, and together, (through much trial and error) had single handedly changed most people’s opinions on zombies.

It was because of them, that she still believed in true love.

Since then, opinions on Zombies had greatly improved. And Zed and Addison had become the king and queen of Seabrook high. And Nova knew them. She was celebrity adjacent.

Well. Sort of.

Obviously, she kind of knew Zed. He was her best friends brother. But their interactions had mainly consisted of rides to school, and the occasional time he would pick up Zoey from her house. And she had never met Addison.

Still. Being just adjacent would make people like her. At least for a while.

She looked over at Zoey’s smiling face for a minute.

She was also, quite obviously, a so-called “zombie”. She had green hair, the sort of boho ripped denim style and she had grown up in Zombietown. But she was Zoey.

She was popular, because she was impossible to hate. She was all smiles, encouraging words, unbridled optimism and enthusiasm, and just all around a good person. It helped that she was Zeds little sister. And very, very pretty.

She had been Nova’s saving grace in middle school. But now she didn’t have that.

They pulled up to Seabrook middle school, and Zoey sighed, standing up. She got out of the car, straightening her cardigan, and fixing the dyed strands of pink among her green hair.

“Okay Nov.” she said, as Nova stepped out to hug her goodbye.

“Remember to be optimistic. And that I am only a phone call and a few blocks away.”

Nova laughed hugging her friend.

“Trust me, I know. Try not to miss me.” She said, hugging her friend. She tried to sound humorous, but her voice cracked on the last few words. Luckily, Zoey didn’t say anything, just hugged her tighter.

All too soon, she had to let go and watch as Zoey walked off to go join her 8th grade friends. Trying not to show the tears in her eyes, she wiped her face furiously, and got back into the car.

Maybe Zed could tell she didn’t want to talk about it, because he didn’t say a word as they drove the few short blocks to the high school. But as they pulled up to the tall looming building, and got out of the car, Zed put a hand on her shoulder.

“Hey.” He said quietly.

“It’ll be alright. This school is a much better place. And you’ve got people in your corner.” He said softly. She turned to him, and he gave her a small smile. Then, he patted her shoulder and started to walk away.

“Good luck Bright.”

She sighed, and straightened her white bag. She inhaled deeply, before walking up to the school.

From the corner of her eyes, she saw a few familiar faces. She could see the Zombies, the bad kids turned cool hanging out around. She could see some sophomores in cheer uniforms, and felt a pang of longing go through her.

Then, she saw a group of some girls from her year she recognized, and was about to walk up to them, when she felt something clip her heel.

She almost fell forward, tripping slightly, but a strong warm hand caught her wrist.

“Wow. I’m sorry, are you okay?” A low concerned voice asked. She turned around and was about to say she was fine, when she froze.

She got a good look at who was holding her arm, and the all too familiar brown eyes made her tense.

“Oh. Nova.” He said.

She and Victor Barton stared at each other for at least two minutes.

And yes. She knew exactly who this was. The sight of his warm brown eyes, and soft bronze skin was all too familiar, and memories of swing sets and treehouses flashed in her mind. Pool parties, and laughing fits, and times when they had no one to worry about.

But among them, she remembered a tearful conversation in a backyard, and a goodbye.

She hadn’t spoken to him in nearly 2 years not since…

He looked more or less the same. But also… very different.

He had spent the last two years quietly sitting in the back of classrooms. He didn’t answer questions, he didn’t talk to anyone but his friends. Just sat quietly, drawing in his sketchbook.

But now? He looked… well. To put it simply, he looked good.

He was wearing a white shirt, that had the Fleetwood Mac “Rumours” cover on it, and black baggy jeans. He was wearing white Nikes and his hair…

His hair. It was slicked back, and had red streaks dyed throughout. He was also, noticeably, much taller.

She remembered to breath, and stepped back, words evading her as she stared into his face, sharp handsome features illuminated by the early morning sun.

“Hey.” He said simply, like he didn’t know what else to say. She tried to respond, but all words stuck in her throat.

He seemed to notice. He just laughed softly, (when did his laugh get that low?) and shook his head.

“Well then. Be careful where you step sunshine.” He said, before walking away skateboard in tow.

So that’s what clipped my heel she thought stupidly, before remembering she was standing in the middle of the sidewalk, like an idiot

She shook herself, and forced her eyes to move away from where Victor had gone to stand next to his friends.

As she walked towards her own friends, she couldn’t help herself from replaying that conversation in her mind.

And as she came to stand next to her friend Sonya, she knew at least one thing.

Freshman year had just gotten significantly more interesting.

Chapter Text

The first time Nova bright met Victor, was in the 6th grade. It was her first year in a new school, after being home-schooled for her elementary years.

Ray had been her only friend until this point, and he had gone to school two years previously in the fourth grade, because his mother wanted him to make friends.

And he did. Lots of them in fact. He met kids playing sports, he joined clubs, and suddenly he had a lot less time for his childhood best friend who wasn’t allowed out of the house.

It had taken two years of watching Nova stare out windows at the school buss longingly, and crying in her room at night, for Novas mother to allow her to go to school.

But that first day, Ray had been way too focused with his own friends, and Nova had been very nervous.

That is, until she got into the building. She was walking in the hallway, until suddenly somebody stumbled into her.

She had gasped, as a boy around her age had been shoved aside by some boys Ray was friend with, and into her.

The boy stumbled back from her, his brown eyes wide, and already sputtering apologies.

This was the first time, that she ever got a real look at Victor. He had dark hair, that fell messily into his eyes, and he was about her age, with black framed glasses. He was carrying a simple black backpack, and wearing a hoodie and jeans.

When they locked eyes, they both just paused, in that way you do when you meet someone you don’t know.

“I-I’m so sorry.” He stuttered out. She looked behind him at the taller boys who were still laughing, and then looked back at him with concern.

“Are you okay?” She asked. He opened his mouth a few times, looking at her face, before just nodding his head like he couldn’t get the words out.

She smiled then, because he was just too cute.

“I’m Nova.” She said, holding a hand out. He seemed surprised by this, before tentatively taking her hand and shaking it, smiling.

“Victor.” He said.

And that’s how it started. After that, Nova had multiple instances, where she would run into him in the halls. When she would spot him at the back of classrooms, she would sit down next to him, silently smiling at him.

He would smile back, and they would work wordlessly next to each other.

Eventually they began conversation, and she learned things about him. She learned he had just moved here, and that where he came from was the reason those boys were picking on him.

You see, Seabrook at this time was just barely integrating Zombietown. But one town over, there was another town. It wasn’t commonly considered a part of Seabrook, because it was bordered by very tall trees. They called this place “Shadyside.”

Most people that lived there went to their local schools. And because of its generally darker atmosphere, and the towns reputation of being closed off, they would call people from there, “Vampires”

Now, because of this, people from Seabrook didn’t like them, almost as much as they didn’t like zombies. Except for, the difference with Vampires, was that they didn’t run into them hardly ever.

Nova herself had never met one, and few people in Seabrook actually had. So, when one moved to Seabrook, it was big news, and they would probably be considered an outcast.

When Victor told her where he was from, she had seen the fear in his eyes. Whether it was because he thought she would stop talking to him, or another reason she didn’t know.

But either way, she hadn’t said anything bad, just nodded and accepted it. And slowly, he had become more comfortable. And soon, they were laughing and chatting like they’d been friends for years.

Suddenly, she wasn’t alone. Victor and her spent classes silently working together, and quietly talking. They would spend lunches outside underneath bleachers, and would occasionally sneak away to the park across the street and eat on the wing sets.

She could explicitly remember one day, a couple weeks after school started.

“Okay, if you could be friends with anyone in the school, who would it be?” She asked, taking a bite out of an apple.

Victor pretended to contemplate for a moment, before smiling and saying.

“You.”

Nova rolled her eyes, and threw a piece of popcorn at him.

“That’s not what I asked idiot.” She said with a laugh. He smiled and tilted his head.

“Isn’t it?” He asked with a smile.

“Come on, most people in this school don’t like me. I’m glad to be your friend, I wouldn’t want to be anyone else’s.” He said with a smile.

That smile, and that statement made her heart thump in a way that she wasn’t used to at the age of twelve. She had smiled back then, and said,

“Well then. It’s your lucky day that I am your friend.” She had said.

And she always remembered that day, even after everything. She remembered reassuring him that she would always being his friend.

If only then, she knew how that would go.

———————————————————————

Nova sat down in her 6th period freshman science class, ready to leave.

She had seen all of her old friends, cheerleaders who had the same hair and same face, and had been putting on her confident face of popularity.

And now that she was in her last class, she was determined to make it through, and then head home to talk and debrief with Zoey.

She had been able to avoid Victor a lot, despite him being in several of her other classes. Most teachers at her grade didn't care much about seating charts so he had spent his time at the back of classrooms like he always did.

But, unlike in past years, people weren’t ignoring him like they used to. In fact, a couple boys had come over to sit near him, and involve him in conversation. He, of course, ignored them, talking only to Vera, his cousin who sat next to him in that specific class.

Victor really had only talked to Vera, and his best friend Vargas in past years. They had grown up with him and his family, and moved to Seabrook a year after he had, after everything happened.

Despite Victor ignoring these boys, they continued to come to him in every class, and all the girls seemed to be staring and giggling at him.

It had made her mad, even though she didn’t know why. Suddenly all these girls were noticing him, now that he didn’t hide underneath hoods and hats.

Anyway. The point was, that she was very much done with school. And that with the flexible seating charts, Nova had been able to avoid Victor in most of her classes.

Unfortunately, her last period was science and her new science teacher, Mr Laufner, was notorious for his strict class and grading rubrics. He expected and accepted only the best from his students.

And, unfortunately, he was also very strict about seating charts.

When she entered her classroom, the first thing she noticed was the lab tables arranged in perfectly straight rows, and the seating chart arranged on the board, in alphabetical order by last names.

And when she looked at the board, what she saw made her stomach fill with a sense of dread.

After all “Bright” and “Barton” were directly next to each other in the alphabet.

She sat down where her name was set, with a sigh that could only be given by someone who knew they were in for a rough time.

Because Nova had just been assigned her year long seat, as Lab partners with Victor Barton.

Chapter Text

Victor was done. In fact, he was beyond done.

He was ready to be back in Vargas’s basement, playing video games and pretending that everyone his age didn’t exist. He was ready to go back to the skate park in Shadyside, that him and his cousins would sneak out to on the weekends

Mostly, he was ready to not be in school. He didn’t want to be surrounded by the same people that had bullied him for most of his time in Seabrook.

Well. “Bully” was maybe a stretch. Sure, they made fun of him, and if he tried to talk to him they weren’t exactly kind.

But to be honest… he didn’t really care?

I mean, don’t get him wrong, nobody likes to be made fun of. But their insults were usually pretty dry, some variation of “your weird” or vampire related jokes.

Did he just use the wrong “your” in his head? Yeah. Because that is how dumb they are.

They didn’t have any creativity, and he spent most of the time hanging with Vera and Vargas and ignoring them anyway.

He hasn’t cared what they had thought for a long time. Not since what happened in 6th grade. Not since…

Well. Not since Nova.

And that was a whole other thing. Nova Bright, the senator's daughter, who had been homeschooled most of her life, and had been thrown into the school system of Seabrook at the same time as him, both blissfully unaware of how it worked.

He hadn’t been expecting to talk to her on the first day. In fact, he hadn’t been expecting to talk to her at all that year.

It was ironic really. One of them tripping, and him saying sorry. It was like they were recreating the day they first met.

He still remembered the first time it happened.

——————————————————————-

He had tripped, because some jerks had shoved him into her. He had gasped, and felt instantly bad, when he was shoved into a girl about his age.

He had met her eyes, and then felt like his heart stopped for a minute.

Staring back at him, was easily the most beautiful girl he had ever seen. She was about his height, maybe an inch shorter, and she had long golden hair, Dutch braided back, with a yellow sundress on.

She had this gorgeous blue eyes, that were wide with surprise, and he was fairly certain he had opened and closed his mouth a few times, before stuttering out,

“I-Im so sorry.”

The girl had looked behind him, at the snickering forms of the retreating boys, and understanding seemed to dawn on her face.

She looked back at him, her brows crinkling in concern, and saying

“Are you okay?”

He had opened and closed his mouth a few times, trying to speak and failing, before giving up and nodding his head.

She smiled then, bright and wide. And sweet Jesus, his 12 year old self damn near passed out, because she had the prettiest smile he had ever seen.

“I’m Nova.” She said, sticking her hand out, one that he was surprised to see.

“Victor.” He responded hesitantly, but taking her hand and smiling once she shook it.

From then on, that’s how it would go. He suddenly had a light in the darkness of his life. And he was determined to not let her go.

Sad how that turned out.

———————————————————————

“Victor.” Vera snapped, smacking him on the head with a pencil, making him startle out of where he had been daydreaming.

“You’re doing it again.” She said, exasperated. He shook himself, then looked around where he was currently staring at his sketchbook while sitting in the back of his AP lit class.

At the front of the class, he could see the familiar head of golden hair, talking to another one of her many cheerleader friends who he would never remember the names of.

“Doing what, exactly?” He asked innocently. Vera rolled her eyes, as Vargas snorted.

“Daydreaming. Again.” She said with a snort, chucking an expo marker at him. He dodged it, and she laughed and continued.

“You have one interaction with Ms Shnshine, and suddenly it’s this bad again. I know you have some weird old soulmate connection, but it’s the first day. Try to pay attention.”

Victor scoffed, averting his eyes from the desk at the front.

“I’m not daydreaming about her.” He said. Vera snorted.

“Right. And I’m the queen of England. Seriously, this is worse than the time she gave you a pencil last year.” Vera said. Vargas started laughing, and Victor rolled his eyes, elbowing him.

“Very funny.” he mumbled.

They weren't exactly wrong. They just weren't exactly right either.

He didn't daydream about Nova all the time. Just sometimes. Most of the time. Okay, a lot. But half the time, he was daydreaming about his drawings. Or his books. Or TV shows. Or honestly anything that took him out of this miserable plane of existence.

He looked towards the front of the class again, watching as Nova laughed at something. Her ponytail fell away from her face, and he caught a glimpse of that same bright smile, duller than he remembered, but just as beautiful. He sighed, looking away from her.

It was pathetic after all these years, hoe much he was still in love with her.

Suddenly the bell rang out loudly, snapping him out of it, and causing him to jump up, gathering his books and pencil case.

He left the classroom in a hurry, trying to dodge the multiple people that came up to talk to him.

Seriously, what has gotten into people this year?

He headed to his last class, Biology with Mr. Laufner, already excited for when he would soon get to leave. He came to the lab, and entered the classroom, looking around for his assigned seat.

He knew that he was gonna have an assigned seat, because Vera had had Mr. Laufner third period, and had spent the entirety of lunch complaining about how strict he seemed. Still, Victor wasnt too worried, because he was pretty good at science, and he always got a lot of praise for his diagrams and posters.

Upon entering the classroom, he noticed how many popular kids were in this class. He groaned in sympathy for himseld, already knowing they were gonna make this semester hell.

After noticing this, he immediately noticed the familiar girl sitting in the desk across the room. Trying to ignore her, he looked up at the board to find his seat. But once he did, he found his name was placed alphabetically. And of course, who was sat right next to him?

“Great,” he mumbled to himself, as he headed to his seat.

This semester would be fun.

———————————————————————

Nova tried not to cringe as Victor entered the room. She looked without staring him down, as he noticed her presence, then immediately looked away.

She saw him look up to the board, and then watched as the realization dawned on his face. He looked down at his hands, mumbling something, before he came and sat down next to her.

She tried not to audibly inhale as he got that close, but she was pretty sure she failed. He immediately pulled out a worn leather notebook, and started scribbling in it.

She resisted the urge to peek over at it, but quickly realised she couldn't see it if she tried, because he was blocking it from her sight with his arm. She almost wanted to say that that was rude, before she remembered that it was literally his own book.

With a huff, she looked up at the teachers desk as he started class, determined to ignore Victor. But when he subtly closed his notebook, and leaned forward on his folded forearms to listen as well, he made it nearly impossible. She could smell his slightly pine-ish scent, and she could see the softness of his brown eyes when she glanced over. She was almost glad he wasn't looking at her, because if he fixed that soft gaze on her, she wasn't sure what she would have done.

Again, Almost.

When the teacher was done explaining, he gestured for them to start reading through the syllabus. Luckily, it was independent work, so she didn’t have to talk to Victor yet.

Still, the looming thought of partner work, and him being close enough to touch almost made her want to cry. This was why she kept her distance, and why she didnt talk to hims.

It hurt too much.

He sighed audibly, then pushed the syllabus aside, drumming his fingers against the table. Then, unexpectedly, he looked over at her and spoke.

“Why so tense Bright?” he asked. Her pencil froze on the paper and she looked up sharply.

“What?” she asked tightly. That infuriating smile appeared on his face, and he shrugged.

“I don't know, you just seem stressed. I mean, I know you aren’t too happy about this arrangement, but I didn't think sitting next me would bother someone that much.” he said with a smile, leaning back.

She put her pencil back to the paper, glaring at him slightly.

“Has it ever occurred to you, that the reason im like this has nothing to do with you?” she asked sharply. And this boy had the audacity to LAUGH.

“It crossed my mind,” he said with a shrug.

“But I considered it unlikely.”

She gave him another glare, looking away, but didn't say anything. Because of course, he was right. Still she would never admit that.

“I’m just nervous because I have cheer tryouts today, and trying to get on the team is like trying to get into Harvard." she said pointedly. Which was true, but really only half the reason.

His gaze softened at that, and he looked back at his paper, then back up at her again.

“I wouldn't worry too much about it, Nova.” he said softly, making her repress a shiver at the sound of her name.

“You’ll do amazing.” Then, he looked away, turning back to his work.

“You always do.”

And she had to look away then. Because he didn't even sound like he was making fun of her, or teasing her. He sounded… sad. Like he knew it was true, and the fact that he did made him wistful or upset.

For some reason she could feel her eyes turn misty. Because even after everything, she felt the same way. Like even after everything, she still knew him so well. And the fact that she knew, and couldn't talk to him hurt. If only it had turned out differently.

If only.

Chapter Text

The first time it happened was a late Saturday morning in early February. The snow was melting on the streets, and she and Victor had been out, laughing and talking while bundled in coats and scarves.

She had been trying not to stare too hard at how he looked with a red beanie, and black knitted scarf, but the slightly covered sun just barely reflected the redness on the tip of his nose, and his brown eyes looked like warm hot chocolate. And funnily enough, she felt the same funny trickling feel in her stomach, like she had just drank hot chocolate when he would look at her.

They had been headed toward the park, when suddenly they were spotted by a group of boys. Now, this happened fairly often, and usually they would just throw an insult at Victor, then get bored and leave when he wouldn’t react. This time though, it wasn’t just any group.

This time it was Rays.

Even through the scarves, the two childhood best friends immediately recognized one another.

Ray paused what he was doing. She watched, almost as if in slow motion, as his eyes darted over her, then at the person next to her, then at their intertwined hands.

She could see his eyes narrow, then she could practically feel his gaze burning into where they were holding hands. Still, she didn’t let go.

She wasn’t sure what might have happened, but just then, the other boys registered their presence. And then, the familiar string of insults spewed across to them.

“Hey Vampire. Got your next Victim?”

“Need to get out of the sun?”

“You get out of your coffin okay?”

She gripped his hand tighter, but Victor just gave her a placating look.

“It’s okay.” He said softly.

“Their words don’t hurt me.”

She looked up at those brown eyes, feeling like he meant it. But then, she looked across the courtyard again and could see another familiar pair of caramel eyes staring her down.

And even though she didn’t know why then as she took Victors arm and dragged him away, she had a bad feeling.

———————————————————————

The second time it happened, was in school the next week. She and Victor were quietly sitting in the back of the classroom, working on there science project. But for some reason, Ray came over to their desk that day.

“Hey.” He said, tapping against the table. Nova had looked up from where she was delicately writing on the poster, and Victor looked up from his detailed diagram. Both of their eyebrows had furrowed at the sight of Ray. He never talked to them. In fact, he wasn’t even in this class.

“What are you doing here?” Nova asked, looking around.

“You have this class next period.” She said. He shrugged, giving her a small smile.

“Figured I’d stop by and say hi. After all, your dad is gonna have me coming around more.” he said, with a sidelong glance at Victor. To victors credit, he stayed as non chalant as ever. In fact, he hardly glanced up.

“Whos your friend Nova?” Ray said, clearly annoyed and attempting to pull Victor into the conversation.

Under his breath, Nova could hear Victor sigh, before looking up at him.

“Victor.” he said. Ray raised an eyebrow.

“Victor what?” he asked. Victor narrowed his eyes, and gave him a look.

“Why do you care?” he asked. Ray gave him another look.

“Why do you?” he asked harshly. Nova felt like she was watching water being thrown into a pan of oil. She decided to intervene quickly.

“Hes not from here Ray.” she said to him, even though she knew his friends had likely told him that already.

“You don’t know him.” she said, looking him in the eyes.

And she could see that Ray caught the double meaning. She was telling him to stop asking questions, and he wouldn't recognize his family name.

But. She was also saying that he doesn't know him. He doesn't know him like she does, and she trusted him.

Maybe Ray got the message, because he left after that. He went to his own class just as the bell rang, and she let out a slow sigh of relief, the tension leaving her shoulders.

Victor saw this, and he reached over, twisting a piece of her hair, and running a comforting hand across her shoulder. He was asking a silent, “are you okay?”. She just smiled at him, and nodded. They went back to working, and soon his quiet jokes and small smile made her forget the whole interaction.

If only she knew that Ray wouldn't stop there

—---------------------------------------------------------------

The third time was the worst. It was a short day in late april, and the warm summer sun made everyone itch to leave school. Nova had already started wearing shorts and skirts to school, and her mind was full of summer ideas. She wanted to go home, and she wanted a summer of laughter and Victor. She had never really had a summer with friends and… she was excited.

They were sitting in their usual spot for lunch, under the bleachers, spread under the hot sun.

Because of the hot weather, Victor had ditched the motorcycle jackets and hoodies, and traded them for lightweight black t-shirts. Still, he had the same pair of glasses, and dark wash jeans.

They were lazily sitting around, discussing their final exams, when something happened.

A group of boys appeared, holding a bag. Sensing that this was about to go bad very quickly, Nova stood up, wiping her palms against her shorts.

“Is there something i can do for you?” she asked sweetly, glancing back at Victor whos jaw was tense.

The boy at the front of the group, James, had a shit-eating grin on his face.

“Oh nothing.” he said.

“We just have a message from Ray.” he said with a wink. Then, out of the bag he pulled a rolled up canvas.

Nova and Victor looked at it in confusion for a few minutes, and then a slow realization came over her face.

“James.” she said, looking at it in fear.

“What is that?” she asked. He smirked, throwing it over to Victor.

“I think you know,” he said. Then, he and his posse left, their heads held high.

She huffed, starting to ramble.

“I don't know who they think they are, coming over here like that. And ray using them to “Send a message?” coward. Dont worry, the second i see him ill-”

“Nova?” a quiet voice cut through her tangent. She immediately turned around, looking at Victor. He had never sounded like that before. So sad. So… broken.

He was holding the unrolled canvas, staring at it in utter shock. She could see his eyes filling with tears.

Slowly, she came around to look over his shoulder, at what it was, placing a gentle hand on his arm. When she got a look at it, she brought her other hand up to her mouth in horror.

It was Victors. It was the painting that he had made as his final project for art class. His teacher had called it “Sensational”. The prompt was to draw an emotion, and he had chosen,
“Belonging.”

He had titled the piece “My sunshine,” and used watercolors to make a painting of a swing set, the sun shining down on it. Their swing set. It had gotten full marks, and Nova and him had taken a picture in front of it with a polaroid camera.

But now? It was ruined. Water had been dumped down the front of it, ruining the picture, and across the top, in bold red letters, oil paints spelled out the word “Bloodsucker”

Victor just stared at it. Like he couldn't believe it. Like it was the most devastating thing he had ever seen. Nova remembered the countless hours he spent making it look perfect, she remembered the first time she had shyly showed it to her. She even remembered the proud smile on his face when she smiled and called it “amazing”

Now? He just buried his head in her shoulder, and she reached up, running a hand through his dark hair soothingly.

“Oh Victor.” she said quietly.

They sank to the floor, and she pulled him closer as he sobbed softly into the side of her neck.

And that day, her resolve broke. When the sweetest, most thoughtful boy she had ever met, broke and sobbed into her shoulder, she decided. She was done with all of this, and she needed to stop it immediately,

And she knew who she had to talk to.

—-----------------------------------------------------

She found Ray later that day, just after her last class. Victor had gone home early, and she had watched him walk out to the black SUV with red eyes, his ruined painting tucked under his arm. And she felt a rage then, one that was different than anything she had ever felt.

She walked up to ray outside that school, where he was loitering around with his friends, and punched him square in the face.

The whole courtyard went silent. Ray reared back, clearly caught off guard, spitting blood.

“What the hell Nova!” he exclaimed, wiping the blood from his chin.

“You know what, you sick bastard.” she sneered back, getting closer.

“Whos the bloodsucker now?”

He looked at her then. And the look on his face? Pure, utter, disbelief.

“THAT is what this is about?” he asked in shock. She punched him again, this time in the stomach.

“OF COURSE THATS WHAT ITS ABOUT.” she exclaimed. Everyone was backing away now, like this was something they didnt want to be involved in. rightfully so.

Hell hath no fury, like a woman scorned.

Nova looked at him, purer fire in her gaze.

‘You keep sending people to harass my friend, you encourage your little posse to bully him, and then you destroy one of his prized possessions. What did you think i was going to do, laugh and come back to you?” she asked in disbelief. He scoffed.

“Nova this is ridiculous. That Vampire is not worth all this. And before you were his friend, you were mine. Compared to me, you hardly even know him!” he exclaimed.

And then, Nova blew up.

“That's not true Ray! You haven't been my friend for years!” she exclaimed. He stumbled back, shocked.

“You were never there! You went off to school, and you never came back. You. weren't. There. You found your people, and suddenly it was like I didn't exist. And I didn't expect things to be exactly the same, but I expected SOMETHING. Any sign that you were still my friend, any sign that you still cared. But I got NOTHING. You have no idea what that feels like.”

Then, she ran a hand through her hair, a hysterical laugh bubbling up in her throat.

“And then suddenly, I got here. And you still didn't talk to me. You didn't care about me, when you thought I was alone. You only cared when I got another friend, and you realized what you lost. And now, you are trying to ruin his life, because you got a little jealous? That's sick!” she yelled. And then, Ray stepped forward, fury in his eyes.

“You don't know him like you think you do,” he said.

And before she could say anything, he cut her off.

“You may know his favorite color, but what about other things? Why he moved here? Who he is? What happened to him?” He asked, stepping closer.

“Why he became friends with YOU?”

Nova stepped back, a concerned confusion entering her mind.

“What are you talking about?” She asked. But he only smiled in response, turning away.

“Go home Nova. You and your dad have a lot to talk about.”

Chapter Text

She entered her home, trying to be as quiet as possible. She knew that ray had meant it when he told her to go talk to her dad, but what she didnt know was how to ask him about it. She wanted to go to her room, and text Victor to make sure she was okay, then maybe go ask him about it at dinner.

But to her surprise, he was sitting in the living room when she opened the door.

“Dad.” she said, trying not to sound too surprised. Her dad looked up from his book, his glasses glinting in the lamplight.

“Nova.” he said with a smile.

“Come, sit doen.” he said, straightening up and putting his book down. Hesitantly, she came and sat on the couch. She was a little nervous for whatever he was about to say.

Now, this may seem strange. A girl completely freaked out because her dad stayed up to see her. And that may be normal for some dads.

But not for Novas.

“I’m glad you made it home safe. How was school?” he asked, leaning forward. She fiddle witht the hem of her skirt.

“Fine.” she said hesitantly. She wasnt quite sure what to say. Her dad nodded, like he was waiting for something else.

“Good, good. Anything… strange?” he asked, innocently enough but too enquiring to be a coincidence.

“Should there be?” she asked, a newfound wash of bravery coming over her. But then, he gave her a reprimanding look.

“Nova.” he said seriously. She shrank back into her chair at his tone.

He didnt want backtalk. Just answers.

“Something strange happened,” she started hesitantly.

“With a friend of mine.”

He looked at her, his interest peaked.

“What exactly, did ray do.” he said slowly, like he sort of already knew the answer. She narrowed her eyes.

“He destroyed a painting that belonged to my friend.” she said. Her dad sighed, sitting back slowly rubbing a tired hand over his face.

“I told him not to do anything.” he mumbled. Nova looked at him then, shock in her face.

“Wait, you talked to Ray? Dad, what is going on. What has it got to do with Victor?” she asked, her patience waning. She wanted answers.

When she said Victor's name, his expression changed again, like he expected it, but he was… disappointed?

“So it's true.” he mumbled with a sigh. Nova straightened at that.

“So WHAT is true dad? What is going on?” she asked.

He sighed again, taking his glasses off.

“Ray came to me the other day.” he began, leaning forward to look her in the eyes.

“He said he saw you with a boy. Not that that in itself was overly concerning, but… he recognized him. He wanted me to know who he was.”

“Why does it matter?” she asked exasperatedly. Her father looked her in the eyes for a minute.

“Nova.” he said.

“Your friend. His last name is Barton, isn't it?” he asked. She nodded slowly, trying to read the expression on his face.

“Barton. As in, Victoria Barton.” he said. And then, the meaning dawned on her face.

Victoria Barton. The council member from Shadyside, that had been advocatin for the integration of Zombietown adn Shadyside to be included in seabrook. Her dads biggest politcal competitor.

Victoria Barton. Victor Barton.

“That- that's not-” she stuttered out. But her father just shook his head.

“Ray wanted to be sure. He found the pictures from her campaign a few years ago. Victor was in the background.”

Nova just sat there, her mouth open and her mind racing.

“He… he told me his mom was an artist.” she said quietly. Her father reached forward, taking her hand.

“She was. Vienna and Vincent Barton died in a car crash a few years ago. Victor is her nephew.” he said quietly.

Nova could feel the emotions building in her throat.

“He never told me.” she said. Her father nodded.

“I know. I figured not. That's why Ray was concerned he might be manipulating you.” he said. Nova leaned back in shock.

“He’s.. he's not manipulating me.” she said defensive. Her father gave her a pitying look.

“Nova,” he said.

“He lied to you. He moved here because of his aunts campaign against me. Its likely that the only reason he became your friend was because he was gathering information for his aunt.”

Nova could feel her eyes start to well.
“He wouldn’t… he wouldn't do that. Not to me.” she said. Her father tilted his head at her.

“Then why did he lie?” he asked.

And Nova stayed silent. Because she didnt know. There wasnt an answer to give

Why did he lie?

Her father reached forward, and grabbed her hands again.

“You will,” he said lowly.

“Ignore him. You will leave him alone, and you will go back to your old friends.”

Nova shook her head.

“I can't." she whispered, her breath shaky.

“You have to.” he said firmly.

“For me. For this family. You have to leave that boy alone.”

She went back up to her room, and sat down on her bed, numb. She ran a hand over the stuffed dog that Victor won her at the fair. She stared at the pictures of the two of them pinned above her desk.

Was it true? Was it all a lie?

Her phone dinged then, and her breath caught in her throat when she saw who it was.

Victor: thanks for everything today nov. i found out what happened with ray. i dont know what i would do without you <3. Love you!

She stared at it for a minute, trying to decide what to say.

Nova: Ofc! Love you too <3

Then, she put her phone down, and layed back on her pillows, grabbing a hold of her stuffed dog, and squeezing it tight as the tears welled in her eyes.

She cried herself to sleep that night.

—-------------------------------------------------------------

She was a coward. She had been actively ignoring him all day.

She had spent most of her day in the nurses office, feeling too sick with dread to stand. Then, when she finally did make it to class, she sat up at the front with a few other girls her age, ignoring the dark haired boy in the back.

Her heart almost broke when she saw his smile as she walked in, then his confusion and sadness when she ignored him. It was too much. She couldnt do it.

He didn't come up to her in class. Of course he didn’t. He hated confrontation more than anyone she knew. Still, he followed her after class, clearly trying to talk to her.

She ran away though, cutting through the halls and dodging him after class. She could see the hurt in his eyes, and she felt simultaneously relieved and sad when he stopped trying after the third or fourth time.

She almost had made it through the whole day, and was sprinting to the side of the building after her last class when he cornered her.

She was trying to get some air, and headed over to the quiet patch of trees that sat on the side of the school. She was pacing back and forth, trying to calm down, when a familiar figure stepped out from behind a tall tree, leaning against it.

She froze, her flight or flight response going haywire.

“I figured I would find you here.” he said quietly, looking at her. Then, when he noticed her tense posture, he added.

“And don't run away this time. You owe me at least that.”

She felt like she couldnt breath, like pulling air into her lungs was the hardest thing in the world.

“How did you know where I would be?” she finally asked. He snorted, and gave her a look.

“Come on. If you wanted to avoid someone, you would have to try a little harder for someone who knows you as well as I do.” he said. The silence that followed was deafening.

“So?” he finally asked, his tone expectant. She just stood there, trying to keep calm.

“Are you going to tell me why youve been avoiding me all day?” he asked. She kicked the ground.

“I wasnt avoiding you.” she mumbled. He scoffed.

“Spare me the bullshit Nov. you can't lie to me.” he said. She just looked at her feet, trying to decide what to say, before it all came spewing out of her mouth.

“I know about your aunt!” she blurted. His eyes widened slightly. Clearly not expecting that.

“...What exactly do you know about my aunt?” he said slowly.

“ I know that her election is why you moved here. I know that she is running against my dad.” her voice lowered.

“I know she has been taking care of you since you were 9. Since your parents died.”

Victor was silent then. Not a quiet silence. A loud, contemplative silence.

“..that’s why you're avoiding me,” he said. She scoffed.

“Of course that's why!” she exclaimed.

“Why else would I be?”

He threw his hands up, like he didnt know what she was talking about.

“Well what am i supposed to say? That yes, my parents are dead. Yes, my aunt is running a political campaign. But what does that have to do with us?” he asked, his voice getting louder.

“You know what it has to do with us! You lied to me! You told me you didnt like politics. You told me, that you werent really involved. You told me your mom was an artist!” she exclaimed. He looked at her, astounded.

“I am not involved in politics! I don't know the first thing about them, and my aunt and I barely tolerate each other. And my mom was an artist.” he said, voice going slightly wobbly at the end

“She taught me everything i know.”

Nova shook her head.

“That still doesn't explain what you wouldn't tell me. I didn't know who your aunt was, and I didn't know why you moved here! I didn't know anything.”

He ran a hand through his hair.

“I didn't tell you about my aunt, because I didn't think it mattered. And I didn't tell you about my parents because… because well shit nova. What was I supposed to say?” he said, his voice breaking.

“I don’t even believe it half the time myself. Sometimes I feel like if I just drive back home, they'll be waiting for me. I didn't know how to tell one of the most important people in the world to me that they were gone, because I can't even accept it myself.” he said quietly. She could feel the tears forming.

“I could have helped you. I could have been there. But I didn't know. You never tell me these things.” she shook her head, taking a step back.

“And now, I find out that you are the nephew of the woman who actively despises my family, and my own father is asking me to choose. How could you let me be blind for so long? How could you let it get to the point where I have to choose between you, and my family?” she asked tearfully. He looked at her then, really looked at her.

“And what would have changed Nova? If I told you?” he asked, coming closer.

“If I told you, what would have happened? Would your dad hate me less? Would it change anything?” he asked. Nova choked on her own words.

“If I had known when we met I.. I would have-”

“You would have what Nova?” he asked, his eyes welling now.

“Ignored me? Not become my friend? Are you telling me, that you wouldnt have become my friend in order to appease your dad, because now you cant decide between me and your own family? Even though they treat you like shit half the time? Even though I think you agree more with what my aunt says about integrating towns than whatever bullshit your dad is spewing?” he said.

“Don’t tell me how I should feel about my own family Victor!” she said, shoving him.

“You have no place to talk.”

He laughed, high and hysterical with no humor.

“At least I've learned to accept the criticism from my aunt. At least I know now that she will never be impressed with me, instead of working too hard for approval she'll never give, unlike some people!” he yelled.

“That’s not true Victor! If you were half the friend you claimed to be, you would know me better than that. But you don't, so you aren't." she said, her tone angry and final.

They both went silent then. The only sound was the trickle of the rain that had started down the side of the building, and her own heaving breathing.

“So is that it?” he said, a few stray tears falling down his face.

“Is that it? This, us… Is it over?”

She didnt respond. And that? It seemed to get the message across better than anything else.

“Okay then.” he said quietly, turning away. And she could see the redness of his eyes. And that nearly broke her.

She could have broken down right then, but then he stopped. Dead in his tracks, the rain still falling progressively harder.

“You know,” he said, voice thick with tears, without turning to face her.

“I thought you were different. I thought that you were someone who thought for themselves , who wasn't the same as the next person in this fake town.” he looked at her then, over his shoulder.

“But I was wrong. You're just the same as the rest. Lying to yourself, and losing everything in the process.”

Then, he turned away again, beginning to walk forward.

“Goodbye Nova.” he said quietly.

And once he was gone, she sank to her knees.

And there, under the rain, and in the mud, she cried. She sobbed, for Victor, for herself, for the damn way she ruined everything she touched, as she cried in tandem with the sky.

—----------------------------------------------

For the next year, they would barely talk. In fact, Victor would go out of his way to ignore her, and Nova would pretend he did not exist. Only a ghost of their friendship would remain.

That fall, Nova tries cheer for the first time. She makes new friends, popular girls that her family would approve of. And soon, what her father approved of would become her whole world.

Victor would feel alone, truly alone for the first time in his life. He would lament to Vera and Vargas about it, and they would make the executive decision to join him in Seabrook. This would improve his life infinitely, though the ghost of his parents, and the girl that he was in love with would still haunt him. He would never escape it, no matter how hard he tried.

They held to their word. It was the end of something so pure, young, and innocent. They grew up, and soon, they would start high school. Soon, we would see them as we do now. But right then? They were still heart broken kids, crying alone in the rain.

In the end, they never did get that summer together.

Chapter Text

Nova was going to throw up. Or pass out. Or both.

Either way, she was panicking big time for tryouts. The only thing that was keeping her mildly calm was the fact that Zoey was headed over to watch tryouts. Nova was currently standing at the edge of the gym and glancing at the door every five minutes in search of her green haired friend.

The gym was full of high schoolers, some people trying out that were warming up, and some people that were there to watch their friends, sitting in the bleachers.

Among them, she caught a familiar sight of black and red hair, as the trio of the schoolc local vampires sat up near the top of the bleachers.

She hadn't been expecting it, the amount of people that would be talking about them. For the last few years, the three of them had mostly kept to themselves, doing group projects together, eating in the art room, and generally ignoring everyone else. BUt now? Yeah that was not the case.

Apparently, they had decided they were not going to go into high school like that. And it was the topic of most conversations.

There was Vera, the only girl, who had shoulder length black hair that now had red streaks. She was was abrasive and blunt, and was the most likely to punch you in the face.

There was Vargas, the comedian. He took almost nothing seriously, and was always cracking jokes and laughing. He had black locs that had red on the tips, and a look in his face that put you at ease.

Then of course, there was Victor.

He was the first vampire to enter seabrook, and he was also the most memorable. He had dark hair, that he often slicked out of his face, and now had red streaks. He was the artist, and the creative one. And apparently, he was now the most suave, always winking and walking with a new confidence. He had left his black glasses and generic clothes, in trade for more trendy styles. He looked…

Well. To put it simply, he looked like the skaterboy heartthrob in every teen movie.

She had to look away from them, as they sat there watching the room. It almost made her nervous that they were watching. And having everyone talk about how much different her looked, kind of made her sad.

She had spent so long with the same vision of him in her head. And even when they were separated, she still felt like it was still him. Still the same boy she knew. It was scary to think that he may have changed a lot, and she didn't know him anymore.

The gym doors opened suddenly, and Nova was broken out of her thoughts long enough to see a familiar green haired girl walking through the doors.

Nova looked with a smile as Zoey scanned the room for her, before jogging over and hugging her.

“Nova!” she squealed. Nova hugged her back, laughing.

“Hey Z.” she said, looking back at her friend. Zoey giggled, pulling back.

“Oh my god Nova, how was your first day of high school? Was it better than you thought? Oh my god, i heard something from a friend, have you seen-” Zoey cut herself off abruptly, when she saw Victor, who was walking down the bleachers to go to the concessions.

“Oh.” she said, looking back at Nova.

“You did.”

Nova sighed, pulling her friend aside, away from the other cheerleaders.

“Oh my god Nova!” Zoey yell whispered.

“I heard people talking about it, but I hadn't seen them yet. He looks so different. Have you-” she hesitated.

“Has he talked to you yet?” she asked, lowering her voice and looking around. Nova sighed, and shook herself. Zoey was one of the few people who knew the whole story. And honestly? She wasn't in the mood to explain all that had happened today right then.

“I’ll tell you about it later. Right now I just want to focus on the tryout.” she said, trying to avert her eyes. Zoey shook herself, and straightened.

“Right! Of course. The tryout.” Zoey said, looking around, then seeing Zed and waving. Zed stopped his conversation with what Nova could only assume was Addison, and waved back at his little sister with a fond smile.

“Cheer up Nov, you are gonna do great! I've never seen a better flier. And Addison is no idiot, she can spot talent from a mile away. She'll love you!” Zoey said enthusiastically.

Nova sighed, looking over at the blonde cheer captain.

“I don't know Zoey. The standards for this team are much higher, and there is no guarantee. And I don't want to get on the team just because I know her boyfriend.” she said. Zoey scoffed and rolled her eyes.

“If there is one thing that Addison doesn't pay attention to, it's Zed's suggestions on cheer. She would never just pick you for who you know. And she will be able to tell how good you are, I guarantee it.”

Nova sighed, looking out at the group of people waiting to watch the tryouts.

“I hope you're right.” she said, gathering her things and straightening. Zoey laughed, and pushed her towards the middle.

“Of course I am. Now go on! Greatness awaits!”

—--------------------------------------------------------

The tryout was tough. It was also long. And the constant cheering or commentary from the audience did absolutely nothing to help her nerves.

She was sitting on the bench panting slightly, while Addison discussed something with the other captains. Nova was half listening to the conversation going on between her friends, and half watching Addison nervously.

But then, she heard something that one of the girls said, and her attention snapped to them.

“What was that?” she asked. The girl who had been speaking, Avery, giggled slightly.

“I was just saying that Victor got a lot taller this year.” she said, glancing with a smile up the bleachers. Her friend Hannah nodded.

“Yeah, and like jacked. I don't remember him being like that at all.” she said, giggling when he glanced in their direction.

What they didn't see however, was how Nova’s hand tightened on her water bottle as they spoke, and the way Victor's eyes rested on Nova for at least 5 seconds before looking away.

“I mean… he was never terrible looking.” Nova muttered. The other girls laughed a bit, nodding.

“Yeah, but he was always so quiet. And just… normal. I feel like he’s standing out more now.” Hannah said. Avery giggled a bit, nodding.

“Yeah, he is. I wonder if he likes cheer, and that's why he's here…” the girl wondered out loud. Without even thinking, Nova shook her head.

“No, he's here to draw the event, and then submit it for the yearbook.” she said, matter of factly. The other two girls looked at her, confused.

“How would you know that?” they asked. She froze up, unsure of how to respond. There wasn't a non creepy way of saying that she always noticed his loopy cursive signature that was in the corner of all the drawings in their old yearbook.

“Excuse me?” a voice spoke up behind her, saving her from answering, as Nova whipped around in surprise.

Standing there was Addison. She was smiling, but there was an amused edge to her voice when she continued.

“I'm not sure if you noticed, but they have been calling your name for the last 3 minutes. You are needed in group one.” she said to the girls. All three shot up, scrambling to head over. But before Nova could leave, Addison caught her arm.

“Not you.” she said kindly.

“You can take a few more minutes, you are in the next group.”

Nova looked around nervously, noticing that all the other freshman had been put into group 1, and grabbed her things.

“Thank you.” she said hesitantly, sitting back down and taking a swig from her water bottle.

Addison sat down next to her, watching curiously as Nova retied her shoes.

“You’re Nova, right?” she asked as Nova gathered her things

Nova nodded slowly, and Addison smiled.

“I thought so. Zeds mentioned you. I'm Addison.” she said, holding out a hand for her to shake. Nova took it with a smile of her own.

“Nice to meet you.” she said. Addison pulled back and looked around.

“You know.” she said,

“You’ve got real talent. I dont think ive seen this much natural talent from a freshman since i was in 9th grade.” she said with a smile. Nova smiled, her cheeks turning pink.

“Thank you.” she said. Then, Addison gave her a curious look.

“I honestly don't have much to critique. Although , if I could give you one piece of advice, would you want to hear it?” she asked. Nova nodded, her curiosity winning.

“Don’t cheer for the wrong reason.” she said in her ear conspiratorily. Nova pulled back, confused.

“What do you mean?” she asked. Addison smiled, looking around.

“Look around Nova. Do you see how many zombies are on the team now?” she asked. Nova looked around, seeing maybe 8 or 9.

“Not very many.” she said. Addison nodded.

“Exactly. It doesn't seem like a lot. But there used to be none. People in this town have always valued fitting in over actually being who you are.” She smiled, and looked over at Zed.

“It took a long time to get here. And it took a long time for me to accept it myself. But once I did? It improved my life infinitely." she gave Nova a smile.

“This kind of thing needs to be passed through. It's important that we keep cheering because we want to, and not because you're expected to. Even once I'm gone. So, that's my advice. Cheer the way you want to, not because you're expected to, but because you love it.”

Addison stood up, and Nova did the same.

“It was nice chatting with you Nova. I have a feeling ill be seeing you very soon.” she said with a smile. Nova smiled back, feeling almost lighter.

“Thank you Addison.”

The older girl smiled, before heading back to where Zed was smiling and waiting. And as Nova herself went back to the rest of the cheerleaders, she glanced up at the bleachers.
Was Addison.. Right? Was it really that easy? She wasn't sure. Was she cheering for her? She didn't know anymore. But something about what Addison had said stuck with her.

Maybe, fitting in didn't matter as much as she thought it did. Wouldn't that be something?

—--------------------------------------------------

Victor wasn't entirely sure why he had turned up to cheer tryouts. He wasn’t there to try out, and he didn't have any close friends trying out. Well… not really.

But something about how Nova had sounded nervous during class made him almost sympathetic. Even after all this time, seeing her so anxious made him want to help her. Even if he was probably part of the problem.

He wasn’t sure what had made him think that his presence would help, but… he couldn't stop himself. He needed to see her more, even if it was from a distance.

Even though Vera had been making fun of him for most of the tryout, he hadn't been spying much attention to her. Because Nova cheerleading was a sight to behold.

She was so fluid in her cheers, every last one practiced perfection. She did everything so perfectly, and it just… suited her. And she was smiling so much that he couldn't help but smile a little sadly himself.

Even if it wasn't with him, he was glad she was happy.

It was only after tryouts, that he noticed something weird going on with her. All the other cheerleaders were laughing, and clearing out. But nova was talking to what he thought was the school counselor, her arms gesturing angrily, and her expression frustrated.

Subtly, he tried to move closer, leaning against a railing closer to the conversation while he waited for his friends to get back from the bathroom.

“-do you mean, I can't?" she heard Nova saying, sounding agitated. The counselor sighed, putting a hand on her shoulder.

“I didn't want to cut the student interest column Nova. but we don't have a student photographer for these events, and no one has volunteered. We're very sorry.” she said.

Nova huffed, like she wanted to argue more. But the counselor cut her off

“Our decision is final Nova. Perhaps you should try yearbook next time. I'm sorry.”

Then, she walked off, tall heels clicking against the gym floor.

He saw Nova standing there, angry tears in her eyes. He felt his heart squeeze at the sight, recalling all the years that Nova had loved writing little news articles about events at school.

Don't do it Victor.

He thought about all the people that praised her writing, and the way her face would light up when her father complimented her writing abilities.

Dont do it VIctor.

He thought of his photography class, and the camera that was currently sitting in his locker.

DONT FUCKING DO IT.

But of course, before he knew it he was hurrying after the counselor, already knowing that he was going to do it the second Nova had a single tear in her eyes.

He was weak minded, and maybe he was a little ridiculous for still doing anything for her. Maybe he should have just left her alone, and erased her from his mind.

But honestly? He didn't think there was a single thing he wouldn't do for her if she asked.

Chapter Text

Nova was sitting on Zoey's bed, as her friend paced the room.

“So. You're telling me, that he stopped you from falling on your face, called you perfect, told you that you would be amazing at tryouts, and then came to watch you?” Zoey said, looking at her in disbelief.

“He didn’t call me “Perfect”” she said, using Air quotes, burying her face in a pillow.

“And I don't think he was there to see me. But yes, to… the rest of that.” she said with a sigh, propping herself up on her elbows.

Zoey snorted, leaning against her desk.

“Right. Because he has a ton of other girls to watch cheerleading.” she said sarcastically. Nova shrugged, even though the notion of that made her slightly sick.

“Maybe he does. I don't know.” she said. Zoey groaned, putting her head in her hands.

“I swear to go Nova, your obliviousness will be the death of us all. He was obviously there for you, he could barely take his eyes off of you the whole time.”

NOva blushed, throwing a pillow at her friend.

“I am NOT oblivious. And he was not looking at me.” she muttered. Zoey snorted.

“Sure Nov. whatever you say.”

Nova glared at her, trying to look mean and intimidating, but likely failing as she sat there in pajama pants and messy braids. Zoey sighed, unfolding her arms.

“Remind me why we hate him again?” Zoey asked, giving her a look. Nova sighed, looking at her in exasperation.

“I don't hate him. It's complicated. And I've already explained it like a thousand times.” she said. Zoey gave her a look.

“You have. And I still don't get it. Your reasoning makes less sense every time.” she said teasingly. Nova groaned, throwing a pillow at her friend again.

Zoey was one of those people who was infuriatingly nice. She never wanted to think bad of anyone, and Victor was no exception. Even though she had never met him, she insisted on giving him the benefit of the doubt.

Come to think of it, it was probably better that Zoey had never met him. She would probably like him a lot. He was pretty hard not to like.

She banished that thought, and flopped back onto the pillows. Zoey sighed, and came to sit on the bed.

“Look Nova, I know that you probably don't want me to ask, but… do you really not want to see him? Like at all?”

Nova sat up, wrapping her arms around her knees.

“Honestly? I don't know.”

She looked out the window, watching as the sun slowly set.

“Everything between us is just so complicated. And not much about what we fought about then is different. I still work for my dad, and he is still his aunt's nephew.” She dropped her hands, her resolve against him feeling weak and tired.

“Its been so long. I don't know how to just… forget. Being around him is so strange now. I'm not even sure if I still know him anymore.”

Zoey looked at her for a minute, before scooting closer, and wrapping an arm around her.

“Look Nov.” she said, smiling a bit.

“I don't know everything. But what I do know is friendship. It isn't just based on what you like, or where you come from. It's about who you are. And even if you two aren't the exact same, you still know each other. It doesn't matter who your parents are, or where you come from. Not with friendships like that,”

Zoey leaned forward, smiling conspiratorily.

“And if you are asking me? It's not just friendship. Because the only other time that I've seen someone looking like he does at you? Is when my brother looks at Addison.”

Nova felt her cheeks warm. It was one thing to be called friends, but a whole other to be compared to the IT couple of Seabrook high. And especially ones that came from two opposite places, and grew up very different, but still fell in love despite it all…

Her inner debate was interrupted, when Zoey sat up again, her tone turning more easy and light hearted.

“Or you know, you could just do it because of how much hotter hes gotten. Seriously, did he always have those biceps?” she said with a laugh. Nova rolled her eyes, slapping her arm as the two girls burst into giggles.

It was times like these, that she was grateful to have a Zoey.

Just then, they heard the door open, and laughing voices came from downstairs. Zoeys eyes lit up, and she grabbed Nova's hands, pulling her off the bed.

“Come on Nov! It's Zed and Addison!” she said excitedly.

Nova groaned, not wanting to leave her fort of blankets and pillows.

“Zoeyyy.” she complained, as she got yanked out.

“They probably don't want to talk to us, and just want to get to Zed’s room.” she said, as Zoey pulled her into the hallway. Zoey crinkled her nose, as she dragged her down the hallway.

“Gross Nova. Come on, they love me. And we can ask Addison about cheer tryouts!” she said excitedly, practically throwing her off her feet as she bounded down the stairs.

Nova sighed, following her friend as she got closer to the sound of Zeds loud friendly voice, and Addsons twinkly laugh.

When she walked in, both of the older teens gave her a wide smile.

“Nova!” Zed said, walking forward and hugging her. She smiled, and hugged him back.

“Hey Zed.” she said with a smile, pulling back, and looking at Addison with a nod.

“Addison.” she said with a nod. The older cheerleader smiled and, to novas surprise, came forward and hugged her.

“Great to see you again Nova.” the older girl said, pulling back. From across her shoulder she could see Zoey smiling excitedly, as if to say “I told you she was nice.”

Nova smiled at Addison.

“Good to see you too. How was your night? Zoey told me you and Zed went to see the new Conjuring movie.” she said with a smile. Addison's eyes seemed to light up at the mention of Zed, and she glanced over at him.

“It was really fun. I think that he still takes me to see them, because hes too scared to go alone.” she said, conspiratorily to the two younger girls. They giggled, as Zed clutched a hand over his heart in mock-hurt.

“You wound me Addy!” he said dramatically, smiling when the three girls burst out laughing. Conversation flowed for a few minutes, as they fell into an easy rhythm. Then, Zoey got a glint in her eye, turning to Addison.

“So Addy,” she asked, glancing over at Nova.

“Did you and the cheer captains work out teams yet?” she asked innocently. Nova almost choked on her tongue, as Addison gave her a knowing smile.

“Yeah we did. We pretty much knew who was gonna be on it from the first dril, but it is still a meticulous process.”

Zoeys eyes gleamed excitedly, as she leaned forward.

“Well?” she asked eagerly. Addison gave her a teasing look, and glanced at Nova with a wink.

“Zoey, you know I'm not supposed to tell anyone until tomorrow.” she said scoldingly, but ZOey widened her eyes, and put her hands forward, mock begging. Addison sighed with a giggle.

“Who am I kidding? I want to deliver this news myself.”

She turned to Nova, a wide smile on her face, and Nova's heart stuttered in her chest.

“Nova,” she began, as the Zombies siblings leaned in in anticipation.

“I am officially welcoming you to the Varsity cheer team of the MIghty Shrimp!” Addison said, throwing her hands up. Zed let out a whoop, and Zoey squealed as Nova’s jaw dropped open.

“I made the team?” she said in disbelief, as Addison nodded, her smile wide.

“You made the team!” Zoey squealed, jumping up and hugging her friend. It took Nova a second to wear off from the shock, before she hugged her friend back.

“I made the team!” she said, voice high and excited. Zed laughed, putting an arm around addison and smiling at the two younger girls.

“Congratulations Nova.” he said with a smile. And honestly? As she stood there, celebrating with these people, she felt truly happy, for the first time in a while.

—--------------------------------------------------------

After a celebration in which ice cream cones were doordashed from in town, and a smile that she couldn't wipe off her face if she tried, she was almost certain that nothing could make her night better.

Then, she got a notification as they sat there chatting while “Friends” played in the background.

She looked down at her phone, and her jaw dropped when she saw the email.

“What is it?” Zoey asked, once she saw Nova's face. Both Addison and Zed turned when Zoey asked that, curiosity coming over their faces.

“It's the counselor, Miss Nelson." she said, surprise evident on her face. Zoey scowled at the name, her face turning up in a huff.

“Oh my gosh, what does she want? She has no right to still be emailing you, after kicking you off of the yearbook committee.” Zoey said angrily, shoving her spoon into her ice cream cup.

Addison frowned, her eyes drifting over to Nova in concern.

“Can they do that?” she asked. Zoey scoffed.

“They shouldn't be able to. But, they claimed they "didn't have a volunteer photographer for her subject.”. Complete BS if you ask me. Im sure they just didnt want her to be on the committee for some dumb reason.” She said to Zed and Addison.

But Nova sat up, crossing her legs under her, still reading the email with fast eyes.

“Yeah but that's the thing. She said that a student volunteered for photography, and I have my spot back.” she said in disbelief. The other three whipped their heads to her in shock.

“What?” they said in unison. Nova nodded in disbelief, still reading the email.

“She says that a photography student volunteered, not long after our conversation, and that I have my spot on the board back.”

Zoey shook her head in disbelief. Zed leaned over, a curious look on his face.

“Who was it?” he asked. Nova looked back at the email but just shook her head.

“It doesn't say.”

Zoey leaned forward for a minute, a strange look of confusion on her face.

“Better question.” she started, glancing over at Nova.

“What photography student would change their elective, right when Nova needed it?”

They all went quiet, but none of them could come up with an answer. Well. most of them. Nova had one idea, in the back of her mind. But she pushed it away immediately.

There was no chance…

They all tried to go back to normal conversation after that, but the question wouldn't leave her mind. Who was it? Why did they help her? And most interestingly, how did they know she needed their help?

After a bit, her phone buzzed again. She glanced down, to see a text on her screen.

“Ray?” Zoey asked. Nova shook her head, standing up.

“My dad. He says I need to go home, and that he's coming to get me.”

Zoey groaned, as Nova gathered up her things, and slung her bag over her shoulder.

“God forbid that man let you spend more than 3 hours in Zombietown. What does he think we are going to do, infect you?” she asked incredulously. Nova laughed, zipping up her sweater.

“Honestly? He might.”

She gave Zed and Addison another hug each, thanking Addiso again for the cheer opportunity, and hugged Zoey goodbye.

After promising to call her in the morning, she stepped out of the house and down the driveway, a variation of goodbyes following her.

She walked out, just as her dads white BMW pulled up, contrasting greatly in the slightly beat up suburbs of Zombietown.

She wordlessly opened the backdoor, and set her bag down, and told the driver to take her home. After all, it was extremely rare for her dad to actually come get her himself nowadays.

She sat there, looking out the window, her arm propped up on the sill, thinking of the email again.

Her theory popped back into her head, but she did her best to push it away again.

There wasn't a chance it was him. He didn't care about her like that, and she didn't even know if he still did photography. Besides, how would he have known? It didn't make any sense.

Still, the thought wouldn't leave her head, as she gazed out her window, looking up at the moon.

What if?

What if?

And as she looked up she wondered, not for the first time, if he was looking at the same moon as her, as she drove home in silence.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Victor sat up in his room that night, the quiet sound of the fan and the scratching of his pencil the only sounds to be heard.

He was sketching her. Again. He had done this a lot in his life, even when they weren't friends, but especially when they were. Still, he kept doing it, and never felt completely satisfied with the results. Somehow, they never even came close to the real thing.

He sighed, looking out his window. He was waiting for something, and he just didn't know when it would happen. Any minute now.

As if reading his mind, the bedroom door creaked open, and the quiet sound of his aunt leaning against the wall could be heard. Still, he didn't look over.

“Auntie.” he said simply, studying the cars passing below.

“Victor,” she responded, her tone sounding tired.

“Can you explain to me why I got a call from the school, telling me that you changed your elective?” she asked, faux calm in her voice. Victor didn't even flinch.

“Because I changed my elective. They really needed a photographer for the yearbook, and it sounded fun. Besides, I can take economics next year.” he said, his pencil scratching slightly harder against the paper.

His aunt sighed heavily, adjusting her weight on her tired feet.

“Victor, I know you are prone to making rash decisions, but… can you please just talk to me? Did you really drop out of it, because I wanted you to take it?” she asked, her voice weary. He snorted.

“Auntie, I think that if there is one thing we have established, it's that I never do anything because you tell me to.”

That made her go silent. They sat there for a minute, in near perfect quiet. Still, she did not leave.

Victor sighed, snapping his book shut, and looking over at his aunt.

“Can we talk about this tomorrow? I'm tired, I know you are too, and I don't want to discuss this right now.” he said. She stood there, clearly wanting to argue.

But, in the end she moved to leave the room, her feet padding softly.

“Thank you.” he said quietly.
But before she fully left the room, she stopped, and called back in.

“Victor?”

He looked up, seeing her face dimly lit by his bedside lamp.

“Yeah?” he answered softly.

“You know I love you, right?” she asked. And despite his tired and frazzled state, Victor gave her a tired smile back.

“I love you too Auntie.”

She smiled at him softly, then seemed to hesitate before leaving and shutting the door.

He sighed, leaning his head against the wall from where he sat on his window ledge. He looked out, and up at the moon, and for the hundredth time that day, thought of Nova.

He thought of her eyes. Her smile. And, as it always did, the aching hole in his heart of all the people he had lost was soothed, if only slightly.

He sighed, opening his eyes and looking up at the moon.

Maybe he didn't believe in wishing on stars, but he did believe in the power of a new day. So, this boy closed his eyes, and he wished. For a new dawn, and a better day.

And across two sides of town, a peaceful silence would fall, as a blonde girl would hesitate on the threshold of her house, looking out into the night. And just then a lamp would go out in a window, as the night fell.

Chapter Text

Nova walked into her science classroom the next day, not with dread but more… confusion? She didn't really know what to think.

Her day had been weird. And it all started with a skateboard, and a girl.

She was walking to school, after her dad had a last minute meeting he needed to leave for, and she had run into someone who was vaguely familiar.

She had been clipped in the shoulder by someone passing on a skateboard, and when the person turned around, Nova stuttered in the middle of her apology.

It was Vera. The Vampire esque girl pulled off her helmet, curls of red and black tumbling across her shoulders. Charcoal eyes swept over her, as red lips stretched into a smile.

“It's okay, Bright. I wasn't watching where I was going.” she said, pulling her leather jacket around herself, her expression curious.

“So,” Vera said, crossing her arms.

“Youre the girl that broke my cousin's heart.” she said. Nova choked, looking at her.

“What?” she asked. Vera snorted, rolling her eyes.

“Please. Don't act dumb. You know what happened as well as i do.”

Nova straightened her backpack straps.

“Its not like that. And quite frankly, its nothing to do with you.” she said, looking away. Veras gaze hardened, as she stepped forward.

“Victor said that too. But you know what? It is my business. Because that is basically my brother, and even though he drives me crazy, i love him to death. His well being is mine, and yours relies on it.” she said, fire in her eyes as she got closer to Nova. Nova didn't flinch, looking into her eyes.

Vera sighed, stepping back.

“I am not gonna say anything. Mostly because he made me promise not to. And unlike some people, I keep my promises to my friends.” she said, giving nova a look. She felt her cheeks heat, and was about to fire back, when Vera spoke again.

“Oh, and if I could give you some advice, sunshine? He is being careful this time. But i think that we both know, he is likely going to hand over his heart. Again. Just-” Vera sighed, putting her helmet back on.

“Just don't drop it this time.”

And Nova was massively conflicted as Vera skated off. Because on the one hand, who was Vera to talk to her like that? She didn't even know her.

But on the other hand? Nova was the girl that had given Victor that sad look in his eyes, and Vera was his cousin. She would hate herself too.

She sighed, and headed towards school. But the weird didn't stop there.

The second she stepped into her new 1st period, which was now yearbook, she expected to be met with her new co-writers. Instead, she was met with a confused looking teacher, and the familiar counselor.

“Hello Nova.” the teacher said, giving her a smile.

“I'm glad you are here. We needed to ask you about something.” the counselor cut in, but the yearbook teacher cut her off with a glare.

“I already TOLD you miss nelson. Miss bright has shown real dedication, and her place on this committee is non-negotiable.” the teacher said sharply. The counselor sight, rubbing her temples.

“I know. But I just wanted us all to consider the.. Implications of Ms Bright being on the school yearbook and news board, considering her… situation.” the counselor said carefully. Nova narrowed her eyes.

“Is that why you tried to kick me off of it?” she said. The counselor shook her head.

“No, I'm afraid that was legitimate. We do not have a photographer for your column,”

“Didn’t.” her teacher corrected.

“That young man volunteered yesterday, and now there is absolutely no reason for Nova not to write. And her father's political standing has nothing to do with her. And if you try to make it about that, it will be considered discrimination.”

The counselor sputtered at that, but her teacher cut them off again.

“That is all Miss Nelson. I can show Nova around from here.” she said sweetly, all fake kindness. The counselor looked like she might explode, before leaving the room in a barely disguised huff. Her teacher rolled her eyes, then turned to Nova with a smile.

“Hello Nova. my name is Miss Avery. I think we are going to get along just fine.” she said with a smile, holding her hand out. Nova took it with a smile, nodding.

“Good to meet you.”

Miss Avery smiled at her again, before taking her around the classroom, and showing her the cubicle desk she would be working at. Once Nova sat down, and smiled at the set up, Miss Avery leaned against her desk with a smile and Nova remembered her earlier question.

“Miss Avery?” she asked hesitantly.

“Yes?” she asked. Nova hesitated, before asking the question that had been bugging her.

“Who volunteered to be my photographer?” she asked. Miss Avery smiled deviously and then shrugged.

“He said he would be here tomorrow, and he would introduce himself then. He did want me to inform you that he would be taking pictures for you at the game tomorrow, and sending them via email.” she said. Nova nodded, trying to calm her racing heart. Her teachers eyebrow quirked, and she leaned against the desk.

“Why? You have an idea of who it is?” she asked, her tone amused. Nova almost choked on her own tongue, her cheeks blooming with heat.

“N-No.” she stuttered out. Her teacher gave her an amused look, before laughing and walking away.

“Okay Nova, we’ll see…”

Yeah, that had been pretty embarrassing. But it didnt matter, because there wasnt any chance that it was him. There was almost no chance, that Victor Barton was her new photographer.

…Right.

After that class, the rest of the day went pretty smoothly, minus the one time she got caught up with a few air headed girls, and was almost late to 3rd period. Then, she made it here, into her science class.

She had to stop, take a deep breath, and then mentally hype herself up, as she pushed open the doors of the classroom, remembering to breath.

She may or may not have forgotten a second later.

There was Victor, his head in his sketchbook, per usual. He was wearing a black motorcycle jacket today, to compensate for the slowly chilly weather approaching. He was wearing jeans, and white Air Force 1’s. He was, as always lately, strikely pretty in a way that no teenage boy should be.

Doing her best to be nonchalant, she walked up and sat next to him, setting her bag down. His pencil stopped on the paper as she sat down, and she tried her best to ignore the small smile that slid over his face.

“Good afternoon.” he said simply, glancing over. She willed the blush to not travel to her face, and smiled back, nodding.

“Good Morning.”

She saw him look away quickly after that, his cheeks also tinged pink.

Well. at least she wasnt alone.

She pulled out her notebook, just as the teacher came to the front of the class to begin teaching.

She tried to focus, she really did. But Victor kept glancing over at her every 4 seconds, then looking away. She didn’t know why, but she knew she was going to go crazy if he didn’t stop soon.

“What?” She finally whispered, when he glanced over at her again. To her surprise, he didn’t deny anything, jus shrugged and leaned back.

“I don’t know. You just seem a little… frazzled today.” He said. She rolled her eyes.

“Yeah, well it’s been an eventful few weeks.” She said exasperatedly. He snorted.

“You can say that again.”

They sat in silence for a bit longer, until the teacher instructed them to break off into partner work.

“So.” He said with a smile, opening up the assignment.

“How’s Ray?” He asked. She gave him a glare. Victor laughed, the smiled.

“Kidding, kidding. I know he’s probably still miserable and tormenting children.” He said simply. Nova glared, setting her pencil down.

“Why are you talking to me, if all you are going to do is try to rile me up?” She asked. He raised an eyebrow.

“I’m not trying to provoke you. But most conversations with us just end up like that anyway.” He said. Nova looked at him then, but he looked back down, and wouldn’t meet her eyes again.

They sat in silence for maybe ten more minutes, before Victor tapped her arm, and she looked up.

“Look,” he said quietly.

“Mr Laufner is about to set his sleeve on fire.” He said conspiratorially to her.

“What makes you say that?” She asked, a little more breathless than she would have liked as he leaned closer. But he just smiled, and gestured to their teacher's chemistry set up.

“He labeled the wrong bottle. It’s gonna light on fire.” He said quietly. She covered her mouth with her hand, trying not to laugh.

“Are you sure?” She asked. He smiled, and nodded.

“Wait for it.” He said slowly, as the teacher combined the liquids. Then, right on cue, it lit on fire, and his sleeve went up in flames.

He hopped around, yelping while trying to douse the small flame, as Nova burst out giggling.

“Oh my god, he looks like that little animated fire thing from Super Mario.” She said with a laugh. Victor smiled, and added.

“Or that guy from Aladdin who breathes fire.”

They both just looked at each other for a minute, before bursting out into giggles.

She laughed until her stomach hurt, the teacher too preoccupied with dousing his sleeve to get mad at her.

And honestly? It was… nice. It felt natural.

She liked laughing with him again.

They traded lighthearted conversation after that, superficial things that no one else really cared about. But it felt big. Like they were finally breaking free of the monotonous cycle they were stuck in.

When the bell rang, she stood up and gathered her things, preparing to leave, but Victor stopped her.

“So, where did you want to meet up tomorrow?” He asked, rocking back on his heels. Her face crinkled in confusion, and she tilted her head.

“What?” She asked. He gave her an amused look.

“We have to meet up tomorrow? To work on the project over the weekend? Didn’t you hear him?” He asked. She felt her cheeks heat, because no. She did not notice. Because she was too busy staring at him.

“Well um… I guess we could go to my place on Saturday.” She said a little awkwardly, rubbing her wrist.

“My dad has a work trip, so it should be… quieter?” She tried, almost wincing at how forced it sounded. But he just smiled, and nodded.

“It’s a date. Just… text me, okay?” He asked, looking at a text distractedly, his brows crinkling.

She nodded, probably too quickly, as he started to leave.

“Bye Sunshine.” He said over his shoulder, walking off. She barely registered it, and by the time she woke up long enough to try and respond?

He was already gone.

Chapter Text

Nova was nervous. And not just, sort of nervous. Like, throw up all the popcorn and water she had ingested an hour ago, nervous.

She was waiting on the side of the bleachers, as the sun hung low in the sky and the band was loud and the crowd was louder. She could hear the announcer reading out sponsors, and then starting on the names of the opposing team. She knew he would be calling out the starters in a few minutes, and she was terrified.

“Nova?” a voice asked behind her, and she turned to find Addison looking at her with amused concern.

“You good?”

Nova shrugged, looking back out to the roaring crowd, and the faces of so many familiar people, both from school, town, you name it. The whole community really showed up for these games.

“I'm okay. Can't decide if I'm excited, or ready to throw up.” she said. Addison laughed, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“I get that. Trust me, you'll be fine. Everyone is nervous before their first game. You'll do great!” she said.

Just then, a loud boom sounded, and the football teams emerged from the lockers. The stadium went wild with cheers, and Nova couldn’t help but smile at the show of school spirit, and the way Addison jumped and practically shrieked when Zed came out, while Nova herself cheered.

Zed looked over from the field, and Nova could see him smile through the Football helmet, and blow her a kiss. She smiled, as several “Aww’s” could be heard from the crowd.

As all this was going on, she looked out in the crowd, scanning it. She wasn't looking for anyone in particular of course… but she was just curious.

Just as she expected, sitting in the middle of the student section, was Victor. He had pink and green face paint on, and he was smiling with an arm slung around Vargas’s shoulder. Vera was nowhere to be found.

He was cheering loudly, and laughing without a care in the world. And hung around his neck was…

A camera.

That confused her a bit, but she didn't have much time to dwell on it, as the telltale boom signaled her and the other cheerleaders to come out.

She took a deep breath, before smiling, and jogging out under the bright lights, with her pom poms held high. And if she maybe looked for a boy with red and black hair, and saw him loudly cheering and smiling at her?

Well. that was no one's business.

—---------------------------------------------------------------

Victor was honestly a little surprised at how much he was enjoying himself. I mean, him? The quiet art student that everyone hated at a football game? Yeah, no thanks. That sounded like a recipe for disaster.

But for some reason, nobody seemed to be glaring at him. In fact, the only people looking at him were a group of girls, sitting a few rows away, who were… giggling?

“Hey man,” he asked, nudging Vargas, and pointing to the girls.

“Do we know them?”

Vargas followed his line of sight, then started laughing and shaking his head.

“No man. They are giggling at you because you're hot.” he said matter of factly. Victor gave him a dry look. He just laughed.

“I’m serious! All that skating with the vamps made you jacked. And it helps that you now look more like superman than Clark Kent.” he said jokily. Victor rolled his eyes, and nudged his friend in the ribs.

The Vamps were what people called the older kids back in shadyside. A group of Juniors and Seniors, partially made up of Victor's older cousins, Vince and Viola, Vera's older twin siblings. Vargas Vera and himself had spent the summer in Shadyside with them, and they had decided to adopt the three of them as “The Next Gen.” whatever that meant.

All of them had dyed hair, the red streaks acting as their form of rebellion against the “Vampire.” stereotype. Similar to the Zombies, they had fully embraced it. Now, they used it as a way of showing their own pride in where they came from. And they had decided that Victor and Vera needed to show similar pride. Plus vargas.

“You are the only Vampires in Shadyside.” Viola had said, with her too-white smile.

“You can't blend in. Show those pretentious assholes what it means to be one of us.”

That had stuck with him. In a way, that nothing had in a long time.

You can’t blend in.

Victor had spent his whole life blending in. At first, because he didn’t know how not to. Then, once his parents died, because it was too hard to do anything else. And after that? Because when he found someone who made him feel like he did belong, they ripped his heart out and left him alone again.

Seabrook may be pretty on the outside, but it was poisonous. It made the people in it mindless copies, and cast out anyone different. It even took good people, like…

It even made them puppets in the system. It was why, even after everything he stuck by his aunt. She wanted to help, to fix things. Maybe she didn’t always go about it correctly, but what she was fighting for made him respect her.

After this summer, he had decided he was done with hiding. Not for his grief, not for the boys like Ray… and not even for Nova.

Maybe it was small. He dyed his hair, he stopped hiding. He was writing in the yearbook, he was working in more social surroundings, and he went to school events.

It was small. But if there was anything the zombies had proven in seabrook, it was that it didn't take much to start something big.

He smiled, cheering as the football team jogged out onto the field. He lifted his camera, and got a few snapshots of the starters, and Zed holding up the ball to the crowd. He wasn't an idiot, he still needed to get some shots for Nova. After all, he may be older but he was still determined to do anything for her.

Speak of the devil. Just as he was thinking of her, a loud horn sounded, and the cheer team jogged out onto the track, smiling and pom poms held high. He cheered loud as he could, making sure to catch the captains standing at the front.

And of course, the girl with golden blonde hair in the front, who was glancing at him every few seconds. And as he always was when she was around he… felt a little hypnotized at the sight of her.

She was wearing the green and pink uniform, her pom poms held up as she cheered, and her golden hair was pulled back with pink ribbons. There was glitter on her face, and her blue eyes lit up so much with her smile, that he was surprised no one was blinded.

He sighed, looking at her as a fond smile crossed his face. Even after all these years, she was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. And despite them not being as close, he still felt strangely… proud of her. He could tell how hard she worked to be here. And that alone was impressive.

He clapped with everyone else as the game started, snapping pictures of the ball as it was released, and not missing a snapshot of the flyer that flipped into the air.

Maybe it wasn't yet, and maybe there was no chance it would ever happen. But as he sat there smiling, and catching pictures, he promised himself he would at least try. He would try to get her back.

Even, if it killed him.

—---------------------------------------------------------

At half time, Seabrook was up 12-7. The enthusiasm and energy thrumming through the crowd was palpable, and everyone was eagerly waiting for the start of the 2nd half.

He sighed, looking around. The cheerleaders were dispersed among the crowd, and he could see Nova chatting with a few others. He looked away the second she glanced in his direction,and stood up telling Vargas he was going to concessions.

Even if he did have the balls to go talk to her, he wasn't sure she wanted to see him. At least not right then.

He breathed out, and had to remind himself he would be studying at her house tomorrow. Patience is a virtue.

Having already taken pictures of all relevant half time events, and needing some kind of sugar to make it through the rest of this game, (Seriously, this was fun but it took FOREVER) he went to go buy snacks and drinks.

It was still strange to be surrounded by so many popular people, and have them not try to trip him, or spit at him. It may have helped that he was about their height and build now, but still. Unnerving.

As he walked into the line, and got his treats, he heard a small commotion from the other side of the concession stand. Curiosity getting the best of him, he rounded the corner, setting his snacks down at table, and quickly assessing the situation.

There were two older boys, maybe sophomores or juniors, that were standing in front of a cheerleader that had her back to the wall, and a stormy expression on her face.

His heart nearly stopped when he recognized the girl. Long, ice blond hair, and sky blue eyes, her cheer captain ribbon gleaming on her uniform.

Addison Wells. Golden girl of seabrook high, the mayor's daughter, cheer captain, valedictorian, and girlfriend of Zed Necrodopolis, the star football player.

Yeah, this was not good.

Addison was saying something, that he caught the tail end of, as he approached.

“-have to be out there in like 8 minutes. If I'm gone, people will ask questions.”

The taller of the two boys, who he recognized from the basketball team posters, smiled cockily and came forward.

“Relax, all we want to do is talk. I don't think anyone will mind.” he said. The shorter blond guy, who was wearing a baseball jersey nodded, adding.

“Yeah, people will understand. Besides, I've always heard cheerleaders are… flexible.” he said. And at that, Victor practically saw red, and made the reckless decision to come forward.

He may be a boy, but he saw quite enough of this kind of thing. And the thought of any girl having to deal with this, especially when Addison was wearing a cheerleader uniform that brought Nova to his mind, made him practically vibrate with fury.

“Hey.” he called to Addison, completely ignoring the two boys.

“There you are Addison. Nova and Zoey were looking for you.” he said as confidently as he could muster. He didn't know if that was true or not, but he didn't know the names of any of the other young girls.

He saw Addison's shoulders almost sag in relief as she stepped closer to him, but he also saw the boys narrow their eyes at him.

“Who are you?” Tall, dark and hideous asked. Victor glanced up at him, reaching out a hand to pull Addison closer behind him.

“No one of importance.” he said smoothly. But the other boy stepped closer, sneering.

“I recognize you. Are you looking for a fight, vampire?” he asked, looking at Victor with a mocking grin. Victor snorted.

“Really? I've been here for four years, and I can firmly say that the vampire insults get worse every year. And,” he continued, stepping forward with a shrug.

“I could fight you. And win. I grew up in a city where kids skated through streets to see who would fall and get hurt first, and fighting was a street sport. But, we are in a stadium full of people, and there is a 6 '4 Zombie football player waiting on the field for her, that will be wreaking hell if she isn't there and he finds this in 7 minutes. So, as much as I would like to lick your blood from my knuckles, like the Vampire you call me,” he said, menacingly stepping forward with a practiced glint in his eyes.

“I suggest you move along. Because, no matter what, this won't end well for you.”

The two boys glared at him for a minute, before hurling insults, but moving away, and walking back to the stands. Behind him, he heard a shaky exhale, and he turned around to look at the girl.

“Are you okay?” he asked sincerely, looking into her blue eyes. She studied him in a way that was almost unnerving, before nodding slowly.

“I am. Thank you. That was pretty brave.” she said, gesturing to the boys that just left. Victor shrugged, sticking his hands into his pockets.

“Eh, they are just some normal assholes. I've dealt with their kind for years.”

She studied him again, glancing at his camera.

“...Because of that name they called you? A Vampire?” she asked. He laughed, nodding.

“Yeah, that's why. I'm from Shadyside. So, not unlike your boyfriend, I got a stupid monster nickname. It's fine, I've dealt with it for a while now.” he said. Addison gestured at his hair.

“Seems like you are doing more than that.” she said with a smile. He ran a hand through the strands and grabbed his snacks, nodding and gesturing for her to walk with him.

“Yeah I guess I took a page from the whole Zombietown book,” he said. She nodded, then hesitantly said,

“And Nova?”

He paused, stopping in his tracks.

“...What about her?” he asked, his voice coming out thicker than he meant. Her blue eyes sparkled in confusion.

“You said that Nova was looking for me earlier. I assume that was just to get me out of there, but… I didn't know you knew her.” she said. He slowly nodded.

“We have… a history,” he said hesitantly. She tilted her head.

“The kind that is hard to talk about?” she asked, her voice sympathetic. He swallowed, his eyes feeling wet.

“The kind that hurts to remember.”

He wasn't sure why he said it. Maybe it was because she seemed so nice, or that she was Nova's friend.

Maybe because her smile reminded him of his mom.

But whatever the reason was, she seemed to understand, nodding slowly. Then, she smiled, and grabbed his arm, pulling him back to the stands.

“Well, I like you, kid. You are now my freshman child, and resistance is futile. Come on, the game is starting!” she said excitedly, pulling him along. He laughed, and let himself be led, silently wiping his eyes on his sleeve with a smile.

And at that moment, maybe. Just maybe. He had more than just hope for the future. He had anticipation and excitement.

Who could have guessed?

Chapter Text

Nova was grateful for a lot of things.

She was grateful for obvious things. That she had a family who loved her, a house to live in, a free education. Things that every person deserves, even if they don’t all have them.

And then, there were the smaller things she was grateful for. The smell of candles in the early morning, when the sun just barely peaks into the dark sky, or the soft feeling of the fall mornings where leaves adorned her path to school.

A bunch of little things that made her life so much happier.

When she was in 6th grade, Victor used to do this thing where he would sketch small things for her, and then leave them. He would claim it was an accident, but there was always a shy glint in his eye when she would find his little pencil drawings in her notebooks, or her novels.

She would smile, and would always say

“Thank you Victor.”

And he would always smile, and say back.

“For what, Nova?”

It was their little thing. And after 6th grade, it had taken a while for her to realize that he wasn’t doing that anymore. That he wouldn't be leaving her pictures. Even now, she would catch herself checking the inside of her books for slips of paper, before remembering they wouldn’t be there.

It was possibly the saddest part of the whole process. The fact that something that had once been so integral to her life was gone, was… jarring to say the least.

So, imagine her surprise, after getting home from a long game, and showering the glitter off her face and hair, that she pulled out her notebook to do homework, and a folded up piece of notebook paper slid out.

Her heart nearly stopped, as she stared at the small scrap of paper. Her heart thumped in her chest, and an overwhelming sense of Déjà vu overcame her.

Hesitantly, she picked it up. And slowly, as if scared to do so, she unfolded it.

What she saw made her breath catch.

It was a sketch of… her. In their science class. She had one hand propped against her chin, and the other writing on a paper, her brows furrowed slightly in concentration. She looked… real. Not perfect. Not without flaws. But still… beautiful.

She swallowed thickly, feeling tears form in her eyes. Was that really how he saw her? Was she really like that through his eyes?

Slowly, she pulled out her phone, and scrolled down for a contact that she hadn’t used in years. But, not for the first time, she stared at the last messages she had ever exchanged with him.

Nova: Of course! Love you too <3

She swallowed, and typed out a quick message, sending it before she could regret it, pretending that they wouldn’t both see the remnants of their friendship when they looked at that text string.

Nova: My dad will be on a work trip, so mom said the house is free for us tomorrow. Come over at like 6:30?

She sat at the table, her anxiousness overtaking her, wondering what he would say. But before she even had the time to worry, her phone dinged.

Victor: I'll be there :)

She tried to pretend that her heart didn't jump, and that she did not smile at his contact appearing at the top of hers. And the question from earlier would infect her brain again, as she looked down at the drawing. Was that how he really saw her?

And even though she would try to move on, the question would follow her all night as she worked. As she got ready for bed. And even as she was dreaming, brown eyes and shy smiles would infect her dreams.

What if?

What if?

———————————————————————

It was late afternoon on a Saturday, and she was sitting on her couch with Ray beside her. He was there, because her father had wanted him around for some kind of campaign reason. After all, beating out Victoria Barton back in 6th grade only lasted so long, and the reelection was soon.

She looked over at her curly haired friend, her wired brain running through all of their recent interactions.

Things between them had been… interesting the last two years. Certainly better, but… even though she and Victor weren't close anymore, the memory of his cruelty rang like a bell in her mind. She couldn't forget Victor's heartbroken expression if she tried, and she didn't want to.

She could be mad at Victor for a lot of things, but what Ray did to his painting? That, she could never be mad about.

That had been cruel. Nova knew it. Victor knew it. Hell, Ray probably even knew it. Not that he'd ever admit it, but still. They had never discussed it after that day. With him, some things were better left in the past. At least that's what she thought.

Now? She wasn't so sure.

“So,” Ray said, his feet propped up on the coffee table.

“How's cheer?”

She shrugged, sipping her sprite can as she read over her homework assignment.

“Oh, you know, it’s cheer. Lots of copies of the same girl, and lots of shouting and flips.” she said, smiling lazily at him. He rolled his eyes.

“You hate when I describe it like that.” he said with a laugh, and she smiled.

“Yup. That's why I still say it. Because I am never going to let you live that down.” she said with a smug grin. He threw a throw pillow at her, and she laughed, catching it and throwing it back. It was nice when he wasn't being an asshole, and was just being her best friend.

Just then, her mom entered the room, her gold hair pulled back, and an amused smile on her face.

“Ray,” she said, looking fondly at him.

“Youre mother is here to get you.” she said. He groaned, falling backwards dramatically. She giggled, kicking his head, and he grumbled sitting up.

“Rude.” he mumbled. She smiled sweetly at him. He sighed, collecting his things and slinging his bag over his shoulder.

“Dont do anything fun without me!” he called over his shoulder as he left.

“I never do!” she said back, hardly looking up from her phone. Her mom let out an amused sigh, and leaned against the entry to the living room,as the front door shut.

“You know Nova, I wish you would find a boy like that. He's so… respectful.” she said thoughtfully. Nova snorted.

“I’d rather marry Shrek. Seriously, ew mom.” she said, sitting up to stack her papers. Her mom smiled, lifting her hands up in a mock-surrender gesture.

“Hey, all I'm saying is that you don't find a real friendship like that every day.” she said with a laugh. Nova sighed, looking out the window, as all the problems with their friendship, ones that her mom was blissfully unaware of, passed through her mind's eye. And against her will, memories of a boy with glasses and dark brown eyes passed through as well.

“Yeah I suppose you don't." she mumbled, eyes still staring out the window, unfocused. And even though her mom smiled, she didn't know. Didn't know that her daughter was thinking of a whole other friendship entirely.

The sudden thought of Victor startled her out of her thoughts and she glanced down at her watch, trying not to panic when she saw the time.

“Hey mom,” she said, scrambling up from the couch as her mom left the room.

“I have a… classmate coming over for that science project I mentioned. He should be here in… about 20 minutes.” she said, grabbing all of her things and shoving them into her bag, refusing to meet her mothers eyes.

The mother in question leaned against the dooframe, her expression mischievous.

“He? You invited a boy over on a Saturday night?” she asked with a laugh. Nova sighed.

“Momm.” she said exasperated. Her mom laughed, and left towards the kitchen.

“Okay, okay, I won't say anything. Of course he is welcome. But maybe there is a reason you are so against Ray, if you are blushing this much.” she called out singsong. Nova groaned, burying her face in her hands. The heat of her cheeks was warm against her palms, and she sighed with annoyance, knowing her mom was right.

Still, not wanting to give her mom the satisfaction of her being right, she scrambled upstairs to her bedroom, dreading the moment when the doorbell rang.

—------------------------------------------------

Exactly 20 minutes later, a knock could be heard from the front door. Nova checked her watch, grumbling as she straightened her pillows once more, and nearly bolted down the stairs. The one time Victor decided to be punctual.

By the time she reached the bottom of the stairs, her mom was just barely opening the door.

“You must be Victor.” her mother said warmly, as she stood frozen at the bottom of the stairs.

“Yes ma'am," the figure in the door said, and… wow. She had not been expecting that.

It was Victor. But he looked… different.

He had on a black hoodie, the chilly fall afternoon making the wind flutter through his hair. And his hair. It wasn't gelled back as usual, but fell more casually into his eyes, curly slightly at the ends in the way she remembered it used to.

And sitting on his nose was a pair of thin framed glasses, the light barely hitting the edges, as the sun hung low in the sky. He was smiling. And god…

He looked good. He looked… like her Victor. But older. More mature, more sure of himself. And that was a version of him she wasn't sure how to handle.

“Well come on in, it's freezing outside.” her mother said warmly to him, snapping her out of her thoughts, and causing her to move forwards.

Victor saw her, and his face split into that wide grin..

“Nova.” he said simply, her own name in his mouth making her suppress a shiver. She gave a small smile back.

“Victor.”

He opened his mouth to say something more, but her mother ushered them both into the kitchen, bombarding Victor with questions about his life, school, sports. Anything she could think of. Nova had to force herself not to hide her face in embarrassment when Victor gave her an amused glance.

“So, are you in any extracurriculars?” her mom asked curiously. Victor smiled a little, nodding.

“Yes. I’m in Art, and Photography. And I recently switched over to Yearbook from economics.” he said, his voice steady. Nova felt her heart leap into her throat.

Did he just say that…

“Oh, you do yearbook? So does Nova! Have you two worked together?” her mom asked excitedly. Nova was about to say no, when Victor responded smoothly.

“I haven't been to a class yet, I've had some scheduling conflicts in switching my credits. But I think I may have taken some photos for her column.” he said simply. Nova felt the cloud of disbelief around this subject clear, and she sighed internally.

She had denied it. But deep down she had known. It was him. It was always… him.

“That is amazing.” her mom said, a grin on her face.

“So, how did you two meet?” she asked, her voice excited. But unbeknownst to her, the two of them froze slightly, glancing at one another.

“We… met a while ago actually. Back when I first moved here, in 6th grade.” Victor said simply. Nova's mom processed that slowly, then her eyes widened in realization.

“Wait… you're THAT Victor?” her mom asked. Nova gave her mom a pleading look, but her mom seemed to not notice, too excited to care.

“Oh my gosh, Nova would talk about you all the time when she first went to school! I was so happy she made a friend.”

Victor turned to Nova, a smile on his face.

“Did she now?” He asked amused, and Nova thought she might actually die from embarrassment.

“Oh yes. She would talk all about your projects, and your art. I thought you didn’t go to the same school anymore?” She asked confused. Victor laughed a little.

“Well, I think my aunt also got a little sick of me talking about her so much. And no, I haven’t moved schools until going to high school this year.” He asked calmly. Her mom tilted her head.

“Oh. Did you two not hang out after that? I heard her telling Zoey in 7th grade about how “victor left”. Is that not what happened?” She said innocently. Nova felt her stomach drop. Why did the universe hate her.

A slow sad smile crept onto Victors face, and he gave a nod.

“Yeah, time and new friends made us grow apart a bit. But I never left.” He said, his voice steady. But something about the way he said it, made her feel like he meant more.

I never left.

Her mom nodded, but then she glanced between the two of the with a smile.

“Well, it seems the two of you worked things out, and you’ve been spending more time together now.” She said with a smile.

“Sort of mom.” She mumbled. Her mom rolled her eyes, looking at her daughter.

“Oh hush, you’ve seemed happier for weeks now. This boy is doing you some good.” She said. Nova was fairly certain her face was going to burst into flames, but before she could say anything, Victors soft voice cut through her thoughts.

“I think that goes for both of us.” He said quietly. But he wasn’t looking at her mom. He was looking at her, his eyes that soft color that made her swoon. Good god.

She looked away, but not before a small smile graced her face. After all, when he was looking at her like that it was impossible not to.

The two teenagers barely noticed the mom that had turned a blind eye to them, silently doing dishes while they exchanged glances.

“Mom.” Nova said, standing up.

“We are gonna go to my room to work on the project, if you need us.” She said, distractedly. Her mom smiled and nodded, as the two teens left the room.

“Okay. Just crack the door open.”

“Mom!”

Chapter Text

Victor would not admit how long it took him to pick out an outfit. He would also not admit how much time he spent worrying about it once he finally did.

He sighed, falling back on his own bed and rereading Nova's text. Again.

It was a little jarring to see her name pop up on his screen again, especially since he had never changed her profile picture. To see 12 year old Nova staring up at him, and opening a text string with her to see an old “Love you” was…

Ehem. difficult.

He had responded almost immediately, then panicked when he thought he responded too fast. He had thrown his phone down, then immediately buried his face into a pillow.

Why was he incapable of being cool, literally at all with her?

He sighed, putting his phone down again, and glancing at the clock. 6:30. Okay. he could wait till then and not panic. It was fine.

But as he sat down to sketch, or do homework, or literally anything, he couldnt help but overanalyze everything in his mind.

Why did she want to go to her house? Did she make sure her dad wouldnt be there? Was she still mad at him? Was there any possible chance that she was secretly in love with him?

Yeah, those last few may have been wishful thinking. Still, a boy can dream.

He sighed, setting his sketchbook down, and rubbing his eyes. It had been a lond day, and even though he didn’t need them too often, his eyes hurt. So, he pulled out the glasses from his desk drawer and set them on his nose.

He could feel a shiver run through himself, the sensation still reminding him of the time that Nova had slipped his glasses on his face after cleaning them with her shirt.

He sighed, looking out the window. Was he doomed to be reminded of her every other minute?

Before he could further rabbit hole himself into his own mind, his door slammed open, and two people came in and flopped onto his bed.

“I’m going to kill Mr. Laufner.” Vera mumbled into the comforter. Victor snorted, and pulled out his notebook.

“Come on, the assignment is not that hard. Besides, you have Vargas as your partner!” he said encouragingly. Vera groaned again, flopping back and whacking Vargas's head from where he leaned on the floor against the side of Victor's bed.

“Thats the problem. He just wants to blow something up.” she said solemnly. Vargas clutched his chest, offended.

“Hey, I had other good ideas!” he said defensively. Vera snorted.

“The project is for a natural based object of convenience.” she said like that explained it. Vargas nodded, as if this was obvious.

“Obviously. I think that sunglasses that perfectly replicate the night sky would be very convenient. For night owls. We would get so much more done!” he exclaimed. She snorted again.

“Yeah, for us. But we have a seabrook teacher. They don't want “Vampire” creations.” she said. Victor scoffed, like he was annoyed.

“Don’t say that like it's a bad thing. I think it's cool that we are called mystical creatures.” he said. Vera laughed.

“It’s meant as an insult Victor.” she said, exasperated. But Vargas shook his head and sat up.

“No, not anymore. Girls think it's hot now.” he said with a wink. Vera snorted, but he just nodded enthusiastically.

“It's true! Basically all the girls are obsessed with Victor now, and that guy for AP Lit was totally checking me out.” Vera scoffed, looking at the two of them.

“Obsessed with, and checking out, what?” she asked. Victor snorted, not looking up from his book.

“Ouch.” he said sarcastically. Vargas laughed, and Vera just rolled her eyes again.

Never a dull moment.

“Well.” Vera said, a glimmer of mischief in her eyes.

“I think we all know of at least one specific girl on Victor's mind.” she said with a grin. He froze imperceptibly, his pencil scratching on the paper.

“I don't know what you're talking about.” he said, but he was tense. Vargas laughed.

“Yes you do. You were all cozy with her today, and she couldn't stop looking at you at the game. AH, their love was written in the stars!” he said dramatically falling backwards onto the bed, while Vera laughed. Victor rolled his eyes, his cheeks red.

“Very funny.” he mumbled. Vera tilted her head, a curious look on her face.

“What IS going on with you two Victor?” she asked, her tone not accusatory, but… defensive?

“Nothing.” he said, looking away. They both raised an eyebrow at him.

“Nothing!” he repeated, his voice higher, as they both gave him a look.

“We are just partnered in a few classes. It's nothing serious, calm down.” he said. Vargas gave Vera a look, and she nodded.

“Do you want it to be?” she asked him. He looked up, confused.

“Want it to be what?” he asked. She gestured to his notebook.

“The so-called "things " happening with her. Do you want it to be more serious?” she asked. He ran a hand through his hair, sighing.

“Yes? No? I don't know, I-” he looked away, down at his writing.

“I don't know. I guess I do, but- should I want that? Still?” he asked. Vera shrugged, her hair falling into her face.

“I don't know. That's up to you.” she said. He groaned, putting his head back against the wall.

“I just don't think that's what she wants. I can never tell with her anymore.” he said. Vera snorted.

“I don't know how you ever could. She is an anomaly, and if it were me I would leave her alone. All she’ll do is leave again.” she said. Vargas gave her a sharp look.

“Vera.” he said in warning, but she just sat up.

“What? I'm not wrong. He's just going to get himself hurt again.”

Victor swallowed, looking down at the drawing of her he had been working on.

“You don't know that Vera. You don't know everything about it, it's… different.” he said, his thumb stroking the page. Vera scoffed.

“I know enough. All that girl will do, is make you sad again, and fucking up all the progress you made without her.” she said, her tone harsher. And Victor sat up, his annoyance rising.

“That's not fair Vera, and you don't know enough. My sadness wasn't all about her, and you know that. In fact, she helped me through a lot of it. And if you think that she was the problem in all of this, then you are desperately wrong.” he said. The room went silent for a minute. He sighed, and stoof up, grabbing his things.

“I have to go,” he mumbled. Vera opened her mouth, hesitated, then said.

“To her?”

He looked up, then sighed.

“Yeah. I always end up doing that don't I?" he said, laughing without humor. She looked at him, then sighed.

“Just dont… dont get your heart broken again.” she said finally. He smiled sadly and nodded.

“I’ll do my best.”

He was about to leave, when he stopped, and looked back, swallowing.

“Vera… I'm sorry.” he muttered. But she just shook her head and gave him a sarcastic smile. He smiled a little back. And yeah. They were good.

“Hey Vic?” Vargas called in amusement, just before he could leave.

“Yeah?” he asked, turning back. Vargas grinned.

“Go get the girl.”

—-----------------------------------------------------

Nova led Victor up the stairs to her room, her cheeks still burning hotter than the sun. Why did her mom have to do that? Just why? Did the universe hate her?

It did NOT help that Victor's presence behind her was warm, solid, and almost entirely too distracting. How was it possible that he was still slightly taller than her, two steps down? Oy vey.

She didn’t know what to think. Not after him confirming that he had in fact, switched his elective for her column, and he did in fact enjoy hanging out with her nowadays.

Well. maybe not switched the elective FOR her. Just… with her? It was too much. Too confusing, and she was not ready to face most of it.

But she would have to figure it out soon, because Victor was now standing with her at the door to her room, and she had to still her heart enough to make her hand not fumble with the door handle, as she opened it and stepped in.

She sighed shakily, and sat on her bed. But Victor didn't move, leaning against the doorframe as his eyes swept over the room, a slight smile on his face.

“What?” she asked. He shrugged, a grin pulling at his lips a little more.

“I don't know. It's just very… you.” he said with a smile, before walking in and sitting at her desk chair.

And yes. That was enough to make her stomach erupt with butterflies. Shut up.

She looked around, at the light colored room, the lamps with soft lighting and the flowers that adorned her walls, music records and posters everywhere. Pictures were hung every which way.

Yeah. She supposed it was very HER.

“So.” He said, tapping his fingers against the desk.

“Your mom seems cool.” He said with a smile. She nodded, looking back to the door.

“Yeah, she’s pretty awesome. Although, embarrassing me is her favorite pastime.” She said with a laugh.

He smiled, a wistful look in his eye.

“That’s really nice.” He said softly, his mind seemingly drifting.

She knew he was thinking about his own parents, and a short silence followed. Not uncomfortable, just… there.

He cleared his throat, pulling out his notebook.

“Right. So,” he said, pushing up his glasses, and pulling out his notebook.

“Natural devices.”

She groaned, flopping back on the bed, forgetting momentarily that she had to do work.

He laughed, looking over at her.

“Still hate science, I see.” He said, sounding amused.

“It’s the bane of my existence.” She said, her voice muffled through the pillow covering her face. He laughed, pulling her up, as he sat down on her bed.

“Come on, we have to get through at least the planning phase. Then, we can take a break.” He said, pulling out the posterboard.

She sighed, trying to sound annoyed but smiling despite herself. It made her too happy, despite everything, that he still remembered her working system,

“Fine.” She said, pulling the marker cap off with her teeth as he started one of his complex sketches.

“But you owe me a milkshake Barton.” She said, her smile wide. And he gave her a soft smile then, his glasses glinting in the light of the low sun out her window.

“Deal, Bright.”

They worked in tandem for a while then, exchanging notes, and laughing at some jokes, and falling into rhythm. It felt right, like they were back in that swingset, and the world was at peace.

She felt lighter, like his jokes, and his soft smile lifted a massive weight off her shoulders. Because it did. With him, working like this? She felt ready for anything.

Eventually, the work was set aside, and random conversation began.

“Wait wait.” She said, laughing for maybe the thousandth time that night.

“You fell asleep on a roof?”

He grinned and nodded, his smile bright and carefree.

“Yep scared the living daylights out of my aunt. She nearly sent out a neighborhood search party before they found me.” He said.

They were quiet for a minute, before bursting out into laughter again, tears practically streaming down her face as she fell into his side.

“Oh my gosh.” She said, her head falling to rest on his shoulder.

“I don’t think I’ve laughed this much in a while.” She said, her voice still breathy and giggly, her smile a permanent fixture on her face.

Victor laughed too, his hand resting on hers as they sat there.

“Me either Nov.” he said, the smile in his voice soft, and unbearably fond.

And they sat there for a moment. The closeness should have been awkward, but for some reason… it just wasn’t. It felt comfortable. It felt… right.

She sighed softly, her head still resting on his shoulder as his thumb brushed over her knuckles.

“Victor?” She said quietly.

“Yes Nova?” He asked back, his breath slightly shaky. She hesitated, then she spoke.

“I missed you.”

She could hear the hitch in his breath. The confession was quiet, almost… almost scared. But then, Victor pulled back slightly so he could look her in the eyes, not letting go of her hand.

“I missed you too.” He said softly. She could feel her breath hitch.

And suddenly, she realized where she was. She was sitting in front of him. And he was looking at her with those eyes, and his lips were… so, so close to hers.

She couldn’t stop herself from glancing down, and she looked back into his eyes, heat blooming in her cheeks when she saw him do the same.

“Nova.” He said quietly.

“Yes?” She responded, the word barely a breath, as she glanced down again. And the tension built like a stack of jenga, seconds from collapsing.

“Nova!” A loud voice called from down the stairs, sounding very close.

Both teens nearly jumped back, their cheeks turning crimson. They both stuttered words out, before a nova got up quickly, heading to the door.

“Yes mom?” She called, trying not to glance back.

“Victors aunt is outside for him.” She called back. Nova yells back saying she would tell him, then turned around to find him putting away his things, running a hand threw his hair.

She swallowed audibly as he stood, being unable to help looking into his eyes. He did the same, their matching blushes visible in the lamplight.

“I should, um, I should probably-“ he said, stepping out.

“Right yeah, um, of course.” She mumbled, stepping back and wrapping her arms around her middle as he walked to the door.

Just before he left, he stopped with on hand on the doorframe, seeming to hesitate, before turning to look at her.

She could feel her blush deepen, as he studied her, then his face broke out into a soft grin.

“It was good to see you, Nova.” He said quietly. Being unable to form coherent words, she nodded back, smiling.

He seemed to want to say more, before deciding against it, and smiling at her one last time before walking out of the doorway.

Then, he was gone.

She sat down on her bed, letting out a shaky breath, as her hands gripped the edge. She had no idea what to think, and the memory was still fresh in her mind, making her heart race, and her blood rush.

What just happened?

Chapter Text

Nova was holding her breath, trying to process everything that had just happened. She didnt know what to think, or how to properly function. It was all too new, too… fresh.

She jumped up from her bed, running to her window to watch, as Victor stepped down her front porch, and slid into the black SUV, his expression neutral.

She sighed, sliding down the wall next to the window once he left, clutching her heart. What had just happened? Had it really happened? Was this actually her life?

She glanced back over to the bed, and at the science posterboards, swallowing thickly. She had no idea how the conversation had turned so quickly. One second, she was sitting there drawing on posterboards, and the next she was laying on his shoulder, with his face inches from her own.

She ran a hand tiredly over her flushed cheeks, trying to calm down. It wasn't a big deal. They would go back to normal tomorrow, and it wouldn't matter.

But then, as she thought that, she sat up and looked at her door.

Wouldn't it matter? Wasn't that the whole point?

She stood up, going to her desk drawer and pulling out an old shoebox, blowing the dust off and setting it on her desk.

That had been the problem, hadn't it? No one in this town was real. They all were pretending to be someone else, in an effort to seem more likeable, or more cohesive. It was what Victor had said to her on that day in the rain, that she was just like the rest of them. But wasn't that wrong?

She ran her hand over the boxes' ribbons with a sigh. She didn't want to be that person. Parents would always tell their kids to be who they were, and pursue their passions. But how often did they grow up, and actually listen?

Victor did. He had done it, and he was still doing it. So why couldn't she?

She pulled the lid off the box, slowly pulling out the contents. Years worth of old photos, her old newspaper articles, and tons of folded pieces of notebook paper with Victor's sketches on them.

She stared at an old picture of the two of them at the art show, smiled bright and worry free.

Wasn't this when she was happiest? Wasn't this little girl the best version of her? Before she had to fit in, before she screwed it all up. Before her father had. Wasn't she happy?

She swallowed, setting the picture down, and sorting through more of the things. She saw all of his little sketches, from doodles of beakers and flowers, to detailed portraits. Mostly of her.

There was one in particular she had always loved, one that he had drawn one day under the bleachers. In the drawing, the sun was shining through her hair, and she was laughing. It was beautiful.

Underneath it, he had written. He wrote, “Thanks for being my sunshine.”

She swallowed, as she read the familiar words, the slanted loopy handwriting all too close. She couldn't handle it, not with everything that had just happened. Not with him consuming her every waking thought.

Did she really want this? To hate him? Why was it so much easier to blame him? Why couldn't she have just held on to him, when he was clearly only ever wanting to help her. Even if he lied, even if he was more reserved. He was honest.

She put the box away then, the memories becoming too much. She needed to think, needed to sit with this knowledge. Could she really still hate him? After everything, he was still so kind, still so gentle. When he still helped her, and changed his classes just for her. When he almost kissed her.

And yes. They had almost kissed. Not even that, she had almost kissed him. She wanted to deny it, but she couldn't. Not when the memory of his eyes so close was still fresh in her mind. She knew, that if her mom hadn't called up the stairs, she would have kissed him.

What wouldve happened then? Would he have pushed her away? Gotten mad? Or.

Would he have kissed her back? Would she have shifted closer, putting one hand on his neck, while he put one on her waist, as she ran her other hand through his soft, annoyingly beautiful., hair-

She put her eyes into the heels of her hands, letting out a slow breath. She had to stop. Nothing happened, and nothing would. That was how it had to be.

But still, as she got ready for bed, the thought wouldn't leave her head. And as she lay down to sleep, she would have a small smile on her face.

She wasn't ready. Not yet. But maybe… maybe someday soon. Maybe she would be ready to be like that old version of her again.

And she fell asleep like that, a smile on her face and brown eyes on her mind.
——————————————————————————

Ray was walking back to Novas house later that night, because he left his homework.

He sighed, grumbling. It was late, and after Cross country, all he had wanted to do was sleep. But of course, his father wouldn’t let him rest until he “took responsibility for his actions.

He kicked a rock, approaching the Brights house, with the hope of at least seeing Nova for a minute. But he paused, when he saw a black SUV parked out front, and a woman that he couldn’t quite see the face of sitting in the front seat.

Before he could even fully process that, the door to the house opened, and he ducked behind a bush, waiting to see who was coming out.

And who it was, he had NOT expected.

Victor Barton walked down the steps, his face a picture of neutrality, and his walk deliberating casual.

But Ray was close enough to see the flush in his face, and the smile that was tugging at the edges of his lips. And Victor Barton leaving Novas house with a flushe face was definitely not something he wanted.

He scowled watching silently as he got into his aunts car. And although Victor didn’t see it, Ray saw Nova look out at him from her bedroom window, a strange look of awe and thoughtfulness on her face.

But then, Victor pulled away, and Nova dropped back behind her curtains once more.

Slowly, he backed up, not sure what to think of all that had happened. Why was he here? Why did Nova seem to be okay with it? And, what had they been DOING here?

He turned, and walked back to his home, resolving to get his things tomorrow, his head to full to talk to anyone right now. And although he wasn’t sure what was going on, he knew one thing for sure.

Victor Barton needed to be stopped, and he was going to do it. One way, or another.

Chapter Text

Victor walked through the halls that morning with… a renewed sense of optimism. It was like someone had slipped a multicolor filter over life, and he was now seeing everything clearer.

Vera noticed almost immediately. Which wasn't entirely surprising, considering that she was his partner in most classes.

The moment he walked in, his shoulders slightly pulled back, and his head held higher with his usual grin brighter, She raised an eyebrow. Though, she didn’t say anything until a bit later, once they got to 3rd period.

“What’s gotten into you?” She asked, an amused tone in her voice. He raised an eyebrow, twirling a pencil over his fingers.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He said, his grin wide as he glanced to the front of the classroom. Vera snorted, glancing to the same spot, and looking at the blonde cheerleader.

“Right. So your little sunspot has nothing to do with this?” She said, amused. Victor grinned, and a glint appeared in his eye. But, he said,

“I have no idea what you are talking about.”

Vera sighed, but gave a small smile.

“Fine. but make sure to tell your little girlfriend hi for me.”

Victor smiled, and turned back to the teacher, pretending to listen and attempting to wipe the smile off his face.

It wasn’t exactly his fault that Nova was so distracting. And yes, was he being slightly dramatic, about one interaction they had, and the first real one in two years?

Maybe.

But he had been working towards this for years. And maybe it was slightly pathetic, but even that one interaction made his world feel brighter. Just the memory of her shaky breath, and her blue eyes staring deeply into his, made a dreamy smile come over his face.

At the end of the day, love made a man a fool.

He walked through the halls, anticipating science, more than he usually did. More than he probably should, but he couldn't stop.

If only the world gave him a minute to rest.

He had forgotten his notebook, so he asked for a pass to leave class. As he got his things, another person entered the hallway.

He glanced over his shoulder, and who he saw made his shoulders tense.

Ray Sol. Resident baseball star, jerk of the century, and his middle school bully.

And, Novas childhood best friend.

He waited, silently praying for him to pass, and leave him alone. But it almost seemed, that he had been looking for him.

Ray stopped, leaning against the lockers just behind his locker door.

“Barton,” he said.

Victor slammed his locker door, and turned to look at him with a bored expression.

“Sol.”

Ray glanced over his shoulder, then turned back to Victor, with a smug expression.
“Got a minute?”

Victor snorted, dropping his bag by his feet.

“Actually, i need to get to class. Maybe another time…?” he said, going to grab something out of it.

“I meant now actually. Wasn't really a question.” Ray said, stepping closer. Victor sighed, standing up, and looking him in the eye. Because he could do that now (when did that happen?)

“Listen Ray, I don’t have time for your stupid jokes. I’m not 12, and this isn’t middle school. So make your blood sucker joke, and then move on.” He said, trying to move around him. But Ray stepped in front of him, arm crossed and stance defensive.

“I want to talk about Nova.” He said. Victor wasn’t expecting that.

“Nova?” He said in disbelief. Ray nodded. Victor snorted, the sound oddly dismissive in a way that made Rays expression morph into fury.

“What about Nova?” He said, leaning against his locker. Ray glared at him.

“You know what about. You need to stay away from her. I though you got that hint years ago.” He said, stepping closer. Victor just snorted again.

“I am pretty sure, that nobody tells Nova what to do. She wouldn’t be talking to me if she didn’t want to. Although, I seriously doubt that she would take kindly to the fact that you are trying to fight irrelevant battles for her.” He said. Ray stepped forward again.

“She doesn’t know what’s best for her. I am warning you, on behalf of me and her family. You need to leave well enough alone.”

Victor snorted.

“I met Cynthia. Her mom. She’s lovely. Not sure I’m gonna get many threats there. And you?” He said, stepping forward, a glint in his eyes.

“I’m not scared of you, or her father. You can't push me around anymore, and neither can he. And the further you push me, the further you push her. She has morals, even if it’s not for people she’s close to.” He said, thinking of how Nova still didn’t treat Ray the best after the painting.

“Nova is our age, she doesn’t need you making decisions for her. Now, if you’ll excuse me,” he tried to say, pushing past Ray. But Ray just grabbed the front of his shirt, pulling him back.

“I mean it Victor. This isn’t a threat, it’s a promise.”

Victor was stunned for all of two seconds. And then?

He grabbed Rays shirt, roughly flipping them around, and slamming his back into the lockers.

“And here’s my promise. You can’t push me around anymore, and you never really could. If you ever try to threaten me again, or tell me what to do, there will be consequences.”

Then, he dropped his shirt, roughly pushing him away, and walking back to class, a small smile on his face, as he saw Rays stunned expression.

He may not be violent, but he sure as hell wasn’t about to let Ray threaten him. Not about her.

And then? He went to science, and did exactly what he was warned not to do. Ray saw.

Smart move? No. But by the time he realized that, it was too late.

———————————————————————

No matter how much sleep Nova got that Saturday night, she still was almost as wired the next morning. She still felt an alien buzz under her skin, and she felt… lighter. Like she was floating.

She headed down the stairs for breakfast that morning, with her hoodie and sweats on, her hair down, and a small smile on her face.

“Good morning,” she said to her mom. Her mom raised an eyebrow, as she sipped her coffee.

“Good morning,” she said back, an amused lilt to her voice, as she tilted her head. Nova looked back,

“What?” she asked, with a slight laugh in her voice. Her mom just shrugged, but she was smiling.

“I don't know. You just seem… happier this morning. Less moody.” She said, her smile softening as she handed Nova the matcha.

“I guess science really helped.” she said with a wink. Nova's cheeks turned pink with embarrassment, at her moms not so subtle hint.
Again, it was embarrassing. Didn’t make it wrong.

She went to her room, but she felt too restless to do anything. She needed out, and she needed it now.

So, she did something probably stupid. She pulled out her phone, and sent Zoey a quick text.

Nova: SOS

She waited for the response, smiling when it came not even ten seconds later.

Zoey: Omg, what happened? Nova. tell me right now

She inhaled, before typing out the 5 words that were likely going to change her whole life.

Nova: I think I’m in love

Zoey started typing. Then stopped. Then started again.

Zoey: Bitch. Get your things, I will be there in 8 minutes with Zed's car.

Nova smiled, and fell back on her pillow. Well, she just made either the best, or worst decision of her life.

—------------------------------

“Wait.” Zoey said, sitting back against the back porch railing, and rubbing a hand over her forehead.

“You’re telling me, that it was him? He was your mystery photographer?” she said. Nova nodded, messing with her froyo cup, as she ate the cold lemon dessert.

“Yup. I had my suspicions, but he confirmed it yesterday.” she said, trying not to look her friend in the eye.

“And he drew you a picture? And switched his classes? And he made sure to go to an event for you, and actually help you in a partner project?” she said, her tone more disbelieving with every question. She winced giving a sheepish smile.

“...yes?”

Zoey looked at her, a look of disbelief and confusion on her face.

“What?” Nova asked with a laugh, and shook her head.

“Nothing. I'm just wondering why you aren't pregnant with his child yet.” she said.

Nova slapped her arm, and she started hysterically laughing, completely ignoring her chocolate and peanut butter froyo.

“Hilarious. You should join a comedy club.” she said, her tone annoyed. But she was smiling.

Zoey wiped her eyes, and straightened.

“Okay fine. But I'm serious, that is husband level shit. Why exactly, explain it to me again like I'm 5, did you ever let this boy go?” she asked. Nova sighed, propping her hand under her chin as she looked at the neighbor boys playing soccer in the streets.

She should have told her the story again. The fight, the reasons, the lying. But honestly? She was tired. So, so, tired of all the excuses and reasons. So, instead she said,

“I don't know.”

Zoey gave her a look that said ‘elaborate’ so she sighed and continued.

“I had my reasons. I know I did. But now? I'm tired of every last one. It's all starting to blur in my head, and I… I don't know how to feel anymore.” she said, dropping her hand from under her chin,and hugging her arms around her torso.

Zoey scooted closer, wrapping an arm around her friend's shoulder, and sat there quietly. She didn't speak for a while, but after a few minutes, she hesitated, before softly saying.

“I dont think thats true Nova.” she said. Nova looked at her, her expression confused. But her green haired friend gave her a soft sad smile, and continued.

“I think you do know. I think you know what you want, and it scares you. I think you know that you don't care about those reasons anymore, and that you love him. I think that terrifies you.”

Nova swallowed thickly, staring out at the beat up streets. The walls of Zombietown, so similar to Shadyside. The place where people struggled, because their town failed them. Because her father kept them here.

Was that really who she wanted to make decisions about her heart? Someone who couldn't have enough of one to help young kids, or pick up his own daughter. Did she trust him more than the sweet boy, who she had held while he cried.

In theory, the decision was easy. In practice, it was tearing her apart.

“I'm scared Z.” she said quietly.

“I hurt him so much. I know I did. What if… what if he doesn't want me? What if it's too late?”

Zoey smiled, brushing a piece of hair off Nova's shoulder.

“I don't think he does. But honestly? He's been taking all the leaps. It's your turn to try, and know that you might fall.”

Nova sat there, looking up at the setting sun. and maybe life didn't feel stable, and maybe she felt like someone had just pulled the rug from beneath her feet. But for the first time in a while her mind, and her path forward was clear.

She had to listen to herself. Not her father. Not Ray. She had to go her own way. And it seemed, that that path?

It led to him

Chapter Text

Nova did not expect a simple not-a-date to the carnival to go like this. In fact, it was quite the opposite of what she was expecting. If only the universe would let her be happy for more than 20 minutes.

It started that Monday back at school. She walked up to Victor in the 1st period. Because for the first time, he had come to class, and occupied the desk next to hers. For the first time, he was… there. Her photographer. Her partner. And hopefully… her friend.

He smiled at her as she sat down.

“Fancy meeting you here.” he said with a smirk, twirling his pencil. She just gave him a contemplating look.

“Youre here.” she said, her tone observational. He tilted his head slightly, nodding with a small smirk.

“I am.”

She looked at him again, her eyes still searching.

“You’re my photographer.” She said, once again stating the obvious. Victor nodded again, as though this was infinitely amusing.

“Yes darling. I'm yours.” he said, his smirk growing. Did he hear her breath hitch? Probably not. Right?

“I thought i said that the other night.” he said, his expression playfully confused. She gave a small smile, giving him a once over.

“You did. I just wasn't sure whether I believed it was real until now.”

That seemed to confuse him, and he sat there, his expression questioning.

“So. Why?” she asked, leaning back in her chair. He raised an eyebrow.

“Why what?” he said, leaning forward on his palm.

“Why did you switch your elective to yearbook. And how did you know that someone needed to.” she asked, twirling the end of her braid. His eyes snagged on the movement, and he smiled.

“I switched, because I knew that I would have a lot more fun here with you, than in economics like my aunt wanted me to be. And I knew you needed me, because I overheard the counselor being a dick about it after cheer tryouts.” he said, his tone simple. But the admission caused her breath to hitch, and her heartbeat to speed up.

“So, what? You decided to come help because you felt like it, and you chased a grumpy counselor to do it?” she asked disbelievingly. He smiled, leaning back again, clicking his pen as his eyes surveyed her.

“Is it so crazy to think that I wanted to help you bright?” he asked, smiling. When her silence answered that question, his gaze softened and he leaned forward.

“I wanted to help you, Nova. There was a time that I promised I always would. Circumstances may have changed since then, but my feelings on the matter have not. I will always, always be there to help when you need me. Okay?” he said, his eyes too kind, and words too sweet. She felt unable to answer, rendered speechless by soft brown eyes, and sugary sweet promises. So, she simply nodded.

He smiled, and nodded back, before turning to his computer, where he was editing pictures of the last football game for the newspaper.

She turned back to her own computer, thinking deeply as she pulled up her notes. All her instincts from the last few years were screaming at her to leave it alone, and move on. But a much larger, newer part of her, was telling her that she needed to let it happen. She was reminded of the promise she made herself. To follow what she wanted. And what she wanted? Looked a lot like this boy.

So, for the first time in two years, she let go. Let go of the wall between them, and let the mask fall from her face. Let the expectations, and hurtful words melt away, as she let out a slow breath, the tension falling from her shoulders as she closed her eyes.

And when she opened them again? He was there. Giving her a soft sidelong glance. And for the first time since she was 12, she looked at him as Nova. Not the cheerleader. Not the mayor's daughter. Just… Nova.

She smiled. And maybe he saw the shift, and maybe he didn’t. But either way, his smile seemed brighter, as the rope of tension snapped between them. And suddenly, it all felt right. It felt balanced.

Nova and Victor, against the world.

—---------------------------------------------------------------

Victor was slightly antsy, as he waited by the fair entrance for Nova, fiddling with his camera. Technically, he was a few minutes early. But he still scanned the crowd, almost obsessively for signs of blonde hair and blue eyes.

Nova.

He couldn't help but smile softly, even just at the thought of her. Because she was one of the only reasons he ever did smile. Needless to say, he had been smiling a lot lately.

It had been two weeks. Two weeks since the football game, and the day they studied. Two weeks since they met up in the first period. Two weeks since Ray threatened him. And honestly? They had been the best two weeks of his life.

Maybe that was a mild exaggeration. But they were amazing.

In these two weeks, he had been caught up in a flurry of fall sports events, fundraisers, and other photography opportunities. And the whole while, there was nova with bright intelligent eyes, and a journalist's notepad.

She had been… more close with him these weeks. At least, it felt like it. He didn't want to be reaching, or reading signs that weren't there, but… she had been happier. Smiling more. Laughing with him. Not so distant.

Honestly, she felt more like the Nova he used to know. And even if it wasn't much, he was still ready to kiss her every time he so much as looked at her face… It was still nice. It still felt so good to be back to this with her. Back to almost-normal.

He had been happier as well. It had only gotten more so as he hung out with Nova more, since Vera first noticed it, and now it wasn't limited to Vera's notice. It was EVERYONE. Vargas had teased him for it, his yearbook teacher gave them sly looks and winks, Zeddison would smile at them in the hallways every chance they got. Heck, even his aunt noticed.

“You seem… different.” she had said last Monday dinner. He had raised his eyebrows.

“Different how?” he has asked. She had just smiled, running a hand through his hair like he was a little boy again.

“Happier. More motivated. Less closed off. It's nice. I haven't seen you like that in a while. Not since…” she had trailed off, before smiling, and tapping his cheek lightly.

“It’s good to see. I'm glad for you.”

He smiled. Because even if he had his issues with his aunt, he still loved her. And even though he had been quiet, and more drawn away since his parents death, he knew she loved him. He was glad he could give her a piece of mind about him, even if it was small.

All thanks to Nova.

Just then, he caught sight of a blonde ponytail jumping slightly as she walked, in that way she always did when she was excited, as Nova walked around, her eyes scanning for him.

He pushed off the tent he was standing against, smiling as he walked towards her, and his heart stuttering when he caught her big blue eyes, and her face broke out into that huge sunny smile.

God he was so in love.

She jogged forward, smiling as she stopped in front of him, looking up.

“Glad to see you got my text.” she said, glancing around at the crowd. He smiled, nodding.

“Of course. I'm guessing you brought us here for some article work, as a cover for more time to hang out with me?” he asked with a wink. She rolled her eyes, her cheeks pink as she shoved his chest.

“Get over yourself Barton," she said with a twinkly smile, as she led him by his hand. And he smiled, following as he always did, as she led him with that little bounce in her step.

God, he was in so fucking deep. Only for her.

—-----------------------------------------------------------

Nova smiled, as Victor looked at her with an amused laugh.

“You’re gonna turn into a sugar cookie one day.” he said, his tone fond. She gave him a small scowl, as she tore off another piece of cotton candy.

“Its a carnival. I will eat sugar, and I will be happy about it. My dad isn't here to stop me.” she said, mock defiance in her smile. He smiled then, and she laughed a little, trying not to watch his lips for too long.

“You’ve uh… you've got something,” he said, gesturing to her mouth. She gave him a confused look, before he laughed lowly, leaning forward.

She held her breath, as he wiped sugar from the corner of her mouth, looking into her eyes for a moment, lingering on her mouth. And then, he leaned back on the bench they were sitting on. And licked the sugar off. His. finger.

And he winked. The smug bastard licked the sugar off hie thumb, and winked at her. Her eyes tracked the movement, as he sucked his own thumb clean of the sugar that had been sitting on her lips. She saw His tongue faintly swept over his thumb, and a small glint of his teeth. And good fucking lord. Was the universe trying to kill her?

Once she remembered how to breathe, she turned away, trying to hide the flush on her face, because holy shit. That was way hotter than it should have been.

“Nova?” Victor asked, amusement lacing his tone.

“Mm?” she said distractedly, pulling out her notebook.

“You good?”

She nodded too quickly.

“Yeah um, fine. We should uh, get going. We need to get some shots of the ferris wheel and stuff before we leave.” she said, standing up. He smiled, standing next to her, as she threw away her stick.

“Lead the way sunshine,” he said, smiling at her.

And that smile. That goddamn smile was going to be the death of her.

She led them away, rolling her eyes, but secretly smiling, at his dumb joked as they headed to the rides. But as they got closer, Victor seemed to tense up.

She looked up at him with worry, before following his gaze. And then, her own expression started to harden, and her stomach churned with worry as she caught sight of Ray and his friends.

“Come on,” she said to Victor, turning him away. But it was too late, and she heard one of them call out.

“Hey Vampire! Where do you think you're going?” he called. Victor froze, and she felt his muscles tense.

Nova sighed, and slowly turned around, as her childhood friend approached. Ray's expression went through at least 50 different emotions when he caught sight of her, finally settling on anger and disbelief.

“Nova?” he asked, as she gave him a bored look.

“Ray.” she said, giving him a look. He looked around, as if not believing what was happening.

“What are you doing here? With him?” he said, a gross amount of emphasis on the word ‘him’ as Nova scowled.

“Schoolwork. And carnival games.” she said simply, tired of this conversation before it even started. He scoffed at her sarcasm.

“You know what I mean. Why are you here with him, of all people? I thought you and your dad talked about this?” he said, giving Victor an unceremonious glare.

“Me and my father never talked about not doing my assigned electives, or ignoring anyone. And even if there was another reason, it's none of your business!” she shot back.

“It is my business, because you are my friend, and I am the one who your father is gonna have to clean up the shitshow you'll cause, by playing Romeo and Juliet with the enemy!” he exclaimed, getting way too close to her face.

“Hey, don't talk to her like that!” Victor said, grabbing Ray's arm and shoving him back, stepping slightly in front of her.

“Oh look, the vampire here to defend her, how cute. What are you going to do, hit me?” Ray sneered, as he straightened himself.

“Im not here to fight you. But I'm not going to stand here, while you talk to her like she is a piece of shit, when she is a better person than you ever have been, or will be!” he said, his eyes burning with an almost uncontained fury. And god. It was SO not the time. But seeing him that defensive of her, was… god, unfairly attractive.

‘Jesus Christ woman. Get it together’ she thought, as she turned back to Ray.

“So noble Barton. Tell me, are you going to get all the information you possibly can from her, and then throw her out after the election? Or are you gonna keep her as a token of your victory?” he asked, in mock seriousness. Victor let out a disbelieving laugh.

“For the love of god, I don’t give a shit about politics! There has never been a single time in my life where I have been involved with them, and I would absolutely NEVER, use anyone like that. Especially not someone I care about so much. Seriously, your obsession with me needs to stop! And I can already tell by the way that you talk to her, that you are a piece of shit, so don't give me a reason to hate you more, you nepo baby, fake councilman, son of a bitch.” Victor said, getting right near Ray's face.

And then, suddenly, the world seemed to stop, as Ray threw his fist, directly into Victor's jaw.

All the people around them gasped, as Victor's head turned the other way, and he reached up a hand, wiping the blood from his mouth, a disbelieving look on his face. He laughed slowly, turning back to the curly haired boy, who had a look of pure fury on his face.

“Wow. I hope that made you feel better. Can we move on now?” he said, wiping the blood away. This only served to make Ray more mad as he hit him again, this time in the stomach.Victor fell to one knee, with a grunt

“How does that feel huh? Not so tough without your big words? Come on nightwalker, fight me.” Ray said, stepping forward. Victor just shook his head, the blood on his face dripping onto his shirt as he laughed.

“Im not gonna fight you Ray.” he said, a barely contained rage in his expression. But then, Ray hit him. Again. And again. And again.

“Ray,” she said, her voice cracking. Then, she repeated herself, growing more desperate/.

“Ray. Ray! Ray, stop it!” she said desperately, trying to move forward. But suddenly, a boy held her away, and she looked up to see Zed, shaking his head.

“Not today, Supernova. No one else needs to get hurt.” he said, his voice cracking as he watched the two boys. Behind him, she could see Zoey, who looked stunned, and Addison, who had a hand over her mouth, and blue eyes full of tears. Nova looked around, tears filling her own eyes, as she restlessly watched the fight unfold in front of him. Ray was still insulting him, as Victor sat on one knee, and he dealt blows to various parts of his body every few seconds, insulting him all the while.
“I'm not gonna fight you over this. Not politics we have no place in.” she heard Victor say, pain in his voice. Ray looked furious, as he kicked him this time, causing Victor to yelp, and drop to both knees.

“Like hell you aren't. Come on then vampire boy. Fight me. If you are so noble, and you love Nova so much, fight me.”

But Victor didn’t move. Ray scoffed, hitting him in the side.

“Of course you don’t. All you’ll do is string her along, until she ends up brainwashed and dead inside. Until she ends up squashed against a tree like your mother.”

Time seemed to stop. Everyone let out a collective gasp. His friends looked dumbfounded, and bystanders looked on in horror. And Victor?

Victor slowly lifted his head, the fury that had been hanging by a thread in his eyes there blazing hot. And right then, everyone witnessed that thread snap.

“What did you just say?” He asked, his voice menacing. Ray sneered, but he looked slightly terrified.

“I said that you are gonna make nova end up like your bitch of a mother, dead before she coul-“

He didnt get to finish. Because in one fluid motion, Victor stood up, in a way that had to be painful due to the beating he had just taken, and punched him square across the face. HARD.

The punch was solid. And loud. But Victor didn’t stop. He kicked him. He punched him in the stomach. And the face again. And even though Ray tried to hit him back, or back off, Victor dragged him back, and hit him again.

Everyone watched, in pure shock, as the boy who had the tar beaten out of him minutes earlier, absolutely tore him to shreds. And unlike last time, people weren’t telling the person punching to stop. In fact, many were egging him on. And even though it was likely unethical, people seemed to have enough sense not to care.

Victor hit Ray in the face again, before grabbing the front of his shirt, and making him meet his eyes.

“You leave me, the fuck alone. You keep my name, and Novas out of your mouth. And by fucking god, you don’t ever say a word about my mother. And if you do, I swear to god, I will fucking kill you.”

Everyone watched, as Victor shoved Ray back, and into his friends. And Ray stocked off, holding his nose, and shouting insults, as his friends helped him hobble off, defeated.

“You’ll fucking regret this Barton. You’ll never care about her, and the sooner she realizes that, the sooner she won’t get hurt.”

Victor was still scowling, but she saw the emotions flick across his face. Something was wrong.

Victor looked around, as people started cheering. But then, the blows he had taken seemed to catch up with him, as he stumbled and clutched his side with a wince.

Across all the people, his eyes met hers. Her shining eyes, and trembling lips, and his bruised and bloody ones. A thousand emotions crossed his face, and she had a bad feeling.

Before she, or anyone else, could do anything, he bolted. As in, full on ran, back beyond the crowd of people, and behind the carnival. Towards the schools and away from Ray and everyone else. Far, far away.

Nova called his name, and broke free from Zed's hold, as she started to run after him. He let her.

And she ran. And she didn’t stop. As they left the word behind, and the memory of all that was and had been among them.

Chapter Text

Nova ran, her hair flying behind her, and her heart racing. She didn't know what was happening, and the emotional whiplash of the day stopped her from having any coherent thoughts. All she knew was that she needed to talk to him. To make sure that he was okay.

She ran after him, not quite knowing which direction he had gone, but having a pretty good guess. She ran straight to the middle school, stopping when she quickly rounded the corner of it, her palms landing on the wall corner as she looked around out of breath. And sure enough, in the same alcove of trees, there he was.

His head was in his hands, and he was crying, his back to the wall. He looked up when she approached, eyes red and lip split. She felt him survey her, and she nearly broke at his expression.

He laughed wetly, looking around at the familiar alcove of trees.

“Deja vu.” he said softly, before looking down at his hands. Slowly, she came closer, kneeling next to him.

“Victor.” she said, after pausing briefly. Her hand hovered over his arm, as her voice shook.

“Yes Sunshine?” he asked, turning to look at her, wiping the blood from his lip. And she let her hand drift upwards, wiping the lone tear off his face, and staring into his face as her finger traced the bruise on his cheek delicately.

He swallowed thickly, looking into her eyes. And they sat there for a minute, neither sure what to do it. But then, he shook his head, and stood up, wincing as he ran a hand through his hair.

“No, no, no. I can’t do this. I can’t.” he said, looking away, almost sounding pained. She stood up, confused, and more than a little worried.

“Whats wrong?” she asked, putting a hand on his arm. But he just shook his head again, glancing back.

“I can’t keep doing this. I can’t keep being around you, and being forced to stay away at the same time. Forced to keep you at arms length, when all I want to do is the opposite.” he said, turning to her. Her eyes got wide, and she opened and closed her mouth a few times.

“What are you talking about?” she settled on saying, looking him in the eyes. He just shook his head again, and looked her fully in the eyes.

“I’m talking about this year. How for the first time, I am around you again, and I have hope like never before. How you smile at me, and hang out with me just like you used to. I don't know how to handle it.” he said. She looked him in the eyes, and she finally spoke.

“Why? Why is it so hard? Can't you just be my friend, and we can be like we used to?” she said, voicing the dangerous question for the first time out loud. But he shook his head.

“No. Because something will ruin it again. What has changed? I'm still my aunt's nephew. You're still your fathers daughter. And as long as we let that divide us, I can't help but feel like I don't have you. Not fully. What Ray did today is proof of that.” He shook his head.

“It's too hard. I can't lose you again, and the only way to ensure i dont is if I stay away, or I fix that.” he said quietly. And her eyes filled with tears, as she threw her hands up.

“Why is it so hard Victor? Why do you care so much about me?” she said, her voice pained.

“Because I’m in love with you!”

She fell silent, inhaling sharply as she looked at him. His chest was heaving with the intensity of the conversation, and the words seemed as though they were ripped from his throat.

His eyes held a thousand emotions, as he looked at her, and he opened his mouth to speak.

“I’ve loved you since that first day we met, when you smiled at me, and told me your name. I loved you every time we talked, and every time we worked together. Every smile, through Christmas and Halloween. Even through the years of silence. I’ve been in love with you through it all.”

He stepped closer, and she felt like she couldn't breathe with the intensity of his gaze

“And I tried. For my own sake, and for yours to let you go. But I never can. You are engraved in my heart, and I can never get rid of you. And the truth is? I don’t even want to.” he said, stepping even closer. She felt his presence like a force, as she looked up into his beautiful brown eyes.

“What… Why?” she said finally, her voice shaking. He reached out a tentative hand to her face, before turning and brushing her hair off her shoulder.

“Because there was no way for me not to. You were kind to everyone. You didn't judge me for what I was, and you wanted to help people. It's why I didn't understand when you got mad at me about my aunt. That's why I couldn’t apologize.” he said, his voice quiet.

“I don’t… i didn't know.” she said quietly. He smiled sadly.

“I know Nova.”

His expression darkened, and he looked deeper into her eyes, as if searching for something.

“Why did you do it, Nova? Why did you throw it all away? Me?” he asked, his voice breaking. And she just stood there, wanting to make excuses, and declare the same reasons. But she just.. Couldn't. He deserved the truth. She owed him that.

“My… my father.” she said finally, looking him in the eyes. He looked up, his eyes widening.

“Your… father?” he said. She nodded.

“And Ray. They found out that you were Victoria Barton's nephew, and… they didn't like that. They told me about your parents, and your aunt. They told me that you lied about it.” she said quietly. He tilted his head.

“I didn't lie. Maybe I didn't tell you the whole truth, but I never claimed to have parents. Or no association with political figures. Just that I didn't care for it, which is true. I still don’t understand.” he said, mumbling the last part.

“They told me to leave you alone, they… they said you were manipulating me. That you wouldn’t have had any reason to lie, unless you were hiding something.” she said, the admission quiet. Victor stepped closer, and they were so close now, that she could have looked up and practically brushed noses with him.

“But I wasn't. I think you know that. I think you've known that all along.” he said quietly. Then, he shook his head slowly.

“I may have been dishonest, but Nova… I don't think I was the one manipulating you.” he said quietly. She let out a little gasp of disbelief, and her vision fogged, as she leaned her forehead against his. It didn't feel real, and it didn't feel comfortable. It felt… almost painful. Like the world was coming into sharper focus, but the light hurt her eyes.

“No. No, no.” she said, pushing him and stepping back.

“He wouldn't do that to me… right?” she said, a tear slipping down her cheek. Victor didn't respond. That was all the answer she needed.

She shoved him again, her tears coming faster.

“You… you don't believe that. That's not why he… No. No!” She said, pushing him, her eyes spilling over with tears.

“Nova-” he tried to reason, but she cut him off.

“They love me! They would never hurt me like that on purpose!” she yelled

“Ray just beat me for no reason other than who I am, and then made fun of me using the most traumatic event of my life! They are not saints Nova, and the fact that you are blind to that because you are family is exactly the problem.” he exclaimed, gesturing wildly at her outburst. She stepped back, shocked at the passion in his voice. And as much as she hated it, she… she understood.

“But why Victor? Why would they do that to me?” she said, her voice turning light, as she wrapped her arms around herself

Victor slowly backed up, shaking his head lightly.

“I.. I'm sorry Nova. but I just can't do this.” he said quietly. She looked up at him, her blue eyes meeting his brown ones. He was also crying.

“It hurts. Seeing you sad, knowing I'm part of the cause of it, physically hurts me. But I… I can't do this. Not when you aren't you, and you are still partially his puppet.” he said. And she straightened slightly, looking him in the eyes.

“I dont… know what to do.” she said, her voice unsteady. He tilted his head, his smile sad.

“I think you do Nova. And that is why you're scared. And until you can know, and be willing to do it? I just… I can't be there for you. I'm sorry.” he said quietly.

And then, like a ghost, he was gone. Off into the dimming day, his broken voice a phantom in her ear, and his absence causing a wind to blow back her hair.

She stood there, tears silently streaming down her face. Because what could she do? There was nothing to say, think or do. He loved her. And she was the one who had ruined it.

She looked out, over the field, contemplating. Would… her own father really do that to her? Over… over politics?

She didn’t want to believe it. The daughter, the golden girl that he had raised in his own image, denied it. Told her not to listen, that her father would never lead her astray.

But then. There was another part of her, maybe the real part. The girl that befriended zombies, and ran recklessly through Fields. The girl that became a flier, because she wanted to take risks, and got into journalism for the thrill of real life. The girl who had fallen in love with a boy she was never supposed to meet.

That side was more logical. More practiced. More… free. And so, she clung to it, closing her eyes, and trying to see it as she clutched her aching stomach.

And suddenly, it was as if the focus on the world shifted into place. And she saw it, clear as day, all the things Victor had said.

“It’s for your own good Nova.”

“Then why would her lie.”

“He was manipulating you.”

“Trust me.”

“I love you.”

All her fathers lies. All the deception, falling into place in her mind. And suddenly, she saw. And now, she didn’t know how to react.

Her first thought was Victor. The years that she had let get away from them for this. All the times she sent him away. How she just did it again.

And then, something seemed to snap. She couldn’t do it again, couldn’t sit by and wait while she let her father blow up her whole life.

Before she even knew where she was going, she started sprinting. She knew what she had to do, and who she had to talk to. She needed answers, NOW. She couldn’t let it happen again.

She couldn’t let him get away again.

———————————————————————

She sprinted, her hair flying behind her as she ran home

She needed to reach them. She needed to see her father. Because if it was true, if her father was someone she had never wanted him to be…

She needed to know. Needed to know if he stole those years from her on purpose.

She approached the front porch, out of breath and fuming mad. Her anger had only grown with each heavy and quick step against the pavement as she ran, and she felt ready to take on the world.

Or punch someone. Either worked.

Her mother was sitting on the porch, and her father was leaning against her doorframe when she approached. She stopped in front of the steps panting, and looking her mother in the eyes.

Said mother stood up, her eyes wide, and her father straightened as her mother walked down the stairs to her.

“Where have you been? Are you okay?” Her mother said, grabbing her chin and turning her face in concern before hugging her.

Nova shook her head, knowing full well that her eyes were red from crying, as she kept her eyes trained on her father.

“I was with a friend.” She said. Her mother urgently had her go up the stairs, talking all the while.

“Something happened, come on in.” She said, her tone worried. Nova forced her eyes to leave her father, as she avoided him completely as she walked into the house. Comfortable, but slightly confused, her father followed her into the house and closed the door.

She came into the front room, expecting something dumb, and instead stopping dead when she saw who was sitting on her couch.

Ray looked up, and froze at the sight of Nova. He opened his mouth, and then closed it at the sight of her, like he didn’t know what to say. There was an ice pack on his clearly black eye, his left arm was in a sling, his lip was split, and there was a cut on his cheek from Victor's silver rings.

Her mother came in, sitting next to Ray with concern.

“His mother went out for a while, to go to the pharmacists. A fight broke out at the carnival apparently. Did you see what happened to him?” She asked, her voice concerned. Nova snorted, taking her jacket off.

“Nothing he didn’t deserve.” She said. Her mother gasped, and her father inhaled sharply as Ray winced and looked down.

“Nova. That is not okay to say about your friend.” He said, his tone stern. Nova scowled, still looking at the floor.

“He’s not my friend.”

Ray winced, and her father looked furious.

“Nova, that is no way to talk to your father, and especially not about Ray. Where the hell is this coming from?” He snapped, as her mother looked between them, increasingly confused and alarmed.

The way he said it, made something inside her snap, and she whipped towards him, her eyes furious.

“No dad. You know what is no way to talk to your daughter? Convincing her that her closest friend is manipulating her, and then pretending you are the innocent one.” She snapped. Her father looked stunned, and her mother’s eyes snapped towards her father.

“Cyrus. What is she talking about?” Her mother said, her tone becoming alarmed. Ray looked at them, his expression scared.

Nova laughed, the sound bitter.

“Oh, do you want to tell her? Or should I?” She said to her father.

“Want to tell her about how you told me that because Victor didn’t tell me about his parents death, that he was lying to me about everything? Want to tell her, how you told me, that he likely only became my friend for his aunt's campaign, even though he never liked politics? Want to tell her, how you manipulated your twelve year old daughter, and didn’t have any remorse? Let me be miserable for two years?”

Her father looked stunned, as he stepped closer.

“Nova,” he finally said, a placating hand out. But she just took a step back, shaking her head.

“Tell me it isn’t true. Tell me that you didn’t do it.” She said, her eyes furious and bright.

He stayed silent. And that was all the answer needed. Nova laughed, the sound disbelieving and bitter.

“I can’t believe it. I can’t believe that I fell for it. That I let you manipulate me. That I let you take YEARS of my life with him, because you were too selfish to let me have my own opinions!” She said, her words bitter, and ripped from her throat. With a whirl, she gestured wildly to Ray, while facing her mom.

“Want to know what happened to him? He beat up Victor. While he didn’t fight back. Over, and over again, punching him till he couldn’t breathe, and taunting him. Victor only swung back, because Ray insulted ME, and he made a joke about Victors mother’s tragic death. The single most traumatic thing of his life. And do you wanna know why?” She said, pointing to her father.

“Because HE, manipulated Ray the same way. He made him violent and spiteful, and willing to do his bidding in exchange for an affection his own father never gives. And he did all this, to benefit himself. And I was too blind to see it.” She said, her voice cracking as she turned away.

“Nova,” her mother said stepping forward, as her voice cracked. But nova shook her head, stepping back again.

“Want to know the worst part? Victor doesn’t even hate me. He’s so kind, that all he has done is exactly what I asked. Left me alone. But even now, he still helps me when I need it, wipes my tears, and picks me up. And I… I love him.” She said, wiping her eyes. Her parents inhaled sharply as more tears spilled from her eyes.

“And you know what? I could have had years. YEARS, with him. But I didn’t, because of you. And now, once again, because of you, I might have lost him forever.”

She took a step back, grabbing her coat.

“You’re not my best friend. You're not my father. You're not my family. You’re dead to me.” She said. And then, she ran down ghe hall, and down the porch.

“Nova!” She heard her mother cry, as she ran away.

“Where are you going?”

“Anywhere. Anywhere other than here.” She said, the words practically a sob. And she ran, streaking past the neighborhood where she grew up, and past her mothers heartbroken face, as she left the innocent part of herself that blindly trusted her family, behind.

She ran until her legs hurt, faintly thinking that she had done this a lot today. Before she even knew where she was going, she pushed open heavy iron gates, and began to run into a dark neighborhood, with run down building, in the middle of the night.

She stopped on a familiar weathered porch, the sound of laughing and talking audible from the inside. Before she could stop herself, she reached up and knocked once.

The noise on the inside quieted. And then, the door slightly opened, and Zoey appeared, her casual clothes on, and her hair wet.

“Nova?” She asked in surprise, Zed and Addison usuals behind her, with varying degrees of shock on their faces.

“What are you doing here?”

She opened her mouth to respond, not sure what to say. But instead of words, a single sob escaped her lips. And before she knew it, she was collapsing into Zoey’s arms, crying.

Zoey closed the door, and lowered them to the floor, as she clutched her friend, stroking her hair and whispering words of comfort. Soon, the older kids got up, and joined, leading them to the couch.

And she sat there in her friend's arms, crying. Crying for Victor, and summer, and all that she had lost to naive hopes and dreams

———————————————————————

Victor stepped through his front door, his eyes bloodshot a bruise on his face and his lip split. He opened the door quietly and shut it in a similar fashion, freezing and wincing when he saw his aunt sitting right there at the dining table.

The second she saw him enter she stood and walked over to him, her expression furious.

“Where were you? You were supposed to be home hours ago. Do you have any idea how worried I was? I-“

She cut herself off when she got a good look at his face seeing the bruise and the blood and the eyes red from crying.

“…Victor?” She said, her tone morphing into concern.

“Are you all right?”

And he just stood there, his shoulders hunched in defeat. He should have deflected, should have made up an excuse and left. But he was just so TIRED. He was sad, and he felt like he could collapse.

He felt like a little kid, like he was 5 years old again, after scraping his knee. He wanted to cry, and he wanted to sleep.

He wanted his mom.

And so, he began to cry. And his aunt looked at him in surprise, before immediately wrapping him in a hug. She lowered them to the floor, as he started sobbing into her shoulder.

And they stayed like that for a while, the exhaustion catching up to him. Because for once, he couldn’t hide anymore.

For once, he just let go.