A Dad RP Persona: Philosophy of Man [IC/PG-16/No Longer Accepting]

[Alaina]

 

The next day of school had come. The girl adjusted her glasses as she stepped onto the campus, pace steady as she continued to move towards her class. Getting out of bed for the day was difficult. Getting to school was also difficult. And getting to class was difficult as well. It wasn't as though there was anything different about any of these things. She woke up at the same time as always. She took the same route as always. She had the same classes as always. Nothing stopped her from getting out of bed. There was nothing to stop her on her way to school. Nothing about her classes were different either. 

 

Nothing. Nothing. Nothing. 

 

Nothing was all that interesting. Nobody seemed to be all that interesting. The colors around her were more muted then they had ever been before. 

 

Boring. Drab. Gray. 

 

The girl had always been unsatisfied, yet now it was only more pronounced then normal. Her expression, while normally neutral seemed flatter than before and she herself seemed to have much less interest in things she only feigned to before. In this boring world of gray, though, there were small motes of color she saw. In each of her classes, she sat there, notebook out and writing in it as the teacher gave his lecture. Though her eyes could constantly wander to others in classes. Specific people. 

 

Names. Classes. Activities. 

 

Avery was curious about those in her same predicament. She wanted to know more. And so she did. 

 

Avery was late to most all of her classes today, yet also the last to leave all of them. While she had club to go to once the last class had finished, she already knew who was there. She already knew what was there. Instead, Avery seemed to be interested in going elsewhere. Studying the newest, and probably oddest of them all. So, walking through the halls as the classes ended, Avery merely walked alongside the rest of the students, her face looking into a book as she kept a level pace. 

 

Coincidentally, Piper was always about half a hall's length ahead of Avery. No matter which corner she turned or even outside, Avery always seemed to be at a consistent distance away from the girl, though never seemed to be any bit focused on anything that wasn't her book. 

[Yui]

---

8/27

Monday

Humid

Another humid day. Haruka didn't like the humidity any more than she did just a couple days ago. If anything, she liked it even less now. Even worse, it was school spirit week. And to pile up on top of all that, as much as Haruka wanted to wear her old uniform from her school in Japan, like she usually did, she'd spilled a drink on it just last night. So in the interest of still wearing something and getting annoying preps off her case about "m-muh spururt werk", Haurka had opted for a simple orange t-shirt, and a light blue skirt. She was never all that fond of orange as a color, but for once, she was glad she had this stupid shirt lying around in her closet.

1st Period: Economics

At least she was able to get one of the least interesting classes out of the way at the start. Class hadn't started just yet, but out of the classmates she had, two in particular stood out. Avery, who seemed overwhelmingly unenthused with the world around her today. And Reno, who - even if Haruka didn't know him - stuck out like a sore thumb, because that guy was freakishly tall. Even if it wasn't for that, he had a weird fashion sense. Haruka made for the big guy, getting up on her tiptoes to try her best to keep her voice down so that others couldn't eavesdrop as they pleased.

 

"Hey, you're athletic right? Are you trying out for any teams for this stupid spirit week thing?"

---

[Super Chaos Sonic]

 

 

8/26

Aftermath

 

"Dude, my mom hasn't told me a thing.  TBH, I don't think she cares.  I'm still thinking about what happened on that island.  Did it actually happen?  We can't have all hallucinated at once, right?"

 

Oh good...apparently Paul's parents weren't in the business of caring 100% about the whole situation. Guess he was just lucky to have this happen to him. He reached back over and sent another message.

 

"Agree on that. Hell, I don't think I could ever forget or even actually hallucinate a good night rest like that bro lol." Jason sent back to Paul, deciding to keep it brief if the guy was busy. He sighed before tossing the phone bag into the bean bag chair, before hearing his door being slammed open. Oh great...

 

Gary stumbled into Jason's room and the young man could immediately smell the alcohol. It wasn't much to see his foster father drunk before, but this bad? That was a different story.

 

"JASON!!!"

 

"I'm right here...you don't have to yell." Jason said plainly, seeing Gary glare at him.

 

"I-I've had it up to here! ...with your attitude!" he slurred, pointing a finger at Jason. "Bad enough...I have to deal with the bullshit at work...I ain't takin' yours!"

 

"Then don't. Just ignore me like you usually do."

 

Gary stomped over towards Jason and jacked him up by his collar, raising his fist. "I-I'll beat...the hell outta you boy!!"

 

"BRING IT ON!" Jason shouted back, slowly raising his left hand to show his braced wrist. "You've done it once!"

 

Gary clenched his fist and was about to hit Jason, but just let him go and dropped him. "Y-You ain't eatin' tonight..." he grumbled, stumbling and shuffling out of the room and slamming the door behind him.

 

"Not like I want anything you fix...come at me like that...I'll put your ass in a damn home..." Jason rolled his eyes and flipped him off, slowly getting up off the ground. He made his way back to his bed and laid down on it, staring at a wall. ...really need to keep myself away from the house for a while...

 

 

8/27

Spirit Week Begins

Monday

Humid

 

Least this week Jason was able to put his mind on a bit of a better note. It was a week in the school year he actually enjoyed: Spirit Week. Just a week to celebrate school spirit and the like with tryouts for teams on different days (which right now he totally forgot), pep rallies, pick-up games, fundraisers, and a lot more.

 

Jason dressed up in the appropriate colors to show school spirit. Blue jeans, his old white and blue basketball t-shirt, and of course, a blue and orange wrist brace. Finish it off with a blue windbreaker and Jason was ready to go. Before he left, he glanced outside his bedroom window and saw that Gary wasn't there. Good...the last thing he needed today was to have some blow out this morning.

 

Leaving his room with his bag on his back, he headed out the door and made his way to the campus. He had to find a way to stay a bit later after school today...but how?

 

 

-At School-

 

Wait Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat?!

 

-BGM-

 

Jason made it onto the campus and headed straight for the history classroom, his earbuds in his ears as he tried to block out everyone, like usual. Ignoring the world and its problems was always a good way to relax and calm himself. And after yesterday's fiasco, it was definitely needed.

 

He made his way into the History classroom and saw that Paul was pretty much the first one in. Well this would definitely make it easier to talk to. "Just the guy I was hoping to find in here." he chuckled, making his way over to his desk. "How ya holdin' up, Paul?"

 

Paul was busy in his notebook, doodling. He had come up with some really fancy stick figures that represented himself and the thing that had called itself "Shango". He lifted his head quickly when Jason approached. "Oh. What's up my guy? I'm... doing okay. Just got uh... well, as you can see," Paul said, gesturing to his artwork. "This on my mind." He sighed and closed the notebook. "Sorry. I'm sure everyone has it on their minds."

 

"Heh, yeah that seems obvious." Jason chuckled, sitting down with a sigh. "Don't worry about it man. Honestly, out of everything that's been happening recently...that's the most adrenaline I've had pumping in a while. And the last time I had it pumping that much was my first basketball game."

 

Paul flinched a bit when Jason mentioned basketball. "sheet, that reminds me," Paul began, shifting in his seat. "Tryouts are this week."

 

"And you should come through, homie," spoke Kevin, entering the classroom.

 

"Are you still hungover?" Paul joked.

 

"Nah. Drunk me wouldn't ask Jason to tryout for the team again. He'd suggest the swimming team or some sheet," Kevin replied.

 

Jason looked at Paul and finally remembered about the tryouts. How the hell did I forget that? He nodded a bit and sighed. "Yeah I kinda forgot tryouts were this week." he said, before seeing Kevin waltz into the room. However, he looked at him and started chuckling lightly. "Try out for the team again? Kev I'd say you aren't drunk...you freakin' high as a damn kite." Jason rolled his eyes, shaking his head some. "After I didn't show up for that game, it was pretty much my own death sentence for them. They won't let me back in..." he paused and glanced at his wrist brace. "...even if this thing heals up."

 

Paul looked at Kevin then looked back at Jason. After a brief pause, Paul let out a breathy "...bullshit."

 

Kevin simply nodded in response. "You won't know for sure unless you try. Just like how I didn't know Paul was gonna get fuckin' dunked on at my party." This only prompted a glare from Paul, but Kevin obviously didn't care.

 

Jason looked at Paul and Kevin, just blinking a bit before shaking his head and leaning back. "Yeah well, if the coach is still holding a grudge like the team still is, there's no way I could get selected." he sighed, looking up at the ceiling. "Besides...even IF I managed to get my ass back on the team, with the Video Game Club and that, I'd never be ho-" Jason stopped suddenly, as he sat up slowly with the look of revelation on his face: he wouldn't be home much because of everything. That was it...his way out!!

 

Paul and Kevin were suddenly smiling devilishly from ear to ear. They both threw their arms around Jason and pulled him in to a huddle. "Sounds to me like you don't wanna go home," Kevin said.

 

"And if b-ball keeps you busy, it's only good for you, right? Nothing wrong with extracurricular activities," Paul encouraged.

 

"Mhm, mhm. And you get to hang out with your boy again. It's a win-win," Kevin added.

 

"Yeah. Kevin can win over Coach, no problem. It's up to you, homes," Paul finished.

 

Jason hated that these two caught on almost immediately that he didn't want to go home. And he hated to admit it, but they were right. After staring at his desk for a good long moment, he finally sighed and shook his head. "Alright...ALRIGHT! You guys...you guys talked me into it." he said in a defeated tone, before smiling. "If you could do that Kevin, that would awesome. ...thanks for having some faith in me guys..."

 

Paul and Kevin high fived. "Don't mention it, Bluejay. I'll have you outta the dumps in no time," Kevin joked.

 

"Bluejay?" Paul stopped to ask.

 

"He's blue. He's Jason. Bluejay," Kevin confirmed.

 

"...don't do that," Paul said, shaking his head at this awful pun.

 

"Would you have preferred Jayjay? Peanut butter and Jay? Jay-Z?" Kevin continued.

 

"Don't make me punch you. Puns are my thing," Paul argued.

 

Jason groaned at these puns, his face meeting his right hand. "Jeez Kev...maybe you are drunk." he chuckled with a shake of his head. "Cause those were just baaaaaaaad."

 

"Not as bad as Paul is at ball," Kevin snickered.

 

"Imma beat your ass after class, I swear," Paul said, hiding his chuckle.

[Hakima]

8/27

Spirit Week Begins

Monday

Humid

Tyler barely made it to his History class before the tardy bell rang. He looked worse for wear, and limped into the door with one arm cradling his side. Though no one would be able to see it from underneath the leather jacket and white t-shirt, his ribs were still wound up tight from his deal gone wrong, but the worst of his face had finally healed up.

 

He sighed and sank down into his seat at the back of the classroom. For some reason he couldn’t explain, the third day after being hurt was always the worst. It didn’t help that it was the first time since that night he didn’t have something in his system to dull the pain; he had been using a combination of Aleve, blunts, and alcohol to ignore the aches.

 

His pulled his phone, out and sat it on his desk to record that day’s lesson, then let his eyes wander across the room until he found two familiar faces. Paul and Jason. He hadn’t really know the former, just another face in the crowd before Friday night, and the only thing he had known about the latter was he broke his wrist jacking off too hard or something and now most of the school hated him for it. Did both of them still remember those weird islands and everything that happened? Had it really not been some bad trip?

 

He propped his head up with his hand and sighed. Pipsqueak had already confirmed that she remembered it too, so no, it had definitely happened.

 

His phone buzzed on his desk, pulling him from his thoughts. Nathan had finally texted him back.  

FROM: Nathan

TIME: 7:05:35 AM

If I hear something I'll let you know. Gonna get in touch with Hensley and Jake to see if they've seen Chris.

 

Tyler frowned, worry gnawing at his stomach that Nate still hadn’t seen his sister, but then he remembered that his phone had been dead for most of the afternoon the day before. The message could have just gone through when he got to class. He shot back a quick ‘aight, see ya after class’, then started to set down his phone, but stopped when he remembered the new contacts he had put in.

 

Paul had given him his number. Paul knew the guy who threw the party. Both were pretty connected as far as Tyler knew, meaning they might know who the hell had keyed his car. Tyler ducked his phone under his desk and, while keeping his eyes on the board, messaged Paul.

 

FROM: 918-807-5555

TIME: 7:06:23

This is tyler. When i picked up my car from in front of your buddys house, someone had keyed the hell out of it. Any idea who?

 

He attached the picture to it and sent the message.

[King K. Azo]

8/27

Spirit Week Begins

Monday

Humid

 

 
Reno was excited for today... but it wasn't for the reasons people though. You see, the school colors were orange and blue, and it was the perfect excuse for him to wear his favorite clothes. There was no way he could wear this in public without getting some odd looks, but now, he could wear the orange gi and blue undershirt with worrying about what others thought. Slipping on his blue shoes and wrapping his hand and forearm in blue wraps, he smiled to himself and headed out the door. 
 

 

Reno felt like he was losing himself in the spirit of Spirit Week. He noticed instead of hunching over and looking menacing as usual, he instead stood straight up, looking confident... and menacing... yeah, being as big as Reno was with scars like he had really just made it impossible not to look scary. He wished he could change that somehow... but how?
 
"Hey, you're athletic right? Are you trying out for any teams for this stupid spirit week thing?" That tiny angry girl from the party was talking to him. He tilted his head as he looked at her, before shaking his head.

"Sports aren't my thing. I'm going to go out on a limb and say they aren't yours either," Reno said as he slouched over so she didn't have to stand up on her toes. "So what will you being doing this week? I personally... might be exploring...," He tried to keep his response a bit vague, but easy for her to decipher that he meant he would go to the island.

[Dad]

Paul was in a better mood.  He was excited for Jason now, and he wanted to attend his tryouts.  He wasn't sure he would be able to, however.  Paul's mind drifted back to the island for just a moment, until his phone vibrated in his right hand.  He had gotten a text message from an unknown number. 

 

FROM: 918-807-5555

TIME: 7:05:35 AM

This is tyler. When i picked up my car from in front of your buddys house, someone had keyed the hell out of it. Any idea who?

 

Tyler.  Tyler Beckett, that is.  Paul had forgotten he shared a class with this guy.  His car got keyed, huh?  Kevin's folks had cameras on the side of their property, but considering the party, they were probably already wiped by Kevin anyway.  Paul quickly added Tyler's number to his contacts before replying.

 

FROM: 504-202-6759

TIME:  7:07:30 AM

No idea.  Kevin's got cameras but after the party, he prolly wiped them to keep his folks from finding out about what happened.  I'll ask around about people who went to the party.

 

...btw.  U going back?

 

Paul sent his message, then nudged Jason in his side.  Paul discreetly slid his phone into his left hand beneath his desk and showed Jason the message.  Then, Paul pointed to the last line, as if to ask Jason the same question he asked Tyler.

[Hälō]

Piper sighed as she idly scrolled through her social media feed with a disinterested expression. Ever since the night at the island, nothing seemed to be able to get fired up anymore. Even her art felt unexpired and forced, leaving her with a subtle melancholy about her.  

 

The young artist had glided through the her first class of the day without even feeling she had done anything, and now as Piper slowly strolled through the walkway towards the school's exit, she wondered if maybe she should reach out the others about going back.

 

I do have Paul's number... but maybe I should just wait till I see him in class...

 

"I hope Quinn is alright..." Her thoughts drifted to boy as she switched to her phone's camera and raised it up to her face to adjust her hair. He hadn't returned any of her texts, and it was beginning to grow worrisome. "Maybe I should ask someone in the drama club," Piper spoke clearly to herself just as she usually did. 

 

"..." Suddenly her eyebrows arched as she caught a glimpse of a familiar face a few paces behind her in the crowd. It was girl with the glasses, again. Lowering her phone casually, Piper slid the device into her back pocket and began to speed up her stride ever so slightly. This wasn't the first time she'd caught a glimpse of the other girl behind her, and though most people would think she was nuts, Piper had been plagued with the sensation of being watched for most of the day... 

 

My Piper senses are tingling...

 

Without breaking the air of casualness, Piper turned the first corner she encountered as if she intended to go deeper in building. Though instead of proceeding, she quickly spun around and stood against the wall with her arms crossed. When Avery inevitable followed, Piper would quickly reach out and grab her shoulder. 

 

Welp, I wasss just thinking about seeing more of these people...

 

"Hiya!" Piper's tone was light hearted but it didn't match her gaze, which quickly became sharp and analytical. "We doing a lil stalking? Skulking perhaps?" 

[Super Chaos Sonic]

 

 

Jason was at least trying to get things ready for class, keyword being "trying". With the whole conversation/intervention happening about getting him to try out for the basketball team again, his mind was just still wandering about that and all the possible outcomes that could produce. Of course...nine out of ten of them ending badly.

 

Jeez Garrett...you need to stop... he thought, letting out a soft sigh before shaking his head. Go and at least try...no harm in trying, except for the harm it'll probably do on your self-confidence...but that's easily redeemable. Still have the Video Game Club...

 

Letting out another sigh, Jason then felt his side being nudge. He quickly looked and saw it was Paul and he was obviously nonchalantly showing off his phone...specifically one message:

 

...btw.  U going back?

 

He looked at the phone and it's message for a long period of time, before looking away and pulling out his own phone. Best text him his answer, rather than just play charades or blurting it out loud.

 

"May as well. Like you and Kev said...don't really want to go home. Anytime away from it is perfectly fine." Jason texted, sending it immediately to Paul before turning and nodding at the young man.

[Alaina]

 

As the girl continued to walk through the halls, she looked up from her book, seeing a corner coming up. Making note of it, the girl went back to looking at her book as she continued her steady pace. As she turned the corner, however- 

 

"AAH!" The girl yelped as she tossed her book into the air in shock, standing there with a surprised expression on her face as she looked at the face of who had surprised her. A girl with long, somewhat messy hair, that she had recognized as one of the people both at the island, and someone who she had seen around school. The girl seemed to still be paused in surprise as the girl made her comment, only for her expression to change as the book fell down onto her head. "Ow."

 

The girl in glasses rubbed her head, as she picked the book back up. Looking to the other girl before her, she looked with a confused expression that seemed to be weirded out by the other girl's greeting, saying, "um, hello to you too?" Picking herself back up, the girl cocked her head to side as she asked, "um, were you expecting someone different?" Her expression turning a bit more worried, the girl said, "are - are you being stalked?" The girl looked down the hall she had just come from, as if searching for someone suspicious looking. 

[Hakima]

8/27

Spirit Week Begins

Monday

Humid

FROM: Paul (Class)

TIME:  7:07:30 AM

No idea.  Kevin's got cameras but after the party, he prolly wiped them to keep his folks from finding out about what happened.  I'll ask around about people who went to the party.

 

...btw.  U going back?

 

Tyler wasn’t happy to discover that Paul didn’t know who was responsible either. His temper flared up for a moment and he took a deep breath, slowly exhaling through his nose to calm himself. It was whatever. Whoever had done it would eventually get cocky and claim it.

 

He texted a quick response to Paul. His eyes were glued to the front of the classroom the entire time, so the fact that he was able to text without looking was probably impressive.

 

FROM: Tyler Beckett

TIME:  7:10:48 AM

aright thanks. if you find anything out just tell me and steer clear. you aint gonna want to be involved with what goes down once i find that sorry sonnuvabitch.

 

Idk. depends on the when and who you already got coming. who all you talked to so far? make a group txt.

 

He hit send and put his phone down, shoving his hands into his pockets and reclining into his chair. This class was going by slow as hell.

[Yui]

---

"Sports aren't my thing. I'm going to go out on a limb and say they aren't yours either."

 

"I'll watch if nothing else is going on, but I'm not about to try out for any teams."

 

"So what will you being doing this week? I personally... might be exploring..."

 

"Exploring", eh? He probably meant that weird island Haruka didn't like. Heading off for the island would probably be easy, come to think of it. Just tell uncle Ayumu that she's staying at a friend's house to study. He was always pretty lax about Haruka doing things as long as she didn't end up in trouble doing it. And the island was only going to be there for so long... but did she really want to go there? Not particularly.

 

At the same time, if I'm there, I'm not here. And I can't let Paul be the only person walking around with some special snowflake Stand. Who does he think he is, just doing that out of nowhere and being the only one to do it? I'll show him!

 

"I'm also exploring some this week," Haruka decided. She was definitely able to say she was going out for research now. With that, Haruka got her phone. There was something she had to do. A group text with the rest of the Ded. Fiction Club.

 

I won't be able to make it to the club today. The rest of the week is also a bit iffy; I might make it, but don't assume anything. There's something I have to look into, and it's probably going to be really time-consuming, so I'll do the reading at home with my downtime.

 

This was Haruka's new priority.

---

[Dad]

"Hurry and get your sheet.  We're already late," Hensley said as Christina jumped out of the car.

 

Christina ran up the stairs to her father's home and knocked on the door.  "I'll be right back.  I just need to freshen up and change."

 

Mr. Drake opened up the door, a scowl on his face at the sight of his daughter returning home after two days.  Christina waved sheepishly to her father with one hand before he stood aside to let her in.  "We're going to have a long talk, young lady," he could be overheard saying before Christina slipped inside and the door closed.

 

"And who is that woman outside of my home?  She looks like trouble," Mr. Drake said as Christina was about to dart upstairs to her temporary room.

 

"She's a friend of Nate's.  Her name is Hensley.  Look, I gotta freshen up and get ready for class, so--"

 

"You're right.  You do.  Nathan is already at school.  You'd better hurry and get your things.  I'll drop you off," Mr. Drake replied.

 

"Hensley will get me there, dad.  She goes to Greater Orleans High too," Christina called now from the top of the balcony.

 

Mr. Drake sighed.  "Make it quick, Christina.  And we'll continue this conversation tonight.  I'll let your brother know you're home."

 

"Thanks, dad," Christina called down.

 

 

FROM: Dad

TIME: 7:55 A.M.

 

She's home.  Make sure she comes back home tonight.  And do not allow your sister to associate with hooligans.  I won't have it.

 

Nathan shook his head.  Hensley wasn't a hooligan.  She was more of a free spirit than his old man.  But he knew he couldn't say that back to his father, so he just replied with two words.

 

Yes, sir.

 

Nathan closed out the message to his father and opened up a text to Tyler.

 

FROM: Nathan

TIME: 7:56 A.M.

 

Chris made it home.  I'm not surprised you lost her, tbh.  She loves to party and Kevin's parties are big.  Let me look at your ride later.  I wanna see the damage.  I've asked around and heard a few people giggling about a keyed car.  I'll keep digging.

 

 

FROM: Tyler Beckett

TIME: 7:10 A.M.

 

aright thanks. if you find anything out just tell me and steer clear. you aint gonna want to be involved with what goes down once i find that sorry sonnuvajabroni.

 

Idk. depends on the when and who you already got coming. who all you talked to so far? make a group txt.

 

Paul finally got around to checking his phone again only to realize the message was almost more than forty minutes old.  Tyler was right, of course.  Paul should start a group text.  He began adding the few contacts he had into one conversation.  They included Piper, Jason, Tyler, and Haruka.  

 

Paul began to wonder how to start the conversation.  He had to choose his words wisely.  

 

FROM: Paul Brown

TIME: 8:02 A.M.

 

I've only added the ppl whose contact info I have.

 

I'll be going "on vacation" tomorrow after school.  I'll go back "on vacation" this Friday, same time frame.  You're welcome to join me.

 

He hoped that the message was clear enough.  But why did he choose to be cryptic about it?  And the quotation marks didn't help much.  Sure, he didn't want other people to discover what was going on, but he had probably made this message awkward.  It was too late now.  He'd already sent the text.

[Hakima]

8/27

Spirit Week Begins

Monday

Humid

FROM: Paul Brown

TIME: 8:02 A.M.

 

I've only added the ppl whose contact info I have.

 

I'll be going "on vacation" tomorrow after school.  I'll go back "on vacation" this Friday, same time frame.  You're welcome to join me.

 

Tyler’s phone didn’t alert him to any new messages until a few minutes into his next class. Paul had taken him up on his suggestion to start a group chat, apparently, but not everyone from that awful night was in. He counted maybe six numbers at a glance.

 

He leaned back and started texting his response. He was much less discreet than he had been in American History; the Biology instructor was much more laid back and his fellow students knew better than to pester him at this point.

 

FROM: Tyler Beckett

TIME: 8:06 A.M.

 

he means he’s going back to the islands tomorrow afternoon and we can come. dunno why he put it so weird. no point in being secretive because no one would believe it anyway.

 

anyway this is tyler beckett aka the car guy. i’m sure you’ve heard of me and i’m sure whatever you heard was super flattering. IDK if i can go yet. depends on what the rest of you decide.

[Super Chaos Sonic]

 

 

FROM: Paul Brown

TIME: 8:02 A.M.

I've only added the ppl whose contact info I have.

I'll be going "on vacation" tomorrow after school.  I'll go back "on vacation" this Friday, same time frame.  You're welcome to join me.

 

FROM: Tyler Beckett

TIME: 8:06 A.M.

he means he’s going back to the islands tomorrow afternoon and we can come. dunno why he put it so weird. no point in being secretive because no one would believe it anyway.

anyway this is tyler beckett aka the car guy. i’m sure you’ve heard of me and i’m sure whatever you heard was super flattering. IDK if i can go yet. depends on what the rest of you decide.

 

These were the most recent messages Jason had received, apparently from a group message text, spearheaded by Paul and seconded by Tyler. Jason leaned back in his chair as class was ending, looking at the phone and then sighing before texting up a response.

 

FROM: Jason Garrett

Time: 8:10 A.M.

We got Tyler in here too? How'd ya manage that, Paul? lol

It's Jason Garrett. I'm down to head back. Like i told Paul earlier...anything to get me the hell away from home for a while.

 

With that quick message out of the way, there was only one other thing to do right now: text the Video Game Club leader and let them know he wouldn't make it. Oh man...I really hope she doesn't freak out... Jason thought, looking through his contact list and seeing Lace's number being highlighted as he scrolled down. With a small sigh, he started to text Lace. "Hey Lace. Hate to spring this up on you today like this, but I don't know if I'll be able to make it to the meeting today. I soooooooooooorta got wrangled into maybe...possibly...trying out for the team again."

 

There was a long gap of time that spanned a couple of minutes before Jason got a response...and it was quite a long one.

 

"..."

"..."

"...it was Kevin, wasn't it?"

"Don't answer that. I know it was Kevin. -sigh- It's okay. I knew Kevin was going."

"Just didn't think he'd rope you in too."

"Well, if it goes well, I just hope your practices won't be at the same time, haha."

"Sorry for not sending one long message."

"I hate sending one long message."

"Good luck!"

 

Well...least she's truthful about the long message thing... Jason thought, chuckling lightly before sending another text back: "Thanks for understanding. Don't worry tho...I'll make up for it."

 

"Yeah, you can totally make up for it."

"Next meeting, you owe me three games of Mortal Kombat. "

"If you lose, you have to write an essay on the game!"

">:)"

 

"Yikes...well, I suppose that's the price I pay then xD"

 

He honestly couldn't tell if this girl was serious or not about the essay, but hey...least Jason could tell she had a sense of humor...even if it was a dark one. Making the loser write an essay on the game. Pure...pure evil. With a sigh of relief, Jason put his phone back in his pocket to head to his next class...while also mentally preparing himself for the tryouts.

 

 

The Lion's Den

 

It was time. Jason could feel his heart pounding as he made his way to the gymnasium. Even though he was mentally preparing himself for this exact moment, he knew it wouldn't work...this was something that made him grow quite nervous. But...Paul and Kevin believe he could do this...and hell, Lace was cheering him on as well. Maybe he could do this.

 

This single file line straight to the gym though...this made it feel like things were gonna be loooooong and dragged out, especially since he was the tenth person in this line. Upside, Kevin was waiting for him to get into the gym, no doubt to give him some advice before walking in. Nevertheless, when the line of students finally walked into the gym, Jason could hear a distinguishable sigh coming from one person when he walked in: Coach Overton.

 

The moment he stepped foot into the gym, there was an abrupt silence, before whispers and murmurs were heard. His name was being whispered throughout...he knew this was going to happen. Oh boy...spotlight...or magnifying glass...is right on top of you now, Garrett...what have you gotten yourself into?

 

"They're gonna give you sheet," Kevin whispered to Jason from his right shoulder. "You know that already. Don't let it get to you."

 

Jason heard Kevin whisper this, but it really didn't make him feel any better...especially with the first person to say anything being...

 

"Come back to embarrass us?" asked Ivan from across the gym.

 

"Shut the hell up, Louis. Tryouts are for everyone," Coach Overton said quickly.

 

"Coach, I'm with Ivan on this. We can't afford our playmakers to suddenly break their ankles too," Brock added.

 

"Keep it up and you'll be benched before tryouts start," Coach Overton spat. "Garrett!" Coach Overton nodded. "You'll get no special treatment. You know the drill. Shirts and skins practice game. Five on five. "

 

"Y-Yes sir, coach." Jason said quickly, his voice shaking right now. It was obvious he was nervous...but he needed to get through this.

 

"Okay boys, listen up. Game is to twenty-one or when I call time. This is just a warm-up and will not affect your tryout. Afterward, we'll do some light conditioning and we'll expand to a full game of eight on eight with the senior players. This is where you will be scored and observed most carefully. That will be your real tryout. I want to see effort, start to finish. Everyone clear?" Coach Overton stated.

 

Same rules as the first time he went to try-out for the team. Even down to the shirts and skins being how teams were decided. Jason remembered that it was back then he actually chose shirts, cause he didn't want to be shirtless. Was sort of a dumb reason...but still. It wasn't long before Jason noticed a hand shooting up beside him.

 

"Harper, speak. I'm not your Calculus teacher," Coach Overton said.

 

"Uh, sorry. So, how do we decide teams?" K. Harper asked.

 

"Garrett," Overton said, looking to Jason. "Shirts or skins?"

 

"Skins. I chose shirts when I first tried out..." Jason said quickly, his voice shaking still but he tried his best to hide it.

 

"Okay. Four of you with Garrett. The rest of you play shirts. Then we'll take to center court and--"

 

There was a sudden ruckus behind Coach Overton in the gymnasium stands. It began to fill with roughly fifty students, that majority of which were female. "Good luck, Kayden!" screamed one girl from across the gym.

 

"And look, you've already got cheerleaders," Overton said, rolling his eyes. Kevin snorted behind him. "You're gonna need to get used to playing a full regulation court, but we'll start with a half court since this is a five on five. And if you pay too much attention to the crowd and not the game, you're gonna be outta here fast," Overton said as he spotted the wandering eyes of two players.

 

Jason noticed the majority of the spectators being girls and he remembered when he first started his try-out. He was so self-conscious about him not wearing a shirt in front of them...but now? He was already taking his shirt off and putting on the sidelines, preparing to play. Least like this...he needed to show off something for the ladies...even if most of them hated his guts just because of everything. Still...who knows...

 

Jason was joined by Kayden Harper, Joshua Battle, Parson James, and Cash Sanders.

His other five opponents are unidentified as of yet.

 

"Let's go, center court," Overton said with several claps as he received a ball from the sidelines. The senior players sat out and grabbed seats court-side.

 

"I'm not gonna assign you positions. I'm not gonna tell you how to play. This is a simple warm-up game. Play like you would if nobody was watching. Rules still apply and I will call you on them. Fouls will result in passing the ball to the opposing team. Everyone understand?" Coach Overton asked.

 

Jason gave a simple nod to Coach Overton. He knew what to expect from the guy back when he played for him, but he wasn't sure what he'd want now that he was re-trying out. He just prayed everything would go smoothly.

 

"Give me two players. Garrett. Yards. Center court," Coach Overton demanded.

 

Jason's first look at Talon Yards would make him realize he was at a two inch height disadvantage. He muttered quietly to himself a small curse under his breath at noticing this. Height disadvantage...great... he thought, taking a deep breath.

 

"On toss-up," Overton said as he stooped just slightly with a basketball in his hands. Then, he tossed it into the air and took a jog backward. Both players went for the ball...this would set the game into motion.

[King K. Azo]

"I'm also exploring some this week," Haruka stated. Reno nodded in understanding. It was a whole new world, somewhere no one has even been! Who knows what could they find there? He couldn't talk about it with Haruka, but his mind was just racing. What would they find there? Would they all get something to stand by them... a Persona... were they called? He vaguely remembered the thing saying that word. That was something he wanted. Would they be able to summon it here, in this world? That could really cool. You could become something like a superhero... something more than what they were... how neat would that be? 

"Sounds good," was the short answer. He looked ahead, folding his arms. "Do you think we'll all get something to stand by us? Like Paul did?" He hoped saying it like that made it sound... not like he was crazy, maybe people would think he was talking about a relationship or something. He only hoped he didn't sound crazy.

 

---

 

At the end of the school day, Reno sighed to himself as he walked towards the video game club, thinking to himself. He had Paul's number from when he Bluetoothed it to everyone it. With a shrug, he began to text the number. 

"Hey, it's Reno... the big scary guy from the party. If you're heading back to the place, count me in," He paused, thinking to himself. His dad could steal his phone and look through his texts at any time... especially since he never texted anyone else, so this would be the only texts he would look through. He better make this sound like... something not like going to some other world to do cool sheet. "Here's hoping we'll get to do some cool sheet,"

Nailed it. 

He hit send before he walked into the club, quietly taking a seat. He wasn't sure what they were doing today, but he was kinda looking forward to it.

[Hälō]

"..." Confusion caused Piper's brow to furrow as she stared blankly at Avery whilst the girl began peering down the hallway as if she were looking for someone more suspicious than herself. 

 

I can't tell if she's screwing around or not...

 

She watched her for another moment, trying to discern how genuine Avery was being but ultimately failing due to the fact that she knew nothing about the her. Nothing besides that fact that she had also seen the island.

 

"I guess everything that happened the other night still has me a little on edge..."  Sighing defeatedly, Piper released her grip on Avery's shoulder and shrugged before placing her back against the wall. "Sorry about that."  Though she was still unsure of the girl's true nature, there was one thing that Piper knew that they had in common...

 

You wanna to go back too don't you, girl? 

 

"Avery, right?" Piper was never one to beat around the bush. "Listen, in all honesty something about you sort of gives me the heebeegeebees, but I can't  really put my finger on it..." She flashed the girl a joking smile as she felt her phone begin to vibrate. "But I don't think it was just  coincidence that we bumped into each other like this! I've been thinking about going back over to "that" place again this week... you wouldn't be down to join me, would ya?" 

 

Glancing down at her screen, Piper's eyes suddenly widened as she realized she had been added to a group chat. It was almost too perfect. As she quickly scrolled through the messages from the boys, her lips curled into a grin that grew larger and larger as she read each word.

 

"Looks like it wouldn't be just us either!" Piper's spark returned in an instant as she moved closer and brought her phone up to show Avery whilst her fingers quickly danced across the keyboard to formulate a response. Once it was complete, she quickly swiped up to her camera app flashed a silly smirk before snapping a picture of her and Avery.

 

FROM: Piper O'reilly

TIME: 8:16 A.M.

Attached: IMG_2823

 

Guess who I bumped into :). Lol was just trying to convince her to go back with me! Crazy coincidence... Sign me up for both days. But we should definitely try to see if we can find some gear... can't just rely on Paul's friend with the hammer if we're for real about this.

 

FROM: Piper O'reilly

TIME: 8:17 A.M.

 

Oh yea lol It's Piper

 

When she turned back to Avery, the flames of Pipers passion burned brightly in her eyes as they twinkled with excitement. "So are you in?!"  

 

 

[Alaina]

 

As Piper stared at Avery, the girl stared back looking similarly confused. However, as this just amounted in Piper's apology Avery warily shook her head. "It's uh, no problem really. I should've been paying better attention to where I was going." While Avery seemed ready to leave the current situation behind, Piper spoke up yet again. As she further implicated that there was something more than just happenstance that the two ran into each other, and brought up the island they had been to, Avery gulped a bit before saying, "oh right, yeah. That place. Well um," the girl began to scratch the back of her head as an uncomfortable expression crossed her face, looking in different directions from the girl. 

 

Before she could answer fully, however, Piper seemed to be engrossed in her phone and, before she really knew what was going on the girl shoved the phone in her face to show the ongoing conversation. Avery could barely read what was written on it before she suddenly heard a shutter snapping noise from the phone. The text was replaced with a picture of a confused looking Avery and smiling Piper next to each other. "Um, uh, what are you- " as Piper continued to rapidly text to whatever group message was there Avery could only look stunned as the eccentric girl asked if she was in. 

 

Looking as if she had been cornered, Avery stammered out, "y-yeah. Sure...I guess I'm in." She gave another nod to Piper before pulling out her phone saying, "I guess uh, just text me whatever you can about it. Here." The girl showed Piper her number on the screen, though the girl might've had some trouble reading it as Avery's hand seemed to be trembling. After getting that out of the way, she said, "I'm...going to get going now, so uh yeah. Sorry, er, thanks or yeah. See you later." With that, Avery pocketed her phone and tried to make a mad speed walk down the hall. 

[Dad]

Lunchtime

 

Paul had actually been pretty busy in his second class and hadn't had any time to respond to the numerous vibrations his phone was giving off.  He finally checked his phone as he sat down in the cafeteria with a tray of food.  There were messages in the group conversation.  A lot of them.  Paul opened up the group chat to see quite a bit of activity.  For some reason, it pleased and excited Paul.  He quickly calmed down and read the messages in the group chat.  The messages all showed up with individual names and messages included with the corresponding phone number.  He would have to better manage his phone's messaging later.

 

TYLER

he means he’s going back to the islands tomorrow afternoon and we can come. dunno why he put it so weird. no point in being secretive because no one would believe it anyway.

 

anyway this is tyler beckett aka the car guy. i’m sure you’ve heard of me and i’m sure whatever you heard was super flattering. IDK if i can go yet. depends on what the rest of you decide.

 

 

 

Paul silently narrowed his eyes.  He was gonna get Tyler for that sly remark.  Not really.  That guy was twice his size.  

 

 

JASON

We got Tyler in here too? How'd ya manage that, Paul? lol

 

It's Jason Garrett. I'm down to head back. Like i told Paul earlier...anything to get me the hell away from home for a while.

 

 

 

 

Then just below this, Piper joined the conversation at last.  And she was with someone.

 

PIPER

IMG_2823

Guess who I bumped into :). Lol was just trying to convince her to go back with me! Crazy coincidence... Sign me up for both days. But we should definitely try to see if we can find some gear... can't just rely on Paul's friend with the hammer if we're for real about this.

 

Oh yea lol It's Piper

 

 

Oh, that was Avery.  She must've been taken by surprise judging from the look on her face.  This was quite a strange group of people but Paul was secretly enjoying every minute of it.

PAUL

Sounds like we'll have a lot of us going then.  I'll prep 2nite.  Remember.  Tmrw after school.  Let's meet at the Dial Point.  If anyone forgets where it is, you have my number.

 

 

That should do it.  Paul slid his phone back into his pocket and began to eat his food.  While he was excited Paul was also very nervous.  This whole island thing was dangerous.  There was no telling if he would be able to reach out to Shango again.  His Persona.  Still, Paul had a lot of questions that needed answering.  He could only get those answers from that island.

 

 

Miserable Mondays

 

The next day, Quinn spent his morning in silence.  He didn't even bother speaking to his sister as he somehow managed to get out of bed.  He didn't want to be bothered with his sister's nonsense and so he forced himself to leave home for school.  He approached the bus stop with his head hanging low and his fare already prepared in his right hand.

 

As the bus pulled away, he flopped down into a vacant seat and stared out of the window.  How did he get wrapped up in all of this sheet?

 

And this guy... Paul?  What did he think this was?  Some kind of funking vacation?  They almost died!  To monsters!  This wasn't some God damn game.  And Quinn was sick of people playing with his life.  He was angry that he even had the unfortunate pleasure of meeting that jabroni.  This guy must've believed that if he handed out his phone number Quinn would oblige cheerily and vote to return for an extended say.  funking idiot.

 

And his sister.  She had some damn nerve.  Every.  Single.  Time.  Something happened.  She made the situation about herself.  That was unacceptable.  And he hated it.

 

He couldn't go home.  He really didn't even want to go to school.  He wanted to avoid everyone who was involved.  Especially Paul.  This was just the God damn pits.

 

Quinn pulled the bell on the bus a few stops early and elected to swing by Starbucks.  Hopefully, Terry was working today.  At least Terry wouldn't push his own bullshit on Quinn.  Right?

 

As the chime over the door rang and Quinn stepped inside, he sighed and tried to put on a fake smile.  Terry was working today.  He gathered his composure and straightened up.  Quinn knew he was better than all the sheet he had been through.  As Terry's short brown hair turned around, their eyes met.

 

"Morning, Quinn," Terry said with a smile.  "Your usual today?"

 

Quinn nodded.  "You know me so well," he joked.

 

"I know my favorites.  I got you, coming right up," Terry said as he stepped away quickly.  The store was unusually empty this morning, so Quinn followed around the counter and waited in the lobby and chatted with Terry as he fixed Quinn's order.  "How's things going?  You doing okay?" Terry asked.

 

"Well, you know me.  Ups and downs.  But I always bounce back," Quinn said confidently.

 

Terry nodded as he turned around with Quinn's order.  "That's what I like to hear.  But hey, we're only human.  If you need an ear, the best barista in town is right here."

 

Quinn's smile became genuine at last.  "Thanks, Terry.  I might have to take you up on that."  Quinn gathered his things and paid for his order before trotting out of the door.  "See you after school," he said, waving to Terry.

 

"Have a good day!" Terry replied.

 

 

Afterschool

 

Paul sent a quick text to Amanda as he made his way to the gym.  He wasn't going to be able to attend the club meeting today.  He had to go and see how Jason was doing in his tryouts.  Funnily enough, Amanda was outside of the gym walking by.  "Oh, hey.  Club's cancelled today.  I was just coming to notify the Coach, but he's having tryouts.  I was literally sending you all a group text," Amanda said just as she pressed send.

 

Paul breathed a sigh of relief.  "Well, I don't feel so bad now.  I wasn't gonna come anyway," he joked.

 

Amanda was jogging away but stopped to jab Paul in the ribs.  "Why the hell not?"

 

Paul rubbed his side.  "Gonna go see my boy in tryouts.  What about you, where you headed?"

 

"Work called," Amanda said, jogging away.  "I gotta show up," she shrugged.  "Sorry."

 

Paul shrugged, watching Amanda jog away.  He finally got Amanda's text just as she was out of sight.

 

FROM: Amanda

TIME: 3:54 P.M.

CC: Haruka, Paulie, Janet, Leo

 

Sorry yall.  Club's cancelled today.  Have an emergency at work.  See you Wednesday!

 

 

He stepped inside the gym where tryouts were already underway.  He quickly ran over to the bleachers and climbed up.  He could see Jason and a few other potential basketball prospects in the center of the court.

 

"Let's go, Jason!" he cheered.

 

 

Thankfully, Quinn's day was mostly uneventful.  He had made it to his art class, but he couldn't even look Piper in the eyes.  He simply didn't want to think about the island, and when he glanced past her, its all he could think of.  When class ended, Quinn wasted no time bolting out of the door and making his way to the next period.  He couldn't wait for the day to just be over with.

[Yui]

---

FROM: Paul Brown

TIME: 8:02 A.M.

 

I've only added the ppl whose contact info I have.

 

I'll be going "on vacation" tomorrow after school.  I'll go back "on vacation" this Friday, same time frame.  You're welcome to join me.

 

"On vacation"? Was there any reason Paul had to be so cryptic about it? All the people he sent this to had been to the island, right? Haruka took some time to think about how she should even reply to that, then got to work on typing up a response. Only for another text to come in as she was about to send her own text. And another. Dammit. Now Haruka had to redo hers.

 

FROM: Tyler Beckett

TIME: 8:06 A.M.

 

he means he’s going back to the islands tomorrow afternoon and we can come. dunno why he put it so weird. no point in being secretive because no one would believe it anyway.

 

anyway this is tyler beckett aka the car guy. i’m sure you’ve heard of me and i’m sure whatever you heard was super flattering. IDK if i can go yet. depends on what the rest of you decide.

 

FROM: Jason Garrett

Time: 8:10 A.M.

We got Tyler in here too? How'd ya manage that, Paul? lol

It's Jason Garrett. I'm down to head back. Like i told Paul earlier...anything to get me the hell away from home for a while.

 

Time to send her own reply.

 

FROM: Haruka Hirasawa

TIME: 8:12 AM

Even if he's being cryptic, what sort of person calls this going "on vacation"? "Going out" or even just "exploring" works just fine too. Could it be that he's a masochist and actually does consider that place a vacation spot? Anyway, I'm heading there today after school, and probably every day for the week. If anyone wants to tag along, try not to do anything stupid while we're there.

 

Was Paul a masochist? Come to think of it, it made sense. Even if he was using it as some sort of weird keyword, what kind of person would ever consider going to that place as being "on vacation"? "I'm exploring" would have worked just as well. Even Reno knew that, and Haruka was pretty sure he wasn't some sort of hidden genius or something. Not to mention Paul went to and enjoyed the ded. fiction club despite its other members, and wanted to go to that big party. Even if there wasn't necessarily any proof that he enjoyed pain on a physical level, the more Haruka thought about it, the more Paul was definitely a masochist on some level.

 

I knew a guy in Japan who would love to meet you. Maybe I should arrange for them to be pen-pals or something?

 

The rest of the school day proceeded rather uneventfully for Haruka, bar the idea of setting Paul up with a guy that'd be just perfect for him. Neither of them were really her type anyway. Also, Piper had texted the group a couple of times. More names and faces to remember. Greeeeeeeeat.

Afterschool

After school was over, however, things were... well, probably not gonna be much better. Haruka was planning to visit that freakish island again today. By herself if need be. As soon as school was over, she briefly went home to gather some things, then made for the spot where she'd accessed the island last time. It seemed the club was being cancelled today anyway; Amanda had some sort of emergency. Fine by Haruka. She wasn't going to show up today anyway, and had given the club plenty of advance warning.

 

Alright, Isle O' Freaks, let's see what you've got for me today.

 

And with that, Haruka dialed in. She wasn't looking forward to this, but it was what she was certain she had to do. However, her time there proved to be ultimately useless. She didn't learn anything, didn't get any answers about what a Persona was or how to get one, and worst of all, she'd gotten rained on again near the end of her visit. Haruka had just about had it with this island's shitty weather.

---

Tuesday

Afterschool

"It's our stupid club's fault I'm visiting this stupid island to begin with," Haruka grumbled, completely ignoring the fact that locking herself out of her house was the real reason she went to the party, and therefore to the island. Today, she was heading to the island once again, and she knew that at least one other person would be joining her. Paul. Who was ultimately the reason Haruka was suddenly so committed to figuring out this Persona stuff to begin with.

 

Unlike her previous visits to the island, however, Haruka was bringing some parts of her wardrobe she would have preferred stay forgotten forever. Fed up with getting rained on, Haruka opted to wear a pink raincoat and black boots over her usual types of clothes; dark t-shirts and short skirts. Uncle Ayumu had bought the raincoat and boots - along with a pair of overalls that Haruka absolutely loathed - for her as part of surprising her by taking her out fishing. None of that prissy "fishing rod and a canoe" business either; when Uncle Ayumu said "fishing", he meant "fishing", with big nets and the ocean and everything. Haruka hadn't even touched a boat since. For once, she was almost grateful that she had the coat and boots. But she was still visibly upset, more so than usual.

 

If he's not here soon I'll just go ahead on my own.

---

[Super Chaos Sonic]

 

 

Just a Bit of a Warm-Up

 

-BGM-

 

The ball was tipped by Yards and quickly snatched up by his teammate, Justin Hills. Hills wasn't very tall, standing at only 5'7. However, he was quick on his feet and had great handling. He took the ball outside of the three point line and analyzed the playing field.

 

Jason was matched with Yards, Harper was matched with Hills, Battle was matched with Hiley, Parson was matched to Evans, and Sanders was matched to Filmore. Hills leaned in and faked a pass to Hills, which Harper fell for. Harper stumbled left and Hills made right, catching the ball and pushing in to the goal.

 

Right...these guys are still a little new to this. Jason thought, watching Harper stumbling to the left. "Harper! Try not to to fall that much." he said, trying to encourage Harper, moving to keep himself matched with Yards.

 

Yards took off behind Hills trying to keep ahead of Jason, but he was met with a pick by Parson and he stumbled backward, creating chaos. This left Evans free to pursue Jason, but he was coming from the three point line behind Jason. As Hills neared the goal, Filmore ran interference with Sanders right on his heels. The goal was secured by Hills for 2 points, thanks to Filmore preventing Sanders from blocking the layup.

 

The ball was passed to Jason to take out from the sidelines to his player of choice. Jason got the ball, weighing his options. There was Harper, Battle, Parson and Sanders. He glanced a bit, before making a pass towards Harper, giving him a moment and a chance to redeem himself.

 

Harper received the ball with a nod and applied pressure to Hills. Hills was fast, but his defense was equally matched to Harpers. The result was a quick pump fake back to Jason, followed by a mad dash to the goal. But Harper was met by Filmore and Evans who slipped past Parson and Sanders. This forced Harper to stop in his tracks and back pass to Jason.

 

"Good work Harper." Jason chuckled, getting the ball back from the back pass. He made his move towards the hoop, before taking a quick shot for it. C'mon...swish, baby!!

 

An easy two points as Jason broke past Yards' defense and made the shot. The ball was handed to Yards who scoffed with disappointment at his own mistake.

 

Yards passed the ball to Evans, but it was intercepted mid-flight by the quick thinking Parson who rolled to the right side of the court and took a fast three-point shot. Nothing but net.

 

"Check your man!" Yards barked.

 

"Check your pass!" Evans replied.

 

The ball was given to Evans to take out from the left side of the court as the stands filled with cheering. Evans moved the ball to Jason's hands before Yards could react.

 

Jason got the ball and made his move once more, before glancing over in the direction of Harper again, but immediately passed the ball to Sanders. "You're up, Sanders."

 

"I see that!" Yards snapped and swatted the ball down before Sanders could catch it. He quickly snatched it up and spun around with the ball in his hands. The next thing anyone realized was that Filmore was in the air with the ball in his hands. There was a roar of cheering as he dunked the ball into the goal thanks to the quick handles of Yards, with a snazzy pass.

 

5-4 with Skins in the lead. The ball was given to Sanders to take out from the sidelines. He looked hesitatingly at Jason before wising up to Yards' quick movements. Instead, Sanders got the ball to Harper who spun away from Hills successfully and delivered a clean layup.

 

7-4 Skins. Hills took the ball out and passed it to Yards. It was time for some one on one with Jason. "Heard about that wrist," Yards taunted, dribbling the ball carefully. "I'm gonna break your ankles instead," said the brunette boy as he quickly cut left.

 

Jason looked hard at Yards for a hard moment, watching him quickly cutting left as he began to grit his teeth. He knew the guy was goading him, but he needed to do this. Why are you indulging him like this? Especially after that threat?! he thought, shaking his head slightly.

 

Yards took no hesitation in slipping past Jason and slamming into an intercepting Harper. With one hand he dunked the ball and toppled past Harper. Harper was furious that he was crashed into. "Dude!" he snapped at Yards.

 

7-6 Skins. "Sorry man. You got in my way," Yards said sarcastically as he stomped past Harper.

 

The whistle was blown and a foul was called on Yards. Coach Overton stood up on the side of the court and called out to the boys. "That sheet won't fly! Play like an adult, not a brat!"

 

"Shut up and let 'em play, Coach!" someone called from the stands.

 

The ball was given to Harper from the sidelines and found its way back to Jason with Yards once more staring him down.

 

Jason stared at Yards again, just shaking his head. "Ya know...you aren't the first one to use that line on me..." he said, glancing over towards the stands, quickly making eye-contact with some of his former teammates (minus Kevin). With nothing else to say, he started going right, goading Yards to move in that direction before faking and moving to his left as he moved past Yards in a fast manner.

 

Yards was suckered into going right and stumbled over his own two feet. Hills clamored to make up for Yards' mistake but he was picked by Harper. Jason was free to move to the goal.

 

Jason kept moving towards the hoop, positioning himself in a manner to try for a three-point shot, as he tossed the ball into the air. Another swish...c'mon...we got this.

 

The ball slid off the backboard and right into the net. The shot was good. 10-6 Skins. Yards was not happy as he snarled as he stood up. The stand erupted again with cheers when Kevin called from the sidelines. "Nice shot, J!"

 

"Shut up, Garcia!" Brock called from the other end of the sideline.

 

"Both of you, shut the hell up!" Coach Overton said.

 

The ball was given to Evans to take out from the sideline and it was passed down Hills with lightning speed. Hills spun around Harper and back passed the ball to Filmore who took a long 3 point shot. A spin around the rim and into the net, shirts were closing in. 10-9 Skins. Sanders received the ball and got it out to Battle who had been all but invisible during this game. Battle was checked by Hiley, but slipped up and had the ball tipped out of his hands flying in Jason's direction.

 

Jason got the ball and made his way towards the hoop again, before stopping to pass it to Battle, giving him another try.

 

Battle received the ball with grace and faked an inside shot. Hiley took the bait and Battle stepped up. But Yards' height allowed him to jump and swat the ball out of the air with ferocity. The rebound was picked up by Hills and returned for two points. 11-10 Shirts. The ball was given to Harper to take out and passed to Parson. Parson was set up by Sanders with a quick pick and he was allowed to drain another shot. Just like that, the game was back in Skins favor. 12-11 skins. This time, Hiley took the ball out of bounds with Battle checking him. The ball slipped past Battle and into Yards' hands at the three point line. This time, Yards was silent. His eyes quickly glanced left and landed on Hills, then he returned his gaze to Jason.

 

Jason's gaze met Yards, as he saw what he was going for. He exhaled, trying his best to give a hand signal to Harper to be ready. "Alright...let's see how far this gets me." he muttered, as he made a move towards Yards, preparing to snag the ball if he could. All he could hope for, was Harper to stop it if Yards threw it.

 

Yards went left with his pass but the ball was tipped by Jason's fingertips. Harper made a break for the ball and snatched it out of the air past Hills' reach. He circled the right side of the court and passed the ball down to Parson at the edge of the free throw line. An easy three points.

 

YES!!! Jason thought, getting really happy right now...hell, even his adrenaline was pumping at this point.

 

There was another uproar of applause followed by several whistle blows. "Alright, alright, I've seen enough," Coach Overton said as he stepped up. And just in time to, as Yards had begun to argue with Hills. "Hey! Knock it off! Because you need to learn to work with one another and cover your teammates weaknesses!" Overton barked.

 

"Yards. You're aggressive. You've got great ball handling. But you're selfish and reckless. You saw Garrett as bait. You got baited," Overton said. Yards stepped back and dismissed Coach Overton's concerns.

 

"Please. I could run circles around this dude. He got a lucky tip on the ball. That's it. Give me a one on one and I'll dest--" Yards taunted.

 

"That's your problem, Yards. You can win one on one but you can't win as a team. Sit your ass out," Coach Overton demanded.

 

Yards ripped off his shirt and tossed it at Overton's feet. "Screw this and screw you," Yards said, storming out of the gym.

 

"That's one," Coach Overton said as the doors to the gym slammed behind him. "Anybody else feeling cocky and wanna join him?"

 

The other players were silent. "Good. Then it's time for game two."

 

-BGM-

 

"Since you're short a player, I'll give you one of mine," Coach Overton said as he turned to the stands. "Garcia! Get over here!" he called to Kevin. Kevin jogged over and joined Coach Overton's side. "You're gonna play with the rookies in a five on five exhibition match."

 

Kevin scratched his heads. "How's that gonna work?"

 

Coach Overton grinned. "Like I said, You're gonna play with the rookies. Against your teammates."

 

"What!? That's B.S., Coach!" Kevin snapped back

 

Overton shook his head. "You'll be fine. You've got two vets. Now just get your three teammates. Harper, Sanders, and Hills."

 

Kevin still was only counting four people. "But Coach, who's the fi--"

 

"It's Garrett, you dumbass!" Coach Overton barked again. "Now get yourselves together for game two!" Overton said as he walked over to the bleachers. "The rest of you, come sit on the sidelines!"

 

Jason looked at the whole situation he now found himself in. Not only was it just him and the rookies...but with the help of Kevin...they needed to beat the others on the team: his former teammates. His adrenaline was pumping and he felt his heart racing immensely. Honestly, he didn't remember this being a thing his last joining...

 

I have to face...the team? Jason thought, looking at the team in the stands, all of them looking like they were grinning from ear to ear like damn clowns. He felt a lump in his throat as he slowly started holding his left wrist some. Jason...what the hell did you just get yourself into...?

[Alaina]

 

After she agreed to going to the island, Avery merely looked to Piper saying, "well, um, I'm gonna go now. Yeah. I'll uh, see you tomorrow. Yeah." With that, the girl awkwardly walked away from the other, merely moving aimlessly down the hall. As soon as the other girl was out of sight, Avery's breathing started to accelerate as sweat started to form across her brow. Seemingly trying to recollect herself, the girl continued to take deep breath after deep breath. She continued to think about what just happened as she did so. She was cornered. She was coerced. She was now practically forced to go back to the island.

 

Slapping both cheeks at once, the girl let out one final sigh as a small smile formed on her face. That wasn't all that was important right now. What was, was getting through the rest of the day. Knowing that she had to go to class now, the girl began to walk through the halls, looking at the time as she did so. There was barely any time left before it started. It was very unfortunate she was nowhere near it. 

 

---

 

Tuesday

Afterschool

 

Once school had finished, Avery had ended up making her way towards the place they were meant to meet up. Trembling a bit as she made her way over, the girl tried to continually calm herself down, steadying her breath as best she could. It wasn't long before she saw a familiar face, though, only one. Letting out one final breath, before calming herself, the girl made her way over to the familiar girl saying, "oh, hello there." With a small wave Avery looked to see that the other girl had some curious gear on her, probably in preparation for their excursion. "Cute coat," she said. Avery proceeded to clear her throat, as she stood there, awkwardly, waiting for the others to show up. 

[Super Chaos Sonic]

 

 

You Only Get One Shot...

 

-BGM-

 

Ivan stood up quickly as Coach Overton approached the bench. “Let’s go, up, up!” he demanded of his players. There was a smirk on the giant’s face as he stared down Jason from across the court. He knew this was coming.

“Brock,” Ivan said to his teammate who was pulling on his jersey. “Garrett's mine.”

Brock shrugged. “Handle him.”

Coach Overton approached the center of the court where he pulled Kevin and Jason aside. “You two, listen to me carefully,” Coach began. Kevin remained silent. “Chances of you winning this are slim to none. If you get more than five points on the board I’d be surprised. But I knew that already,” Coach said. Kevin huffed, insulted at his words. “This isn’t a game for you to win. Jason, this is your game to redeem yourself. And Kevin,” Coach Overton said as he looked Kevin in the face.

“Coach?” Kevin asked.

“This is your chance to prove yourself. As the new team Captain,” Overton said.

 

Kevin’s eyes lit up. “Wait, for real!?”

“Pipe down, you idiot! It’s only if you can show me you know what you’re doing,” Overton said. Kevin nodded. “Alright. Center court, let’s go. We’re gonna play a full court game.”

Needless to say, Jason was actually surprised at this little piece of information. Not only that this was really just a game to redeem himself, but also the factor of Kevin possibly being the new team captain. Of course, it really didn't do much for Jason, except make him even more worked up over the entire situation.

Kevin huffed as he called the rest of the new crew together. "Okay, uh...--names. I gotta learn their names. You three, hustle up!" Kevin said ushering Harper, Hills, and Sanders forward to the huddle. "Communication is key," he began. "That's really all I have to say. Honestly, I ain't know I was gonna be put in this situation," Kevin admitted. "Listen to one another. We're playing against them, not each other. So don't go gettin' mad at your team for mistakes. Instead, we gotta make up for each other. Eyes open, ears open, feet moving. Ain't that right, Jason?"

"R-Right." Jason nodded, taking a deep breath some. He was a bit worried at everything right now, but he needed to just keep going. He got this far... "Harper, Hills, and Sanders." he said, pointing to the respective person for Kevin. "You already know my specialty, Kev...but I'm still not 100% sure on what theirs is."

Kevin rubbed his chin. "I was watching the way they move, but more importantly," Kevin said, glancing over his shoulder. "I know for a fact Ivan and Brock are gonna gun for you. So, I hate to do it J, but I'm gonna take you off point. You okay with that?"

Jason nodded at the fact that was given. "I-I sorta guessed they would be the moment coach said what was happening..." he sighed, before nodding at Kevin's suggestion. "H-Hey...don't worry about me Kev. You're in charge here."

Kevin nodded. "Okay, listen up. J, I want you on small forward, like always. I need you to be our defensive set-up. You know the others as well as I do. You can disrupt really well and you're the second tallest of us, tied with Harper." Kevin turned to Hills. "You and I are gonna play forwards. I'll play small since I'm shorter. You're gonna play power."

Hills nodded. "I can do that."

Kevin turned to Sanders last. "You're my center. You're the tallest and you're pretty well built. You can handle yourself, right?"

Sanders rolled his shoulders. "I think so."

Kevin put a hand on Sanders' shoulder. "I need you to know so."

Sanders nodded. "Let's do the damn thing."

Kevin nodded. "Our goal is simple: make them work for every goddamn point. No easy goals. Don't let their pissy bravado scare you off. Watch for Brock. He's fast. Ivan will probably play center so Sanders, when he slips up, I want you to punish him. Everybody ready?" Kevin asked.

Jason nodded at the plan that Kevin structured. It was surprising to him right now. He was actually sounding like a team captain right now. He gave Kevin a thumbs up and a small chuckle. "Ready as I'll ever be."
 

 

-BGM-

 

At center court Coach Overton brought Ivan and Sanders to the middle. Sanders and Ivan were both the same height, making the toss-up even. Players on both sides took their positions, and Kevin watched the toss-up carefully. The ball left coach Overton's hands and he pulled away immediately. Sanders and Ivan both jumped but Ivan jumped higher and the ball was tipped to the opposing team. Brock received the ball immediately and began to push up court to the north side. This meant the south goal was where Kevin's team needed to score.

Brock passed the ball up court and it landed in the hands of their shooting guard: Jaren Michelle. This was Hills' man to guard. Hills stuck to Michelle like glue, forcing him to pass the ball around as the play clock ticked. It was driven to Ivan, and Sanders immediately stood in Ivan's way. Ivan pump faked to Brock, but Sanders stood his ground. Ivan took the jump shot, but Sanders miraculously landed a hand on it. The ball was tipped and Sanders got a palm on it. The ball bounced over to Hills and he began to push down court, causing the momentum to shift immediately as they ran up court.

Kevin sprinted behind his team, but Hills was faster than he appeared. With a quick leap he made the first points of the game. A smooth layup netted them two points. A good start. This took Ivan's eyes off of Garrett and onto Sanders. "You won't score again," Ivan said as he passed Sanders.

"You might be wrong about that," Sanders said with a grin.

Michelle took the ball out of court and dropped a pass to one of their shorter members: Darren Myrtle. He was their small forward and he was Jason's man to guard. Darren took a quick sprint up court and attempted to pass the ball to Brock, past Jason's right side.

No you don't! Jason thought, moving quickly to snatch the ball from it's obvious path to Brock. His plan right now: get the ball and make it's way to either Kevin or any of his other teammates. Though he'd at least try for Kevin first. Thankfully, the ball was stolen mid-flight and now he had control of it.

Jason started making his play. He did what he could to get down towards the south end of the court, before quickly passing towards Kevin.

Kevin caught a precision pass from Jason and slid around the left side of the court, just past the three point line. He was quickly cornered by Victor Reynolds, the opposing team's small forward. He tried to get around Reynolds with a quick pivot, but Reynolds kept his guard up and swiped the ball from Kevin's hands. The result was Kevin reaching for the ball and accidentally tipping it out of bounds. Possession was then given to Ivan's team, and Ivan took the ball out and delivered it to Michelle. Michelle moved the ball up court and Hills chased quickly.

They found one another around the free throw line when Ivan suddenly broke free of Sanders' guard. Michelle then pump faked to Brock and shook off Hills. With a pin-point pass as Ivan leaped into the air, the result was an alleyoop slam dunk, and two points on the board to tie the game, accompanied with the cheers of fangirls from the bleachers.

The ball was delivered to Kevin to take out, and he passed it down to Hills who began moving it up court. Hills trained his eyes on the goal but his peripheral vision caught sight of Michelle moving in on him. Jason was ahead of Myrtle, so Hills was forced to pass the ball.

"Jason!" he called from the free throw line, and passed the ball.

Jason got the ball and did his best not to squander the opportunity that Hills gave him. He made it up court even further, noticing Harper on his left. "Comin' atcha!" he said, passing it to Harper.

Harper spun around and received the pass before dipping it into the goal with a jump-shot. Hills and Harper celebrated with a high five before moving down court. They could over hear Sanders taunting Ivan. "Told you, you were wrong."

 

There was a moment of silence between Sanders and Ivan just before Ivan abruptly burst out laughing. "This is gonna be fun," Ivan said softly to himself. He took the ball out of bounds and ran it up Reynolds. Kevin's team was already up court ready to make defensive plays. As Reynolds stepped up to the free thrown line, he threw a slick side pass to Michelle who was standing at the 3-point line. Hills was ready for him, but he was not ready for Michelle's accuracy. Even as he leaped to catch Michelle's shot, Hills was just shy of the ball.

 

It was an easy 3-points to bring the game back.

 

4-5 in favor of the Veterans.

 

Harper took the ball out and drove it to Kevin who took it to half court. Brock was all over Harper, Ivan was in full control of Sanders, and Hills was left trying to make room to get the ball moving. Kevin was perplexed, but he pushed into the goal anyway. He could only hope Jason was paying attention. As Kevin got to the free throw line he faked a jump shot and Reynolds took the bait. In mid-air, Kevin passed the ball over his right shoulder to Jason, who was wide open.

 

I gotcha Kev! Jason thought, as he caught the ball and started running towards the hoop. He made a B-line straight for it, finally shooting it for the basket.

 

And there Ivan was. Because Sanders couldn't handle his aggression, Ivan was right in Jason's face. The ball was swatted out of the air and picked up by Reynolds. It was run down court so quickly that Kevin tripped trying to get back on defense. The next thing he knew, Michelle was putting away two more points.

 

Jason was surprised nonetheless...he wasn't expecting Ivan to be there that quick. If it wasn't obvious before that they were gunning for his ass, it was now.

 

Scoreboard now read the following: 4-7. The veterans were still in favor.

 

Sanders shook his head at his own screw up. Before he could say a word, Harper was patting him on the back. "Pick your head up. Game's only just starting." Harper took the ball out and ran it up Hills. Hills drove the ball toward the goal but was stopped short of taking his shot. His only free man was Harper, and he bounced the ball back to Harper with a sharp pivot. Kevin could see Brock and Ivan itching to move on the shot, so he called for a pick on Ivan.

 

Jason was moving regardless. The little shock to see Ivan in his face earlier was nothing... His adrenaline was pumping more and more. He saw Kevin calling the pick on Ivan and Jason made sure he was there to block his man. Don't let him get in your head...don't worry... he thought, exhaling slowly, trying to assess the situation.

 

Ivan discovered that his coverage was blocked. Agitated, he shoved past Jason just as Harper took his shot. Jason was flung to the ground and Ivan ran to cover Harper's shot. But he was too slow, and Harper was able to release the ball. It was a good shot for two points. A foul was then called by Coach Overton on Ivan as Jason fell and Harper's shot was made.

 

Luckily, Jason was flung onto his right side. He got up slowly, seeing the scoreboard: 6-7 Veterans. Yeah...he's definitely trying to make sure I stay down... he thought, before hearing the sounds of Overton's barking orders.

 

"Garrett! Free throw! Two shots!" Overton barked. Both teams lined up beside the free throw line and awaited Jason.

 

"Y-Yes sir!" Jason said, moving to the free throw line and took the ball. He took a deep breath and shot the two shots. The first shot, in the basket with one swish. However the second one... Without realizing it until it left his hand, he instinctively used his left wrist, which started throbbing after the ball left his hand. After the ball went in the hoop, Jason immediately held his left wrist.

 

Kevin high fived his teammates and was about to high five Jason when he saw his teammate clutching his wrist. "You good? Or do you wanna sit out a bit?"

 

"I-I'm fine..." Jason said, clenching his left hand some into a fist, before sighing and nodding. "J-Just a bit of old habits I guess."

 

Kevin patted Jason on the back and jogged up court. "Keep it up, bruh. Coach might be wrong about us losing this game." Ball possession was changed to to the Veteran team as the scores flipped again. 8-7 Rookies.

 

"Yeah...maybe." Jason nodded, getting himself back into the game. Just try not to do that too much Garrett... he thought, sighing to himself.

 

Before the ball was taken out by the Veteran team, Louis called for a timeout. Coach Overton blew the whistle and the game was paused for thirty seconds. Ivan called his team into a huddle on the sidelines and Kevin did the same.

 

"Okay, let's examine a few things," Kevin said. "Harper, Sanders, you guys are working well together. I wanna see you play in tandem with one another more. I think if we circle the ball around Sanders in the paint, we can put up way more points. To do that, I think we should switch up our coverage. So J," Kevin said as he raised his head a bit. "I'm sticking you to Ivan for a bit. It'll be tough, but I think you can stick to him. That'll let us open up Sanders more until I know exactly what they're up to."

 

Oh joy...

 

Sanders nodded. "I'll play more aggressive then."

 

"Ready, team?" Kevin asked.

 

"Yeah...ready." Jason nodded, a tad bit uneasy still with him being stuck with Ivan, but then again...he knew Ivan would specifically come after him anyway. So what was the point in trying to change up?

 

Teams returned to the floor and Ivan was taking the ball out from the sidelines. It was passed to Michelle and they began to run up court. Michelle moved the ball to Reynolds, but Reynolds was quickly jumped on by Sanders. Sanders forced Reynolds to pass the ball and it landed in Ivan's hands. Ivan looked Jason up and down, carelessly dribbling with great confidence. He remained silent and glanced left as the ball dribbled between his legs and around his back. Ivan was ready to pass the ball.

 

While Ivan was sizing Jason up, he was doing the exact same to the giant. He felt his heart continue to race as he waited for his moment. Then, the instant Ivan was about to pass the ball, Jason went for it.

 

-BGM-

 

"Psych," Ivan said as the ball was faked far left. In the same instance, Brock performed a fake alleyoop, taking the rookie teams' eyes off of their opponents for just a split second. More than enough time for Ivan to put the ball away for 3 points.

 

10-8, Veterans. The ball was delivered to Jason to take out from the sidelines.

 

sheet... Jason thought, feeling absolutely stupid for letting Ivan psych him like this. He took the ball after the points were scored, as he sent the ball in Kevin's direction.

 

Kevin received the ball and paced himself moving up court. Harper was being double covered. Sanders was free but Reynolds was fast. Hills was open, but so was Kevin. Brock approached Kevin but he dribbled around the big brute. As Kevin spun around Brock, he was met with a pick by Michelle and he stumbled, the ball falling loose behind him. Both teams scrambled forward and dove for the ball.

 

Jason kept up the pace with everyone and saw the ball falling loose behind Kevin. He ran towards it, diving for it as well, but only saw Ivan coming up fast. With a gulp, he moved slightly over towards the ball and redirected it towards Sanders in a quick fashion. C'mon...C'MON!!!

 

Ivan slipped up as he dove for the ball and watched it fly past him. Sanders caught the ball with a thump and pushed into the paint. Brock was there but wasn't fast enough to stop Sanders. He put two points on the board and tied the game up again.

 

10-10 All.

 

Ivan spat at the floor as he received the ball to take out. He ran it quickly to Michelle who sprinted up court. Michelle was surrounded left and right by Hills and Kevin, but Reynolds had his back. He juked behind Michelle and picked up the ball from him. He moved to the west of the court and looked for a three point shot. Harper attempted to cover, but was picked by Brock. The shot was good.

 

13-10 Veterans.

 

Kevin was getting frustrated. He couldn't keep track of their moves, no matter how well he knew his own team. He received the ball to take out from the sidelines and delivered it to Hills. He trodded up court and was met by Michelle. He tried to dribble around Michelle but the ball was stolen under pressure. Before anyone could react it was back down court. Two more points were drained into the bucket by Brock. 15-10. Veterans.

 

Coach Overton blew his whistle. This game was over.

 

Jason let out a deep sigh, seeing the score being just this...but remembered what the coach said...so perhaps this wouldn't be too bad. "Well...h-honestly...didn't expect to be that far behind them." he said to Kevin, catching his breath.

[Hälō]

Tuesday

Afterschool

 

"Yo!" Piper called out to Avery and Haruka as she turned the corner into the meeting spot. Instead her usual black hershel bag, she brandished a large camping backpack, which seemed to be stuffed to capacity. "Are we early, or the boys late?" Flashing both girls a grin as she approached, Piper let the bag slide off her shoulders with a loud thud.

 

"I left class a bit early and dropped by a few shops..." She nudged the overstuffed bag with her foot before sliding her hands into the pockets of her camouflage cargo pants. Similarly to Haruka, Piper had also chosen to dress for the occasion. Though instead rain gear, she had opted for something more suited for the jungle environment. Her mesh shirt and combat boots would do little to keep her dry, but at the very least she would be more mobile than when she had been in her party clothes. 

 

"Might have overdone it, but I figured if we're gonna do this, it could be dangerous to go out there half-assed." 

[King K. Azo]

Tuesday

Afterschool

 

 

Reno went through most of the day in silent excitement. He wanted to go, he wanted to see the other world they found. He barely slept, although he was sure he slept enough, and he made sure he brought supplies they needed. He was dressed in a white tanktop that barely covered his scar, and jeans, the clothes of versatility. Over his shoulder, he carried a white duffel bag containing spare clothes and food, very important things. 

He saw that the three girls had already gathered, waiting for everyone else. Were they early, or was he late? He wasn't sure, and he wasn't sure what to say to them. He just waved, not even sure if they saw him before he stood behind them, staying silent and listening to what they had to say.

[a bad post]

Quinn didn't stop by Starbucks after school. He didn't go to drama. He didn't text his friends to let them know where he'd be. As soon as school finished Quinn jammed his earbuds in, and blasted his music as high as it would go.

 

At home, he said nothing to announce his presence simply silently walking into his room and dropping himself face first into his bed. Buring himself under his blanket Quinn let out a loud groan tossing and turning on his sheets trying and failing for several minutes to try and get comfortable.

 

Well... he'd thought it had been a few minutes, however when he actually looked at the clock on his phone not even a minute had passed. With another groan, Quinn tore the earbuds out tossing them to the bed as he began pacing around the room. 

 

"Alright, alright maybe homework..." Quinn sighed pulling a textbook from his bag, and sat at his desk, "God, who would've ever thought I'd be thankful for 30 pages of assigned reading..." Quinn only made it through a couple pages, however, before he found his concentration wandering to his frustration. "Argh!" Quinn dug his hands into his hair yanking at it with a futile hope that maybe the pain would help him concentrate better. Exhausted already Quinn placed his head down against his desk. Noticing Gwen had yet to take his laptop from his room Quinn chuckled bitterly.

 

"God, she doesn't even know how to ground me right..." That being said now that Quinn thought about he hadn't heard anyone since coming home. He'd been in his room for about 10 minutes at that point and he thought he would've at least heard his sister or one of her other roommates... they weren't exactly quiet people. 

 

Poking his head out of his room Quinn listened for a moment for any sign of the others, however, hearing none he began walking around the apartment. After several minutes of searching the place Quinn frowned.

 

"Where the hell is everybody...?" Quinn shrugged his shoulders, he wasn't particularly in the mood for seeing anybody right now anyway, so finding the apartment empty wasn't too disappointing. "Well, as long as nobody's home I might as well enjoy myself, I'm not getting any work done anyway as it is..." Quinn muttered walking over to the kitchen and rummaging around briefly before finding what he was looking for, a bag of popcorn.

 

"Hey God, it's me, Margaret, and I could really use some help." Quinn muttered while the popcorn popped in the microwave, "oh, who am I kidding I haven't stepped foot in a church since I was like five." The beeping of the microwave signaling that his popcorn was finished snapped Quinn back to reality, and after giving the bag a few moments to cool Quinn ripped it open before pouring into a bowl.

 

"What better way to ignore my problems than to binge watch tv shows that I've already seen a million times," Quinn laughed to himself as he made his way back to his room. Flopping down on his bed again, Quinn opened his laptop pulled up Netflix, however, after a few moments he found himself only really half paying attention to the Office episode he'd played. Staring up at the cieling Quinn couldn't help but feel a little bit lonely.