How can things get any worse than they are right now? This whole horrible situation started this morning, when I was on my way to my school: Marrow Prep Academy. Oddly enough, Marrow Prep Academy campus is split into two parts by a ravine, with the girls half of the campus to the south and the boy’s campus to the north. Marrow Prep Academy sits on the west side of town. It is known to be where the wealthy kids attend school and is considered one of the most outstanding schools in the nation. However, in order for me to get to Marrow via my short cut, I have to cross through what is called ‘the Bronx’ part of town. A rough, tough neighborhood full of delinquents that spans ten long city blocks. That is where everything went wrong.

I was walking my normal route on short cut, right through the heart of the Bronx side of town. It’s the only straight shot to Marrow. Taking the least amount of time to get from home to school so I can sleep in a bit longer. I should have known better than to take the same route every day. I should have just let Ma drive me like she insists every morning. But no, I; ‘stubborn like water’ so Ma says; refused to be driven. Instead, in a fit of geniusness have decided I would rather walk.

Just two blocks away from being out of the Bronx I got a funny feeling that I was being followed. I could see the Smoke stacks of Marrow high in the distance. If I hurry I can make it to safety soon. I quickly crossed the street out of the Bronx neighborhood. I decided to take an even shorter shortcut through the next alley way. So I could be that much closer to Marrow property and would be able to call for help from Marrow security if need be. In hindsight, this was probably the cherry that topped it all off. However, that decision was not in any way smart. The alley was three city  blocks-long with only one way in or out.

Halfway through the alley I could hear footsteps behind me; multiple footsteps following me. I quicken my pace to the verge of an all-out sprint. The end of the alley was getting closer. I can see the sidewalk and smell the bakery down the road. ‘I’m almost there’ I thought. Suddenly a guy jumps out in front of me on a bike, blocking my path to safety.

“Hey, now. Why are you in a hurry, honey?” he questioned as I came to a full stop just feet from him.

“I’m not” I replied. His three buddies caught up with us. They were not far behind me to begin with.  

“She’s pretty” one complimented.

“Where you off to?” another asked. Walking up behind me he took a long slow look at me.

I cringed as they surrounded me. “School, you should try it some time,” I scoffed. One guy grasped a lock of my hair in his hand and smiled menacingly.

Another poked at my uniform “This looks expensive, I might have trouble getting in,” he joked as he pulled on my blazer “You might have to help me out.”

The other guy jerked my wrist in his direction then pushed me backwards, he pinned me against the wall. Looking me over he grinned with a horrifying expression. While the others surrounded us he slid my hands above my head keeping his grip on me tight. I pulled as hard as I could to try and get away from him to no avail.

“Get off me! Let me go you creep!” I screamed “Help!”

They were talking about how pretty I am. How much of a good girl I must be and that they had a thing for good girls going bad. They scolded me, saying that ignoring their presence on their turf was rude. Saying that a girl like me should have stayed out of the Bronx and going there every day was asking for trouble. They told me that there was a toll to be paid for my ignorance. As they talked like this I started getting scared. Doing my best not to show them fear, I took a breath and tried to think of a way out of this.

“I never saw any toll booths. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean any offence” I hastily apologized. Thinking back, I had quickly walked through the Bronx for the last eight months to get to school. I have not once had any sign of trouble, at least till today. One guy grabbed then cut my backpack off my shoulder and tossed it aside knocking my books out onto the nearby sidewalk.

“No, get away! Help” I cried.

“Help. Help” the leader mocked me while gripping me tighter. “No one is going to come save you. You have earned this. Don’t you agree fellas” he questioned. The other three guys nodded and shouted.

I wanted to cry, it never crossed my mind that this would happen to me. Why would someone do this? “I don’t see how” I hissed putting on a brave face. I was so close to safety yet I was so far away. I started to quietly let the tears fall.

“I don’t” a voice called from the alley exit.

Their leader, who had me pinned never took his eyes off me. The expression in his eyes; if looks could kill; I would have been dead. “Go take care of the pest, quickly.” He ordered. The three men quickly left and walked over toward the young man who spoke up. Straining to see what would happen I looked to the man. His shaggy blond hair fluttering in the slight breeze. He was tall and lean, I was unsure he could take three of them. He had black slacks and a white shirt. Dressed nicely for a Monday, maybe he works nearby I thought. I felt like I had seen him before, though. The three guys quickly attacked him all at once. Just as they attacked him the leader forced my head to the side and against the brick wall with a thud.

“OW” I cried out as a pain struck my face.

“I will do you this favor. Being as you will be doing me one here soon” he laughed.

Unexpectedly the hands that trapped me in place were yanked away with a jolt. I looked over and saw the young man who came to my rescue. He had kicked the gang leader away from me with a massive force. Knocking him to the ground away from where I stood.

The young man stood tall and strong his green eyes watching at me. “What are you waiting for? Get out of here” he ordered.

“Uh, yes.” I stumbled over to my bag, stuffing my things hastily back inside. I quickly ran as fast as my legs would take me, all the way to the steps of my high school. I could not get away fast enough. It was hard to believe that this had happened. I have never had an inkling of trouble walking through the Bronx. Reaching the steps of the building I collapse, safe at last.

“Winry what’s wrong” Beth called running over to help me up the steps.

I’m a good short distance runner when I want to be. Still, at this point I was tired and exhausted. Falling over and taking a nap would be welcomed. I could not catch my breath long enough to even think about responding.

“Your head it’s bleeding” Beth exclaimed “We're going to see the Doctor!” Beth and Marge from the sophomore class helped me to the Doctor/Nurse office. I had not noticed that I was bleeding. I knew that he hit my head against the wall quite hard. I had no idea that it had been that hard. The adrenalin must have been pumping so much that it had not registered yet.

“What do we have here? How did you get this scrape on your head” Dr. Lewis looked me over. “Where is your ID Miss…”

“Oh, it’s…” I grabbed my bag and rummaged through it as fast as I could. You have to scan your badge to count for attendance, to eat lunch, see the Doctor or Nurse or to even enter the building if you’re alone. “...it’s not here. It must have fallen out when those boys attacked me in the alley.” I sighed in revelation. I just got a new ID last month after losing it to the wash. Ma will be annoyed to hear I lost it again.

    “What!” Dr. Lewis gasped “You were attacked! Did you call the police? Where else are you hurt! Nurse Keith, call this girls parents at once!”

“I’ll dial the number for you Nurse Keith” Beth offered a hand.

I looked at them stunned. “But, I really am fine. A guy came and saved me. If anyone should be looked over it’s probably him” I pleaded. Still, my words were not heard. I sat on the cot as they went about their will ignoring anything I had to say.

Dr. Lewis checked every visible inch of my body that was not covered by my school uniform not once, not twice but four times. Besides the cut on my upper left forehead he found no other injuries or what he called victim wounds. Not even bruises from the gang leader’s hands that had gripped me so hard. No bruise, but my wrists were red and tender, that was the extent of the damage: A cut on my head with red and raw wrists.

Ma came as fast as she could to the school I could hear her scolding Papa as they came down the hall “I don’t know why you had to bring Greenhorn here?” Ma complained “I told you we should have driven her to school.”

Greenhorn is Papa’s trainee detective so to speak. Well he was till last month when Greenhorn was released from his trial stage and given his permanent partner, Papa. Beth showed Ma, Papa and Detective Greenhorn into my exam room.

“Oh Winry!” Ma cried out “Are you alight? Did they hurt you…” Ma rushed over and hugged me tight, quickly she seen the bandage on my forehead “…Joe they hurt her. They hurt my baby” she exclaimed.

Papa and Detective Greenhorn came over moving Ma out of the way and examined me as well. I started to feel like I was on display for everyone to inspect. Everyone who came into this small room looked me over from head to toe. Careful not to miss a single inch of me.

“Winry you’re going to fill out a police report. First we need to take pictures.” Papa explained.

Unamused and unhappy I gave my statement, changed clothes, let them take pictures of my ‘injury’s’ and I informed them of the guy who saved me. “…though I don’t know his name or anything other than he saved me” I explained. I gave the best descriptions that I could.

Detective Greenhorn finished up and went to wait for Papa to be ready. Ma is a respected Judge in the state and Papa is a senior Detective. Though they are a mixed couple they are so cute together. Ma is American Irish and Papa is first generation American Japanese.

“I will be picking you up after school from now on, Winry. And Papa will bring you to school.” Ma ordered.

I groaned “Ma! Papa! If it will make you feel better I will be more than happy to agree. Please, I need to do research after school at the public library with Beth. We have a midterm paper due in a week that we have to do final touches on. I am going to walk there after school today with Beth. You had already agreed to it this morning. So it is not necessary for you to drive me anywhere. You can pick me up from the library when were finished, how does that sound.” I pleaded

“The public library is only ten blocks away.” Ma sighed “Fine. You call me when you are ready and we will discuss your transportation to and from school after you get home.” Ma and Papa left shortly after that. Papa was not too happy with the arrangement. He was content with calling in today and escorting me around everywhere. Ma informed him that was overkill, even for him.

“Winry here is a temporary ID badge. Do you have the ten dollars to pay for it?” Dr. Lewis asked.

I sighed and hanged my head. “My spending money is in my ID pouch” I mumbled. Beth started looking through her bag.

“Well, just find your ID badge or come to tomorrow with the fifty dollars to replace it.” Dr. Lewis suggested. He let me go back to class. By the time I was allowed to go to class it was lunch time. As suspected, my entire school was aware that something had happened. Many were guessing and insisting I tell them about it over lunch. Completely nerve racking, girls are way too nosy. That’s why I had always had guy friends, less annoying and less drama. Way less drama. Being in an all-girls prep school, it’s hard to find any guy friends. However, a lot of things changed last summer. Weather I wanted them to or not.

Beth and I spent the rest of the day barely skating by. She kept asking about the attack and the hero. It was like she thought I knew the guy. I told her time and time again that I didn’t know him. But he did look familiar somehow. Neither of us could figure it out. Plagued by her questions, I could tell she was just trying to help me figure it out. Though, I’m sure she has ulterior motives, it was nice of her to try I suppose.

“I wonder if he has friends?” Beth sighed happily looking out the window.

“I don’t know that I will see him again. I wish I could thank him. If only he knew how much I appreciate what he did for me.” I muttered as I drew his face in my notebook.

RING! RING! The bell rang letting school out for the day.

“Uh, Winry Teets stay after class and see me in my office” Mr. Bane announced.

“What now?” Beth moaned “Just because he is Mr. Lee’s college buddy does not mean he can call you to chat about your personal life at school, ya know.” Though Beth was right, I did not dare tell Papa that Mr. Bane was making me stay after school to talk about personal matters in the family.

I turned to Beth “I’ll meet you at the library. I’ll be OK. It’s in the opposite direction of the Bronx. Once I finish with creepy Mr. Bane I’ll go right to the library. We will finish this report tonight and be done with it” I assured her.

Beth gawked at me with weary eyes. “Ok. Call me when you leave here and we will talk till you arrive” she requested.

I nodded with a smile “Of-course I will.”

Beth gathered her things and headed out in no time. Taking my time I put my books in my bag. I went to my locker and took out my homework placing it securely in my new bag Papa bought from the school.

Walking up to the next floor to Mr. Bane’s office. I glanced out the window as passed by. I could see Beth talking to some guy at the gates standing by a sporty motorcycle. Just her type, I hope that guy knows how to handle himself or she will eat him alive, I laughed. It was good to see her talking to a guy. I found it odd that a guy would be hanging outside the gates of our school. He must be waiting for his sister or girlfriend. If he doesn’t have one yet, I have a feeling that Beth will take up that role quickly if she has anything to say about it.

I walked up to Mr. Bane’s office. I took a deep breath, not looking forward to this conversation. The door was open and he was sitting at his big cherry wood desk as usual. “Yes Mr. Bane?” I asked.

He looked up at me. His brown eyes looked unusually anxious. He smoothed back his light brown hair as he walked over and greeted me. “Please come in” he encouraged.

His demeanor only made this more uncomfortable for me. I walked in and sat in the seat in front of his desk. I turned my attention back to Mr. Bane when I heard his office door shut. It made me uneasy for him to shut the door. I had heard rumors that Mr. Bane has hit on students in his office. Mr. Bane is Papa’s friend and he may be a bit creepy, he has always shown himself to be a respectable guy. This is the first time he has ever shut the door with me in here though.

He walked over calmly and sat on the edge of his desk across from me. His behavior was odd, even for creepy Mr. Bane. Teachers are never to sit near a student in closed doors. He knows this. That way everyone is protected. According to the Marrow Prep Academy rule book. His behavior is just plain out weird. His normally messy desk was all but cleared off. Only two things remained a red pin and a small stack of papers from his last class. Mr. Bane is known for his messy desk and losing students work. The slackers pray that his desk eats their work so they can get an automatic 80% on their papers.

“Winry, I am concerned? You have an injury on your head. And it pains me to see such a thing” Mr. Bane pointed to my head as he reached for the seat next to me. I watched him slowly move into the seat beside me.

“I’m fine, honestly” I reassured him “It’s just a small cut. Nothing to worry about.” Nodding with his hand on his chin, Mr. Bane looked to be lost in thought. It was like he was processing an event in his mind. He looked off into space for a while. Glancing around his office I got the feeling that he had someone come in and clean it up. The dust had been cleared, the books organized and he even had what appeared to be notes on an organized system.

Darting up abruptly he walked casually around his chair. “I know you’re a sophomore soon to be a junior. The school year is coming to a close. But, as you know there are things that can’t be predicted,” Mr. Bane paused while looking out his office window. I did not like where this was going. I had a bad feeling about this down in my bones. He casually walked around the chairs and began to speak again “I've been friends with Joe Lee since before he met Kat in college. Before they adopted you. As a friend I have never crossed a line with Lee, weather it was drawn or invisible.” He placed his hands tenderly on my shoulders when he stopped behind my chair. He began to massage my neck slowly moving to my shoulders then tenderly down my arms. “I have never thought of doing anything of the sorts, till I met you. I can’t help myself anymore” he softly spoke. His hands started to move to my chest. There is no hesitation or anxiety anymore.

I shot up out of the char grabbing my bag and darted for the door. “Sorry Mr. Bane I forgot Ma is going to be waiting for me. So I should go.” I quickly unlocked the door and ran down the hall to the stars then out the front doors. I did not look back; I did not dare look back to see if he was following me.

“That was bad. That was uncomfortable. That was weird. It was unethical” I mumbled to myself “That was just wrong not to mention sexual harassment.” I felt sick, like I was going to puke right there. My hands were shaking. I placed my hands over my face as I walked toward the gates. Pulling them down my face I thought about how this day had gone. First I was late leaving the house because Ma was arguing with me. Then I was attacked on my way to school and was saved by some guy, who I did not get to thank. Just to have Detective Greenhorn take my statement and file a report per Papa’s orders. With no concern as to what I wanted. To top it all off creepy Mr. Bane just hit on me, in school. Not only that but he put his hands on me! “Ugh, how can this day possibly get any worse?” I wondered out loud.

“Hey, your Winry Teets right?” a male voice called to me. I looked over and seen the same guy Beth had been talking to earlier still standing by his bike. His short red hair stood stiff in the sun. He wore a Marrow Prep Academy uniform. He was still leaning against his bike all relaxed.

“And If I am?” I questioned.

The guy walked over “You are Winry. Good, come with me.” He grabbed my hand and started pulling me to his bike. His hands are soft and warm. They gripped my hand perfectly, not too tight but not loose enough that I could get away easy.

“Hey wait a minute! What makes you think I would go off anywhere with someone I don’t know.” I scolded him pulling back trying to free my hand from his grip.

Letting me go he got in his bike and tossed me a helmet. “You want your ID badge back right or do you wanna’ pay fifty dollars to replace it” he replied.

Crap, here I am having a terrible day trying to get to the library. Thinking it can’t possibly get much worse and out of left field this guy shows up and blackmails me. I jinxed myself. He is from my school, but that does not mean he can be trusted? And why didn’t he just bring me my ID badge? Why does he want me to go with him to get it? He’s not the guy who saved me. So, what’s he doing here and why?

“Winry!” I heard Mr. Bane calling to me.

I glanced back. Mr. Bane was running out of the building calling me. “Winry, wait!”

I turned back to the red hair guy. “OK. Let’s go!” I hurriedly jumped on his bike and put the helmet on.

“Hold on” he warned. I wrapped my hands around him and held tight. Mr. Bane was getting close to us. He could catch me any second. Can we get going? I just want to get away from this creeper.

WOOSH! Off we went. Speeding through the streets. It was my first time on a motorcycle. It was exhilarating and at the same time scary. Adding in the factor that I was on a bike that belonged to a guy I didn’t know but knew me and had blackmailed me. That made it just a bit more unsettling. I felt like we were on the bike for a long time. He quickly came to a stop. I opened my eyes and noticed we were on Dutch Street. He had parked in front of a place called Maxie’s Shoppe. It was next to the infamous club Dark Water. I let go of him and took the helmet off. I have been by these places many times since I moved here last summer but I have never been allowed to go in. Ma had ordered Tea and Coffee from Maxie’s Shoppe one time when Papa was working late on a case in his den.

It was delicious, Ma said ‘it’s not a good place to be seen at. It’s a hangout for young thugs. However they have wonderful tea.’ I would have to agree with her. The tea was perfect in every way. The temperature was just right; the sweetener was enough to compliment the flavor of the tea.

The guy took the helmet from me and put it on the handlebars. “Come on” he ordered. He grabbed my hand and pulled me into Maxie’s Shoppe. His grip was tight and a bit painful thanks to my morning incident.

“Hey” I protested as I tried to resist him. The pain from his grip becoming intense.

Paying me no attention he continued on. Pulling me to the back of the Shoppe to the only round booth in this Tea Shoppe. Two other guys were already sitting at the table. The red haired guy pushed me into the booth seat and then sat on the edge. I was officially blocked in. I felt trapped again like this morning. I looked at him. “Hey asshole all you had to do was ask,” I hissed.

“With a mouth like that I’m not surprised you got into trouble this morning” a voice across the table stated.

I didn’t need to look to know who the voice belonged to. It was the guy who saved me. To confirm it I turned my head to look at him. His blond shaggy hair falling in his face, he sat leisurely with his hand propping up his head as he toyed with my ID badge. Sending it spinning in circles on the table. He was in a white button up shirt like he was this morning. He looked at my ID badge with satisfaction. I noticed that his knuckles were bruised and some had slightly split open.

“My decision in direction is what got me in trouble. Not the way I talk” I corrected him “I never got the chance to thank you. So…thank you.” They all just sat there. No one acknowledged my thank you.

Could he be one of the thugs Ma was talking about? He couldn’t be, if he was a thug why save me? I think the better question is why am I here? The guy sitting between me and the hero wore and Marrow Prep Academy uniform as well. His shirt was untucked and his jacket had seen better days. There was no denying that. His short spiky brown hair accented his blue eyes. He too was leisurely sitting there sipping his tea looking at the customers. He was being careful not to look at me. What the hell did I get into now?

“Why am I here” I asked plainly. No one even so much as glanced in my direction. I sat there waiting for an answer. I looked at this morning’s hero. Expecting an answer from him, he is the one with my ID after all.

“Aren’t you here for your ID badge” he mocked.

I assessed my situation. I’m in a Shoppe that is frequented by thugs, so Ma says. I’m in a booth blocked in by three guys. I was blackmailed into coming here. I didn’t tell anyone where I was going, not as if I had any idea myself. No one is talking to me and my ID badge is just inches from me. However, I have a feeling I can’t get it. This can’t be good. I should have just took the hit and paid the fifty dollars for another ID badge and kissed my twenty dollars spending money for the week good bye. Instead, here I sit. My day has officially just got so much worse. Looks as if my hero is no hero at all. I just traded one trouble in for another, unknowingly.

“You and I both know that I’m not here to get my ID badge” I told them as I leaned back to get comfy in the booth. I’m going to be here awhile, it doesn’t look like I’m going to be able to leave any time soon either. They all looked at me now.

“You sure about that?” Hero guy questioned me with a look of mockery. While the others looked at me intrigued.

“Yes, I’m sure. I have a bump on my head. Not a missing brain. If you wanted to return my ID badge you could of gave it to one of your teachers at Marrow, correct? Or you could have waited for me like speedy here and gave it back…” I sighed because I realized that my stubborn behavior has caused me so much trouble today “…instead you have your guy blackmail me into going with him to this shady Shoppe where you sit here staring at my ID badge while I’m trapped in this booth. Did I leave anything out?”

The red hair guy looked at me “I don’t remember you complaining when that teacher was calling for you. In fact you jumped on my bike rather quickly, if I do recall correctly.”

I glanced at my lap. I could remember Mr. Bane yelling after me. I remembered the incident before in his office. What he was saying, no, what he was implying was more horrifying. The way he put his hand on my neck shoulders and then my chest. I can still feel his touch on me. Such a sickening feeling. The rumors were true. He is that type of creep. I had not thought about it too much since I got on the bike. However, now, it’s making me feel sick.

“Hey, are you alright? You’re all pale. Are you going to be sick” the guy next to me asked concerned.

“Tanner go get some mint tea for her.” Hero guy ordered.

“You got it Roman. Don’t want her getting sick on me, I am the one sitting next to her.” The red haired guy named Tanner got up quickly and left.

The other guy leaned in and placed his hand on the back of my neck under my hair. I jumped in shock. “She doesn’t have a fever.” He announced.

Tanner came back “Hey! Justin get your hands off her. You want another sexual assault charge, Idiot?” Tanner warned.

I held the tea in my hands. Watching as some of the leaves started to spin. “What do you want with me” I asked feeling defeated. I have been defeated by this whole damn day. The run in with Mr. Bane was enough to ruin any day and make me sick. All honestly, I should report him, but now is not the time for this. I was in no mood to argue or fight with them. I just wanted to get out of here and go home.

Roman sat quiet.

“Drink the tea it will help” Justin assured me.

I laughed a little, “I don’t think tea will help what ails me.” I wish it could.

“Don’t waste it. The tea here is the best you can find. Drink it or pay for it.” Tanner grumbled folding his arms watching me intently.

I sat the cup on the table after one last sip. “There is money behind my ID. Use that to pay for the tea. If there is nothing else, I’ll be taking my leave now.” I answered as I scooted towards Tanner, wanting to leave. I was going to get in trouble as it is. Mr. Bane would have called Ma and Papa by now and Beth is waiting at the library for me.

“What about your ID badge?” Justin questioned.

I glanced at my ID badge sitting on the table in front of Roman. “Keep it. Burn it. Trash it. I don’t care. Now let me leave” I requested. Tanner didn’t move. Even with me sitting right next to him waiting to get out.

“You see the thing is this morning I saved you from a bad situation. For my trouble I got a few busted knuckles. Then I spotted this and I had to hull around your ID badge all day…” Roman waved it in front of me “…You should take responsibility for them two things don’t you agree?”

I did feel bad about his few injuries. As small as they are, they will heal quickly. He is talking like picking up my ID badge and holding it was like walking around with an anvil all day. “What is it that you have in mind?” I asked.

Roman leaned back and took a sip of his drink. “You see, my family has a high standard tradition. A lot is expected of me. Just as is for Justin and Tanner. My mother and father are pushing me to date Tristen Blonk. You know of her. She’s currently a junior at Marrow. The thing is I don’t have time to date a primadonna. I really don’t want to put up with a girl that high maintenance either. So you see my problem right?” Roman sighed. He put his cup back on the table and picked up my ID badge. Looking at it he went quiet.

I have a feeling I’m not going to like the answer to my next question. But, I have to ask “What does that have to do with me? Your problem is an easy fix. Don’t date her.” I stated.

Justin looked at me with a smile “Precisely.”

“Which is why in return for saving you today and holding on to your ID badge you will pretended to be my girlfriend” Roman declared.

I think I might have hit my head harder than I thought. I’m sure I didn’t hear him right. Leaning over the table a bit “Come again?”

“To repay your debt you will pretended to be his girlfriend and rid him of Tristen Blonk and his nagging family. You must have some status you go to Marrow,” Tanner blurted out.

I fell back into the booth. Ya I thought that’s what I heard. “I meant don’t date if that’s what you would rather do.” I remarked.

Justin leaned in “It’s pretended, to get his family off his back and to save face. The agreement is quite a victory for both of you. Roman’s family will stop pushing and your family would be please that you are dating such a high standing guy.” Justin made it sound like an arranged marriage.

“If I were to refuse” I questioned irritated. Certainly he didn’t think I would just agree to something like this so easly?

“You can’t” Roman answered calmly.

I glared at him, the nerve of this guy “You may think you’re entitled to everything because of your ‘status’. You’re just going to have to learn that you can’t always get what you want. Not everything can be handed to you on a silver platter” I hissed. I climbed onto the booth seat and stepped over Tanner.

“In a skirt” Justin exclaimed surprised. Amazed, Tanner leaned back as far as he could to get out of my way.

Jumping off the booth I began to leave fuming. Him telling me I can’t refuse. I hate rich spoiled, entitled and assured brats. I’m not some princess looking for riches or a high standing guy. I was raised right; not with a spoon in my mouth and butlers at my feet.

“Your Mom is up for reelection in the fall, right?” Roman called to me “In the state supreme court.” I stopped in my tracks. Slowly I turned to look at him. What kind of evil thug is this guy?

“She is endorsed by my families company every term.” Justin implied.

“My family backs her and your grandfather’s Senatorial financing” Tanner stated.

Roman’s face was clear of all emotion “My family is one of the wealthiest families in the country and we have sway in many things, including politics.”

Are they threatening Ma’s and Pop’s career. Very clever yet, very clear blackmail; I gritted my teeth then reluctantly walked back to the booth. How could this day of gotten worse, from this morning till now? Is it going to get better anytime soon?

I stood next to Roman; he still held my ID badge in his hand. The guy I thought was a good guy only this morning. The guy who saved me from a terrible situation today is not a good guy at all. In fact, he is a spoiled, entitled, blackmailing thug. And I hate him. I hate him for threatening Ma and Pop. I hate his friends too, for going along with this, for taking advantage of my terrible day. Most of all I can’t stand how he is so calm and reserved while he is threatening to destroy people’s lives. I snatched my ID badge from his hands. Fuming I shoved it in my bag. “Fine” I growled. Then I walked out; I can’t stand to look at them. They just brought new meaning to the term ‘nothing is what it seems.’ They are just as bad as the hoodlums who attacked me.

I was closer to home than I was to the library. This is so bad. I got out my phone as I walked down the street back towards the library. No missed calls, but I have one new text. Beth: Winry? Where are you? Sighing I texted her and said I’m going to be late and start without me. If Ma has not called yet then Mr. Bane has not told her that I went off with some guy on a motorcycle. In that case if I am not at the library when she comes to pick me up at five I’m dead. To die now after all I have been through this last year would be a disgrace to my loved ones.

I only had walked five blocks in ten minutes. The stoplights are horrible today. At this rate I won’t make it to the library till eleven O’clock the GPS on my phone said.

“Hey” a voice called out. I looked up from my phone. Sitting on a red and black Harley Sportster watching at me I found Roman. In his hands the same helmet that Tanner had me use. “Get on” he said as he tossed the helmet at me. I caught it and looked at him skeptically. “I can’t have my girlfriend late to meet her mom” he readjusted his body to allow room for me to sit.

As much as I wanted to through the helmet at his head and tell him to buzz off, I needed to get across town even more. Without a word I put the helmet on my head and got on his sportster. I grabbed the sides of his shirt. I did not want to hold onto him. That would be too much. Less contact the better for all I care. He took my hands and moved them around his torso till they met. Then let go and raced off.

I thought Tanner drove fast; or maybe it was the fact that I was not protected like I am in a car, that made it seem that way, either way; Roman drove much faster. Weaving in and out of traffic, speeding up to beat a light and cutting corners close, even squeezing between a bus and a semi. I think I might die before Ma gets her hands on me. It will all be Roman’s fault. Just how many near death experiences will I face in one damn day? I squeezed my eyes closed and held on for dear life, awaiting the moment when we arrived at the library. After a short time we came to a stop in front of the Public Library. Roman shut off his bike. He carefully peeled my hands apart from around him.

“Were here” he announced.

“I know. I still can’t believe I’m alive” I stuttered trying to get off the bike.

Getting off his bike I handed him back the helmet. It was an amazing Harley. I could not tell if it was restored or rebuilt. If only Taylor was here. He would be able to tell in a heartbeat. I could tell it was very fast and Roman pushed the limits with it. I looked at the bike once more before turning to go into the library.

“Winry” Roman called after me. I stopped and looked back. “You’re welcome” he prompted me.

This is going to taste bitter “Thank you.” I again started for the Library.

“Winry” Roman called to me again. Sighing heavily I turned to face him once more. “I will pick you up in the morning. Be ready by the time I text you” he ordered. I watched with a glare as Roman started his bike and took off.

“Good luck with that, I didn’t give you my number.”

The nerve of some people; I hope someday someone comes and knocks that cocky attitude out of your thug head. Or just knocking his head off his shoulders, which would be satisfying. Maybe then he would have new perspective on the world and how he contributes to society. The odds of that happening were not in my favor. After all he took on three guys and laid them out quick.

“Winry!” Beth yelled running up to me. “Do you know who that was?”

“Some jerk” I scoffed. I didn’t want to talk about it.  

Beth looked at me in amazement. “That is Roman Parks, of the Parks Industries. They have their hands in everyone’s cookie jar. Their family name is on the new gym building because they donated most of the money to build it.” She scolded me “And he just gave you a ride!”

Rolling my eyes, I should be used to all the richy-rich kids and their family’s ties to big business by now; it’s been almost an entire school year. Apparently I don’t care too much about money, while others do. “It was just a ride, nothing to go talking about, especially to Ma and Papa, got it.” I warned her.

Nodding with a big smile Beth agreed. “That’s why I told Tanner that your Ma was to pick you up at five in front of the Public Library and you were not to be one millisecond late.”

I looked at Beth with disdain. “What” I yelled at her.

“Ya, well, Tanner asked if I knew Winry Teets. I told him you were called to talk with a teacher. He said he would wait. I told him if he has any business with you that your Ma would be picking you up at five at the Public Library and you’re not to be one millisecond late. He really is a cutie Winry,” She spoke so pleased. “Here I finished the last chapter for you.”

I can’t believe this. I want to be mad at Beth; then again, if it was not for her, I would probably be still walking my way across town.

“Ma is here.” I motioned to Beth.

We walked to the back suburban. “Hi Ma”

Dinner was interesting. I sat at the old oak table with Ma, Papa and Pops. Even though the conversation was about me, I could hardly get a word in edgewise. Papa wanted to arrange it that anytime I left the house I was with someone. A personal bodyguard or something. Whether it is going to school or to the mall I would have to have a bodyguard with me at all times. Ma was thinking about a tutor or homeschooling. She even mentioned hiring Mr. Bane. That thought just about made me share with everyone the contents of my stomach. Pops was concerned for my wellbeing, but his approach was more realistic. Get me my own car. I had my permit already and I have got good reviews from Papa and Pops. Though I liked Pops idea best, every time I attempted to speak I was cut off and interrupted. I got up without eating and headed for bed. I left them there arguing. Nothing I could do, I’ll just have to try again tomorrow. My day has gone from one bad dealing to another. I just wanted it to end, soon.

The next morning I got up early and took my shower. After getting dressed I picked up my bag. “Shit” I sighed in irritation “I had homework.” Algebra II homework and Haiku that I was supposed to have done last night. Well it was too late now. I can’t let Ma or Papa know. I’ll just have to do it during lunch and my free time.

“Winry, get down here, breakfast is ready. Pop is getting ready to leave so hurry up” Ma yelled up the stairs. I darted down the stairs to the kitchen. Ma had made Scrambled Eggs with toast, Pops favorite.

“Morning Pop’s. Morning Ma. Morning Papa.” I greeted them.

“Morning sun-bean” Pop’s greeted.

“Morning Winry, did you change your bandage?” Papa questioned.

Putting my hand on my head where I had the cut “No, I cleaned it and it needs to dry out” I informed him.

“Come off it Papa, Winry has had far worse injuries. She knows how to take care of herself.” Ma bragged.

The scrambled eggs were the first thing that I have eaten since breakfast yesterday. My stomach was so happy to have food in it. “Winry, we have decided to take you after school to pick out your first car.” Papa announced. I looked up at them shocked

“What?” I exclaimed shocked.

Ma started to cry sitting at the table. “Oh, cut that out Kathy. There is no call for that.” Pops grumbled.

Ma wiped the tears away “She’s growing up so fast and becoming so independent.” Pops shook his head and looked at Papa.

Papa sat reading his newspaper as he does every day. “Honey, we can’t keep her from growing up.”

Pops nudged me “So what car are you going to look at? Bentley? You know, I suggest you take a long look at the Bentley lot across town.”

I shook my head. “An Impala” I answered.

Papa put his newspaper down to get a good look at me. “Impala” they questioned.

“Well there will be time to get your dream car later. Right now we should look at a first car.” Ma suggested.

CHIME! My phone went off. “Who is texting at seven fifteen in the morning” Papa questioned. I opened the message: ‘I’m outside.’ That’s all it said. Who is this? It can’t be, could it? I never gave him my number.

“Well” Ma insisted. My heart started to race. If it is Roman and he is here Ma, Papa and Pops will see him. How am I supposed to explain how I know him? Better yet, why he is here this early in the morning. They all stared at me waiting for my answer. “Oh, it’s my ride” I blurted out.

Papa looked at me dumbfounded “What ride?” Ma shook her head and folded her arms. Giving me the adult version of ‘oh no you didn’t.’ I have only one way out of this. I hate to do this, especially for  the likes of  him.

I jolted up slamming my hands on the table “Yes! My ride! I asked a friend to pick me up so I didn’t have to walk or bother anyone to drive me across town. You all would know if you had let me say a word last night!” I yanked my bag off the chair and stomped out of the house. When I got to the sidewalk I relaxed. They could not see me anymore and I was very convincing. It has been a long time since I had to use that trick. It always fooled mom and dad.

“You’re late” Roman called to me from down the block.

This guy, who does he think he is? It’s not like he is the only person in my universe. He tossed the helmet to me and started his bike. Besides the fact that Roman was driving the ride was quite relaxing. Taylor was always teaching me about motorcycles and cars. For a smart guy he was the top nerd of mechanics. He had always said that there is no feeling like the one you get when you’re on a motorcycle going down a road.

Roman stopped in front of my school. Quickly I removed the helmet and got off the bike. I had time to go do some of my homework before class.

“Hey” Roman called after me. I turned to him. “I’ll pick you up after school” he informed me.

I gave a soft smile “That won’t be necessary. Papa is taking me to pick out my car after school today.”

He didn’t say anything. He put the helmet on the back of his bike and took off.  It felt like a victory, I got to tell him no and there was nothing he could do about it. I’m becoming a bad person. To hate on him like this. That’s not who I am. Given he deserves some hostility due to the way he dragged me into this scheme of his. I can’t let myself become like this. I have to change this.

Walking into the school I could hear chatter and whispers. Then I noticed the staring. What is going on? I went to the bathroom to see if something was on my uniform. I checked myself for oil or wax stains. There was nothing wrong with my uniform. My hair was a tad on the frizzy side, only because of the stupid bike helmet. I heard a group girls walking in. Dashing into a stall I sat quietly.

“Did you see that?” One girl said surprised.

“Who does she think she is?” another girl questioned.

“She’s that new sophomore right? The one who came here a month late?” The tall girl wondered out loud.

“Ya, that’s right. I remember her. She was quite the item when she got here. No one is let in late. Ever.” The first girl answered.

“Did anyone ever figure out why she was let in late?” The tall girl asked.

“Oh,” the second girl shouted “…they said it was due to special circumstances. The staff was uniquely tight lipped, well the ones who knew.” The second girl looked at the tall girl “Tristen, why do you think she was let in late?”

I held my breath. Tristen, as in Tristen Blonk, the girl that Roman didn’t want to date!

Tristen looked at her “I don’t know. But I am going to find out. Her dirty little secret will be my weapon against her. She thinks she can waltz into my school and take my boyfriend. She has another thing coming. I will expose her for the phony she is in front of everyone at this school.”

I felt my stomach drop to the floor. I have a bad feeling about today.

“Tristen…” the first girl called cautiously “…but, you’re not dating Roman.”

Tristen looked at her “Yet, Mary, I’m not dating him, yet. Let’s go to class before we are late.” They left for class and the restroom was quiet again. I sat there with butterflies in my stomach.

The rest of my day was just as bad. If someone was not coming up to me asking if it’s true that I’m dating the famed Roman Parks they were telling me that I was a man stealer and I needed to give Roman up before things got bad. Really, I thought things could not get any worse than yesterday. As long as it’s not as bad as yesterday I think I can survive it. How long could he possibly want to drag this scheme on for anyway? At lunch I got some vitamin water from the vending machines and a power bar. I glanced at the maker of the power bar ‘Parks Inc.’ Beth was not joking they are all over.

“Why are you here” Beth asked as she walked over.

I felt bad that she had to endure all the drama during class. We sit next to each other all day. She did not ask for this. To be honest neither did it. I was blackmailed into it. “I thought it was nice enough to eat outside” I responded as I took a drink of my water.

Beth looked around then back to me “In the breeze way?”

The breeze way between the new Gym/ Grand Theater and the main Girls High school was like a metal encased walkway. For such a high prestige school they really skimped here. “Someone locked the door to the roof. Besides, no one ever comes here unless they have to” I reasoned.

Beth sat next to me “Here I brought you a rice crispy treat and a Banana.”

I smiled and took them from her. “Thank you Beth” I replied. Beth and I eat in the quiet, dimly lit breeze way alone.

“You know there are two ways up to the roof. We could try them both tomorrow” Beth suggested with a smile.

She is something else. When I first got here she was the only one who was not prodding as to why my arm was in a cast and how come I came in late? She walked up to me at my locker took my bag and said ‘I’m Beth Truman. We’re going to be best friends.’ Like it was the normal thing to do. From that day we really did become best friends.

“I don’t want to make you suffer with me all day, Beth. It’s not fair to you” I solemnly explained. Beth slapped the back of my head. “Ow” I cried out.

“Suffer? This is the greatest thing to ever happen in this school. My best friend is dating the hottest guy in the town, not to mention richest. And I’m in love with one of your boyfriends underlings. This is by no means a suffering matter” Beth scolded me.

I gawked at her amazed. It would be Beth who could find something good in this situation, she’s good at it. “Ok, I got it.” I smiled at her. I have to admit, I’m glad she is sticking with me. I don’t know how I would get through all the bullying that’s on its way alone in this prep school.

Walking to class Beth and I continued to talk about how she is in love with Tanner. I’m starting to think it’s a one-sided love. It is clear that Beth does not see it that way, yet.

“Oh Winry, by the way I hope you don’t mind, I gave Tanner your number last night when we were talking” Beth informed me so casually.

I looked at her with a glare “You did what? Why would you do that?” I questioned her.

“Well he mentioned that he might have to leave before talking to you. So I gave him your number just in case. I also gave him mine too. And you know what? He texted me last night!” she exclaimed while she squeezed my arm “Even though it was just to say that you was on your way to the library. But, still.” Beth you gave them my number. What am I going to do with you? I guess that’s how he got ahold of my number.

I hadn’t run into Mr. Bane today. Usually he is in the halls talking to Miss Saunders during lunch and before school. But today I’m glad that I only have to deal with him once. Seventh hour and only for forty-five minutes. I have to listen to him lecture us on history. I hadn’t told Beth about what happened with creepy Mr. Bane. I had yet to tell anyone for that matter. It was embarrassing and anytime I think about it I feel sick. I had Beth trade me seats for today. I wanted to be by the window not the aisle. Creepy Mr. Bane walks up and down the aisles during class. The last thing I want is for him to accidently touch or talk to me.

“Today class, we're going to do something different…” Mr. Bane started class “…You are going to pick a topic in History and you are going to make a lesson plan for your topic. You will have this week to start and the weekend to finish it. By Monday you will have made a twenty minute lesson on your topic. We’ll be listening to them next Tuesday. Everyone is expected to take notes and I will devise a test from the accumulation of your lessons. That will be half of your final exam grade. So do well.”

The class erupted in a mixture of disappointed and excited chatter. Mr. Bane took down each student’s topic. Beth chose the Race to the Moon.

“Winry Teets” Mr. Bane called my name for my topic.

“Egyptian Mummification” I answered. I remembered Mr. Bane telling Ma how the Egyptian era of history was his least favorite, mostly due to the fact that his mother was obsessed with it. I honestly like the Egyptian era, at the same time I wanted to do something that he would be put off by. What better topic than the one he likes the least.

We had started drawing up the outline of our lesson plans. Beth leaned over to my paper and pretended to be talking about the lesson plan. “By the way you never told me what creepy Mr. Bane wanted to talk about yesterday” Beth whispered to me, “Come on, what happened? Did he want to talk about coming over this weekend to hang with Mr. Lee again?” She giggled.

“No” I answered shortly trying not to think too much about it.

“Then what did he want? Was it about the cut on your head” she sounded worried.

I looked over to her outline, pointing to her paper “You should focus on the machinery or the actual landing. How it was televised, that should help make it interesting.” I suggested to her.

“Ya, I’ll do that. You think he will be grading on how interesting it is?” she asked me nervously.

“You know many people won’t take notes and he is going to devise half of our final exam from these lessons. You want to make sure people don’t sleep through your lesson” I reminded her.

Looking frustrated at her lesson plan “Hum, maybe I should change my topic to something exciting? I’ll go ask if I can change my topic.”

Beth is easily distracted, poor thing; she won’t realize that I didn’t answer her till later. By that time I will be with Papa picking out my first car and my phone will be off. Topic avoided for today.

Beth came prancing back to the desk “He let me change my topic” she exclaimed “The Gothic Romance era!” she started jumping up and down.

“That’s wonderful, Beth” I smiled for her. RING! The last bell rang. I was relieved for this school day to be over. I put up my books and grabbed my homework. Beth and I walked out to the front gates to wait for Papa.

It was three forty-two before we knew it. “Sorry Winry, I have to go home now. Maybe Mr. Lee is just running late” Beth offered me a gleam of hope as she got into her dad’s Black Chrysler 300.

I waved till Beth and Mr. Truman were out of sight. Papa had never been late to pick me up before. When he was unable to make it he always called me. To let me know or Ma came to pick me up. I got out my phone and called Papa.

“Hello” Papa answered.

“Papa, I’m…” I started to ask him where he was but he interrupted me.

“Oh, Winry, I’m sorry I got called to a high profile case. I can’t make it. I just called Ma’s clerk and she won’t be out of court till late. Pops went back to DC this morning so I called and asked Oden to take you home. I have to go now. See you at home.” Papa quickly explained and then hanged up without a response from me.

I was fine with them being busy. If I had known sooner I could have asked Beth if I could get a ride home. Instead, he calls Mr. Bane. If only he knew the type of person Mr. Bane is he would not allow him to take me home. I suddenly felt dizzy and sick. I felt my chest get tight, it was hard to breath. I closed my eyes then grabbed my chest and pushed in, trying to make the pain stop. The thought of having to be in the same car as Mr. Bane and who knew what would happen is enough to make me want to runaway.

I heard a loud noise. I glanced up to see if it was Mr. Bane coming to pick me up. What a creep, he knows I’ll be home alone. We’ll be alone in his car too. So many things can happen in the short drive from here to my house. I’m going to have to tell Papa about him so this won’t happen again.

I looked down the street and did not see Mr. Bane; instead I saw Roman, Tanner and Justin barreling down the street on their bikes. They pulled up to the curb in front of me and parked.

“Your Dad canceled on you?” Justin asked concerned with a bit of a pained look, “You look pale are you sick again?”

Roman looked at me from his bike. Making no effort to talk to me.

“You pull a mussel lifting something,” Tanner harshly questioned.

What are they doing here? The pain in my chest subsided and I could catch my breath again. “What? Were you guys stalking me?” I scoffed. Trying to hide my anxiety.

Justin laughed “Why would we do that? We were just on our way home and spotted you standing here” he explained.

Tanner looked at me with cold eyes “Don’t think so highly of yourself.”

I don’t, the fact that the boys part of the campus exit and entrance is on the west side. It didn’t make much sense that they came from the East.

“Winry” a voice called from behind me. I froze solid, I knew who was coming, Mr. Bane. I looked back slowly. He was walking down the school steps with his briefcase in hand. He was ready to leave for the day. Waving me over Mr. Bane smiled his normal smile. Looking at him I felt my stomach fill with active butterflies.

“That’s the same teacher from yesterday. Is he family or something” Tanner wondered.

My heart started to race, my stomach began to turn. I looked back to Roman “You said you were going to pick me up after school, right” I reminded.

Roman, already tossing me the helmet. It was like he read my mind. I put it on as fast as I could. I kept fumbling the clip; my hands would not stop shaking.

“Winry, get off that bike” Mr. Bane yelled at me running toward us.

“No worries, Mr. Bane, I got a ride home” I yelled back as Roman took off.

I did not hesitate wrapping my arms tightly around Roman so I didn’t fall off. His speed was a bit slower today. He drove a lot like Tanner drove yesterday. I didn’t care where we were going as long as it was far away from Mr. Bane. Oh crap, Mr. Bane. He has every right to call Papa or Ma and tell them about this. The trouble he can cause over this. The trouble I can be in if he says anything. I can’t worry about that now. I need to calm down now. I don’t need to start having panic attacks again.

Roman stopped at the Tea Shoppe. I got off and handed him the helmet back. “Thank you” I muttered. My hands were still a bit shaky so I gripped them on the strap of my bag. I need to get a grip on myself. It will all work out. One way or another. I just need to calm down.

Roman got off his bike walking up to me he took one of my hands off my bag gently. No matter how much I wanted for my hand to stop shaking completely, the more anxious I became. “Chamomile” Roman spoke in a loud voice.

“I’ll let cookie know” Justin replied as he went in. Roman gently towed me into the tea Shoppe. His gentleness surprised me. This is an unexpected side to see. After everything that happened yesterday I never would have thought that he would have this side to him.

The round booth was empty with a card on it saying reserved. Roman got into the booth first with me in tow closely behind. Tanner sat at the bar talking to a blond girl. She was clearly taken by him, I could not tell if he liked her back or if he was just toying with her. Justin nudged him as he walked by with a teacup in hand. Tanner immediately followed Justin without giving the girl one more thought. She looked hurt as he up and walked away. Justin set the tea in front of me then scooted into the booth next to Tanner.

“This will help with whatever ails you.” Justin assured me as he gestured to the cup.

I took a sip of the tea. It was unsweetened and a bit biter yet, the aroma and taste are refreshing. Justin was right; I did feel better after drinking some. My hands began to stop shaking and my chest relaxed. Who knew tea could do such wonderful things.

“So who is that teacher to you?” Roman demanded.

I set the cup back on the saucer. “A teacher who happens to know Papa” I answered in a low voice.

“If that’s all why are you so quick to get away from him” Tanner scoffed.

With my nerves calmed I reached into my ID badge. I placed a ten dollar bill on the table. “Thank you for the ride and the tea. I need to be going now” I responded. I got up and put my bag back on. My hands have stopped shaking finally. I think I’ll have to get some more of this tea at home.

I smiled faintly at the blond girl that Tanner had talked to as I left. She smiled and nodded back. She seemed nice and kind hearted. She would have to have some tough skin to work in that Tea Shoppe with Roman and his gang hanging out there every day. I was only eight blocks from home and this side of town was more safe than most. The Mayor lives only three blocks from here. So cops are patrolling this area all the time. Being safe is no problem here. What my problem now is if someone recognizes me and tells Papa that I was walking home.

“Wait up” a voice called to me.

I could not place the voice over the cars driving by. For a moment I was scared to turn around and see who had called after me. Taking a deep breath I turned around. Roman was jogging toward me. The last person I expected to see is Roman. Justin’s more likely to show up then Roman. Justin is clearly kind, not spoiled rotten. Roman caught up in no time. He handed me my ten dollar bill back

“It was my treat, you don’t pay when you're with me” he stated. Ya, there goes his spoiled ego. I took the money and stuffed it in my jacket pocket as I started walking again.

Roman walked next to me in silence for the next two blocks. Oddly enough it was awkward and yet comforting at the same time. We paused at the last stoplight before turning into the residential area. This light is always long. Papa thinks that someone has changed the settings. We can spend a good five minutes just waiting for the light to change some times.

“You called that teacher Mr. Bane” Roman questioned.

I looked to see if the light was going to change any time soon. “Ya” I answered “that’s his name.” I wanted to get home before the next patrol car came by. With my luck lately it would be someone who knows me.

Roman was quiet for a time.

“Green” I whispered relieved. Darting across the intersection I did not pay much attention to weather Roman was keeping up or not.

“As in Creepy Mr. Bane, who is rumored to have an affair with a student last year, Mr. Bane. The same one who flirts and hits on students in his office behind closed doors” he questioned. Roman looked at me intently as he spoke.

This conversation is not making me feel any better. “The one and only” I replied. We made it to the residential area just as the patrol car drove past the light. I was finally in the clear. I slowed my pace a bit; I no longer needed to rush. The silence between us rose again. I wondered how he could think there was another Mr. Bane at that school. Far as I knew he is the only ‘Bane’ in this town, maybe even state.

I opened the back yard gate to the house without thinking I didn’t turn to shut it behind me. Hands latched onto my shoulders and spun me around. Roman gazed deep into my eyes. His face was so close I could smell his minty hot breath.

“If he has ever touched you; if he ever touches you, tell me” he demanded.

Someway gazing back into his eyes I was not worried or concerned. What I saw in his eyes was determination. A look I have seen before many times. I nodded acknowledging his demand. This is not a conversation I wish to be having. I just want it to go away like some bad dream.

“I know he has done something. You get pale and sickly looking when you talk about him or see him. You are too quick to avoid him. You shook so much you had a hard time getting the helmet on and even after you was away from him you still shook. Tell me” Roman ordered.

I never thought he could have this side to him. I wanted someone to tell about yesterday. I need to tell someone, I need to talk to someone about his advances. Is it OK to tell Roman?

“Winry, where have you been” Mr. Bane questioned as he walked around the side of the house.

Roman kept his eyes and hands on me.

Romans eyes and his presence made me feel safe. “I got a ride home” I answered turning to face  Mr. Bane.

Mr. Bane crossed his arms “With a gang of boys on bikes that you don’t know. Yet, you show up here after me. Minus the bike and the gang. I ask you again, where have you been? If Joe or Kat were to…” he warned.

Roman turned around “Well they don’t now do they.” He mocked Mr. Bane. “If they did they would of called or be here. So they don’t know. More importantly she is home safe and sound.”

Mr. Bane glared at Roman. “I see you’re a boy from Marrow. You have brought her home safely so you can leave now. You have no reason to be here” Mr. Bane warned.

Roman moved me behind him. With a protecting pose Roman sniped at Mr. Bane “I’m not going to leave until my girlfriend asks me to.”

Mr. Bane glared at him then looked at me “Girlfriend? Boy, if you don’t leave this instant I will call the cops.” Mr. Bane yelled.

Roman laughed “Go ahead when they get here I’ll tell them all about what you did to Winry. You know her dad is a detective, right?”

Watching this exchange made it hard to breath. The pain in my chest was back. I tried hard to hide the fact that I was having this trouble. If Mr. Bane caught wind of this he would never leave. The longer this goes on the worse its getting.

Mr. Bane froze. “What?” He pretended to look shocked. His acting was horrible. Papa said he has always been a terrible liar. “Winry? Eh, honey. What did you tell him?” Mr. Bane looked at me hurt with a confused smile. I squeezed my eyes shut to hide the tears of pain and avoid his gaze.

“How dare you ‘honey’ her? Just how do you think her father will react when he hears about it” Roman threatened “You know you're right. Someone should call the cops. Maybe they can sort this all out” Roman took his phone out of his pocket.

“Stop” Mr. Bane yelled putting his hands out “I’ll leave. I’m leaving. There is no need to do that.” Mr. Bane backed quickly out of the yard and to his car. He frantically got in and left.

When he was out of sight Roman spat at the ground “Disgusting pervert.”

I felt dizzy and I could not catch my breath. My arm started to feel funny like it was asleep. I reached out to try and steady myself on anything “Roman” I mumbled as I started to fall. Roman turned around and caught me before I hit the ground.

“Winry” he yelled “What’s wrong?”

I tried to get in my bag. “My meds, I need them.” I mumbled.

Roman hastily rummaged through my bag and pulled out a small vial with three small pills in it. He opened up the vile and handed me one pill. I put it under my tongue. “Should I call an ambulance” he asked panicked.

I shook my head no. “Give it time” I whispered.

After a minuet of a horrible powdery bitter taste in my mouth my symptoms started to subside. I sat up and started to calm down Roman. He looked like he just walked into a horror movie.

“What was that” he demanded “What the hell are these?” He threw my vial at me.

“It’s referred to as a panic attack. People suffering from PTSD get them frequently. That was the first one i’ve had in months.” I explained looking at the vile. Roman nodded trying to absorb all the information that I had just given him. He helped me to the front door. My uniform had grass stains on the back. I was going to have to get them out before Ma gets home.

I unlocked the door. I thought about inviting Roman in but, it’s late and Ma should be home any time now. I turned to thank Roman and say good night.

“You have PTSD” he asked gazing at me.

“Thank you, and good night.” I spoke softly. Careful to avoid his question.

“Answer me” Roman Demanded “Stop avoiding my questions, Winry!”

“No, I’m recovering from PTSD. You really should go before Ma gets home.” I urged. He turned without another word and walked away. I stood in the doorway till he was out of sight.

Ma got home after I finished dinner. She brought home desert for the three of us. “Papa should be home soon.” She announced. I put out the plates as Papa pulled in. The Cherry Cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory was Papa’s favorite. Ma only brought this one on special occasions or when she knew Papa had a horrible day at work.

Papa came in quiet as he always does when he has a bad day. We sat and eat in complete silence. Ma looked up after finishing her slice. “Winry did Oden make you wait long?” Ma asked. This is something that I had not expected. Did he call Ma?

“Um, no; I got a ride home. I did tell him that I had a ride before I left.” I answered. No need to lie, if this is a trick I should be as honest as possible.

Papa looked up from his plate at me “From whom? You said on the phone you was alone” Papa remarked.

“No, Papa, I said I’m waiting for you.” I gently corrected him.

He leaned back nodding “Yes, that’s right.”

Ma set her plate aside “So who brought you home?”

This was making me feel uneasy. Papa finished his plate and set it aside too. This was an interrogation not a friendly discussion of how my day went. I can expect nothing less from them though.

“Oden called me today after I got off the phone with you. He said that you had suddenly told him you had a ride and took off. You didn’t even clear it through him or us” Papa remarked.

Ma’s expression changed to her courtroom look; the blank and cold gaze. “Bane then called me when he arrived at the house…” Ma stated coldly “…and you were not home yet. He said he would wait here. But what he told me but didn’t tell Papa was that you left with a boy.”

Papa shot up out of his chair yelling “A boy! What boy!”

Ma took Papa’s hand and patted it. “Calm down, Joe” she spoke sweetly “He told me that he was going to wait till she arrived.” Papa’s face got red, just another bad day. Mr. Bane had to make things worse by calling them. Did he think that was smart considering what he has clearly implied behind closed doors?

“Yes” I replied “I got a ride from a boy. No, my Boyfriend. Yes, I would rather get a last minute ride with anyone as long as they weren’t Mr. Bane. And no, I did not go straight home. My boyfriend treated me to an afternoon drink before going home. It was kind and sweet of him too.” I stood up and got frustrated “You up and left me waiting with no mention that you was not going to show up. Didn’t bother to call me but had the time to call and talk with Mr. Bane? You didn’t even ask me if I was comfortable being driven home by him. When my boyfriend came by on his way home he offered me a ride. I took it; I’m more comfortable with my boyfriend than I am with creepy Mr. Bane. You would know this stuff if you ever asked. However, you don’t” sobbing I sat back down “You don’t ask. You don’t listen to what I have to say. You take Mr. Bane’s word and didn’t even ask my side of the story. You just rather interrogate me at the table like some criminal.”

Papa came over and hugged me. “I’m sorry Winry, you’re right.” Papa apologized kindly. Squeezing me in a bear hug till it was hard to breathe. “I should have called you. I should have asked what you wanted to do. You’re not a child, I know. We had no idea you didn’t like Oden that much.”

Ma walked over and gave me a hug as well. “It’s OK Winry. We knew about the boy” she assured me.

I looked at them, wiping the tears away “How? I hadn’t told anyone yet.”

Papa hugged Ma they looked at each other with a loving smile “Pops told us” Ma giggled “He went to make sure you were OK after this morning’s upset. That’s when he seen you put on a helmet and get on the boy’s bike. The boy had on the same uniform.”

I thought my chest was going to explode. They put me through all this knowing about Roman. How cruel; how sadistic, such cruel and unusual punishment. They sat here and interrogated me knowing that I would not lie and further more about Roman.

“Of course he could only get a partial on the bike but I held off running it, for now.” Papa laughed lightheartedly “Even though Pops was persistent that I run it right away. But Ma and I decided that it was best to wait and see what you tell us about this boy.” This was cruel on so many levels, even for them. Ma sat Papa back in his chair.

“Ok, now for the important news” she declared “I went to the doctor today. I have been having trouble eating and a pain I can’t explain.”

Papa nodded intently. I know how it has worried him that Ma has been sick. Ma’s mother died a few years ago from cancer. That’s all he can think about. Ma getting sick and him having to live without her. I leaned on the table waiting the test results.

“The Doctor said that I.” Ma paused for a moment. I could see the look on Papa’s face. He was scared and worried. “I’m pregnant.” She exclaimed.

I looked at Papa and thought he was going to pass out. He went pale as a ghost and fell back in his seat. Ma smiled big “He said that I’m 14 weeks. I’m due in the fall.”

“But the doctors said we couldn’t have kids” Papa’s shocked tone and expression was not dampening Ma’s excitement.

“But we are Joe. I’m thirty six and you’re thirty seven. It’s a little late but we’re going to have a baby!” Ma looked over at me “Winry you’re going to have a baby brother or sister.”

I went to bed after telling Ma how happy I am for her and Papa. But honestly, I was not sure how excited I was about it. I had siblings; an older brother Taylor and younger brother Jaycee; but they’re gone now. I don’t think I could handle it if something happened to this baby.

Laying in a hot bath before getting ready for school is way too relaxing. Yet, here I am. I could hear Ma and Papa in the guest bedroom next to my room, it connected to this bathroom. They were talking about remodeling it for a boy or girls room. I could see them once the baby is here deciding that they don’t like the layout and working feverishly to change it. CHIME! A text? I got out of the tub and went to the counter to check the message. New Message from Unknown: How are you feeling today? J

It must be from Justin. I quickly replied that I was fine. Then got dressed and headed down for breakfast. With the state that Ma and Papa were in given the intense discussion about the remodeling I assumed they were both taking the day off. I grabbed a bagel to eat real quick.

“Who is taking me to school?” I called up the stairs.

Papa peaked down “Oh, I’ll take you.”

I was late for class because Papa got chatty with a pal of his he’d seen buying some coffee.

“Wow I thought you was sick or something” Beth remarked as I took my seat. “I see you didn’t get your car.”

I groaned “Nope, but I got a headache for my trouble.”

At lunch Beth took me the back way to the roof. The teachers use the roof to smoke so they have put up some shady canopies. The quiet was just too much for Beth. She had to babble to ensure some type of noise. It was the only time I’m left alone. Many of the girls here do not like the fact that I’m ‘dating’ Roman. It’s like some unspoken rule that Tristen and Roman belong together. I am met daily with rude girls, nasty tricks and even more hateful words. I opened the door to the locker room and got a pail of stagnate water doused on not only me but Beth too. I could not tell Beth that I am supposed to be pretending to date him. She gets so aggravated at the other girls she has been sent to the principal’s office this week for yelling at them in my defense.

Finally Friday is here again and the weekend is on its way! All this week pranks and bullying has plagued me. The inside of my locker had been sprayed with so much silly string that it took me a while to clean it out. Everything was covered in the sticky stuff. I decided till this was all over I would just carry my books with me. It’s safer than dealing with all this trouble. My gym clothes had chunks of fabric cut out. Walking from class to class I constantly get pushed and my feet stomped on. Whispers calling me ‘a man stealer’ and ‘whore’ from girls all over the school older and younger followed me all day long. Tacks in my shoes, clothes missing, books stolen and my hair got cut while I was in class by one of Tristen’s minions.

Beth and I eat our lunches outside on the roof every day this week and last week. Roman did not text me or show up out of the blue either. The last communication I had got from any of them was Justin asking if I was OK. My week was fairly normal outside of school. Ma and Papa started the remodeling. “Papa could not agree on a single car for me to have as my first car. We have been to six dealerships in two days. You would think the car is for him the way he acts.” I groaned. Things felt normal until I was in school.

“Winry why go to drama class if you don’t participate?” Beth wondered as we were walking to a bus for the Drama field trip.

“It’s drama class Beth, ninety percent of the kids in are class don’t do anything anyhow, besides study and play on their phones” I reminded her.

Beth nodded “Yes, but what about you? Can you play anything,” She wondered.

I gently nudged her “I can play the piano.” She beamed at me. Beth can play the violin and has always wanted to learn the piano.

“You can, why did you not tell me before! My parents would not have had to go through three piano teachers this year” she laughed.

“Attention students” Mr. Bane announced to the bus “I am coming along as one of your chaperons. The boys Drama class will also be joining us. So behave like adults or get treated like children. It’s your choice.” Many of the girls were quietly screaming. Those who had a boyfriend in Drama or the Drama Club were allowed to attend the same field trip. Together there were about forty Drama and Drama Club students going on this trip; including both guys and girls.

As the guys started to board the bus girls started exchanging seats so they could be with their boyfriend. I sat at the back of the bus with Beth in the last seat. This way I would not have to worry about anyone doing something from behind me again. This way, I can see it coming. The bus started getting loud with chatter so I immersed myself in a game on my phone. There was nothing else to do till we arrived at the Theater down town.

Suddenly Beth plopped down in the seat making me drop my phone. “Hey, what’s the…” I looked over to see what her problem was. Beth was not who I found sitting with me. “Roman?” what is he doing here? Justin sat in the solo seat across from us. Beth sat in the set in front of him with Tanner. I could see the sheer joy emanating from her face. She must have moved to sit with Tanner. Leaving me alone in my seat and a spot open for Roman to sit.

Roman picked up my phone off the floor at his feet. Handing it to me “You dropped this.” He stated. I took my phone from him and went back to my game.

He blackmails me into pretending to dating him. He stalks me for the first two days. Then he disappears for the next few weeks. Suddenly he shows up next to me on a bus full of the hateful girls I have had to deal with for two weeks. Way to make things better you self-centered jerk. All this is going to do is add fuel to the fire that is already raging in my life. I sighed turning my attention back to my game.

“Why are you sitting back here” Roman questioned. I glanced at him; I noticed he was watching me play tower defense; if he knew the weeks I’ve had in school. How could he, he is the popular guy that everyone loves, the untouchable guy that I’m being harassed for ‘dating.’

Gritting my teeth “If you had the week I’ve had, you would sit at the far back too.”

“Good to see you Winry” Justin called from across the way.

“You too Justin” I replied. Roman pretended not to be watching me play my game. I suppose he didn’t want people to think he was invested or something.

“What’s he doing here” Roman hissed.

Tanner leaned over “He is the chaperone for the girls, he volunteered.” I could feel the tension roll off him.

“You mean we have to watch as this rat tapes about the Theater are families rebuilt. All the while he stares at his female students” Justin grumbled as he leaned back in the seat.

“Sounds about right” Beth chimed in.

Tanner groaned “If I so much as hear he put the moves on another girl.”

Roman watched Mr. Bane intently “You will have to get in line” Roman declared.

Their families funded the remodeling project. The once great Opera theater had been abandoned over ten years ago. It was run down and in need of major repair or be condemned. Last summer a fund was established to restore it. Looks like these three families had a lot to do with it. The magnitude of this building cannot be understated. The restoration had been completed and they are set to open for their first Play, tomorrow night, since its closing ten years ago. I followed Roman off the bus and into the Merle Theater. The beauty of this place was breath taking. The project manager, play manager and building manager all greeted us. They soon began to tell us about this history of this place.

Beth and I, like most of the girls got caught up in the love triangle, death and prosperity that brought about this building. Soon I noticed that Roman was not beside me. Looking around I didn’t see Tanner or Justin either. Where could they have gone? Well I’m not his keeper. Our relationship is completely false. What should I care if he gets in trouble? I’m just his pretend girlfriend. Being near him will only further my trouble anyhow.

Next we were introduced to the stars of the show. “Winry, I have to pee” Beth whispered.

I sighed. “Ok, let’s go.”

We started looking for the restrooms. We walked back the way we came thinking they had to have the restrooms close to the entrance? Beth spotted a hall. Deciding to see if the restrooms are down the hall we started walking. Then we realized we were walking down a long corridor.

“There!” Beth pointed to a ‘restrooms’ sign hanging down the hall.

“Hurry up. If we get lost or get caught we could be in trouble.” I warned her.

Once she was finished we tried to find our way back to the group. Beth insisted on opening all the doors we came across to make sure they were not inside a room that we missed.

“Winry” Beth exclaimed and ran into one of the rooms.

“Wait, Beth” I ran after her.

I thought it was a room. I quickly realized we were standing on the side of the stage. Beth walked up to the middle of the stage. “Look a Piano” she exclaimed. She was like a kid in a candy store, spinning around under the light on the stage and bowing to a non-existent audience.

“Wow this is huge. You have to come and see this” she insisted.

I walked over to her, intent on dragging her back to the hall. “Beth we’re not supposed to be here” I scolded her.

She ran over to the Piano “Play something for me, Winry. I want to hear you play” she begged.

It is a beautiful grand piano. It must be used; its polished with light scratches on the keys. “It is a glamorous piano” I sighed in awe.

“Yes. Yes it is. So play it. It’s begging you to play it ,Winry. Can’t you hear it? ‘Play me! Play me, Winry!’ it’s calling to you” Beth pleaded.

I sat down placing my fingers lightly on the keys. This brought back so many memories of playing at home. “What do you want to hear” I asked.

Beth shrugged “Surprise me.”

“Ok” I replied.

I closed my eyes then started playing Fur Elise one of my favorites. As the music flowed from my head to the keys, memories came along with it. This was the first song I was taught how to play on the piano. Taylor wanted to make sure that I had a good appreciation of classical music. It was hard to learn versus other songs I could have learned. Mother enjoyed my playing while she cleaned the house. Little Jaycee would sit with me watching as I played for hours. He wanted to be like his big sis and bubba, he wanted to play too.

Dad always insisted that Taylor and I play every holiday. Thinking about them pained me. My heart ached for them. The style and the notes of the song began to change with my emotion. I missed them, I am still angry that they are all gone. They left me here alone with this unbearable pain and longing that I feel every day now that I’m without them. I looped the song one last time in order to leave off on a mellow beat as it should be. I felt at home playing on this grand piano that reminded me of the one I used to play. I still remember how mother and father would dance with Little Jaycee as the music played. I remembered playing with Little Jaycee as Taylor would play the piano on Jaycees last birthday. How happy we all used to be together. That is all I wanted; to again be that happy. I opened my eyes when I finished.

“Bravo” a voice bombed in the theater along with applause.

Startled, I stood up and looked to the audience. The entire class was standing applauding. It looks as though they had been sitting listening to me play. Butterflies filled my stomach as I realized we had been found out. Should have known this would happen. This building is built to amplify sound. What a lapse in judgment on my part.

“Amazing” someone yelled.

“Beautiful” another voice called out.

I looked to Beth she looked at me expressing the fear of trouble that I was feeling. Mouthing ‘Sorry, I could not stop you it was beautiful’ she excused.

The play manager Mr. Roundtree and a man I had not met yet walked up on the stage all smiles and applauding. “That was dire honey. The way you played Beethoven’s Fur Elise and with such graceful emotion. You can’t buy that type of talent” He complimented me.

The man next to him took my hand “Hello, I’m Mark Hicks president of the Millennia Artists Foundation.” Mr. Hicks gazed at me in admiration “Where did you learn to play like that?”

Mr. Roundtree stepped in Mr. Hicks way “You play superbly my dear. What teacher do you train with? Would you consider playing here for us during the citywide artist contest next week?”

I looked at them both. This was all overwhelming “Uh, I don’t train. That was far from my best. I have not touched a piano in over a year.” I answered them graciously.

The building manager called out “Well, let’s move on to see the backstage shall we?” The group moved up onto the stage and behind the curtains. Mr. Hicks and Mr. Roundtree continued trying to talk to me.

“What’s your name darling” Mr. Roundtree requested.

I turned to look at him just to be blinded by a light. I placed my hand up to block it. “My name? It’s…” I noticed something. Someone was in one of the VIP seats. Roman sat watching everything from his perch up so high. “…It’s Winry, Winry Teets” I answered. Mr. Roundtree and Mr. Hicks tried to get me to take their cards. I looked around and spotted Beth following the group. “Uh, I should return to the group. I’ll call you soon. But right now I need to get back to the group.”

I darted after Beth. I rounded the corner faster than I thought and ran right into Beth. “Sorry Beth” I apologized. I looked up to see Mr. Bane. Now we’ve had it.

“You two deliberately went off from the group and caused a ruckus, embarrassing me, your teachers and the entire school. When you go out with the school uniform on you represent the school,” He scolded us “I hope you had fun looking around. The field trip, for you two, is now over.”

Beth and I looked at each other. “What?” we exclaimed.

Mr. Bane pointed behind us “We’re going back to the bus. That is where you will spend the rest of this trip till we get back to Marrow. Then I will be calling both your parents and informing them of this incident.”

“This is unbelievable” Beth complained.

Mr. Bane turned us around and gave us a little push “March!”

Beth and I got on the bus without further fuss. We both thought this was unfair treatment. I lead us back to the seats we were in on the trip down.

“No, Winry you will sit at the back, Beth you will sit here” Mr. Bane ordered pointing to the very first seat on the bus.

Beth looked at me in disbelief. “He is overreacting” she whispered before heading back to the front of the bus. The trip was supposed to take four hours. It had only been just over one hour by the time we were forced back to the bus. Mr. Bane sat in his seat in the middle of the bust. It was quiet for a time. Beth and I started to text each other because creepy Mr. Bane would not let us sit near each other.

We talked about how out of hand this was getting. We both agreed to protest any punishment Mr. Bane or the school would impose on us. We did not hurt anyone. All we did was get lost, find a piano and play a short song. Where’s the harm in that. She had texted her mom and told her what had happened. Beth said that she was grounded for the weekend over it. I could only imagine what Ma and Papa are going to say.

I asked her if she had had any plans for this weekend that had to be canceled now. I waited for her reply for a bit. Then I peeked in the aisle to see if she was still lying down. She wasn’t, Mr. Bane had her phone and was talking to her. I could not hear what they were saying over the radio he had playing. I plopped back into my seat. He would be coming for mine next. What is with him; you would think we robbed a bank by the way he is acting. Instead of letting Mr. Bane get to Ma and Papa first I texted them both explaining everything that happened at the Theater. I told them that Mr. Bane was taking away Beth’s phone so I would lose mine shortly so I was going to shut it off. At this point we still had another hour and a half to wait before heading back.

I waited a long time for him to come and ‘confiscate’ my phone. It took him long enough but he came to the back of the bus and sat down. Leaning across the aisle Mr. Bane motioned for me to move closer. “Come here Winry” he called for me. Reluctantly I scooted over to the aisle. “Winry, you know what Beth and you did was wrong” he questioned.

I shrugged “I don’t see the big deal, they were more than happy about how I played. No one got hurt” I reminded him.

He gave me a serious look “That is no excuse. Give me your phone, I’m confiscating it. Joe or Kat will have to come pick it up for you from the office” he informed me.

I slapped my phone down in his hand with a cocky glare. He took it and put it in his pocket. That should be the end of this conversation he will go back and I will sit here fuming till I get to the school and Papa or Ma pick me up.

Mr. Bane sat back down and grabbed my thy keeping me from moving “Winry we need to finish discussing what we were talking about in my office” he demanded. I looked down at my leg where his hand was grabbing onto me. This really made me feel uncomfortable; his grip was tight enough that I could not move away. I wondered if Beth could see this from where she is. “Don’t worry, were alone. Beth had to go to the restroom” Mr. Bane reassured me as if he was reading my mind. My heart started to beat so hard that I thought it would beat out of my chest. She left me alone with him. How could she do this?

“I will overlook Roman’s interference for your sake. So, as I was saying…” Mr. Bane decided to continue where he had left off the other day. Putting his other hand on my other thy. “…When I met you I had never seen a more beautiful girl, correction, woman in my life. I know that you may have your boyfriend or whatever he is to you…” Mr. Bane squeezed my thigh harder with his hand as he mentioned Roman. “…saying that he loves you; that he wants to be with you and only you. This I can promise you Winry, he is nothing but a boy. He will cheat on you, break your heart or leave you. However, I would never do anything like that to you. You would never have to worry about me cheating or breaking your heart. I would take care of you in and out of school. You would never have to worry about grades or want for anything.” Mr. Bane leaned in closer as he looked in my eyes.

He said she went to the bathroom, surely she won’t be gone much longer.

“Do you understand what I’m telling you” he asked as he took a lock of my hair in one hand and slowly sliding his other hand up my thigh with his other hand moved loosely to my right shoulder. “It's in your best interest to see things my way and soon.”

“Mr. Bane” I struggled to find the words to say his hands and his words were jumbling my head “I. I uh…”

Bam! The doors to the bus opened. Mr. Bane jumped up and started back to the front of the bus. Rowdy and excited students came storming onto the bus. I moved back over by the window and put my head against the seat in front of me. I closed my eyes and pulled my skirt as far down my legs as it would go. I held my skirt there. It was school regulation past the tips of my fingers. Yet, somehow I felt like I was in a mini skirt. It was suddenly not long enough at all. What I wouldn’t give for a pair of jeans right now. Better yet, what I wouldn’t give to be home right now.

Whoosh, a gust of wind blew over me when Roman plopped down.

The bus is once again full of student. “What happened there is still an hour left in the tour” Mr. Bane asked.

“Early play rehearsal, they forgot about it during the scheduling. We have been invited back after the play has run for a few weeks” Miss Sanders exclaimed.

“Where’s Tanner” Justin questioned.

“He sat up there” Roman answered.

I assumed Tanner sat with Beth. Or maybe Beth forced Tanner to sit with her. We headed back to the school early. The bus driver and the teachers were debating as to who gets off first. It was sounding like the boys would be dropped off first.

“Hey Winry, how much trouble are you in for playing a piano” Justin asked “That was bull you and Beth getting canned for adding a little mystery and excitement to that boring tour. Hell, you are the reason we got invited back in the first place. They have to bring you.”

“Not bad Winry” Mary commended me “You spiced it up. Who knew what a diamond you are? You sure know how to pick ‘em Roman.” Mary turned back around to talk to her boyfriend.

“Winry don’t let it get to you. I’m sure the dean won’t do a thing to you or Beth. Were about to be at the school. Don’t worry about it and shake it off.” Justin tried to make me feel better.

Roman put his hand on my shoulder and tried to pull me back to sit upright. I brushed him off. I had no idea how to handle Mr. Bane anymore. I thought avoiding him would work. Then I had thought maybe Roman had scared him. In its place of Roman’s threats, he found fuel to keep pushing himself on me. Something has to be done. ‘When threats don’t work; then it’s time to stop bluffing and jump’ words of wisdom from Pops rang in my head.

“It’s nothing to get all twisted over.” Roman remarked.

I looked at him “Give me your phone” I ordered. He gawked at me like I was crazy.

“Oh, your phone was taken? Here use mine” Justin threw me his phone. I dialed a number pressed call then handed it to Roman.

“Talk” I ordered. I made my way down the aisle with a bee line to Mr. Bane’s set. I could hear Roman behind me. “Hello?... No, I don’t know. Winry dialed this number and handed me the phone…This is Roman Parks.”

Good Papa picked up. I have no idea if this will work. Or even if I can get out of this without getting in a lot of trouble, but it’s worth a try. Doing something is better than doing nothing at all. Here is where I jump, Pop’s. Cross your fingers and hope it works.

“She’s walking down the bus aisle…” Roman started to give Papa play by play of my movements. I fully anticipated this, that’s why I called Papa.

“Mr. Bane” I called standing behind him. I took a deep breath.

He turned around “Yes?” ☺

SMACK! I punched Mr. Bane as hard as I could in the face. Just the way Taylor had taught me to. I nailed him right in the nose knocking him out cold.

“Ah” Miss Sanders screamed in the seat next to him.

His face instantly became covered in blood, it was starting to leak onto the bus floor. I turned around satisfied, my heart racing with adrenaline. I calmly and emotionlessly walked back to my seat. The bus became quiet. I watched Roman as he spoke to Papa

“She...She just...With one hit.” Roman stood up to let me in the seat. I took the phone from Roman. I could hear Papa yelling into the phone

“She what? What’s going on there? What’s with the screaming? Answer me boy!” Papa demanded answers.

“Papa…” I called to him calmly “I need you. Please hurry” I ended the call before he could respond.

We stopped in front of the girls’ side of the campus. The bus driver and a senior boy helped carry Mr. Bane’s unconscious body off the bus. The bus was quickly evacuated. Justin and Roman refused to get off till Papa showed up. Miss Sanders did not argue she just simply told them they would be forced off by someone else. I watched out the window as Dr. Lewis attended to Mr. Bane. School security came and put up a human barrier so that other students would not have to see Mr. Bane. Tanner stood behind Mr. Bane consoling Beth who was crying in his chest. I hope she will be OK. I hope in time she will be able to understand what happened. She may be easily distracted but she is far from dumb.

“Uh, Roman” Justin’s shocked voice broke through my thoughts.

I looked over to him. Is Papa here already? Justin was pointing to my legs. I looked down and realized I had a bruise in the shape of a hand on my inner thighs where Mr. Bane held so tight earlier. I pulled my skirt over it and looked up at Roman. His face as calm just like it always is. His eyes told a different story; fury and hatred burned within him. I could feel the tears swell up in my eyes. Roman unbuttoned his blazer then took it off. He placed it over my legs. Somehow I felt guilty about what happened as Roman covered my legs. He took a deep breath and stood up. He started down the aisle. Justin jumped up and followed trying to pull him back. Roman got close to the doors and started walking faster.

“Tanner! Grab him!” Justin yelled.

I watched Tanner pry Beth off and ran toward the bus. Tanner caught Roman just after he got off the bus. Both Justin and Tanner pushed and pulled Roman away from where Mr. Bane sat talking with Dr. Lewis. Roman didn’t say a word he just kept trying to go at Mr. Bane. His eyes cold as the arctic glaciers giving such a death gaze. Tanner and Justin kept telling him ‘no’ he can’t. Miss Sanders looked on confused.

“What’s going on” an officer came walking up “I’m Officer Kurt.”

Miss Sanders ran up to him. “One of the female students walked up and punched her teacher, Mr. Bane here. I have no idea what’s wrong with these boys” she cried “Please do something. This is all so crazy.”

The officer turned to Roman, Justin and Tanner who were now standing still. Roman did not for one second take his eyes off Mr. Bane.

“Explain your selves” officer Kurt ordered. Tanner and Justin looked at Roman. They were all out of breath and panting.

Justin pointed to the bus “Go ask her” he suggested.

Officer Kurt looked at them suspicious. “You three boys go sit over on them steps. If you so much as make a move or sound I will arrest you.” He looked at the bus then to Mr. Bane “Do you need medical help?”

Mr. Bane shook his head “No need officer. Oh, I won’t be pressing any charges.”

Officer Kurt nodded turning his attention to the bus. He walked to the back of the bus slowly. “Hello there Miss.” Officer Kurt announced. I watched as he approached me with caution. “Can you tell me what happened” Officer Kurt requested nicely.

I looked him in the eyes “Where’s Papa. I want to talk to him only.”

Two more police cars pulled up. Papa and Detective Greenhorn in one and two other detectives in the second. Papa walked up to Miss. Sanders

“Where’s Winry” he demanded. Detective Greenhorn was trying to calm him down.

“Who was first on scene” Detective Greenhorn demanded.

Officer Kurt got off the bus “I was. The Victim is a teacher.” He began.

“Victim my ass” Justin scoffed.

“Quite you” Officer Kurt yelled at him “I don’t know what their story is or how they fit into this. The suspect is sitting on the bus. She refuses to speak to me. She is waiting for ‘Papi’ whoever that is.” He grumbled over my lack of conversation

“It’s Papa you indocile” Papa scolded him. He stormed for the bus. Detective Greenhorn pulled him back.

“No Joe, you can’t. If you get involved this could go bad for everyone involved” he warned him.

I could see Papa was shaking “She’s my little girl Ben” Papa pleaded.

“Detective Lee” One of the other detective’s called to him “Let us do our job. You will see her soon. I promise.”

Papa looked at him with a worried face then back to Greenhorn. “Ok, fine. You have five minutes then I’m getting on that bus and getting my daughter” Papa warned the Detective “You better do your best here.”

The two detectives boarded the bus, they walked calmly toward me. The first guy with blond hair looked at me “I’m Detective Hathaway this is my partner Detective Erne” Detective Hathaway introduced them. Detective Erne pulled out a notepad and pen.

“Can you tell us your name” Detective Erne questioned. I looked out the window. Papa was pacing the sidewalk chewing on his nails. Detective Greenhorn stood talking to Tanner.

“Winry Teets” I answered. I looked down at my lap covered by Roman’s blazer.

“Ok, Winry, can you tell us what happened?” Detective Hathaway asked. I grabbed the blazer tight.

“It was a trap, getting into so much trouble. I should have known better. I should have told someone.” I told them.

Detective Erne moved and sat across from me in the solo seat. “What was? Who got in trouble? Can you be specific?” he prompted.

I stood up and pulled Roman’s blazer off my legs to show them the bruises. “I was on are trip today.” I let them get a good look. Both seemed surprised by this development. Detective Hathaway left the bus. “ You would of thought we committed a crime how he treated us. Then he sent Beth to the restroom. So it was just him and me here, alone. He wanted to start where he left off last Monday in his office…” I cried as I started to tell them everything that had happened on Monday as well as today. Detective Hathaway came back on the bus with a camera and a blanket. They took my statement right there on the bus.

“Ok, Winry we need to get photos. Then we need you to go back to the station with us to get this all on tape” Detective Erne informed me.

“Can I see Papa and Roman before I go?” I asked wiping the tears off my face.

Detective Hathaway nodded solemnly “Yes, after I take the photos of the crime scene.” While Detective Hathaway was taking photos of the bus Detective Erne went out and helped Mr. Bane up. After assessing that he was OK he called to Officer Kurt “You have room in the back of your cab right?” Detective Hathaway asked.

Officer Kurt nodded “Of-course.”

“Good” Detective Hathaway spun Mr. Bane around and proceeded to cuff him. Papa walked over and started quizzing Detective Hathaway while he read Mr. Bane his right.

“What are you doing?” Mr. Bane wined.

“Mr. Bane you are under arrest for assault. You have the right…” Detective Hathaway escorted Mr. Bane to Officer Kurt's courser Papa froze for a moment in place. Students and teachers all looked on in astonishment. Papa turned to look at the bus. I could see he was in shock of the situation.

Papa ran onto the bus “Winry” he called for me. I ran up to him.

The Detectives took statements from all the students on the bus then released them. I was not allowed to see Roman. His parent’s lawyer wanted all of his attention. I went to the hospital to get checked out; Papa insisted. After that I went to the 22nd prescient and gave my statement again. I was not charged with anything but I had to agree to do community service for the next month for assaulting Mr. Bane; every weekend according to the state prosecutor. Papa and Ma barley spoke on the ride home. They barely spoke at all throughout this ordeal.

We pulled in the driveway around eight O’clock. I spotted Roman’s sportster parked in front of the house. I had held his blazer all night. I could not let go of it; it somehow made me feel strong and safe.

“The boy is here” Ma acknowledged.

“Yes, I’m going to give him his blazer back.” I answered.

I walked over to Roman. He leaned against his bike waiting for me. I could not think of what to say to him. Do I say thank you? Do I say anything at all? Standing before Roman on the sidewalk at night made me nervous. I extended my hand to give him his blazer back. He looked at his blazer, staring at it for a moment. Extending his hand he grabbed his blazer. Suddenly he grabs onto my arm and pulls me into his chest. Wrapping his arms around me he holds me. “You don’t have to be in pain anymore” he whispered in my ear. I embraced him and cried. Immersed in his arms I cried for the first time since the accident. Everything that I had been bottling up and hiding away came flooding out.

Roman began rubbing my back to sooth me. I tried to stop crying, I was getting his shirt all wet. I just couldn’t stop crying. “It’s OK. You have got to be the toughest girl I have ever met” he whispered in my ear.

I started to laugh “How is that? I’m crying” I responded.

He placed his hands on my face; looking into my eyes “You have held in a deep pain for so long, and then you have dealt with being bullied and a lustrous teacher all alone. You are entitled to cry” he graciously informed me.

I wiped off the tears and gave a heartfelt smile. “You know” I whispered “You’ll make a great boyfriend one of these days. Inside that tough exterior you are kind and caring. If only you would let anyone close enough to see it.” Roman gave me a smirk as he tucked my messy hair behind my ear.

“Winry, come inside now. He can come by tomorrow” Ma called from the front door.

I looked back at Roman, he gave me a nod. “Night” I waved good bye. I gazed at him as he started his bike and drove off. For the first time my heart kind of ached for someone who’s still alive.

Papa came out “It’s late” he told me.

“I know” I responded sadly.

Papa put his arm around me “Let’s go in, Ma ordered Pizza.”

~

“Winry, Wake up Hun.” Ma called to me. I woke up to see Ma sitting on the side of my bed.

“Ma?” I sleepily spoke.

“Time to get up. Papa and I have to leave you home today.” She muttered. I didn’t understand, still trying to wake up I tried my best to focus on her. “Marrow Prep Academy Board is having a parent meeting this evening at six. All the students’ parents will be in attendance. Right now Papa and I are going to meet with a Realtor. We both think for all of our peace of mind that we should move as quickly as possible. The guest room remodel is just about finished. The contractor will be here in a few hours, let them in to do their work. Order out whatever you want we left one of Papa’s cards on the table. Invite a few friends over if you start to get lonely.” Ma suggested. “There is an omelet downstairs waiting for you. Papa cooked it.” I looked at Ma scared. Papa’s cooking is normally terrible. “Hey, it’s not half bad.” Ma suggested. I looked at her skeptically. “Don’t let him see you through it out” She warned me.

I got up and went down stairs to the kitchen. Papa sat in his usual spot with his coffee and newspaper in hand. “Morning Papa” I greeted him.

Papa put down the paper “Morning Winry, I see Ma got you up finally” he grumbled.

“It’s still the weekend” I reminded him.

“Come on Joe we need to be getting a move on the Realtor won’t wait forever.” Ma implored. Papa got up putting on his jacket he kissed my head “Be good, we will be back late, so order out today.” I took a bite of the omelet nodding. Ma rushed Papa so they could leave quickly.

As projected Papa’s cooking tasted horrible. I chopped it up in the sink and sent it down the garbage disposal. I was the only one to use it. I doubt Ma and Papa don’t know they had one. I grabbed a package of pop tarts instead. The house is quiet. I can hear the birds chirping outside. I need to take a nice long soak; to wash this week away. I better get in before the contractors come to work on the guest room.

I got into a nice hot bubble gum scented bubble bath. It’s nice and quiet. I put a wet rag over my eyes and relaxed. I could not believe that Ma and Papa wanted to move. And so suddenly too. Last night Papa was so angry his captain gave him the weekend off. Well, he was forced to have the weekend off. He was forced to leave and sit in the car till I was ready to leave. They could not have him threatening and attempting to assault Mr. Bane while in custody. Mr. Bane insisted that nothing happened. He even said good night as I was leaving. Ma did her best to be strong. She too wanted to crawl across the desks. I felt bad for what happened. Ma is pregnant with a miracle child and both her and Papa have to go through this. Ugh. I have to just relax and let the worries go.

DING DONG! Startled I jump, splashing water out of the tub. Could that be the carpenter so soon? I swiftly got out, wiped down then through on a robe. DING DONG! The doorbell rang again.  

“I hear you” I yelled running down the stairs. DING DONG! “Hold on” I snipped opening the door.

“WINRY” Beth screamed giving me a hug. “Your house is so big and beautiful” she exclaimed. I stood there holding my robe tightly closed and thoroughly surprised. Beth, Roman, Tanner, Justin and Mary stood on my porch.

Beth pushed me away “Ew your hair is soaked” she complained. I looked at her unamused.

“Well, you going to invite us in” Tanner questioned folding his arms.

I quickly looked at them all “Uh, yes of-course. Come in” I invited them in “The sitting room is to your right.” I grabbed Beth’s hand and pulled her close “What is this” I demanded in a whisper.

“Oh” Beth giggled “we all thought you should have some friendly company today. It was the guy’s idea.” She pranced off gawking at my house. “I have never been inside your house. It’s so big” Beth remarked.

I walked over to make sure everyone was in the sitting room. “Well, I’m going to go dry off my hair. Make your self’s at home.” I suggested. Turning I hurriedly went up the stairs and into my room. I rummaged through my clothes trying to decide what to pick out. I decided on sequined feather long sleeve T-shirt. The sleeves are long enough cover my hands, they even have a slit in them for my thumb. I quickly put on my stone washed jeans. Using a towel to try and dry my hair as much as I could. Not having time to style it I tossed it around slapped some moose on it and called her good, a little messy and a little wavy.

Dashing down the stairs to check on my guests I could hear them laughing loudly. Walking into the sitting room I found Beth tossing Mary a hacky sack and Justin trying to get it from them. Roman sat in one of the reading recliners. Tanner stood looking at the vast array of masks from Africa that Pops bought.

“Ooh, cute look, Winry. This has to be the first time I have seen you in anything besides the school uniform.” Beth cooed.

I looked down at my clothes. There was nothing wrong with what I had on. I have known Beth a long time. Come to think of it she has never come over till today.

“What do you do when your home for fun” Mary nudged me.

I looked at everyone. They all seemed to be enjoying themselves alright. I’m thankful to know them. “I play games or go to Laser House” I told them.

Tanner looked at me “Laser House?”

“Ya, it’s a warehouse building remodeled so you can play Laser Tag.” I explained.

Justin came up putting his arm around me “You are my kind of girl. Let’s stop this foolishness. Dump Roman and date me.” He joked.

Roman pulled Justin off me “That is impossible. I would never let her go.”

“Why don’t we go play Laser Tag” Beth suggested.

Marry nodded “Ya, that sounds like so much fun. I have never played before is it hard?”

“We haven’t either so this should be interesting” Justin replied excitedly.

They all started picking up their stuff. “I can’t leave the house” I mumbled.

Roman looked at me “Why?”

I pointed up the stairs “The contractor is coming to finish the guest room. I have to stay home.”

Beth plopped down on the couch “Bummer. What will we do then?” Mary sat next to her bummed as well.

“I’m sorry” I replied.

Justin walked over “No worries, we will think of something to do.”

DING DONG! “That’s probably the contractor” I told them. I walked to the door and opened it to let the contractor in. The contractor was not there. Instead a man in a suit and a sour face waited.

“I need to speak with Winry Teets” he demanded as he pushed past me. I looked on the porch thinking this might be some kind of joke. Closing the door I went after the man in the suit.

“Just who are you?” I questioned him.

The man looked in the sitting room, glaring at my friends. Turning his attention to me “You are Winry correct” he presumed.

“Yes, I’m Winry. Who are you?” I demanded.

The man in the suit took out a card from his pocket “Charles Row your family’s lawyer. Where are your guardians? I am here on a weekend instead of with my family. I would like to get this taken care of quickly as possible” Mr. Row grumbled. Impertinent he walked on looking for Ma and Papa.

“Mr. Row their not here. Perhaps you can come back tomorrow” I suggested.

Mr. Row turned to me with a annoyed look “I came all the way from New York. This appointment has been in good standing for weeks. Why are they not here?” he demanded.

“Look Mr. Row; I’m sorry you came all this way. But they are out with a relater for the day, a last minute decision. You will just have to reschedule.” I declared.

Looking at his watch he sighed “Very well. You, Miss Teets can’t avoid this forever. You do realize what is at stake. I will be back tomorrow same time. I fully expect all three of you to be prepared.”

I opened the door with a smile “I’m fully aware. Good day Mr. Row.”

As Mr. Row walked out the door the Contractor walks up. “Good Morning Miss. We should be done today.” He assured me.

“Take your time.” I replied. Sighing I closed the door. I heard of Mr. Row a few times, mom talked about him before Jaycee was born. Deciding to get back to my friends I turned around. They all stood in the grand entrance gazing at me not saying a word.

I took a deep breath and walked to the kitchen. I passed them avoiding their gaze. I began opening and shutting drawers “Where is it” I mumbled to myself “Where did she put it?” Finally I found it, the key to open the liquor cabinet.

“Winry?” Beth asked. I opened the wine cellar doors and unlocked them.

“Winry, what are you doing?” Justin questioned.

I pulled the wine rack out and took a bottle of whiskey out then a bottle of fireball. I sat them on the island then I got out a whiskey glass. “I? I am going to have a drink. That is what I am doing.” I poured some of the fireball in the glass then some of the whiskey. “Then I’m going out to the backyard and sitting in the gazebo and enjoy my morning.” I slammed the whiskey bottle down. “That is what I’m going to do. Help your selves” I suggested. I took my glass and walked toward the patio door. Roman grabbed my hand and took my glass away.

“Hey” I whined. He sat it down on the island then towed me down the hall and up the stairs. “That was a perfectly good drink. What do you think you’re doing?” I scolded him. He pulled me into my room shutting it behind us. I stood in the middle of my room annoyed. “Answer me damn it” I demanded.

Roman quickly stepped over putting his hands on my face then kissed me. I pushed him away “What are you doing?”

He smiled “Kissing my girlfriend.”

I looked away “Pretend remember? Or did you forget?”

He began to laugh “Stop pretending to hate me so we can stop pretending were dating and actually be together.”

“It’s not funny Roman.” I warned.

He pulled me to him “I’m not joking. I’ve liked you from the moment I seen you standing in that alley. You’re strong willed but you’re just as fragile. So stop pretending already. Just date me” he pleaded. I looked in his eyes I could not believe that he said this.

I pushed past him. Walking back through the kitchen Beth was trying her best to seduce Tanner. He either was not interested or he’s good at faking it. I snatched my glass off the island and did as I intended. I’m going to have this drink. I’m going to sit outside. I’m going to relax. I don’t care what Roman says. I won’t allow myself to get played.

“Does your mom and dad know you drink?” Tanner asked as everyone came out of the house.

“Nope” I answered taking a sip of my whiskey mix. It’s strong and harsh but that is just how I like it. I can’t remember liking liquor or wine. I always favored the whiskey’s over anything.

~

“You’re moving, to where?” Beth asked hurt.

“A new house probably.” I replied.

“You’re surrounded by mystery, Winry” Justin remarked. Roman came outside with Justin. I could not make eye contact with him. I couldn’t look at him. Truth or lie, I just can’t tell with him anymore.

“Who was the suit” Mary asked.

I gazed at my glass letting the burning in my throat dull. “He’s my lawyer” I told them.

“That guy has never seen you before. How can he be your lawyer?” Mary scoffed. I took the last sip of my whiskey.

“Winry” Beth mumbled “he is your birth family’s lawyer isn’t he.” Mr. Row the family lawyer. What a joke. There is no family anymore. There’s just me.

“Birth family?” Roman questioned.

“Ya, you see Winry here was adopted last summer by Mr. and Mrs. Lee, her godparents.” Beth explained.

“That would explain why she acts different than the rest of us. She was not raised with money like we have been” Mary exclaimed. How irritating. It’s irritating how she thinks money is the answer to everything. “Wait” Mary implored us “If Winry was adopted who raised her? Where did she live? Was she in foster care? How revolting. The poor in foster care” Mary exclaimed.

I gawked at Mary, she had disgusted herself with her own question. Looking at me Mary waited for an answer. How do I respond to this blatant ignorance of her’s? I fear if I begin to speak I would not say one nice word to this ignorant child.

“Would it matter” Tanner asked her.

Growing impatient with me, Mary turned to Beth. “Beth you know her best. You knew she was adopted when the rest of us didn’t. Tell us who raised her? Where did she live before she was adopted?” Mary demanded.

Beth looked at her in awe “She never told me. I have never asked. It makes no difference. Besides, It’s rude, Mary.”

Mary turned her nose up at Beth. “Hump. Fine. Roman will tell us.” She ordered. I wished I still had whiskey in my glass. I would love to pour it on her snot nosed head.

Standing up “Mary” I declared “if it was any of your damn business, you would know. Seeing how it’s not. You don’t.”

Mary huffed “Well I never” she complained.

“That’s right. You never! You never think about other people. You have not tact or respect. You’re nothing but a spoiled self centered brat, and like many rich kids, you think you’re entitled to anything you want. The way you act is superior to anyone else. News flash: the world doesn’t revolve around you” I scolded her. “If you must know one year ago next Friday my entire family was killed in an car accident. I spent most of my summer in the hospital. So ya, technically I was in foster care. By the time I left the hospital I had been adopted by Mr. and Mrs. Lee. Not long after that I had the unfortunate pleasure of meeting people like you. How I survived knowing anyone with the likes of you I will never understand!” Insulted Mary stormed out of the gazebo.

“You didn’t have to tell her.” Beth muttered.

I glared after Mary as she left my sight. “I know. I’m just sick of hearing how money is the answer to everything. I have always had money. Thankfully I’m nothing like her.” I answered. People like Mary completely irritate me to no end. “Let’s go in. I feel the need to kick your ass at Monopoly, Beth” I joked. Smiling Beth jumped up looping her arm in mine we walked inside.

I put up the liquor so Ma and Papa didn’t know I had any out. Beth and Justin went to set up the game in the Den. I ordered Chinese and tea from the Tea Shoppe for everyone. Beth had a fun time explaining how to play to the guys. Weather they knew how to play or not.

The contractors finished the guest room early. I let them have some lunch before they left. “Thank you Miss but, you didn’t need to.” The lead contractor said.

I gave him a smile “We have plenty. Take some; I’m sure you’re hungry.”

“Winry, hurry up it’s your turn” Justin yelled for me impatiently.

I showed the men out then went back to our game. I sat back down; picking up the dice I rolled. “Six; one, two, three, four, five, six. Boardwalk and I’ll buy it from the bank.” I exclaimed.

Beth looked at me “That’s not right Winry, you always buy Boardwalk.” I took my card and gave her the money with a smile.

Justin looked at Roman “She’s a shark in business” he remarked.

“She owns most of the top grossing properties on the board. I’m out.” Tanner declared. Throwing what was left of his money at Beth.

“Hey it only took three hours but we finally forced him out” Beth joked. Tanner jumped up and walked out of the room.

Beth quickly followed after him “Tanner, come on. Don’t be like this.”

“He is such a player.” Justin grumbled “Toying with girls like Beth. He ‘otta be ashamed of himself.”

I laughed “I can guarantee he’s not the one being toyed with. Tanner won’t know what hit him when she’s done.”

Justin smiled “Oh really?”

“Yes, any game he can play she can play better. Guys like Tanner never see it coming. Watch if you don’t believe me” I suggested.

Justin looked at me “A bet then?”

“What’s the wager”

“If I win and Tanner toys with Beth you go to prom with me not Roman.” he suggested.

“Excuse me?” he hissed. Roman has been quiet up till now.

“If I win” I prompted.

Justin smiled. “I will buy your dream car.”

It sounded fair.

“I wager” Roman announced “That you both are wrong and they will end up together. If I win Winry has to go with me to my parents cabin next weekend and Justin has to change the oil on my bike. If I lose I’ll let Winry go to prom with you.” We all thought for a moment.

“Deal” I answered.

“Agreed” Justin declared.

“I should go find them” I suggested.

Roman got up and offered me his hand “I’ll go with you.”

We walked around the house looking for Beth and Tanner. No sign of either. RING! My cell began to ring. I looked at my phone it was Ma. “Hello” I greeted. ;Hello Winry. We think we have picked a house, But were going to continue looking just in case. How is everything?’ Ma asked. “Well, my lawyer came by. I convinced him to come back tomorrow morning.” I informed her. ‘Oh my, yes I completely forgot. Ok. Well I’ll talk to Papa. See you later tonight. Be good’ she responded. “I will.” I agreed.

“Winry!” Beth called from the sitting room. I turned, sitting on the couch twirling her hair Beth smiled at me.

“Beth, where have you been?” I asked. I had been looking all over for her.

“Oh just sitting here talking to Jessie” she shoved her phone in my face.  “Playing hard to get is so much fun.”

She can go from one guy to another. “Beth your Guy Bi-Polar” I joked.

Beth giggled. “I called you to tell you that I’m leaving. Oh and Tanner already left. Something about a girl waiting at his house, messing his room up or something. Well I’m off. I just wanted to say bye. Off to my date” Beth gleamed as she skipped out the door. Still in a mode of shock I tried to understand what just happened. I heard a sound of a motorcycle blare outside. Peaking out the window I seen Beth hopp on Tanner’s bike. Giving him a kiss she then put on the helmet. This is unbelievable.

I walked back into the den. Roman and Justin sat talking about how they are going to take back the game. “Oh, there you are. Did you find them?” Justin asked.

I looked at him a bit confused. “Ya, Tanner went home something about a girl in his room or something. And Beth left to go on a date with Jessy” I muttered. “Then I seen Beth kiss Tanner before getting on his bike. They just left.” Justin sat back in shock.

Roman smiled “I guess that means I win the bet.”

I looked at Roman “I have a feeling that you knew this would happen” I suspected that Roman had his hand in this.

“I guess I lose this game. Roman. Winry. I think I’ll head to Alice’s house. Maybe I can convince her to go to prom with me.” Justin thought out loud. I showed Justin out. I gave him a carnation from Ma’s garden to help with his mission to get a prom date. The sun had started to set and my stomach began to grumble.

I turned to Roman. “Will you be leaving or do you want some dinner” I questioned walking back into the house. Roman followed me into the house.

“So tell me. Are you really that innocent and confused angel or did you fake it to get out of an assault charge” He asked.

I smiled looking at him “I don’t know what you mean. I blacked out. I don’t remember anything from the moment I dialed Papa’s number to when I sat back down.”

Roman nodded “I see.” I ordered pizza for us to eat. “You aren’t as innocent as people think. That was some good scheming you did there.” He complimented me.

“Did I just hear a compliment from Roman Parks” I teased.

He laughed “You must be hearing things.”

I explained to Roman how I got community service for a month. Three hours each Sunday at the local homeless shelter. Roman told me about his last summer, he had to do community service ten hours a week for getting into a fight at school with a guy who had no manners. “That stand you took before striking Mr. Bane, you have had self-defense training, right” Roman observed.

“What would make you think that? The bus was moving I stood to get the best leverage” I explained.

Roman explained how he started taking defense training when he was young. His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps and become a champion in kickboxer. Roman decided against it a few years ago. He still trains, just refuses to do it for competition.

The pizza arrived quickly. With as good of a mood we both found ourselves in we talked and eat it all. Roman told me about his family: Mom, Dad and sister. His sister is three and she is a bolt of lightning running everywhere all day long. I told him how Ma and Papa are now expecting a baby. Ma is going crazy with Papa wanting to do renovations and go to extravagant lengths to make this baby’s nursery the best in the entire world. We laughed at the thought of Papa designing the baby’s room.

“It’s getting late” Roman sighed “I better head home.” I walked with Roman to the front door. “Hey Winry, I’ll call you later” Roman announced as he got on his bike. I waved for the first time willingly as he drove off. I had a nice time hanging out with everyone today. It kind of made me feel sad that the school year is just about over. I wonder if we will all still hang out when it's summer vacation. It’s been so long since I had a chance to hang out with anyone and enjoy myself. Today, despite the reasoning, it has been the best day I have had in a very long time.

“Winry were home” Papa yelled walking in the door. I put my homework down on the table.

“I’m in here. Just doing homework. How was house hunting” I asked running down the stairs. Ma and Papa stood at the door with another person.

“Winry this is Miss Nettel she is our Realtor. She agreed to do a late night appraisal of the house so we have a good idea of which house to go with” Ma explained.

Miss Nettel shook my hand “I have heard all about you. It’s a pleasure to meet the magnificent young lady. Let’s start up stairs.” Papa took Miss Nettel upstairs to start her work.

I helped Ma take Papa’s briefcase to his office. “So I take it you had some friends over” she prodded.

“Oh, yes. Beth, Mary, Justin, Roman and Tanner came over to cheer up the day.” I explained. I told Ma what happened today, everything from Mary being Mary to Roman and I eating pizza and talking. I have nothing to hide from them. Ma did not look too pleased to hear how a boy and I were alone in the house for three hours. I assured her nothing happened. We just talked. However I did leave out the part where I had some liquor from their stash. That is something no one need be reminded of.

Miss Nettel finished her appraisal and informed Ma and Papa that the house should sell for a good price and sell quick too. She assured Ma that the house she liked would be in the price range with some money left over. Papa was happy to hear about that. With that said Miss Nettel got started right away on selling the house and talking with the new house’s owner about a small price reduction. It is a buyers’ market after all.

Sunday evening is finally here. All morning we talked with the lawyer regarding the next year of my family’s company. My allowance and his fees. After talking with him for twenty minutes I wanted to strangle the man and bury him in the back yard. He wanted outrageous fees for just being my trust keeper and coming back in a year. Ma got him back to his current fees. I left the running of the company to my father’s best friend for another year. Even though I am technically the President of the company, a minor can’t exactly run a company.

My allowance only went up twenty dollars a month. I was fine with it as it stood but Papa and Ma felt I deserved a bit more spending money. Three hundred and forty dollars a month for spending money is a bit much if you ask me. I’m just sixteen years old. I will have to go to New York this summer to start my training by shadowing the acting president of the company. It was never my intention to run father's company. Taylor had his eye on it. I just wanted to be an author. I will be spending five weeks this summer living in New York, I do miss living there. Yet, I find myself not wanting to go. I have not been there in a year. It holds painful memories for me.

The New house contract would be ready by Monday evening for Ma and Papa to go over. The movers have already started packing our things. Ma and Papa moved us into the Hilton for the next for days till we move into the new house. Ma and Papa are going to take Monday off to go shopping. “Winry are you ready to move” Ma asked as we walked back into the hotel.

“Ya, I’m ready.” I told her. It’s getting late and I still have yet to shower and finish my homework. “I need to shower then go to bed. I’ll head up to my room now.” I told them goodnight and walked back to my room. I had much to go over for my test in the morning. Even more to prepare for. It will be my first day back since the incident. I wonder what I’ll be in for?

Next morning I got up, eat breakfast and got a ride to school from Papa.

“Winry! Winry did you hear” Beth came running up to me shouting before I had even walked into the school.

“What’s going on?” I questioned.

The hall was full of girls crying, yelling and hugging. “Four girls went to the police after you did. Mr. Bane has been fired and he is being charged from everything from indecent acts with a minor, stalking to sexual assault.” Beth announced. I looked around the hall, the girls crying and hugging each other did seem to be a bit happy. “Apparently every year creepy Mr. Bane would hunt down a student, using her grades to persuade her. Thanks to you the school is being investigated. All the teachers are under investigation to make sure this kind of thing never happens again. The school can’t stand bad publicity” Beth exclaimed. I wondered if this is even a good thing.

The school is full of Substitute teachers, social officers and police officers talking to students in groups and individually. “Thank you” and “Your brave” among other complements greeted me at every turn. The bullying that had become my normal daily life is gone. I even had a sub come up to me and tell me I am the bravest girl she has ever met. To challenge a person like that face to face in front of a bus full of people. I never looked at it like that. I needed it to be in front of people. I needed to look and be the biggest victim he has ever had. I needed to cause a scene and make a ruckus. I had no idea he had other or current victims in the school. How could I. I should be as happy about this as everyone is. I should be glad that what I did not only saved me from his advances but other students in my school as well. Why is it that I suddenly feel nothing?

“Winry Teets come to the dean’s office please. Winry Teets, to the dean’s office.” A voice on the intercom called me.

“What now” I groaned. Walking to the dean’s office alone in the quiet halls made me feel uneasy. I felt like I was walking to my execution. Neither Ma nor Papa told me anything that was discussed at the PTA meeting. I opened the door to the dean’s office “Hello” I called.

“Yes, Miss Teets please have a seat.” Dean Winton called offering me a chair. A detective sat in another seat next to me.

“What’s going on?” I asked.

Dean Winton sighed “Winry this is Chief Winton my brother. He has a few questions for you. To ensure you feel safe I will leave and Miss Wheat will come in. Is this OK with you?”

I nodded “Yes, I suppose. Does Papa know about this” I questioned.

Chief Winton turned to me “This is part of the investigation; all the parents were informed about this at the PTA meeting.”

Dean Winton left the room and Miss Wheat came in. Chief Winton sat in the dean’s chair. “Miss Teets I have read over your statement as to what happened. We don’t need to go over it all again. You have agreed to testify that’s good. Now I need you to tell me about any other students that may be victims. Or teachers who should be looked at for any reason at all.” Chief Winton suggested. This is crazy, all the teachers are under scrutiny today.

“The teachers here are more interested in each other than they are in their students from what I seen; excluding creepy Mr. Bane.” I explained. “There are not even rumors about anyone else being creepy like Mr. Bane.”

“There are some students that think Mr. Greely had made some unprofessional remarks to you and other students that were Mr. Bane’s victims. Do you know anything about this” Chief Winton asked.

I thought about Mr. Greely for a moment. Mr. Bane and Mr. Greely both have had their creepy moments. It would never have dawned on me that Mr. Greely knew much less was in cahoots with Mr. Bane. However, it does make a bit of since. Mr. Greely was always around Mr. Bane. When the rumors would start up Mr. Greely was always there talking to Mr. Bane like they were discussing some hot interactions over the weekend. It always made me feel uneasy when Mr. Bane would look at me. Until now, I never gave Mr. Greely so much as a second glance. He too could have been looking at us students the way Mr. Bane was. What the hell is going on in this school?

Chief Winton nodded “If you think of anything. Call me…” he handed me a card “…this is my direct line.”

I left the dean’s office and walked back to class. This is all too weird. This school has lost its mind. The bullying over me being Roman’s ‘girlfriend’ has stopped. Girls I don’t know walk up to me crying and hugging. They babble something I don’t understand through their crying fit then walk on. I can’t go back to class. I can’t take theses unwanted talks and tears. I took out my phone and texted Beth: Hey, I’m going to skip today. See you later. I ran out of the school and to the small wooded area near by. Hiding in the woods till the guard went by. I quickly climbed over the wall and ran off to the closest mall.

All this blow up over a purvey teacher so close to the one year anniversary, then I have to go back to New York this summer. It’s just getting too much to bear. I just need to get away from it all. A new house, summer vacation and time away from that snobby stuffy school could cure my illness. I just have to tough out a few more weeks. Five more weeks of school seven exams then summer vacation. What more can go wrong in five weeks? What am I saying, I just jinxed myself.

“UGH” I sighed plopping down on a bus bench. This is quite the mess I find myself in. Skipping school, running out of a school full of cops and an ongoing investigation. How do I explain this when I get home? I don’t even have a home till tomorrow when we move into the new house. A house I have yet to see, into a room of unknown size and shape. All is the last few weeks of school. Why can’t life be simple for once?

“Miss? Hey Miss you getting on or not” the bus driver called to me. I’m skipping school why not take a ride around town? What’s the harm in that? I paid my two dollars and walked to a seat at the back of the bus. I watched the city I have grown to know pas me buy while I sat on this bus. People living their life going from one day to the next know knowing what the other is going through or feeling, just going about their day as normal. I looked at all the shop’s, stores, malls, houses and buildings. I never realized just how big this city actually is. I’ve lived here just shy of a year and I never took the time to really see the city. I pulled on the stop line. I see something I want to go check out.

The bus stops and I jump off. I walk up to the gates of City Project 101. Project ran and executed by Trinity Inc. The Grand Bell Hotel reopening December 2. I could not believe my eyes; this is amazing; The Grand Bell is where my grandparents met. This is where they had their wedding and where I always wanted to get married. I felt the excitement inside me rise. I walked onto the site watching as construction workers and men in suits walked around. I always wondered what it looked like inside.

“Hey kid. What do you think you’re doing here! This is an active construction site” a man in a yellow hard hat yelled at me. He ran over to me scolding me like a child. “You can’t be here. Are you crazy! Get out of here now!” he yelled. I had never been yelled at before by a construction worker. I never had the chance to visit a construction site either. The man grasped my arm tight “I’m calling the cops” he told me.

“Let go” I demanded. The more I tried to pull away the tighter his grip became.

“Let go of her” a voice yelled spinning the worker around.

“Roman?” I exclaimed shocked.

“Another kid? You two looking for trouble, eh? You can’t be here” the worker scolded us.

Roman pulled me away from the man “I said get your hands off her!” Wrapping me tightly in his arms Roman and the worker started a staring contest.

“What’s going on here?” a man in a blue pin striped suit questioned. The tall, slender man in the suit walked over handing hard hats to Roman and I.

“These kids” the worker complained “just walked onto the site. I’m about to call the cops. They should be in school.”

The man in the suit smiled and extended his hand “Please excuse the Foreman” The suit turned to the Foreman “I will handle this.” The Foreman reluctantly left us. “I’m Jerry Styles Project manager. It’s a pleasure to meet you Miss Teets” Mr. Styles greeted us “If you and your guest would please accompany me to the office I can answer any questions you have.”

“Thank you” I agreed. Roman took my hand and led me to the mobile office.

“Can I get you anything? Water, perhaps a snack?” Mr. Styles asked. “I’m fine” I answered “This is Roman Parks my…” I trailed off as I introduced Roman. I didn’t know what to call him.

Roman extended his hand to meet Mr. Styles “Her boyfriend.” He announced with a smile.

Mr. Styles gawked at us in shock and nodded “Yes, of course.” Roman and I sat down in the air-conditioned office. “I was not aware you would be coming by to oversee the project. If I had known, I would have notified the Foreman and this incident would never have happened. I take full responsibility.” Mr. Styles humbly apologized.

“It’s really OK Mr. Styles” I petitioned. Roman sat next to me watching me closely.

“If I had not met you at the funeral I would not have recognized you. Is there something you are concerned with?” Mr. Styles prompted.

“Oh, no, nothing is wrong. I had no idea that Trinity was interested in this bid. I am more than pleased to see the renovation of the Grand Bell.” I explained.

Mr. Styles sighed a bit relieved “Oh, well acting President Williams thought this would be right up your father’s alley, so he outbid the competition and started on it right away. He nearly bought the property outright from the city.” Mr. Styles told me.

“May I ask if this is a remodel or restoration” I questioned.

Mr. Styles jumped up on his feet grabbed a binder handing it to me as he began “It’s called a remodel yet, it will looked just how she did in her hay-day minus a few new techniques. She will look just as she did in 1922 when she opened.”

I looked through the binder carefully listening to Mr. Styles explain how the changes will be made while leaving no trace of any changes. “I’m sure she will be spectacular when she opens in December. Thank you for your time Mr. Styles. We should be going now” I insisted closing the binder. I have seen these images may times over. It’s my grandparent wedding album. Grandma took more pictures of the motel than the wedding.

“No, thank you for coming by. It’s good to see the true head of the company taking an interest in the small project and the process.” Mr. Styles walked us to the sidewalk. I waved good bye as I got on Romans bike. He seemed like a nice guy. He knew a lot about the Grand Bell. I can rest happy that her restoration is in his hands.

Roman took of fast as normal. Darting in and out of traffic like a mad dog. I held onto him so tight I thought I might die before he came to a stop. Roman drove faster and faster. Jumping intersections and passing between buses on their rout. “Please stop” I cried. I really don’t want to die. I don’t want to die because of someone else, what type of death is that? It’s a ridiculous death that’s what it is.

Roman came screeching to a stop. I jumped off as fast as I could and kissed the ground. Fighting the tears and fear I just felt. Roman thrusted my helmet onto his bike and stomped off into the woods. He had driven us into the country, deep into the woods. This is a bit creepy to be honest. I dusted off my knees and got to my feet. What is his problem? He’s never acted like this before?

I went in search of Roman. He is my only way home anyhow. I was not paying attention to where we were going. I would have a hard time getting home. “Roman? Roman what’s with you?” I called looking for any sign of him. I spotted him slamming his fist into a tree. “Roman?” I called.

He put his head against the tree panting “You are the owner and successor to the Trinity fortune” he asked. Could he really be that angry that I didn’t tell him?

“Yes, Doc Trinity is my father. Was, he was my father” I answered pained.

“You’re name is Teets, Winry Teets not Winry Trinity. Why?” he questioned. He has never shown an interest in my family or where I came from. All he wanted was someone to pretend to be his girlfriend right, so he could continue being the carefree playboy he is. What does any of this matter?

“Teets is my mother’s maiden name. All of my father’s children’s last name are Teets, to protect us from people who would want to hurt us. What’s wrong?” I pleaded. His behavior is concerning.

He began to hit the tree again. “You just had to be a Trinity. The one company directly in competition with my father’s company. The people who my family can’t stand. It just had to be you” he yelled at the tree.

I get it; this is about rivalry in business. For businesses that we neither run yet, but he is this upset over it. “Well, I’m sorry my inheritance is such a problem for you. You are bitching about a business I don’t even run. My father’s friend runs it. Good thing I’m nothing more than a fake girlfriend. I’m going home.” I yelled at him. I turned around to go back the way I came. I will find my own damn way home. Unbelievable; Roman is such a jerk. I wish I never met him.

A hand gripped my arm and pulled me to a stop. Roman put his hands on my shoulders “It had to be you. The one I like had to be you. So stop fighting me; tell me what you think.” He demanded.

This is a joke, not five seconds ago he was cursing the fact that I’m a Trinity. “Are you drunk?” I questioned.

Roman looked hurt “I’ll just take you home.” He let go of me, walking back toward his bike.

I rooted my feet where I stood “I’m not going anywhere until you explain what your damage is? A few seconds ago you stood right over there having a fit over the fact that I inherited a company that just so happens to be your family’s competitor. Then you tell me you are in like of me? So, no; I don’t understand. I have every right at this moment to question your sanity” I yelled at him holding back tears. “Gah. You are such a spoiled brat.”

Roman pulled me to him. Grabbing my face he kissed me. The world became quiet. All I could think is of him. His lips taste of cherry and his hot breath warmed my bones. All the frustration and anger that was bottling up suddenly faded. Our lips moved perfectly like they were made for each other. His soft gentle lips pressed against mine as his tongue dances its way around my mouth. My heart begins to pound harder.

Roman pulls out of the kiss placing his forehead on mine. “Be mine” he wished gazing into my eyes. Delicately running his hands down my cheek he smiled “I don’t care about anything else. As long as I have you” he declared “So, say you will be mine, and mine alone.”

My heart jumped for joy, beating hard and fast “I don’t know when, but, you made me fall for you Roman Parks” I professed.

Roman began to kiss me with a hot passion. I have never felt such passion in my life. My body temperature began to rise. My heart is trying to beat out of my chest. All I can taste is cherry. In this moment, in his arm, immersed in this kiss I wish for nothing more than to be with him.

I pushed Roman away “Wait, we have to get back” I reminded him. “We did skip school after all. The longer were gone the more trouble we will be in.”

Roman reluctantly put his head on mine “You’re right. We should get back.”

We got back to school just as the last bell rang. I spotted Papa outside talking with the Chief. Roman took my hand and walked me up to them. I have no idea what I will tell him. The only thing that I can do is hope he won’t be upset.

“Mr. Lee” Roman explained “Winry got upset over everything. She wanted to get away from it all. So I took her sightseeing around town. We went by the Grand Bell and she checked in on the progress there. I brought her back safely, as you can see. As well as on time.”

Papa looked us over. I tightened my grip on Roman’s hand. Here it comes. He is going to be so angry with us. No, with me for running away and not telling him. For not letting him know that it was too much for me to deal with.

“I knew this would be too much for you. Still, I brought you here to school.” Papa sighed “Thank you, Roman, for taking care of my little girl.”

I stood shocked at his reaction. I never in a million years would have thought he would react like this. It’s like he feels responsible for my actions.

“It was my pleasure Sir” Roman responded. Roman held my hand and gazed at me. I can see in his eyes that he truly cares. He really does care about me. This I know for certain. I didn’t think this little arrangement of Roman’s would turn out like this. However, I am just happy that it did. Life can throw you a curveball or two. It’s how you swing that determines how far the ball will fly. Steady as she goes, just take the hits as they come.

 

I was walking my normal rout on short cut rout, right through the heart of the Bronx side of town. It’s the only straight shot to Marrow. I should have known better than to take the same rout every day. I should have just let Ma drive me like she insists every morning. But no, I; ‘stubborn like water’ so Ma says; refused to be driven. Instead, in a fit of generousness I have decided I would rather walk.

Just two blocks away from being out of the Bronx I got a funny feeling that I was being followed. I could see the Smoke stacks of Marrow high in the distance. If I hurry I can make it to safety soon. I quickly crossed the street out of the Bronx neighborhood. I decided to take an even shorter shortcut through the next alley way. So I could be that much closer to Marrow property and would be able to call for help from Marrow security if need be. In Heine sight, this was probably the cherry that topped it all off. However, that decision was not in any way smart. The alley was three city  blocks-long with only one way in or out.

Halfway through the alley I could hear foot steps behind me; multiple footsteps following me. I quicken my pace to the verge of an all-out sprint. The end of the alley was getting closer. I can see the sidewalk and smell the bakery down the road. I’m almost there I thought. Suddenly a guy jumps out in front of me on a bike, blocking my path to safety.

“Hey, now. Why are you in a hurry, honey?” he questioned as I came to a full stop just feet from him.

“I’m not” I replied. His three buddies caught up with us. They were not far behind me to begin with.

“She’s pretty” one complimented.

“Where you off to?” another asked. Walking up behind me he took a long slow look at me.

I cringed as they surrounded me. “School, you should try it some time,” I scoffed. One guy grasped a lock of my hair in his hand and smiled menacingly.

Another poked at my uniform “This looks expensive, I might have trouble getting in,” he joked as he pulled on my blazer.

One guy jerked my wrist in his direction then pushed me backwards and pinned me against the wall. Looking me over he grinned with a horrifying expression. While the others surrounded us he slid my hands above my head keeping his grip on me tight. I pulled as hard as I could to try and get away from him to no avail.

“Get off me! Let me go you creep!” I screamed “Help!”

They were talking about how pretty I am. How much of a good girl I must be and that they had a thing for good girls going bad. They scolded me, saying that ignoring their presence on their turf was rude. Saying that a girl like me should have stayed out of the Bronx and going there every day was asking for trouble. They told me that there was a toll to be paid for my ignorance. As they talked like this I started getting scared. Doing my best not to show them fear, I took a breath and tried to think of a way out of this.

“I never saw any tollbooths. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean any offence” I hastily apologized. Thinking back, I had quickly walked through the Bronx for the last eight months to get to school. I have not once had any sign of trouble, at least till today. One guy grabbed then cut my backpack off my shoulder and tossed it aside knocking my books out onto the nearby sidewalk.

“No, get away! Help” I cried.

“Help. Help” the leader mocked me while griping me tighter. “No one is going to come save you. You have earned this. Don’t you agree fellas” he questioned. The other three guys nodded and hooted.

I wanted to cry, it never crossed my mind that this would happen to me. Why would someone do this? “I don’t see how” I hissed putting on a brave face. I was so close to safety yet I was so far away. I started to quietly let the tears fall..

“I don’t” a voice called from the alley exit.

Their leader, who had me pinned never took his eyes off me. The expression in his eyes; if looks could kill; I would have been dead. “Go take care of the pest, quickly.” He ordered. The three men quickly left and walked over toward the young man who spoke up. Straining to see what would happen I looked to the man. His shaggy blond hair fluttering in the slight breeze. He was tall and lean, I was unsure he could take three of them. He had black slacks and a white shirt. Dressed nicely for a Monday, maybe he works nearby I thought. I felt like I had seen him before, though. The three guys quickly attacked him all at once. Just as they attacked him the leader forced my head to the side and against the brick wall with a thud.

“OW” I cried out as a pain struck my face.

“I will do you this favor. Being as you will be doing me one here soon” he laughed.

Unexpectedly the hands that trapped me in place were yanked away with a jolt. I looked over and saw the young man who came to my rescue. He had kicked the gang leader away from me with a massive force. Knocking him to the ground away from where I stood.

The young man stood tall and strong his green eyes watching at me. “What are you waiting for? Get out of here” he ordered.

“Uh, yes.” I stumbled over to my bag, stuffing my things hastily back inside. I quickly ran as fast as my legs would take me, all the way to the steps of my high school. I could not get away fast enough. It was hard to believe that this had happened. I have never had an inkling of trouble walking through the Bronx. Reaching the steps of the building I collapse, safe at last.

“Winry what’s wrong” Beth called coming over to help me up the steps.

I’m a good short distance runner when I want to be. Still, at this point I was tired and exhausted. Falling over and taking a nap would be welcomed. I could not catch my breath long enough to even think about responding.

“Your head it’s bleeding” Beth exclaimed “Were going to see the Doctor!” Beth and Marge from the sophomore class helped me to the Doctor/Nurse office. I had not noticed that I was bleeding. I knew that he hit my head against the wall quite hard. I had no idea that it had been that hard. The adrenalin must have been pumping so much that it had not registered yet.

“What do we have here? How did you get this scrape on your head” Dr. Lewis looked me over. “Where is your ID Miss…”

“Oh, it’s…” I grabbed my bag and rummaged through it as fast as I could. You have to scan your badge to count for attendance, to eat lunch, see the Doctor or Nurse or to even enter the building if you’re alone. “...it’s not here. It must have fallen out when those boys attacked me in the alley.” I sighed in revelation. I just got a new ID last month after losing it to the wash. Ma will be annoyed to hear I lost it again.

    “What!” Dr. Lewis gasped “You were attacked! Did you call the police? Where else are you hurt! Nurse Keith, call this girls parents at once!”

“I’ll dial the number for you Nurse Keith” Beth offered a hand.

I looked at them stunned. “But, I really am fine. A guy came and saved me. If anyone should be looked over it’s probably him” I pleaded. Still, my words were not heard. I sat on the cot as they went about their will ignoring anything I had to say.

Dr. Lewis checked every visible inch of my body that was not covered my by school uniform not once, not twice but four times. Besides the cut on my upper left forehead he found no other injuries or what he called victim wounds. Not even bruises from the gang leader’s hands that had griped me so hard. No bruise, but my wrists were red and tender, that was the extent of the damage: A cut on my head with red and raw wrists.

Ma came as fast as she could to the school I could hear her scolding Papa as they came down the hall. “I don’t know why you had to bring Greenhorn here?” Ma complained. “I told you we should have driven her to school.”

Greenhorn is Papa’s trainee detective so to speak. Well he was till last month when Greenhorn was released from his trial stage and given his permanent partner, Papa. Beth showed Ma, Papa and Detective Greenhorn into my exam room.

“Oh Winry!” Ma cried out “Are you alight? Did they hurt you…” Ma rushed over and hugged me tight, quickly she seen the bandage on my forehead “…Joe they hurt her. They hurt my baby” she exclaimed.

Papa and Detective Greenhorn came over moving Ma out of the way and examined me as well. I started to feel like I was on display for everyone to inspect. Everyone who came into this small room looked me over from head to toe. Careful not to miss a single inch of me.

“Winry you’re going to fill out a police report. First we need to take pictures.” Papa explained.

Unamused and unhappy I gave my statement, changed clothes, let them take pictures of my ‘injury’s’ and I informed them of the guy who saved me. “…though I don’t know his name or anything other than he saved me” I explained. I gave the best descriptions that I could.

Detective Greenhorn finished up and went to wait for Papa to be ready. Ma is a respected Judge in the state and Papa is a senior Detective. Though they are a mixed couple they are so cute together. Ma is American Irish and Papa is first generation American Japanese.

“I will be picking you up after school from now on, Winry. And Papa will bring you to school.” Ma ordered.

I groaned “Ma! Papa! If it will make you feel better I will be more than happy to agree. Please, I need to do research after school at the public library with Beth. We have a midterm paper due in a week that we have to do final touches on. I am going to walk there after school today with Beth. You had already agreed to it this morning. So it is not necessary for you to drive me anywhere. You can pick me up from the library when were finished, how does that sound.” I pleaded

“The public library is only ten blocks away.” Ma sighed “Fine. You call me when you are ready and we will discuss your transportation to and from school after you get home.” Ma and Papa left shortly after that. Papa was not too happy with the arrangement. He was content with calling in today and escorting me around everywhere. Ma informed him that was overkill, even for him.

“Winry here is a temporary ID badge. Do you have the ten dollars to pay for it?” Dr. Lewis asked.

I sighed and hanged my head. “My spending money is in my ID pouch” I mumbled. Beth started looking through her bag.

“Well, just find your ID badge or come to tomorrow with the fifty dollars to replace it.” Dr. Lewis suggested. He let me go back to class. By the time I was allowed to go to class it was lunch time. As suspected, my entire school was aware that something had happened. Many were guessing and insisting I tell them about it over lunch. Completely nerve racking, girls are way to nosy. That’s why I had always had guy friends, less annoying and less drama. Way less drama. Being in an all-girls prep school, it’s hard to find any guy friends. However, a lot of things changed last summer. Weather I wanted them to or not.

Beth and I spent the rest of the day barley skating by. She kept asking about the attack and the hero. It was like she thought I knew the guy. I told her time and time again that I didn’t know him. But he did look familiar somehow. Neither of us could figure it out. Plagued by her questions, I could tell she was just trying to help me figure it out. Though, I’m sure she has ulterior motives, it was nice of her to try I suppose.

“I wonder if he has friends?” Beth sighed happily looking out the window.

“I don’t know that I will see him again. I wish I could thank him. If only he knew how much I appreciate what he did for me.” I muttered as I drew his face in my notebook.

RING! RING! The bell rang letting school out for the day.

“Uh, Winry Teets stay after class and see me in my office” Mr. Bane announced.

“What now?” Beth moaned “Just because he is Mr. Lee’s college buddy does not mean he can call you to chat about your personal life at school, ya know.” Though Beth was right, I did not dare tell Papa that Mr. Bane was making me stay after school to talk about personal matters in the family.

I turned to Beth “I’ll meet you at the library. I’ll be OK. It’s in the opposite direction of the Bronx. Once I finish with creepy Mr. Bane I’ll go right to the library. We will finish this report tonight and be done with it” I assured her.

Beth gawked at me with weary eyes. “Ok. Call me when you leave here and we will talk till you arrive” she requested.

I nodded with a smile “Of-course I will.”

Beth gathered her things and headed out in no time. Taking my time I put my books in my bag. I went to my locker and took out my homework placing it securely in my new bag Papa bought from the school.

Walking up to the next floor to Mr. Bane’s office. I glanced out the window as passed by. I could see Beth talking to some guy at the gates standing by a sporty motorcycle. Just her type, I hope that guy knows how to handle himself or she will eat him alive, I laughed. It was good to see her talking to a guy. I found it odd that a guy would be hanging outside the gates of our school. He must be waiting for his sister or girlfriend. If he doesn’t have one yet, I have a feeling that Beth will take up that role quickly if she has anything to say about it.

I walked up to Mr. Bane’s office. I took a deep breath, not looking forward to this convocation. The door was open and he was sitting at his big cherry wood desk as usual. “Yes Mr. Bane?” I asked.

He looked up at me. His brown eyes looked unusually anxious. He smoothed back his light brown hair as he walked over and greeted me. “Please come in” he encouraged.

I walked in and sat in the seat in front of his desk. I turned my attention back to Mr. Bane when I heard his office door shut. It made me uneasy for him to shut the door. I had heard rumors that Mr. Bane has hit on students in his office. Mr. Bane is Papa’s friend and he may be a bit creepy, he has always shown himself to be a respectable guy. This is the first time he has ever shut the door with me in here though.

He walked over calmly and sat on the edge of his desk across of me. His behavior was odd, even for creepy Mr. Bane. Teachers are never to sit near a student in closed doors. He knows this. That way everyone is protected. According to the Marrow Prep Academy rule book. His behavior is just plain out off. His normally messy desk was all but cleared off. Only two things remained a red pin and a small stack of papers from his last class. Mr. Bane is known for his messy desk and loosing students work. The slackers pray that his desk eats their work so they can get an automatic 80% on their papers.

“Winry, I am concerned? You have an injury on your head. And it pains me to see such a thing” Mr. Bane pointed to my head as he reached for the seat next to me. I watched him slowly moved into the seat beside me.

“I’m fine, honestly” I reassured him “It’s just a small cut. Nothing to worry about.” Nodding with his hand on his chin, Mr. Bane looked to be lost in thought. It was like he was processing an event in his mind. He looked off into space for a while. Glancing around his office I got the feeling that he had someone come in and clean it up. The dust had been cleared, the books organized and he even had what appeared to be notes on an organized system.

Darting up abruptly he walked casually around his chair. “I know you’re a sophomore soon to be a junior. The school year is coming to a close. But, as you know there are things that can’t be predicted,” Mr. Bane paused while looking out his office window. I did not like where this was going. I had a bad feeling about this down in my bones. He casually walked around the chairs and began to speak again “I've been friends with Joe Lee since before he met Kat in college. Before they adopted you. As a friend I have never crossed a line with Lee, weather it was drawn or invisible.” He placed his hands tenderly on my shoulders when he stopped behind my chair. He began to massage my neck slowly moving to my shoulders then tenderly down my arms. “I have never thought of doing anything of the sorts, till I met you. I can’t help myself anymore” he softly spoke. His hands started to move to my chest. There is no hesitation or anxiety anymore.

I shot up out of the char grabbing my bag and darted for the door. “Sorry Mr. Bane I forgot Ma is going to be waiting for me. So I should go.” I quickly unlocked the door and ran down the hall to the stars then out the front doors. I did not look back; I did not dare look back to see if he was following me.

“That was bad. That was uncomfortable. That was weird. It was unethical” I mumbled to myself “That was just wrong not to mention sexual harassment.” I felt sick, like I was going to puke right there. My hands were shaking. I placed my hands over my face as I walked toward the gates. Pulling them down my face I thought about how this day had gone. First I was late leaving the house because Ma was arguing with me. Then I was attacked on my way to school and was saved by some guy, who I did not get to thank. Just to have Detective Greenhorn take my statement and file a report per Papa’s orders. With no concern as to what I wanted. To top it all off creepy Mr. Bane just hit on me, in school. Not only that but he put his hands on me! “Ugh, how can this day possibly get any worse?” I wondered out loud.

“Hey, your Winry Teets right?” a male voice called to me. I looked over and seen the same guy Beth was talking to earlier still standing by his bike. His short red hair stood stiff in the sun. He wore a Marrow Prep Academy uniform. He was still leaning against his bike all relaxed.

“And If I am?” I questioned.

The guy walked over “You are Winry. Good, come with me.” He grabbed my hand and started pulling me to his bike. His hands are soft and warm. They griped my hand perfectly, not to tight but not loos enough that I could get away easy.

“Hey wait a minute! What makes you think I would go off anywhere with someone I don’t know.” I scolded him pulling back trying to free my hand from his grip.

Letting me go he got in his bike and tossed me a helmet. “You want your ID badge back right or do you wana’ pay fifty dollars to replace it” he replied.

Crap, here I am having a terrible day trying to get to the library. Thinking it can’t possibly get much worse and out of left field this guy shows up and blackmails me. I jinxed myself. He is from my school, but that does not mean he can be trusted? And why didn’t he just bring me my ID badge? Why does he want me to go with him to get it? He’s not the guy who saved me. So, what’s he doing here and why?

“Winry!” I heard Mr. Bane calling to me.

I glanced back. Mr. Bane was running out of the building calling me. “Winry, wait!”

I turned back to the red hair guy. “OK. Let’s go!” I hurriedly jumped on his bike and put the helmet on.

“Hold on” he warned. I wrapped my hands around him and held tight. Mr. Bane was getting close to us. He could catch me any second. Can we get going? I just want to get away from this creeper.

WOOSH Off we went. Speeding through the streets. It was my first time on a motorcycle. It was exhilarating and at the same time scary. Adding in the factor that I was on a bike that belonged to a guy I didn’t know but knew me and had blackmailed me. That made it just a bit more unsettling. I felt like we were on the bike for a long time. He quickly came to a stop. I opened my eyes and noticed we were on Dutch Street. He had parked in front of a place called Maxie’s Shoppe. It was next to the infamous club Dark Water. I let go of him and took the helmet off. I have been by these places many times since I moved here last summer but I have never been allowed to go in. Ma had ordered Tea and Coffee from Maxie’s Shoppe one time when Papa was working late on a case in his den.

It was delicious, Ma said ‘it’s not a good place to be seen at. It’s a hangout for young thugs. However they have wonderful tea.’ I would have to agree with her. The tea was perfect in every way. The temperature was just right; the sweetener was enough to compliment the flavor of the tea.

They guy took the helmet from me and put it on the handlebars. “Come on” he ordered. He grabbed my hand and pulled me into Maxie’s Shoppe. His grip was tight and a bit painful thanks to my morning incident.

“Hey” I protested as I tried to resist him.

Paying me no attention to me  he continued on. Pulling me to the back of the Shoppe to the only round booth in this Tea Shoppe. Two other guys were already sitting at the table. The red haired guy pushed me into the booth seat and then sat on the edge. I was officially blocked in. I felt trapped again like this morning. I looked at him. “Hey asshole all you had to do was ask,” I hissed.

“With a mouth like that I’m not surprised you got into trouble this morning” a voice across the table stated.

I didn’t need to look to know who the voice belonged to. It was the guy who saved me. To confirm it I turned my head to look at him. His blond shaggy hair falling in his face, he sat leisurely with his hand propping up his head as he toyed with my ID badge. Sending it spinning in circles on the table. He was in a white button up shirt like he was this morning. He looked at my ID badge with satisfaction. I noticed that his knuckles were bruised and some had slightly split open.

“My decision in direction is what got me in trouble. Not the way I talk” I corrected him “I never got the chance to thank you. So…thank you.” They all just sat there. No one acknowledged my thank you.

Could he be one of the thugs Ma was talking about? He couldn’t be, if he was a thug why save me? I think the better question is why am I here? The guy sitting between me and the hero wore and Marrow Prep Academy uniform as well. His shirt was untucked and his jacket had seen better days. There was no denying that. His short spiky brown hair accented his blue eyes. He too was leisurely sitting there sipping his tea looking at the customers. He was being careful not to look at me. What the hell did I get into now?

“Why am I here” I asked plainly. No one even so much as glanced in my direction. I sat there waiting for an answer. I looked at this morning’s hero. Expecting an answer from him, he is the one with my ID after all.

“Aren’t you here for your ID badge” he mocked.

I assessed my situation. I’m in a Shoppe that is frequented by thugs, so Ma says. I’m in a booth blocked in by three guys. I was blackmailed into coming here. I didn’t tell anyone where I was going, not as if I had any idea myself. No one is talking to me and my ID badge is just inches from me. However, I have a feeling I can’t get it. This can’t be good. I should have just took the hit and paid the fifty dollars for another ID badge and kissed my twenty dollars spending money for the week good bye. Instead, here I sit. My day has officially just got so much worse. Looks as if my hero is no hero at all. I just traded one trouble in for another, unknowingly.

“You and I both know that I’m not here to get my ID badge” I told them as I leaned back to get comfy in the booth. I’m going to be here a while, it doesn’t look like I’m going to be able to leave any time soon either. They all looked at me now.

“You sure about that?” Hero guy questioned me with a look of mockery. While the others looked at me intrigued.

“Yes, I’m sure. I have a bump on my head. Not a missing brain. If you wanted to return my ID badge you could of gave it to one of your teachers at Marrow, correct? Or you could have waited for me like speedy here and gave it back…” I sighed because I realized that my stubborn behavior has caused me so much trouble today “…instead you have your guy blackmail me into going with him to this shady Shoppe where you sit here starring at my ID badge while I’m trapped in this booth. Did I leave anything out?”

The red hair guy looked at me “I don’t remember you complaining when that teacher was calling for you. In fact you jumped on my bike rather quickly, if I do recall correctly.”

I glanced at my lap. I could remember Mr. Bane yelling after me. I remembered the incident before in his office. What he was saying, no, what he was implying was more horrifying. The way he put his hand on my neck shoulders and then my chest. I can still feel his touch on me. Such a sickening feeling. The rumors were true. He is that type of creep. I had not thought about it too much since I got on the bike. However, now, it’s making me feel sick.

“Hey, are you alright? You’re all pale. Are you going to be sick” the guy next to me asked concerned.

“Tanner go get some mint tea for her.” Hero guy ordered.

“You got it Roman. Don’t want her getting sick on me, I am the one sitting next to her.” The red haired guy named Tanner got up quickly and left.

The other guy leaned in and placed his hand on the back of my neck under my hair. I jumped in shock. “She don’t have a fever.” He announced.

Tanner came back “Hey! Justin get your hands off her. You want another sexual assault charge, Idiot?” Tanner warned.

I held the tea in my hands. Watching as some of the leaves started to spin. “What do you want with me” I asked feeling defeated. I have been defeated by this whole damn day. The run in with Mr. Bane was enough to ruin any day and make me sick. All honestly, I should report him, but now is not the time for this. I was in no mood to argue or fight with them. I just wanted to get out of here and go home. Roman sat quiet.

“Drink the tea it will help” Justin assured me.

I laughed a little, “I don’t think tea will help what ails me.” I wish it could.

“Don’t waist it. The tea here is the best you can find. Drink it or pay for it.” Tanner grumbled folding his arms watching me intently.

I sat the cup on the table after one last sip. “There is money behind my ID. Use that to pay for the tea. If there is nothing else, I’ll be taking my leave now.” I answered as I scooted towards Tanner, wanting to leave. I was going to get in trouble as it is. Mr. Bane would have called Ma and Papa by now and Beth is waiting at the library for me.

“What about your ID badge?” Justin questioned.

I glanced at my ID badge sitting on the table in front of Roman. “Keep it. Burn it. Trash it. I don’t care. Now let me leave” I requested. Tanner didn’t move. Even with me sitting right next to him waiting to get out.

“You see the thing is this morning I saved you from a bad situation. For my trouble I got a few busted knuckles. Then I spotted this and I had to hull around your ID badge all day…” Roman waved it in front of me “…You should take responsibility for them two things don’t you agree?”

I did feel bad about his few injuries. As small as they are, they will heal quickly. He is talking like picking up my ID badge and holding it was like walking around with an anvil all day. “What is it that you have in mind?” I asked.

Roman leaned back and took a sip of his drink. “You see, my family has a high standard tradition. A lot is expected of me. Just as is for Justin and Tanner. My mother and father are pushing me to date Tristen Blonk. You know of her. She’s currently a junior at Marrow. The thing is I don’t have time to date a premidonna. I really don’t want to put up with a girl that high maintenance either. So you see my problem right?” Roman sighed. He put his cup back on the table and picked up my ID badge. Looking at it he went quiet.

I have a feeling I’m not going to like the answer to my next question. But, I have to ask “What does that have to do with me? Your problem is an easy fix. Don’t date her.” I stated.

Justin looked at me with a smile “Precisely.”

“Which is why in return for saving you today and holding on to your ID badge you will pretended to be my girlfriend” Roman declared.

I think I might have hit my head harder than I thought. I’m sure I didn’t hear him right. Leaning over the table a bit “Come again?”

“To repay your debt you will pretended to be his girlfriend and rid him of Tristen Blonk and his nagging family. You must have some status you go to Marrow,” Tanner blurted out.

I fell back into the booth. Ya I thought that’s what I heard. “I meant don’t date if that’s what you would rather do.” I remarked.

Justin leaned in “It’s pretended, to get his family off his back and to save face. The agreement is quite a victory for both of you. Roman’s family will stop pushing and your family would be please that you are dating such a high standing guy.” Justin made it sound like an arranged marriage.

“If I were to refuse” I questioned irritated. Certainly he didn’t think I would just agree to something like this so easly?

“You can’t” Roman answered calmly.

I glared at him, the nerve of this guy “You may think you’re entitled to everything because of your ‘status’. You’re just going to have to learn that you can’t always get what you want. Not everything can be handed to you on a silver platter” I hissed. I climbed onto the booth seat and stepped over Tanner.

“In a skirt” Justin exclaimed surprised. Amazed, Tanner leaned back as far as he could to get out of my way.

Jumping off the booth I began to leave fuming. Him telling me I can’t refuse. I hate rich spoiled, entitled and assured brats. I’m not some princess looking for riches or a high standing guy. I was raised right; not with a spoon in my mouth and butlers at my feet.

“Your Mom is up for reelection in the fall, right?” Roman called to me “In the state supreme court. I stopped in my tracks. Slowly I turned to look at him. What kind of evil thug is this guy?

“She is endorsed by my families company every term.” Justin implied.

“My family backs her and your grandfather’s Senatorial financing” Tanner stated.

Roman’s face was clear of all emotion “My family is one of the wealthiest families in the country and we have sway in many things, including politics.”

Are they threatening Ma’s and Pop’s career. Very clever yet, very clear blackmail; I gritted my teeth then reluctantly walked back to the booth. How could this day of gotten worse, from this morning till now? Is it going to get better any time soon?

I stood next to Roman; he still held my ID badge in his hand. The guy I thought was a good guy only this morning. The guy who saved me from a terrible situation today is not a good guy at all. In fact, he is a spoiled, entitled, blackmailing thug. And I hate him. I hate him for threatening Ma and Pop. I hate his friends too, for going along with this, for taking advantage of my terrible day. Most of all I can’t stand how he is so calm and reserved while he is threatening to destroy people’s lives. I snatched my ID badge from his hands. Fuming I shoved it in my bag. “Fine” I growled. Then walked out; I can’t stand to look at them. They just brought new meaning to the term ‘nothing is what it seems.’ They are just as bad as the hoodlums who attacked me.

I was closer to home than I was to the library. This is so bad. I got out my phone as I walked down the street back towards the library. No missed calls, but I have one new text. Beth: Winry? Where are you? Sighing I texted her and said I’m going to be late and start without me. If Ma has not called yet then Mr. Bane has not told her that I went off with some guy on a motorcycle. In that case if I am not at the library when she comes to pick me up at five I’m dead. To die now after all I have been through this last year would be a disgrace to my loved ones.

I only had walked five blocks in ten minutes. The stoplights are horrible today. At this rate I won’t make it to the library till eleven O’clock the GPS on my phone said.

“Hey” a voice called out. I looked up from my phone. Sitting on a red and black Harley Sportster watching at me I found Roman. In his hands the same helmet that Tanner had me use. “Get on” he said as he tossed the helmet at me. I caught it and looked at him skeptically. “I can’t have my girlfriend late to meet her mom” he readjusted his body to allow room for me to sit.

As much as I wanted to through the helmet at his head and tell him to buzz off, I needed to get across town even more. Without a word I put the helmet on my head and got on his sportster. I grabbed the sides of his shirt. I did not want to hold onto him. That would be too much. Less contact the better for all I care. He took my hands and moved them around his torso till they met. Then let go and raced off.

I thought Tanner drove fast; or maybe it was the fact that I was not protected like I am in a car, that made it seem that way, either way; Roman drove much faster. Weaving in and out of traffic, speeding up to beat a light and cutting corners close, even squeezing between a bus and a semi. I think I might die before Ma gets her hands on me. It will all be Roman’s fault. Just how may near death experiences will I face in one damn day? I squeezed my eyes closed and held on for deal life, awaiting the moment when we arrived at the library. After a short time we came to a stop in front of the Public Library. Roman shut off his bike. He carefully pealed my hands apart from around him.

“Were here” he announced.

“I know. I still can’t believe I’m alive” I shuttered trying to get off the bike.

Getting off his bike I handed him back the helmet. It was an amazing Harley. I could not tell if it was restored or rebuilt. If only Taylor was here. He would be able to tell in a heartbeat. I could tell it was very fast and Roman pushed the limits with it. I looked at the bike once more before turning to go into the library.

“Winry” Roman called after me. I stopped and looked back. “You’re welcome” he prompted me.

This is going to taste bitter “Thank you.” I again started for the Library.

“Winry” Roman called to me again. Sighing heavily I turned to face me once more. “I will pick you up in the morning. Be ready by the time I text you” he ordered. I watched with a glare as Roman started his bike and took off.

“Good luck with that, I didn’t give you my number.”

The nerve of some people; I hope someday someone comes and knocks that cocky attitude out of your thug head. Or just knocking his head off his shoulders, which would be satisfying. Maybe then he would have new perspective on the world and how he contributes to society. The odds of that happening were not in my favor. After all he took on three guys and laid them out quick.

“Winry!” Beth yelled running up to me. “Do you know who that was?”

“Some jerk” I scoffed. I didn’t want to talk about it.  

Beth looked at me in amazement. “That is Roman Parks, of the Parks Industries. They have their hands in everyone’s cookie jar. Their family name is on the new gym building because they donated most of the money to build it.” She scolded me “And he just gave you a ride!”

Rolling my eyes, I should be used to all the richy-rich kids and their family’s ties to big business by now; it’s been almost an entire school year. Apparently I don’t care too much about money, while others do. “It was just a ride, nothing to go talking about, especially to Ma and Papa, got it.” I warned her.

Nodding with a big smile Beth agreed. “That’s why I told Tanner that your Ma was to pick you up at five in front of the Public Library and you were not to be one millisecond late.”

I looked at Beth with distain. “What” I yelled at her.

“Ya, well, Tanner asked if I knew Winry Teets. I told him you were called to talk with a teacher. He said he would wait. I told him if he has any business with you that your Ma would be picking you up at five at the Public Library and you’re not to be one millisecond late. He really is a cutie Winry,” She spoke so pleased. “Here I finished the last chapter for you.”

I can’t believe this. I want to be mad at Beth; then again, if it was not for her, I would probably be still walking my way across town.

“Ma is here.” I motioned to Beth.

We walked to the back suburban. “Hi Ma”

Dinner was interesting. I sat at the old oak table with Ma, Papa and Pops. Even though the convocation was about me, I could hardly get a word in edge wise. Papa wanted to arrange it that anytime I left the house I was with someone. A personal body guard or something. Whether it is going to school or to the mall I would have to have a body guard with me at all times. Ma was thinking about a tutor or homeschooling. She even mentioned hiring Mr. Bane. That thought just about made me share with everyone the contents of my stomach. Pops was concerned for my wellbeing, but his approach was more realistic. Get me my own car. I had my permit already and I have got good reviews from Papa and Pops. Though I liked Pops idea best, every time I attempted to speak I was cut off and interrupted. I got up without eating and headed for bed. I left them there arguing. Nothing I could do, I’ll just have to try again tomorrow. My day has gone from one bad dealing to another. I just wanted it to end, soon.

The next morning I got up early and took my shower. After getting dressed I picked up my bag. “Shit” I sighed in irritation “I had homework.” I had Algebra II homework and Haiku that I was supposed to have done last night. Well it was too late now. I can’t let Ma or Papa know. I’ll just have to do it during lunch and my free time.

“Winry, get down here, breakfast is ready. Pop is getting ready to leave so hurry up” Ma yelled up the stairs. I darted down the stairs to the kitchen. Ma had made Scrambled Eggs with toast, Pops favorite.

“Morning Pop’s. Morning Ma. Morning Papa.” I greeted them.

“Morning sun bean” Pop’s greeted.

“Morning Winry did you change your bandage?” Papa questioned.

Putting my hand on my head where I had the cut “No, I cleaned it and it needs to dry out” I informed him.

“Come off it Papa, Winry has had far worse injuries. She knows how to take care of herself.” Ma bragged.

The scrambled eggs were the first thing that I have eaten since breakfast yesterday. My stomach was so happy to have food in it. “Winry, we have decided to take you after school to pick out your first car.” Papa announced. I looked up at them shocked

“What?” I exclaimed shocked.

Ma started to cry sitting at the table. “Oh, cut that out Kathy. There is no call for that.” Pops grumbled.

Ma wiped the tears away “She’s growing up so fast and becoming so independent.” Pops shook his head and looked at Papa.

Papa was reading his newspaper as he does every day. “Honey, we can’t keep her from growing up.”

Pops nudged me “So what car are you going to look at? Bentley? You know I suggest you take a long look at the Bentley lot across town.”

I shook my head. “An Impala” I answered.

Papa put his newspaper down to get a good look at me. “Impala” they questioned.

“Well there will be time to get your dream car later. Right now we should look at a first car.” Ma suggested.

CHIME! My phone went off. “Who is texting at seven fifteen in the morning” Papa questioned. I opened the message: ‘I’m outside.’ That’s all it said. Who is this? It can’t be, could it? I never gave him my number.

“Well” Ma insisted. My heart started to race. If it is Roman and he is here Ma, Papa and Pops will see him. How am I supposed to explain how I know him? Better yet, why he is here this early in the morning. They all starred at me.

“Oh, it’s my ride” I blurted out.

Papa looked at me dumbfounded “What ride?” Ma shook her head and folded her arms. Giving me the adult version of ‘oh no you didn’t.’ I have only one way out of this. I hate to do this, especially for  the likes of  him.

I jolted up slamming my hands on the table “Yes! My ride! I asked a friend to pick me up so I didn’t have to walk or bother anyone to drive me across town. You all would know if you had let me say a word last night!” I yanked my bag off the chair and stomped out of the house. When I got to the sidewalk I relaxed. They could not see me anymore and I was very convincing. It has been a long time since I had to use that trick. It always fooled mom and dad.

“You’re late” Roman called to me from down the block. This guy, who does he think he is? It’s not like he is the only person in my universe. He tossed the helmet to me and started his bike. Besides the fact that Roman was driving the ride was quite relaxing. Taylor was always teaching me about motorcycles and cars. For a smart guy he was the top nerd of mechanics. He had always said that there is no feeling like the one you get when you’re on a motorcycle going down a road.

Roman stopped in front of my school. Quickly I removed the helmet and got off the bike. I had time to go do some of my homework before class.

“Hey” Roman called after me. I turned to him. “I’ll pick you up after school” he informed me. I gave a soft smile

“That won’t be necessary. Papa is taking me to pick out my car after school today.”

He didn’t say anything. He put the helmet on the back of his bike and took off.  It felt like a victory, I got to tell him no and there was nothing he could do about it. I’m becoming a bad person. To hate on him like this. That’s not who I am. Given he deserves some hostility due to the way he dragged me into this scheme of his. I can’t let myself become like this. I have to change this.

Walking into the school I could hear chatter and whispers. Then I noticed the stairs. What is going on? I went to the bathroom to see if something was on my uniform. I checked myself for oil or wax stains. There was nothing wrong with my uniform. My hair was a tad on the frizzy side, only because of the stupid bike helmet. I heard a group girls walking in. Dashing into a stall I sat quietly.

“Did you see that?” One girl said surprised.

“Who does she think she is?” another girl questioned.

“She’s that new sophomore right? The one who came here a month late?” The tall girl wondered out loud.

“Ya, that’s right. I remember her. She was quite the item when she got here. No one is let in late. Ever.” The first girl answered.

“Did anyone ever figure out why she was let in late?” The tall girl asked.

“Oh,” the second girl shouted “…they said it was due to special circumstances. The staff was uniquely tight lipped, well the ones who knew.” The second girl looked at the tall girl “Tristen, why do you think she was let in late?” I held my breath. Tristen, as in Tristen Blonk, the girl that Roman didn’t want to date!

Tristen looked at her “I don’t know. But I am going to find out. Her dirty little secret will be my weapon against her. She thinks she can waltz into my school and take my boyfriend. She has another thing coming. I will expose her for the phony she is in front of everyone at this school.”

I felt my stomach drop to the floor. I have a bad feeling about today.

“Tristen…” the first girl called cautiously “…but, you’re not dating Roman.”

Tristen looked at her “Yet, Mary, I’m not dating him, yet. Let’s go to class before we are late.” They left for class and the restroom was quiet again. I sat there with butterflies in my stomach.

The rest of my day was just as bad. If someone was not coming up to me asking if it’s true that I’m dating the famed Roman Parks they were telling me that I was a man stealer and I needed to give Roman up before things got bad. Really, I thought things could not get any worse than yesterday. As long as it’s not as bad as yesterday I think I can survive it. How long could he possibly want to drag this scheme on for anyway? At lunch I got some vitamin water from the vending machines and a power bar. I glanced at the maker of the power bar ‘Parks Inc.’ Beth was not joking they are all over.

“Why are you here” Beth asked as she walked over.

I felt bad that she had to endure all the drama during class. We sit next to each other all day. She did not ask for this. To be honest neither did it. I was blackmailed into it. “I thought it was nice enough to eat outside” I responded as I took a drink of my water.

Beth looked around then back to me “In the breeze way?”

The breeze way between the new Gym/ Grand Theater and the main Girls High school was like a metal encased walkway. For such a high prestige school they really skimped here. “Someone locked the door to the roof. Besides, no one ever comes here unless they have to” I reasoned.

Beth sat next to me “Here I brought you a rice crispy treat and a Banana.”

I smiled and took them from her. “Thank you Beth” I replied. Beth and I eat in the quiet, dimly lit breeze way alone.

“You know there are two ways up to the roof. We could try them both tomorrow” Beth suggested with a smile.

She is something else. When I first got here she was the only one who was not prodding as to why my arm was in a cast and how come I came in late? She walked up to me at my locker took my bag and said ‘I’m Beth Truman. We’re going to be best friends.’ Like it was the normal thing to do. From that day we really did become best friends.

“I don’t want to make you suffer with me all day, Beth. It’s not fair to you” I solemnly explained. Beth slapped the back of my head. “Ow” I cried out.

“Suffer? This is the greatest thing to ever happen in this school. My best friend is dating the hottest guy in the town, not to mention richest. And I’m in love with one of your boyfriends underlings. This is by no means a suffering matter” Beth scolded me.

I gawked at her amazed. It would be Beth who could find something good in this situation, she’s good at it. “Ok, I got it.” I smiled at her. I have to admit, I’m glad she is sticking with me. I don’t know how I would get through all the bullying that’s on its way alone in this prep school.

Walking to class Beth and I continued to talk about how she is in love with Tanner. I’m starting to think it’s a one-sided love. It is clear that Beth does not see it that way, yet.

“Oh Winry, by the way I hope you don’t mind, I gave Tanner your number last night when we were talking” Beth informed me so casually.

I looked at her with a glare “You did what? Why would you do that?” I questioned her.

“Well he mentioned that he might have to leave before talking to you. So I gave him your number just in case. I also gave him mine too. And you know what? He texted me last night!” she exclaimed while she squeezed my arm “Even though it was just to say that you was on your way to the library. But, still.” Beth you gave them my number. What am I going to do with you? I guess that’s how he got ahold of my number.

I hadn’t run into Mr. Bane today. Usually he is in the halls talking to Miss Saunders during lunch and before school. But today I’m glad that I only have to deal with him once. Seventh hour and only for forty-five minutes. I have to listen to him lecture us on history. I hadn’t told Beth about what happened with creepy Mr. Bane. I had yet to tell anyone for that matter. It was embarrassing and anytime I think about it I feel sick. I had Beth trade me seats for today. I wanted to be by the window not the aisle. Creepy Mr. Bane walks up and down the aisles during class. The last thing I want is for him to accidently touch or talk to me.

“Today class, were going to do something different…” Mr. Bane started class “…You are going to pick a topic in History and you are going to make a lesson plan for your topic. You will have this week to start and the weekend to finish it. By Monday you will have made a twenty minuet lesson on your topic. We’ll be listening to them next Tuesday. Everyone is expected to take notes and I will devise a test from the accumulation of your lessons. That will be half of your final exam grade. So do well.”

The class erupted in a mixture of disappointed and excited chatter. Mr. Bane took down each student’s topic. Beth chose the Race to the Moon.

“Winry Teets” Mr. Bane called my name for my topic.

“Egyptian Mummification” I answered. I remembered Mr. Bane telling Ma how the Egyptian era of history was his least favorite, mostly due to the fact that his mother was obsessed with it. I honestly like the Egyptian era, at the same time I wanted to do something that he would be put off by. What better topic than the one he likes the least.

We had started drawing up our outline of are lesson plans. Beth leaned over to my paper and pretended to be talking about the lesson plan. “By the way you never told me what creepy Mr. Bane wanted to talk about yesterday” Beth whispered to me, “Come on, what happened? Did he want to talk about coming over this weekend to hang with Mr. Lee again?” She giggled.

“No” I answered shortly trying not to think too much about it.

“Then what did he want? Was it about the cut on your head” she sounded worried.

I looked over to her outline, pointing to her paper “You should focus on the machinery or the actual landing. How it was televised, that should help make it interesting.” I suggested to her.

“Ya, I’ll do that. You think he will be grading on how interesting it is?” she asked me nervously.

“You know many people won’t take notes and he is going to devise half of our final exam from these lessons. You want to make sure people don’t sleep through your lesson do you” I reminded her.

Looking frustrated at her lesson plan “Hum, maybe I should change my topic to something exciting? I’ll go ask if I can change my topic.” Beth is easily distracted, poor thing; she won’t realize that I didn’t answer her till later. By that time I will be with Papa picking out my first car and my phone will be off. Topic avoided for today.

Beth came prancing back to the desk “He let me change my topic” she exclaimed “The Gothic Romance era!” she started jumping up and down.

“That’s wonderful Beth” I smiled for her. RING! The last bell rang. I was relieved for this school day to be over. I put up my books and grabbed my homework. Beth and I walked out to the front gates to wait for Papa.

It was three forty-two before we knew it. “Sorry Winry, I have to go home now. Maybe Mr. Lee is just running late” Beth offered me a gleam of hope as she got into her dad’s Black Chrysler 300. I waved till Beth and Mr. Truman were out of sight. Papa had never been late to pick me up before. When he was unable to make it he always called me. To let me know or Ma came to pick me up. I got out my phone and called Papa.

“Hello” Papa answered.

“Papa, I’m…” I started to ask him where he was but he interrupted me.

“Oh, Winry, I’m sorry I got called to a high profile case. I can’t make it. I just called Ma’s clerk and she won’t be out of court till late. Pops went back to DC this morning so I called and asked Oden to take you home. I have to go now. See you at home.” Papa quickly explained and then hanged up without a response from me.

I was fine with them being busy. If I had known sooner I could have asked Beth if I could get a ride home. Instead, he calls Mr. Bane. If only he knew the type of person Mr. Bane is he would not allow him to take me home. I suddenly felt dizzy and sick. I felt my chest get tight, it was hard to breath. I closed my eyes then grabbed my chest and pushed in, trying to make the pain stop. I heard a loud noise. I glanced up to see if it was Mr. Bane coming to pick me up. What a creep, he knows I’ll be home alone. We’ll be alone in his car too. So many things can happen in the short drive from here to my house. I’m going to have to tell Papa about him so this won’t happen again.

I looked down the street and did not see Mr. Bane; instead I saw Roman, Tanner and Justin barreling down the street on their bikes. They pulled up to the curb in front of me and parked.

“Your Dad canceled on you?” Justin asked concerned with a bit of a pained look, “You look pail are you sick again?”

Roman looked at me from his bike. Making no effort to talk to me.

“You pull a mussel lifting something,” Tanner harshly questioned.

What are they doing here? The pain in my chest subsided and I could catch my breath again. “What? Were you guys stalking me?” I scoffed.

Justin laughed “Why would we do that? We were just on our way home and spotted you standing here” he explained.

Tanner looked at me with cold eyes “Don’t think so highly of yourself.”

I don’t, the fact that the boys part of the campus exit and entrance is on the west side. It didn’t make much since that they came from the East.

“Winry” a voice called from behind me. I froze solid, I knew who was coming, Mr. Bane. I looked back slowly. He was walking down the school steps with his briefcase in hand. He was ready to leave for the day.

“That’s the same teacher from yesterday. Is he family or something” Tanner stated.

My heart started to race, my stomach began to turn. I looked back to Roman “You said you were going to pick me up after school, right” I reminded.

Roman was already tossing me the helmet. It was like he read my mind. I put it on as fast as I could. I kept fumbling the clip; my hands would not stop shaking.

“Winry, get off that bike” Mr. Bane yelled at me running toward us.

“No worries Mr. Bane, I got a ride home” I yelled back as Roman took off.

I did not hesitate wrapping my arms tightly around Roman so I didn’t fall off. His speed was a bit slower today. He drove a lot like Tanner drove yesterday. I didn’t care where we were going as long as it was far away from Mr. Bane. Oh crap, Mr. Bane. He has every right to call Papa or Ma and tell them about this. The trouble he can cause over this. The trouble I can be in if he says anything. I can’t worry about that now. I need to calm down now. I don’t need to start having panic attacks again.

Roman stopped at the Tea Shoppe. I got off and handed him the helmet back. “Thank you” I muttered. My hands were still a bit shaky so I griped them on the strap of my bag.

Roman got off his bike walking up to me he took one of my hands off my bag gently. No matter how much I wanted for my hand to stop shaking completely, the more anxious I became. “Chamomile” Roman spoke in a loud voice.

“I’ll let cookie know” Justin replied as he went in. Roman gently towed me into the tea Shoppe. His gentleness surprised me. This is an unexpected side to see. After everything that happened yesterday I never would have thought that he would have this side to him.

The round booth was empty with a card on it saying reserved. Roman got into the booth first with me in tow closely behind. Tanner sat at the bar talking to a blond girl. She was clearly taken by him, I could not tell if he liked her back or if he was just toying with her. Justin nudged him as he walked by with a tea cup in hand. Tanner immediately followed Justin without giving the girl one more thought. She looked hurt as he up and walked away. Justin set the tea in front of me then scooted into the booth next to Tanner.

“This will help with whatever ails you.” Justin assured me as he gestured to the cup.

I took a sip of the tea. It was unsweetened and a bit biter yet, the aroma and taste are refreshing. Justin was right; I did feel better after drinking some. My hands began to stop shaking and my chest relaxed. Who knew tea could do such wonderful things.

“So who is that teacher to you?” Roman demanded.

I set the cup back on the saucer. “A teacher who happens to know Papa” I answered in a low voice.

“If that’s all why are you so quick to get away from him” Tanner scoffed.

With my nerves calmed I reached into my ID badge. I placed a ten dollar bill on the table. “Thank you for the ride and the tea. I need to be going now” I responded. I got up and put my bag back on. My hands have stopped shaking finally. I think I’ll have to get some more of this tea at home.

I smiled faintly at the blond girl that Tanner had talked to as I left. She smiled and nodded back. She seemed nice and kind hearted. She would have to have some tough skin to work in that Tea Shoppe with Roman and his gang hanging out there every day. I was only eight blocks from home and this side of town was more safe than most. The Mayor lives only three blocks from here. So cops are patrolling this area all the time. Being safe is no problem here. What my problem now is if someone recognizes me and tells Papa that I was walking home.

“Wait up” a voice called to me.

I could not place the voice over the cars driving by. For a moment I was scared to turn around and see who had called after me. Taking a deep breath I turned around. Roman was jogging toward me. The last person I expected to see is Roman. Justin’s more likely to show up then Roman. Justin is clearly kind not spoiled rotten. Roman caught up in no time. He handed me my ten dollar bill back

“It was my teat, you don’t pay when your with me” he stated. Ya, there goes his spoiled ego. I took the money and stuffed it in my jacket pocket as I started walking again.

Roman walked next to me in silence for the next two blocks. Oddly enough it was awkward and yet comforting at the same time. We paused at the last stoplight before turning into the residential area. This light is always long. Papa thinks that someone has changed the settings. We can spend a good five minutes just waiting for the light to change some times.

“You called that teacher Mr. Bane” Roman questioned.

I looked to see if the light was going to change any time soon. “Ya” I answered “that’s his name.” I wanted to get home before the next patrol car came by. With my luck lately it would be someone who knows me.

Roman was quite for a time.

“Green” I whispered relieved. Darting across the intersection I did not pay much attention to weather Roman was keeping up or not.

“As in Creepy Mr. Bane, who is rumored to have an affair with a student last year, Mr. Bane. The same one who flirts and hits on students in his office behind closed doors” he questioned. Roman looked at me intently as he spoke.

This conversation is not making me feel any better. “The one and only” I replied. We made it to the residential area just as the patrol car drove past the light. I was finally in the clear. I slowed my pace a bit; I no longer needed to rush. The silence between us rose again. I wondered how he could think there was another Mr. Bane at that school. Far as I knew he is the only ‘Bane’ in this town, maybe even state.

I opened the back yeard gate to the house without thinking I didn’t turn to shut it behind me. Hands latched onto my shoulders and spun me around. Roman gazed deep into my eyes. His face was so close I could smell his minty hot breath.

“If he has ever touched you; if he ever touches you, tell me” he demanded.

Someway gazing back into his eyes I was not worried or concerned. What I saw in his eyes was determination. A look I have seen before many times. I nodded acknowledging his demand. This is not a convocation I wish to be having. I just want it to go away like some bad dream.

“I know he has done something. You get pale and sickly looking when you talk about him or see him. You are too quick to avoid him. You shook so much you had a hard time getting the helmet on and even after you was away from him you still shook. Tell me” Roman ordered.

I never thought he could have this side to him. I wanted someone to tell about yesterday. I need to tell someone, I need to talk to someone about his advances. Is it OK to tell Roman?

“Winry, where have you been” Mr. Bane questioned as he walked around the side of the house.

Roman kept his eyes and hands on me.

Romans eyes and his presence made me feel safe. “I got a ride home” I answered turning to face  Mr. Bane.

Mr. Bane crossed his arms “With a gang of boys on bikes that you don’t know. Yet, you show up here after me. Minus the bike and the gang. I ask you again, where have you been? If Joe or Kat were to…” he warned.

Roman turned around “Well they don’t now do they.” He mocked Mr. Bane. “If they did they would of called or be here. So they don’t know. More importantly she is home safe and sound.”

Mr. Bane glared at Roman. “I see you’re a boy from Marrow. You have brought her home safely so you can leave now. You have no reason to be here” Mr. Bane warned.

Roman moved me behind him. With a protecting pose Roman sniped at Mr. Bane “I’m not going to leave until my girlfriend asks me to.”

Mr. Bane glared at him then looked at me “Girlfriend? Boy, if you don’t leave this instant I will call the cops.” Mr. Bane yelled.

Roman laughed “Go ahead when they get here I’ll tell them all about what you did to Winry. You know her dad is a detective, right?”

Watching this exchange made it hard to breath. The pain in my chest was back. I tried hard to hide the fact that I was having this trouble. If Mr. Bane caught wind of this he would never leave. The longer this goes on the worse its getting.

Mr. Bane froze. “What?” He pretended to look shocked. His acting was horrible. Papa said he has always been a terrible liar. “Winry? Eh, honey. What did you tell him?” Mr. Bane looked at me hurt with a confused smile. I squeezed my eyes shut to hide the tears of pain and avoid his gaze.

“How dare you ‘honey’ her? Just how do you think her father will react when he hears about it” Roman threatened “You know your right. Someone should call the cops. Maybe they can sort this all out” Roman took his phone out of his pocket.

“Stop” Mr. Bane yelled putting his hands out “I’ll leave. I’m leaving. There is no need to do that.” Mr. Bane backed quickly out of the yard and to his car. He frantically got in and left.

When he was out of sight Roman spat at the ground “Disgusting pervert.”

I felt dizzy and I could not catch my breath. My arm started to feel funny like it was asleep. I reached out to try and steady myself on anything “Roman” I mumbled as I started to fall. Roman turned around and caught me before I hit the ground.

“Winry” he yelled “What’s wrong?”

I tried to get in my bag. “My meds, I need them.” I mumbled.

Roman hastily rummaged through my bag and pulled out a small vile with three small pills in it. He opened up the vile and handed me one pill. I put it under my tong. “Should I call an ambulance” he asked panicked.

I shook my head no. “Give it time” I whispered.

After a minuet of a horrible powdery bitter taste in my mouth my symptoms started to subside. I sat up and started to calm down Roman. He looked like he just walked into a horror movie.

“What was that” he demanded “What the hell are these?” He threw my vile at me.

“It’s referred to as a panic attack. People suffering from PTSD get them frequently. That was the first one in months.” I explained looking at the vile. Roman nodded trying to absorb all the information that I had just given him. He helped me to the front door. My uniform had grass stains on the back. I was going to have to get them out before Ma gets home.

I unlocked the door. I thought about inviting Roman in but, it’s late and Ma should be home any time now. I turned to thank Roman and say good night.

“You have PTSD” he asked gazing at me.

“Thank you, and good night.” I spoke softly. Careful to avoid his question.

“Answer me” Roman Demanded “Stop avoiding my questions Winry!”

“No, I’m recovering from PTSD. You really should go before Ma gets home.” I urged. He turned without another word and walked away. I stood in the doorway till he was out of sight.

Ma got home after I finished dinner. She brought home desert for the three of us. “Papa should be home soon.” She announced. I put out the plates as Papa pulled in. The Cherry Cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory was Papa’s favorite. Ma only brought this one on special occasions or when she knew Papa had a horrible day at work.

Papa came in quiet as he always dose when he has a bad day. We sat and eat in complete silence. Ma looked up after finishing her slice. “Winry did Oden make you wait long?” Ma asked. This is something that I had not expected. Did he call Ma?

“Um no, I got a ride home. I did tell him that I had a ride before I left.” I answered. No need to lie, if this is a trick I should be as honest as possible.

Papa looked up from his plate at me “From whom? You said on the phone you was alone” Papa remarked.

“No, Papa, I said I’m waiting for you.” I gently corrected him.

He leaned back nodding “Yes, that’s right.”

Ma set her plate aside “So who brought you home?”

This was making me feel uneasy. Papa finished his plate and set it aside too. This was an interrogation not a friendly discussion of how my day went. I can expect nothing less from them though.

“Oden called me today after I got off the phone with you. He said that you had suddenly told him you had a ride and took off. You didn’t even clear it through him or us” Papa remarked.

Ma’s expression changed to her court room look; the blank and cold gaze. “Bane then called me when he arrived at the house…” Ma stated coldly “…and you were not home yet. He said he would wait here. But what he told me but didn’t tell Papa was that you left with a boy.”

Papa shot up out of his chair yelling “A boy! What boy!”

Ma took Papa’s hand and patted it. “Calm down Joe” she spoke sweetly “He told me that he was going to wait till she arrived.” Papa’s face got red, just another bad day. Mr. Bane had to make things worse by calling them. Did he think that was smart considering what he has clearly implied behind closed doors?

“Yes” I replied “I got a ride from a boy. No, my Boyfriend. Yes, I would rather get a last minute ride with anyone as long as they weren’t Mr. Bane. And no, I did not go straight home. My boyfriend treated me to an afternoon drink before going home. It was kind and sweet of him to.” I stood up and got frustrated “You up and left me waiting with no mention that you was not going to show up. Didn’t bother to call me but had the time to call and talk with Mr. Bane? You didn’t even ask me if I was comfortable being driven home by him. When my boyfriend came by on his way home he offered me a ride. I took it; I’m more comfortable with my boyfriend than I am with creepy Mr. Bane. You would know this stuff if you ever asked. However, you don’t” sobbing I sat back down “You don’t ask. You don’t listen to what I have to say. You take Mr. Bane’s word and didn’t even ask my side of the story. You just rather interrogate me at the table like some criminal.”

Papa came over and hugged me. “I’m sorry Winry, you’re right.” Papa apologized kindly. Squeezing me in a bear hug till it was hard to breathe. “I should have called you. I should have asked what you wanted to do. You’re not a child, I know. We had no idea you didn’t like Oden that much.”

Ma walked over and gave me a hug as well. “It’s OK Winry. We knew about the boy” she assured me.

I looked at them, wiping the tears away “How? I hadn’t told anyone yet.”

Papa hugged Ma they looked at each other with a loving smile “Pops told us” Ma giggled “He went to make sure you were OK after this morning’s upset. That’s when he seen you put on a helmet and get on the boy’s bike. The boy had on the same uniform.” I thought my chest was going to explode. They put me through all this knowing about Roman. How cruel; how sadistic, such cruel and unusual punishment. They sat here and interrogated me knowing that I would not lie and further more about Roman.

“Of course he could only get a partial on the bike but I held off running it, for now.” Papa laughed lightheartedly “Even though Pops was persistent that I run it right away. But Ma and I decided that it was best to wait and see what you tell us about this boy.” This was cruel on so many levels, even for them. Ma sat Papa back in his chair.

“Ok, now for the important news” she declared “I went to the doctor today. I have been having trouble eating and a pain I can’t explain.”

Papa nodded intently. I know how it has worried him that Ma has been sick. Ma’s mother died a few years ago from cancer. That’s all he can think about. Ma getting sick and him having to live without her. I leaned on the table waiting the test results.

“The Doctor said that I.” Ma paused for a moment. I could see the look on Papa’s face. He was scared and worried. “I’m pregnant.” She exclaimed.

I looked at Papa and thought he was going to pass out. He went pale as a ghost and fell back in his seat. Ma smiled big “He said that I’m 14 weeks. I’m due in the fall.”

“But the doctors said we couldn’t have kids” Papa’s shocked tone and expression was not dampening Ma’s excitement.

“But we are Joe. I’m thirty six and you’re thirty seven. It’s a little late but we’re going to have a baby!” Ma looked over at me “Winry you’re going to have a baby brother or sister.”

I went to bed after telling Ma how happy I am for her and Papa. But honestly, I was not sure how excited I was about it. I had siblings; an older brother Taylor and younger brother Jaycee; but they’re gone now. I don’t think I could handle it if something happened to this baby.

Laying in a hot bath before getting ready for school is way too relaxing. Yet, here I am. I could hear Ma and Papa in the guest bedroom next to my room, it connected to this bathroom. They were talking about remodeling it for a boy or girls room. I could see them once the baby is here deciding that they don’t like the layout and working feverishly to change it. CHIME! A text? I got out of the tub and went to the counter to check the message. New Message from Unknown: How are you feeling today? J

It must be from Justin. I quickly replied that I was fine. Then got dressed and headed down for breakfast. With the state that Ma and Papa were in given the intense discussion about the remodeling I assumed they were both taking the day off. I grabbed a bagel to eat rill quick.

“Who is taking me to school?” I called up the stairs.

Papa peaked down “Oh, I’ll take you.”

I was late for class because Papa got chatty with a pal of his he’d seen buying some coffee.

“Wow I thought you was sick or something” Beth remarked as I took my seat. “I see you didn’t get your car.”

I groaned “Nope but I got a headache for my trouble.”

At lunch Beth took me the back way to the roof. The teachers use the roof to smoke so they have put up some shady canopies. The quiet was just too much for Beth. She had to babble to ensure some type of noise. It was the only time I’m left alone. Many of the girls here do not like the fact that I’m ‘dating’ Roman. It’s like some unspoken rule that Tristen and Roman belong together. I am met daily with rude girls, nasty tricks and even more hateful words. I opened the door to the locker room and got a pale of stagnate water doused on not only me but Beth too. I could not tell Beth that I am supposed to be pretending to date him. She gets so aggravated at the other girls she has been sent to the principal’s office this week for yelling at them in my defense.

Finally Friday is here again and the weekend is on its way! All this week pranks and bullying has plagued me. The inside of my locker had been sprayed with so much silly string that it took me a while to clean it out. Everything was covered in the sticky stuff. I decided till this was all over I would just carry my books with me. It’s safer than dealing with all this trouble. My gym clothes had chunks of fabric cut out. Walking from class to class I constantly get pushed and my feet stomped on. Whispers calling me ‘a man stealer’ and ‘whore’ from girls all over the school older and younger followed me all day long. Tacks in my shoes, clothes missing, books stolen and my hair got cut while I was in class by one of Tristen’s minions.

Beth and I eat our lunches outside on the roof every day this week and last week. Roman did not text me or show up out of the blue either. The last communication I had got from any of them was Justin asking if I was OK. My week was fairly normal outside of school. Ma and Papa started the remodeling. “Papa could not agree on a single car for me to have as my first car. We have been to six dealerships in two days. You would think the car is for him the way he acts.” I groaned. Things felt normal until I was in school.

“Winry why go to drama class if you don’t participate?” Beth wondered as we were walking to a bus for the Drama field trip.

“It’s drama class Beth, ninety percent of the kids in are class don’t do anything anyhow, besides study and play on their phones” I reminded her.

Beth nodded “Yes, but what about you? Can you play anything,” She wondered.

I gently nudged her “I can play the piano.” She beamed at me. Beth can play the violin and has always wanted to learn the piano.

“You can, why did you not tell me before! My parents would not have had to go through three piano teachers this year” she laughed.

“Attention students” Mr. Bane announced to the bus “I am coming along as one of your chaperons. The boys Drama class will also be joining us. So behave like adults or get treated like children. It’s your choice.” Many of the girls were quietly screaming. Those who had a boyfriend in Drama or the Drama Club were allowed to attend the same field trip. Together there were about forty Drama and Drama Club students going on this trip; including both guys and girls.

As the buys started to board the bus girls started exchanging seats so they could be with their boyfriend. I sat at the back of the bus with Beth in the last seat. This way I would not have to worry about anyone doing something from behind me again. This way, I can see it coming. The bus started getting loud with chatter so I immersed myself in a game on my phone. There was nothing else to do till we arrived at the Theater down town.

Suddenly Beth plopped down in the seat making me drop my phone. “Hey, what’s the…” I looked over to see what her problem was. Beth was not who I found sitting with me. “Roman?” what is he doing here? Justin sat in the solo seat across from us. Beth sat in the set in front of him with Tanner. I could see the sheer joy emanating from her face. She must have moved to sit with Tanner. Leaving me alone in my seat and a spot open for Roman to sit.

Roman picked up my phone off the floor at his feet. Handing it to me “You dropped this.” He stated. I took my phone from him and went back to my game.

He blackmails me into pretending to dating him. He stalks me for the first two days. Then he disappears for the rest of the week. Suddenly he shows up next to me on a bus full of the hateful girls I have had to deal with for two weeks. Way to make things better you self-centered jerk. All this is going to do is add fuel to the fire that is already raging in my life.

“Why are you sitting back here” Roman questioned. I glanced at him; I noticed he was watching me play tower defense; if he knew the weeks I’ve had in school. How could he, he is the popular guy that everyone loves, the untouchable guy that I’m being harassed for ‘dating.’

Gritting my teeth “If you had the week I’ve had, you would sit at the far back too.”

“Good to see you Winry” Justin called from across the way.

“You too Justin” I replied. Roman pretended not to be watching me play my game. I suppose he didn’t want people to think he was invested or something.

“What’s he doing here” Roman hissed.

Tanner leaned over “He is the chaperone for the girls, he volunteered.” I could feel the tension roll off him.

“You mean we have to watch as this rat tapes about the Theater are families rebuilt. All the while he stares at his female students” Justin grumbled as he leaned back in the seat.

“Sounds about right” Beth chimed in.

Tanner groaned “If I so much as hear he put the moves on another girl.”

Roman watched Mr. Bane intently “You will have to get in line” Roman declared.

Their families funded the remodeling project. The once grate Opera theater had been abandoned over ten years ago. It was run down and in need of major repair or be condemned. Last summer a fund was established to restore it. Looks like these three’s families had a lot to do with it. The magnitude of this building cannot be understated. The restoration had been completed and they are set to open for their first Play, tomorrow night, sense its closing ten years ago. I followed Roman off the bus and into the Merle Theater. The beauty of this place was breath taking. The project manager, play manager and building manager all greeted us. They soon began to tell us about this history of this place.

Beth and I, like most of the girls got caught up in the love triangle, death and prosperity that brought about this building. Soon I noticed that Roman was not beside me. Looking around I didn’t see Tanner or Justin either. Where could they have gone? Well I’m not his keeper. Our relationship is completely false. What should I care if he gets in trouble?

Next we were introduced to the stars of the show. “Winry, I have to pee” Beth whispered.

I sighed. “Ok, let’s go.”

We started looking for the restrooms. We walked back the way we came thinking they had to have the restrooms close to the entrance? Beth spotted a hall. Deciding to see if the restrooms are down the hall we started walking. Then we realized we were walking down a long corridor.

“There!” Beth pointed to a ‘restrooms’ sign hanging down the hall.

“Hurry up. If we get lost or get caught we could be in trouble.” I warned her.

Once she was finished we tried to find our way back to the group. Beth insisted on opening all the doors we came across to make sure they were not inside a room that we missed.

“Winry” Beth exclaimed and ran into one of the rooms.

“Wait Beth” I ran after her.

I thought it was a room. I quickly realized we were standing on the side of the stage. Beth walked up to the middle of the stage. “Look a Piano” she exclaimed. She was like a kid in a candy store, spinning around under the light on the stage and bowing to a non-existent audience.

“Wow this is huge. You have to come and see this” she insisted. I walked over to her, intent on dragging her back to the hall.

“Beth we’re not supposed to be here” I scolded her.

She ran over to the Piano “Play something for me, Winry. I want to hear you play” she begged.

It is a beautiful grand piano. It must be used; its polished with light scratches on the keys. “It is a glamorous piano” I sighed in awe.

“Yes. Yes it is. So play it. It’s begging you to play it ,Winry. Can’t you hear it? ‘Play me! Play me, Winry!’ it’s calling to you” Beth pleaded.

I sat down placing my fingers lightly on the keys. This brought back so many memories of playing at home. “What do you want to hear” I asked.

Beth shrugged “Surprise me.”

“Ok” I replied.

I closed my eyes then started playing Fur Elise one of my favorites. As the music flowed from my head to the keys memories came along with it. This was the first song I was taught how to play on the piano. Taylor wanted to make sure that I had a good appreciation of classical music. It was hard to learn verses other songs I could have learned. Mother enjoyed my playing while she cleaned the house. Little Jaycee would sit with me watching as I plaid for hours. He wanted to be like his big sis and bubba, he wanted to play too.

Dad always insisted that Taylor and I play every holiday. Thinking about them pained me. My heart ached for them. The style and the notes of the song began to change with my emotion. I missed them, I am still angry that they are all gone. They left me here alone with this unbearable pain and longing that I feel every day now that I’m without them. I looped the song one last time in order to leave off on a mellow beat as it should be. I felt at home playing on this grand piano that reminded me of the one I use to play. I still remember how mother and father would dace with Little Jaycee as the music played. I remembered playing with Little Jaycee as Taylor would play the piano on Jaycee’s last birthday. How happy we all use to be together. That is all I wanted; to again be that happy. I opened my eyes when I finished.

“Bravo” a voice bombed in the theater along with applause. Startled I stood up and looked to the audience. The entire class was standing applauding. It looks as though they had been siting listening to me play. Butterflies filled my stomach as I realized we had been found out. Should have known this would happen. This building is built to amplify sound. What a lapse in judgment on my part.

“Amazing” someone yelled.

“Beautiful” another voice called out.

I looked to Beth she looked at me expressing the fear of trouble that I was feeling. Mouthing ‘Sorry, I could not stop you it was beautiful’ she excused. The play manager Mr. Roundtree and a man I had not met yet walked up on the stage all smiles and applauding.

“That was dire honey. The way you played Beethoven’s Fur Elise and with such graceful emotion. You can’t buy that type of talent” He complimented me.

The man next to him took my hand “Hello, I’m Mark Hicks president of the Millennia Artists Foundation.” Mr. Hicks gazed at me in admiration “Where did you learn to play like that?”

Mr. Roundtree stepped in Mr. Hicks way “You play superbly my dear. What teacher do you train with? Would you consider playing here for us during the city wide artist contest next week?”

I looked at them both. This was all overwhelming “Uh, I don’t train. That was far from my best. I have not touched a piano in over a year.” I answered them graciously.

The building manager called out “Well, let’s move on to see the back stage shall we?” The group moved up onto the stage and behind the curtains. Mr. Hicks and Mr. Roundtree continued trying to talk to me.

“What’s your name darling” Mr. Roundtree requested.

I turned to look at him just to be blinded by a light. I placed my hand up to block it. “My name? It’s…” I noticed something. Someone was in one of the VIP seats. Roman sat watching everything from his perch up so high. “…It’s Winry, Winry Teets” I answered. Mr. Roundtree and Mr. Hicks tried to get me to take their cards. I looked around and spotted Beth following the group. “Uh, I should return to the group. I’ll call you soon. But right now I need to get back to the group.”

I darted after Beth. I rounded the corner faster than I thought and ran right into Beth. “Sorry Beth” I apologized. I looked up to see Mr. Bane. Now we’ve had it.

“You two deliberately went off from the group and caused a ruckus, embarrassing me, your teachers and the entire school. When you go out with the school uniform on you represent the school,” He scolded us “I hope you had fun looking around. The field trip for you two is now over.”

Beth and I looked at each other. “What?” we exclaimed.

Mr. Bane pointed behind us “We’re going back to the bus. That is where you will spend the rest of this trip till we get back to Marrow. Then I will be calling both your parents and informing them of this incident.”

“This is unbelievable” Beth complained.

Mr. Bane turned us around and gave us a little push “March.”

Beth and I got on the bus without further fuss. We both thought this was unfair treatment. I lead us back to the seats we were in on the trip down.

“No, Winry you will sit at the back, Beth you will sit here” Mr. Bane ordered pointing to the very first seat on the bus.

Beth looked at me in disbelief. “He is overreacting” she whispered before heading back to the front of the bus. The trip was supposed to take four hours. It had only been just over one hour by the time we were forced back to the bus. Mr. Bane sat in his seat in the middle of the bust. It was quiet for a time. Beth and I started to text each other because creepy Mr. Bane would not let us sit near each other.

We talked about how out of hand this was getting. We both agreed to protest any punishment Mr. Bane or the school would impose on us. We did not hurt anyone. All we did was get lost, find a piano and play a short song. Where’s the harm in that. She had texted her mom and told her what had happened. Beth said that she was grounded for the weekend over it. I could only imagine what Ma and Papa are going to say.

I asked her if she had had any plans for this weekend that had to be canceled now. I waited for her reply for a bit. Then I peeked in the aisle to see if she was still lying down. She wasn’t, Mr. Bane had her phone and was talking to her. I could not hear what they were saying over the radio he had playing. I plopped back into my seat. He would be coming for mine next. What is with him; you would think we robbed a bank by the way he is acting. Instead of letting Mr. Bane get to Ma and Papa first I texted them both explaining everything that happened at the Theater. I told them that Mr. Bane was taking away Beth’s phone so I would lose mine shortly so I was going to shut it off. At this point we still had another hour and a half to wait before heading back.

I waited a long time for him to come and ‘confiscate’ my phone. It took him long enough but he came to the back of the bus and sat down. Leaning across the aisle Mr. Bane motioned for me to move closer. “Come here Winry” he called for me. Reluctantly I scooted over to the aisle. “Winry, you know what Beth and you did was wrong” he questioned.

I shrugged “I don’t see the big deal, they were more than happy about how I played. No one got hurt” I reminded him.

He gave me a serious look “That is no excuse. Give me your phone, I’m confiscating it. Joe or Kat will have to come pick it up for you from the office” he informed me.

I slapped my phone down in his hand with a cocky glare. He took it and put it in his pocket. That should be the end of this conversation he will go back and I will sit here fuming till I get to the school and Papa or Ma pick me up.

Mr. Bane sat back down and grabbed my thy keeping me from moving “Winry we need to finish discussing what we were talking about in my office” he demanded. I looked down at my leg where his hand was grabbing onto me. This really made me feel uncomfortable; his grip was tight enough that I could not move away. I wondered if Beth could see this from where she is. “Don’t worry, were alone. Beth had to go to the restroom” Mr. Bane reassured me as if he was reading my mind. My heart started to beat so hard that I thought it would beat out of my chest. She left me alone with him. How could she do this?

“I will overlook Roman’s interference for your sake. So, as I was saying…” Mr. Bane decided to continue where he had left off the other day. Putting his other hand on my other thy. “…When I met you I had never seen a more beautiful girl correction, woman in my life. I know that you may have your boyfriend or whatever he is to you…” Mr. Bane squeezed my thy harder with his hand as he mentioned Roman. “…saying that he loves you; that he wants to be with you and only you. This I can promise you Winry, he is nothing but a boy. He will cheat on you, break your heart or leave you. However, I would never do anything like that to you. You would never have to worry about me cheating or breaking your heart. I would take care of you in and out of school. You would never have to worry about grades or want for anything.” Mr. Bane leaned in closer as he looked in my eyes. He said she went to the bathroom, surly she won’t be gone much longer.

“Do you understand what I’m telling you” he asked as he took a lock of my hair in one hand and slowly sliding his other hand up my thy with his other hand. “It's in your best interest to see things my way and soon.”

“Mr. Bane” I struggled to find the words to say “I. I uh…”

Bam! The doors to the bus opened. Mr. Bane jumped up and started back to the front of the bus. Rowdy and excited students came storming onto the bus. I moved back over by the window and put my head against the seat in front of me. I closed my eyes and pulled my skirt as far down my legs as it would go. I held my skirt there. It was school regulation past the tips of my fingers. Yet, somehow I felt like I was in a mini skirt. It was suddenly not long enough at all. What I wouldn’t give for a pair of jeans right now. Better yet, what I wouldn’t give to be home right now.

Whoosh, a gust of wind blew over me when Roman plopped down. The bus is once again full of student. “What happened there is still an hour left in the tour” Mr. Bane asked.

“Early play rehearsal, they forgot about it during the scheduling. We have been invited back after the play has run for a few weeks” Miss Sanders exclaimed.

“Where’s Tanner” Justin questioned.

“He sat up there” Roman answered.

I assumed Tanner sat with Beth. Or maybe Beth forced Tanner to sit with her. We headed back to the school early. The bus driver and the teachers were debating as to who gets off first. It was sounding like the boys would be dropped off first.

“Hey Winry, how much trouble are you in for playing a piano” Justin asked “That was bull you and Beth getting canned for adding a little mystery and excitement to that boring tour. Hell, you are the reason we got invited back in the first place. They have to bring you.”

“Not bad Winry” Mary commended me “You spiced it up. Who knew what a diamond you are? You sure know how to pick ‘em Roman.” Mary turned back around to talk to her boyfriend.

“Winry don’t let it get to you. I’m sure the dean won’t do a thing to you or Beth. Were about to be at the school. Don’t worry about it and shake it off.” Justin tried to make me feel better.

Roman put his hand on my shoulder and tried to pull me back to sit upright. I brushed him off. I had no idea how to handle Mr. Bane anymore. I thought avoiding him would work. I had thought maybe Roman had scared him. In its place of Roman’s threats, he found fuel to keep pushing himself on me. Something has to be done. ‘When threats don’t work; then it’s time to stop bluffing and jump’ words of wisdom from Pops rang in my head.

“It’s nothing to get all twisted over.” Roman remarked.

I looked at him “Give me your phone” I ordered. He gawked at me like I was crazy.

“Oh, your phone was taken? Here use mine” Justin threw me his phone. I dialed a number pressed call then handed it to Roman.

“Talk” I ordered. I made my way down the aisle to Mr. Bane’s set. I could hear Roman behind me. “Hello?... No, I don’t know. Winry dialed this number and handed me the phone…This is Roman Parks.”

Good Papa picked up. I have no idea if this will work. Or even if I can get out of this without getting in a lot of trouble, but it’s worth a try. Doing something is better than doing nothing at all. Here is where I jump, Pop’s.

“She’s walking down the bus aisle…” Roman started to give Papa play by play of my movements. I fully anticipated this, that’s why I called Papa.

“Mr. Bane” I called standing behind him. I took a deep breath.

He turned around “Yes?” ☺

SMACK! I punched Mr. Bane as hard as I could in the face. Just the way Taylor had taught me to. I nailed him right in the nose knocking him out cold.

“Ah” Miss Sanders screamed in the seat next to him.

His face instantly became covered in blood, it was starting to leak onto the bus floor. I turned around satisfied I calmly and emotionlessly walked back to my seat. The bus became quiet. I watched Roman as he spoke to Papa

“She...She just...With one hit.” Roman stood up to let me in the seat. I took the phone from Roman. I could hear Papa yelling into the phone

“She what? What’s going on there? What’s with the screaming? Answer me boy!” Papa demanded answers.

“Papa…” I called to him calmly “I need you. Please hurry” I ended the call before he could respond.

We stopped in front of the girls’ side of the campus. The bus driver and a senior boy helped carry Mr. Bane’s unconscious body off the bus. The bus was quickly evacuated. Justin and Roman refused to get off till Papa showed up. Miss Sanders did not argue she just simply told them they would be forced off by someone else. I watched out the window as Dr. Lewis attended to Mr. Bane. School security came and put up a human barrier so that other students would not have to see Mr. Bane. Tanner stood behind Mr. Bane consoling Beth who was crying in his chest. I hope she will be OK. I hope in time she will be able to understand what happened. She may be easily distracted but she is farm from dumb.

“Uh, Roman” Justin’s shocked voice broke through my thoughts.

I looked over to him. Is Papa here already? Justin was pointing to my legs. I looked down and realized I had a bruise in the shape of a hand on my inner thy where Mr. Bane held so tight earlier. I pulled my skirt over it and looked up at Roman. His face as calm just like it always is. His eyes told a different story; fury and hatred burned within him. I could feel the tears swell up in my eyes. Roman unbuttoned his blazer then took it off. He placed it over my legs. Somehow I felt guilty about what happened as Roman covered my legs. He took a deep breath and stood up. He started down the aisle. Justin jumped up and followed trying to pull him back. Roman got close to the doors and started walking faster.

“Tanner! Grab him!” Justin yelled.

I watched Tanner pry Beth off and ran toward the bus. Tanner caught Roman just after he got off the bus. Both Justin and Tanner pushed and pulled Roman away from where Mr. Bane sat talking with Dr. Lewis. Roman didn’t say a word he just kept trying to go at Mr. Bane. Tanner and Justin kept telling him ‘no’ he can’t. Miss Sanders looked on confused.

“What’s going on” an officer came walking up “I’m Officer Kurt.”

Miss Sanders ran up to him. “One of the female students walked up and punched her teacher, Mr. Bane here. I have no idea what’s wrong with these boys” she cried.

The officer turned to Roman, Justin and Tanner who were now standing still. Roman did not for one second take his eyes off Mr. Bane.

“Explain your selves” officer Kurt ordered. Tanner and Justin looked at Roman. They were all out of breath and panting.

Justin pointed to the bus “Go ask her” he suggested.

Officer Kurt looked at them suspicious. “You three boys go sit over on them steps and don’t move.” He looked at the bus then to Mr. Bane “Do you need medical help?”

Mr. Bane shook his head “No need officer. Oh, I won’t be pressing any charges.”

Officer Kurt nodded turning his attention to the bus. He walked back to the back of the bus slowly. “Hello there Miss.” Officer Kurt announced. I watched as he approached me. “Can you tell me what happened” Officer Kurt requested nicely.

I looked him in the eyes “Where’s Papa. I want to talk to him only.”

Two more police cars pulled up. Papa and Detective Greenhorn in one and two other detectives in the second. Papa walked up to Miss. Sanders

“Where’s Winry” he demanded. Detective Greenhorn was trying to calm him down.

“Who was first on scene” Detective Greenhorn demanded.

Officer Kurt got off the bus “I was. The Victim is a teacher.” He began.

“Victim my ass” Justin scoffed.

“Quite you” Officer Kurt yelled at him “I don’t know what their story is or how they fit into this. The suspect is sitting on the bus. She refuses to speak to me. She is waiting for ‘Papi’ whoever that is.” He grumbled over my lack of conversation

“It’s Papa you indocile” Papa scolded him. He stormed for the bus. Detective Greenhorn pulled him back.

“No Joe, you can’t. If you get involved this could go bad for everyone involved” he warned him.

I could see Papa was shaking “She’s my little girl Ben” Papa pleaded.

“Detective Lee” One of the other detective’s called to him “Let us do are job. You will see her soon. I promise.”

Papa looked at him with a worried face then back to Greenhorn. “Ok, fine. You have five minutes then I’m getting on that bus and getting my daughter” Papa warned the Detective “You better do your best here.”

The two detectives boarded the bus, they walked calmly toward me. The first guy with blond hair looked at me “I’m Detective Hathaway this is my partner Detective Erne” Detective Hathaway introduced them. Detective Erne pulled out a note pad and pen.

“Can you tell us your name” Detective Erne questioned. I looked out the window. Papa was pacing the sidewalk chewing on his nails. Detective Greenhorn stood talking to Tanner.

“Winry Teets” I answered. I looked down at my lap covered by Roman’s blazer.

“Ok, Winry, can you tell us what happened?” Detective Hathaway asked. I grabbed the blazer tight.

“It was a trap, getting into so much trouble. I should have known better. I should have told someone.” I told them.

Detective Erne moved and sat across from me in the solo seat. “What was? Who got in trouble? Can you be specific?” he prompted.

I stood up and pulled Roman’s blazer off my legs to show them the bruises. “I was on are trip today.” I let them get a good look. Both seemed surprised by this development. Detective Hathaway left the bus. “ You would of thought we committed a crime how he treated us. Then he sent Beth to the restroom. So it was just him and me here, alone. He wanted to start where he left off last Monday in his office…” I cried as I started to tell them everything that had happened on Monday as well as today. Detective Hathaway came back on the bus with a camera and a blanket. They took my statement right there on the bus.

“Ok, Winry we need to get photos. Then we need you to go back to the station with us to get this all on tape” Detective Erne informed me.

“Can I see Papa and Roman before I go?” I asked wiping the tears off my face.

Detective Hathaway nodded solemnly “Yes, after I take the photos of the crime scene.” While Detective Hathaway was taking photos of the bus Detective Erne went out and helped Mr. Bane up. After assessing that he was OK he called to Officer Kurt “You have room in the back of your cab right?” Detective Hathaway asked.

Officer Kurt nodded “Of-course.”

“Good” Detective Hathaway spun Mr. Bane around and proceeded to cuff him. Papa walked over and started quizzing Detective Hathaway while he read Mr. Bane his right.

“What are you doing?” Mr. Bane wined.

“Mr. Bane you are under arrest for assault. You have the right…” Detective Hathaway escorted Mr. Bane to Officer Kurt's courser Papa froze for a moment in place. Students and teachers all looked on in astonishment. Papa turned to look at the bus. I could see he was in shock of the situation.

Papa ran onto the bus “Winry” he called for me. I ran up to him.

The Detectives took statements form all the students on the bus then released them. I was not allowed to see Roman. His parent’s lawyer wanted all of his attention. I went to the hospital to get checked out; Papa insisted. After that I went to the 22nd prescient and gave my statement again. I was not charged with anything but I had to agree to do community service for the next month for assaulting Mr. Bane; every weekend according to the state prosecutor. Papa and Ma barley spoke on the ride home. They barley spoke at all throughout this ordeal.

We pulled in the driveway around eight O’clock. I spotted Roman’s sportster parked in front of the house. I had held his blazer all night. I could not let go of it; it somehow made me feel strong and safe.

“The boy is here” Ma acknowledged.

“Yes, I’m going to give him his blazer back.” I answered.

I walked over to Roman. He leaned against his bike waiting for me. I could not think of what to say to him. Do I say thank you? Do I say anything at all? Standing before Roman on the sidewalk at night made me nervous. I extended my hand to give him his blazer back. He looked at his blazer, staring at it for a moment. Extending his hand he grabbed his blazer. Suddenly he grabs onto my arm and pulls me into his chest. Wrapping his arms around me he holds me. “You don’t have to be in pain anymore” he whispered in my ear. I embraced him and cried. Immersed in his arms I cried for the first time sense the accident. Everything that I had been bottling up and hiding away came flooding out.

Roman began rubbing my back to sooth me. I tried to stop crying, I was getting his shirt all wet. I just couldn’t stop crying. “It’s OK. You have got to be the toughest girl I have ever met” he whispered in my ear.

I started to laugh “How is that? I’m crying” I responded.

He placed his hands on my face; looking into my eyes “You have held in a deep pain for so long, and then you have dealt with being bullied and a lustrous teacher all alone. You are entitled to cry” he graciously informed me.

I wipped off the tears and gave a heartfelt smile. “You know” I whispered “You’ll make a grate boyfriend one of these days. Inside that tough exterior you are kind and caring. If only you would let anyone close enough to see it.” Roman gave me a smirk as he tucked my messy hair behind my ear.

“Winry, come inside now. He can come by tomorrow” Ma called from the front door.

I looked back at Roman, he gave me a nod. “Night” I waved good bye. I gazed at him as he started his bike and drove off. For the first time my heart kind of ached for someone who’s still alive.

Papa came out “It’s late” he told me.

“I know” I responded sadly.

Papa put his arm around me “Let’s go in, Ma ordered Pizza.”

~

“Winry, Wake up Hun.” Ma called to me. I woke up to see Ma sitting on the side of my bed.

“Ma?” I sleepily spoke.

“Time to get up. Papa and I have to leave you home today.” She muttered. I didn’t understand, still trying to wake up I tried my best to focus on her. “Marrow Prep Academy Board is having a parent meeting this evening at six. All the students’ parents will be in attendance. Right now Papa and I are going to meet with a Realtor. We both think for all of our peace of mind that we should move as quickly as possible. The guest room remodel is just about finished. The contractor will be here in a few hours, let them in to do their work. Order out whatever you want we left one of Papa’s cards on the table. Invite a few friends over if you start to get lonely.” Ma suggested. “There is an omelet downstairs waiting for you. Papa cooked it.” I looked at Ma scared. Papa’s cooking is normally terrible. “Hey, it’s not half bad.” Ma suggested. I looked at her skeptically. “Don’t let him see you through it out” She warned me.

I got up and went down stairs to the kitchen. Papa sat in his usual spot with his coffee and newspaper in hand. “Morning Papa” I greeted him.

Papa put down the paper “Morning Winry, I see Ma got you up finally” he grumbled.

“It’s still the weekend” I reminded him.

“Come on Joe we need to be getting a move on the Realtor won’t wait forever.” Ma implored. Papa got up putting on his jacket he kissed my head “Be good, we will be back late, so order out today.” I took a bite of the omelet nodding. Ma rushed Papa so they could leave quickly.

As projected Papa’s cooking tasted horrible. I chopped it up in the sink and sent it down the garbage disposal. I was the only one to use it. I doubt Ma and Papa don’t know they had one. I grabbed a package of pop tarts instead. The house is quiet. I can hear the birds chirping outside. I need to take a nice long soak; to wash this week away. I better get in before the contractors come to work on the guest room.

I got into a nice hot bubblegum scented bubble bath. It’s nice and quiet. I put a wet rag over my eyes and relaxed. I could not believe that Ma and Papa wanted to move. And so suddenly too. Last night Papa was so angry his captain gave him the weekend off. Well, he was forced to have the weekend off. He was forced to leave and sit in the car till I was ready to leave. They could not have him threatening and attempting to assault Mr. Bane while in custody. Mr. Bane insisted that nothing happened. He even said good night as I was leaving. Ma did her best to be strong. She too wanted to crawl across the desks. I felt bad for what happened. Ma is pregnant with a miracle child and both her and Papa have to go through this. Ugh. I have to just relax and let the worries go.

DING DONG! Startled I jump, splashing water out of the tub. Could that be the carpenter so soon? I swiftly got out, wiped down then through on a robe. DING DONG! The doorbell rang again.  

“I hear you” I yelled running down the stairs. DING DONG! “Hold on” I snipped opening the door.

“WINRY” Beth screamed giving me a hug. “Your house is so big and beautiful” she exclaimed. I stood there holding my robe tightly closed and thoroughly surprised. Beth, Roman, Tanner, Justin and Mary stood on my porch.

Beth pushed me away “Ew your hair is soaked” she complained. I looked at her unamused.

“Well, you going to invite us in” Tanner questioned folding his arms.

I quickly looked at them all “Uh, yes of-course. Come in” I invited them in “The sitting room is to your right.” I grabbed Beth’s hand and pulled her close “What is this” I demanded in a whisper.

“Oh” Beth giggled “we all thought you should have some friendly company today. It was the guy’s idea.” She pranced off gawking at my house. “I have never been inside your house. It’s so big” Beth remarked.

I walked over to make sure everyone was in the sitting room. “Well, I’m going to go dry off my hair. Make your self’s at home.” I suggested. Turning I hurriedly went up the stairs and into my room. I rummaged through my cloths trying to decide what to pick out. I decided on sequined feather long sleeve T-shirt. The sleeves are long enough cover my hands, they even have a slit in them for my thumb. I quickly put on my stone washed jeans. Using a towel to try and dry my hair as much as I could. Not having time to style it I tossed it around slapped some moose on it and called her good, a little messy and a little wavy.

Dashing down the stairs to check on my guests I could hear them laughing loudly. Walking into the sitting room I found Beth tossing Mary a hacky sack and Justin trying to get it from them. Roman sat in one of the reading recliners. Tanner stood looking at the vast array of masks from Africa that Pops bought.

“Ooh, cute look, Winry. This has to be the first time I have seen you in anything besides the school uniform.” Beth cooed.

I looked down at my cloths. There was nothing wrong with what I had on. I have known Beth a long time. Come to think of it she has never come over till today.

“What do you do when your home for fun” Mary nudged me.

I looked at everyone. They all seemed to be enjoying themselves alright. I’m thankful to know them. “I play games or go to Laser House” I told them.

Tanner looked at me “Laser House?”

“Ya, it’s a warehouse building remodeled so you can play Laser Tag.” I explained.

Justin came up putting his arm around me “You are my kind of girl. Let’s stop this foolishness. Dump Roman and date me.” He joked.

Roman pulled Justin off me “That is impossible. I would never let her go.”

“Why don’t we go play Laser Tag” Beth suggested.

Marry nodded “Ya, that sounds like so much fun. I have never played before is it hard?”

“We haven’t either so this should be interesting” Justin replied excitedly.

They all started picking up their stuff. “I can’t leave the house” I mumbled.

Roman looked at me “Why?”

I pointed up the stairs “The contractor is coming to finish the guest room. I have to stay home.”

Beth plopped down on the couch “Bummer. What will we do then?” Mary sat next to her bummed as well.

“I’m sorry” I replied.

Justin walked over “No worries, we will think of something to do.”

DING DONG! “That’s probably the contractor” I told them. I walked to the door and opened it to let the contractor in. The contractor was not there. Instead a man in a suit and a sour face waited.

“I need to speak with Winry Teets” he demanded as he pushed past me. I looked on the porch thinking this might be some kind of joke. Closing the door I went after the man in the suit.

“Just who are you?” I questioned him.

The man looked in the sitting room, glaring at my friends. Turning his attention to me “You are Winry correct” he presumed.

“Yes, I’m Winry. Who are you?” I demanded.

The man in the suit took out a card from his pocket “Charles Row your family’s lawyer. Where are your guardians? I am here on a weekend instead of with my family. I would like to get this taken care of quickly as possible” Mr. Row grumbled. Impertinent he walked on looking for Ma and Papa.

“Mr. Row their not here. Perhaps you can come back tomorrow” I suggested.

Mr. Row turned to me with a annoyed look “I came all the way from New York. This appointment has been in good standing for weeks. Why are they not here?” he demanded.

“Look Mr. Row; I’m sorry you came all this way. But they are out with a relater for the day, a last minute decision. You will just have to reschedule.” I declared.

Looking at his watch he sighed “Very well. You Miss Teets can’t avoid this forever. You do realize what is at stake. I will be back tomorrow same time. I fully expect all three of you to be prepared.”

I opened the door with a smile “I’m fully aware. Good day Mr. Row.”

As Mr. Row walked out the door the Contractor walks up. “Good Morning Miss. We should be done today.” He assured me.

“Take your time.” I replied. Sighing I closed the door. I heard of Mr. Row a few times, mom talked about him before Jaycee was born. Deciding to get back to my friends I turned around. They all stood in the grand entrance gazing at me not saying a word.

I took a deep breath and walked to the kitchen. I passed them avoiding their gaze. I began opening and shutting drawers “Where is it” I mumbled to myself “Where did she put it?” Finally I found it, the key to open the liquor cabinet.

“Winry?” Beth asked. I opened the wine cellar doors and unlocked them.

“Winry, what are you doing?” Justin questioned.

I pulled the wine rack out and took a bottle of whiskey out then a bottle of fireball. I sat them on the island then I got out a whiskey glass. “I? I am going to have a drink. That is what I am doing.” I poured some of the fireball in the glass then some of the whiskey. “Then I’m going out to the backyard and sitting in the gazebo and enjoy my morning.” I slammed the whiskey bottle down. “That is what I’m going to do. Help your selves” I suggested. I took my glass and walked toward the patio door. Roman grabbed my hand and took my glass away.

“Hey” I whined. He sat it down on the island then towed me down the hall and up the stairs. “That was a perfectly good drink. What do you think you’re doing?” I scolded him. He pulled me into my room shutting it behind us. I stood in the middle of my room annoyed. “Answer me damn it” I demanded.

Roman quickly stepped over putting his hands on my face then kissed me. I pushed him away “What are you doing?”

He smiled “Kissing my girlfriend.”

I looked away “Pretend remember? Or did you forget?”

He began to laugh “Stop pretending to hate me so we can stop pretending were dating and actually be together.”

“It’s not funny Roman.” I warned.

He pulled me to him “I’m not joking. I’ve liked you from the moment I seen you standing in that alley. You’re strong willed but you’re just as fragile. So stop pretending already. Just date me” he pleaded. I looked in his eyes I could not believe that he said this.

I pushed past him. Walking back through the kitchen Beth was trying her best to seduce Tanner. He either was not interested or he’s good at faking it. I snatched my glass off the island and did as I intended. I’m going to have this drink. I’m going to sit outside. I’m going to relax. I don’t care what Roman says. I won’t allow myself to get played.

“Dose your mom and dad know you drink?” Tanner asked as everyone came out of the house.

“Nope” I answered taking a sip of my whiskey mix. It’s strong and harsh but that is just how I like it. I can’t remember liking liquor or wine. I always favored the whiskey’s over anything.

“You’re moving, to where?” Beth asked hurt.

“A new house probably.” I replied.

“You’re surrounded by mystery, Winry” Justin remarked. Roman came outside with Justin. I could not make eye contact with him. I couldn’t look at him. Truth or lie, I just can’t tell with him anymore.

“Who was the suit” Mary asked.

I gazed at my glass letting the burning in my throat dull. “He’s my lawyer” I told them.

“That guy has never seen you before. How can he be your lawyer?” Mary scoffed. I took the last sip of my whiskey.

“Winry” Beth mumbled “he is your birth family’s lawyer isn’t he.” Mr. Row the family lawyer. What a joke. There is no family anymore. There’s just me.

“Birth family?” Roman questioned.

“Ya, you see Winry here was adopted last summer by Mr. and Mrs. Lee, her godparents.” Beth explained.

“That would explain why she acts different than the rest of us. She was not raised with money like we have been” Mary exclaimed. How irritating. It’s irritating how she thinks money is the answer to everything. “Wait” Mary implored us “If Winry was adopted who raised her? Where did she live? Was she in foster care? How revolting. The poor in foster care” Mary exclaimed.

I gawked at Mary, she had disgusted herself with her own question. Looking at me Mary waited for an answer. How do I respond to this blatant ignorance of hers? I fear if I begin to speak I would not say one nice word to this ignorant child.

“Would it matter” Tanner asked her.

Growing impatient with me, Mary turned to Beth. “Beth you know her best. You knew she was adopted when the rest of us didn’t. Tell us who raised her? Where did she live before she was adopted?” Mary demanded.

Beth looked at her in awe “She never told me. I have never asked. It’s rude, Mary.”

Mary turned her nose up at Beth. “Hump. Fine. Roman will tell us.” She ordered. I wished I still had whiskey in my glass. I would love to pour it on her snot nosed head.

Standing up “Mary” I declared “if it was any of your damn business, you would know. Seeing how it’s not. You don’t.”

Mary huffed “Well I never” she complained.

“That’s right. You never! You never think about other people. You have not tact or respect. You’re spoiled, and like may rich kids think you’re entitled to anything you want. The way you act is superior to anyone else. News flash: the world doesn’t revolve around you” I scolded her. “If you must know one year ago next Friday my entire family was killed in an car accident. I spent most of my summer in the hospital. So ya, technically I was in foster care. By the time I left the hospital I had been adopted by Mr. and Mrs. Lee. Not long after that I had the unfortunate pleasure of meeting people like you. How I survived knowing anyone with the likes of you I will never understand!” Insulted Mary stormed out of the gazebo.

“You didn’t have to tell her.” Beth muttered.

I glared after Mary as she left my sight. “I know. I’m just sick of hearing how money is the answer to everything. I have always had money. Thankfully I’m nothing like her.” I answered. People like Mary completely irritate me to no end. “Let’s go in. I feel the need to kick your ass at Monopoly, Beth” I joked. Smiling Beth jumped up looping her arm in mine we walked inside.

I put up the liquor so Ma and Papa didn’t know I had any out. Beth and Justin went to set up the game in the Den. I ordered Chinese and tea from the Tea Shoppe for everyone. Beth had a fun time explaining how to play to the guys. Weather they knew how to play or not.

The contractors finished the guest room early. I let them have some lunch before they left. “Thank you Miss but, you didn’t need to.” The lead contractor said.

I gave him a smile “We have plenty. Take some; I’m sure you’re hungry.”

“Winry hurry up it’s your turn” Justin yelled for me impatiently.

I showed the men out then went back to our game. I sat back down; picking up the dice I rolled. “Six, one, two, three, for, five, six. Boardwalk and I’ll buy it from the bank.” I exclaimed.

Beth looked at me “That’s not right Winry, you always buy Boardwalk.” I took my card and gave her the money with a smile.

Justin looked at Roman “She’s a shark in business” he remarked.

“She owns most of the top grossing properties on the board. I’m out.” Tanner declared. Throwing what was left of his money at Beth.

“Hey it only took three hours but we finally forced him out” Beth joked. Tanner jumped up and walked out of the room.

Beth quickly followed after him “Tanner, come on. Don’t be like this.”

“He is such a player.” Justin grumbled “Toying with girls like Beth. He otta be ashamed of himself.”

I laughed “I can guarantee he’s not the one being toyed with. Tanner won’t know what hit him when she’s done.”

Justin smiled “Oh really?”

“Yes, any game he can play she can play better. Guys like Tanner never see it coming. Watch if you don’t believe me” I suggested.

Justin looked at me “A bet then?”

“What’s the wager”

“If I win and Tanner toys with Beth you go to prom with me not Roman.” he suggested.

“Excuse me?” he hissed. Roman has been quiet up till now.

“If I win” I prompted.

Justin smiled. “I will buy your first car.”

It sounded fair.

“I wager” Roman announced “That you both are wrong and they will end up together. If I win Winry has to go with me to my parents cabin next weekend and Justin has to change the oil on my bike. If I lose I’ll let Winry go to prom with you.” We all thought for a moment.

“Deal” I answered.

“Agreed” Justin declared.

“I should go find them” I suggested.

Roman got up and offered me his hand “I’ll go with you.”

We walked around the house looking for Beth and Tanner. No sign of either. RING! My cell began to ring. I looked at my phone it was Ma. “Hello” I greeted. ;Hello Winry. We think we have picked a house, But were going to continue looking just in case. How is everything?’ Ma asked. “Well, my lawyer came by. I convinced him to come back tomorrow morning.” I informed her. ‘Oh my, yes I completely forgot. Ok. Well I’ll talk to Papa. See you later tonight. Be good’ she responded. “I will.” I agreed.

“Winry!” Beth called from the sitting room. I turned, sitting on the couch twirling her hair Beth smiled at me.

“Beth, where have you been?” I asked. I had been looking all over for her.

“Oh just sitting here talking to Jessy” she shoved her phone in my face.  “Playing hard to get is so much fun.”

She can go from one guy to another. “Beth your Guy Bi-Polar” I joked.

Beth giggled. “I called you to tell you that I’m leaving. Oh and Tanner already left. Something about a girl waiting at his house, messing his room up or something. Well I’m off. I just wanted to say bye. Off to my date” Beth gleamed as she skipped out the door. Still in a mode of shock I tried to understand what just happened. I heard a sound of a motorcycle blare outside. Peaking out the window I seen Beth hopp on Tanner’s bike. Giving him a kiss she then put on the helmet. This is unbelievable.

I walked back into the den. Roman and Justin sat talking about how they are going to take back the game. “Oh, there you are. Did you find them?” Justin asked.

I looked at him a bit confused. “Ya, Tanner went home something about a girl in his room or something. And Beth left to go on a date with Jessy” I muttered. “Then I seen Beth kiss Tanner before getting on his bike. They just left.” Justin sat back in shock.

Roman smiled “I guess that means I win the bet.”

I looked at Roman “I have a feeling that you knew this would happen” I suspected that Roman had his hand in this.

“I guess I lose this game. Roman. Winry. I think I’ll head to Alice’s house. Maybe I can convince her to go to prom with me.” Justin thought out loud. I showed Justin out. I gave him a carnation from Ma’s garden to help with his mission to get a prom date. The sun had started to set and my stomach began to grumble.

I turned to Roman. “Will you be leaving or do you want some dinner” I questioned walking back into the house. Roman followed me into the house.

“So tell me. Are you really that innocent and confused angel or did you fake it to get out of an assault charge” He asked.

I smiled looking at him “I don’t know what you mean. I blacked out. I don’t remember anything from the moment I dialed Papa’s number to when I sat back down.”

Roman nodded “I see.” I ordered pizza for us to eat. “You aren’t as innocent as people think. That was some good scheming you did there.” He complemented me.

“Did I just hear a complement from Roman Parks” I teased.

He laughed “You must be hearing things.”

I explained to Roman how I got community service for a month. Three hours each Sunday at the local homeless shelter. Roman told me about his last summer, he had to do community service ten hours a week for getting into a fight at school with a guy who had no manners. “That stand you took before striking Mr. Bane, you have had self-defense training, right” Roman observed.

“What would make you think that? The bus was moving I stood to get the best leverage” I explained.

Roman explained how he started taking defense training when he was young. His father wanted him to follow in his footsteps and become a champ in kick boxing. Roman decided against it a few years ago. He still trains, just refuses to do it for competition.

The pizza arrived quickly. With as good of a mood we both found ourselves in we talked and eat it all. Roman told me about his family: Mom, Dad and sister. His sister is three and she is a bolt of lightning running everywhere all day long. I told him how Ma and Papa are now expecting a baby. Ma is going crazy with Papa wanting to do renovations and go to extravagant lengths to make this baby’s nursery the best in the entire world. We laughed at the thought of Papa designing the baby’s room.

“It’s getting late” Roman sighed “I better head home.” I walked with Roman to the front door. “Hey Winry, I’ll call you later” Roman announced as he got on his bike. I waved for the first time willingly as he drove off. I had a nice time hanging out with everyone today. It kind of made me feel sad that the school year is just about over. I wonder if we will all still hang out when its summer vacation. It’s been so long since I had a chance to hang out with anyone and enjoy myself. Today, despite the reasoning, it has been the best day I have had in a very long time.

“Winry were home” Papa yelled walking in the door. I put my homework down on the table.

“I’m in here. Just doing homework. How was house hunting” I asked running down the stairs. Ma and Papa stood at the door with another person.

“Winry this is Miss Nettel she is our Realtor. She agreed to do a late night appraisal of the house so we have a good idea of which house to go with” Ma explained.

Miss Nettel shook my hand “I have heard all about you. It’s a pleasure to meet the magnificent young lady. Let’s start up stairs.” Papa took Miss Nettel upstairs to start her work.

I helped Ma take Papa’s briefcase to his office. “So I take you had some friends over” she prodded.

“Oh, yes. Beth, Mary, Justin, Roman and Tanner came over to cheer up the day.” I explained. I told Ma what happened today, everything from Mary being Mary to Roman and I eating pizza and talking. I have nothing to hide from them. Ma did not look too pleased to hear how a boy and I were alone in the house for three hours. I assured her nothing happened. We just talked. However I did leave out the part where I had some liquor from their stash. That is something no one need be reminded of.

Miss Nettel finished her appraisal and informed Ma and Papa that the house should sell for a good price and sell quick too. She assured Ma that the house she liked would be in the price range with some money left over. Papa was happy to hear about that. With that said Miss Nettel got started right away on selling the house and talking with the new house’s owner about a small price reduction. It is a buyers’ market after all.

Sunday evening is finally here. All morning we talked with the lawyer regarding the next year of my family’s company. My allowance and his fees. After talking with him for twenty minutes I wanted to strangle the man and bury him in the back yard. He wanted outrageous fees for just being my trust keeper and coming back in a year. Ma got him back to his current fees. I left the running of the company to my father’s best friend for another year. Even though I am technically the President of the company, a minor can’t exactly run a company.

My allowance only went up twenty dollars a month. I was fine with it as it stood but Papa and Ma felt I deserved a bit more spending money. Three hundred and forty dollars a month for spending money is a bit much if you ask me. I’m just sixteen years old. I will have to go to New York this summer to start my training by shadowing the acting president of the company. It was never my intention to run fathers company. Taylor had his eye on it. I just wanted to be an author. I will be spending five weeks this summer living in New York, I do miss living there. Yet, I find myself not wanting to go. I have not been there in a year. It holds painful memories for me.

The New house contract would be ready by Monday evening for Ma and Papa to go over. The movers have already started packing our things. Ma and Papa moved us into the Hilton for the next for days till we move into the new house. Ma and Papa are going to take Monday off to go shopping. “Winry are you ready to move” Ma asked as we walked back into the hotel.

“Ya, I’m ready.” I told her. It’s getting late and I still have yet to shower and finish my homework. “I need to shower then go to bed. I’ll head up to my room now.” I told them good night and walked back to my room. I had much to go over for my test in the morning. Even more to prepare for. It will be my first day back since the incident. I wonder what I’ll be in for?

Next morning I got up, eat breakfast and got a ride to school from Papa.

“Winry! Winry did you hear” Beth came running up to me shouting before I had even walked into the school.

“What’s going on?” I questioned.

The hall was full of girls crying, yelling and hugging. “Four girls went to the police after you did. Mr. Bane has been fired and he is being charged from everything from indecent acts with a minor, stalking to sexual assault.” Beth announced. I looked around the hall, the girls crying and hugging each other did seem to be a bit happy. “Apparently every year creepy Mr. Bane would hunt down a student, using her grades to persuade her. Thanks to you the school is being investigated. All the teachers are under investigation to make sure this kind of thing never happens again. The school can’t stand bad publicity” Beth exclaimed. I wondered if this is even a good thing.

The school is full of Substitute teachers, social officers and police officers talking to students in groups and individually. “Thank you” and “Your brave” among other complements greeted me at every turn. The bullying that had become my normal daily life is gone. I even had a sub come up to me and tell me I am the bravest girl she has ever met. To challenge a person like that face to face in front of a buss full of people. I never looked at it like that. I needed it to be in front of people. I needed to look and be the biggest victim he has ever had. I needed to cause a scene and make a ruckus. I had no idea he had other or current victims in the school. How could I. I should be as happy about this as everyone is. I should be glad that what I did not only saved me from his advances but other students in my school as well. Why is it that I suddenly feel nothing?

“Winry Teets come to the dean’s office please. Winry Teets, to the dean’s office.” A voice on the intercom called me.

“What now” I groaned. Walking to the dean’s office alone in the quiet halls made me feel uneasy. I felt like I was walking to my execution. Neither Ma nor Papa told me anything that was discussed at the PTA meeting. I opened the door to the dean’s office “Hello” I called.

“Yes, Miss Teets please have a seat.” Dean Winton called offering me a chair. A detective sat in another seat next to me.

“What’s going on?” I asked.

Dean Winton sighed “Winry this is Chief Winton my brother. He has a few questions for you. To ensure you feel safe I will leave and Miss Whet will come in. Is this OK with you?”

I nodded “Yes, I suppose. Dose Papa know about this” I questioned.

Chief Winton turned to me “This is part of the investigation; all the parents were informed about this at the PTA meeting.”

Dean Winton left the room and Miss Whet came in. Chief Winton sat in the dean’s chair. “Miss Teets I have read over your statement as to what happened. We don’t need to go over it all again. You have agreed to testify that’s good. Now I need you to tell me about any other students that may be victims. Or teachers who should be looked at for any reason at all.” Chief Winton suggested. This is crazy, all the teachers are under scrutiny today.

“The teachers here are more interested in each other than they are in their students from what I seen; excluding creepy Mr. Bane.” I explained. “There are not even rumors about anyone else being creepy like Mr. Bane.”

“There are some students that think Mr. Greely had made some unprofessional remarks to you and other students that were Mr. Bane’s victims. Do you know anything about this” Chief Winton asked.

I thought about Mr. Greely for a moment. Mr. Bane and Mr. Greely both have had their creepy moments. It would never have dawned on me that Mr. Greely knew much less was in cahoots with Mr. Bane. However, it does make a bit of since. Mr. Greely was always around Mr. Bane. When the rumors would start up Mr. Greely was always there talking to Mr. Bane like they were discussing some hot interactions over the weekend. It always made me feel uneasy when Mr. Bane would look at me. Until now, I never gave Mr. Greely so much as a second glance. He too could have been looking at us students the way Mr. Bane was. What the hell is going on in this school?

Chief Winton nodded “If you think of anything. Call me…” he handed me a card “…this is my direct line.”

I left the dean’s office and walked back to class. This is all too weird. This school has lost its mind. The bullying over me being Roman’s ‘girlfriend has stopped.’ Girls I don’t know walk up to me crying and hugging. They babble something I don’t understand through their crying fit then walk on. I can’t go back to class. I can’t take theses unwanted talks and tears. I took out my phone and texted Beth: Hey, I’m going to skip today. See you later. I ran out of the school and to the small wooded area near by. Hiding in the woods till the guard went by. I quickly climbed over the wall and ran off to the closest mall.

All this blow up over a purvey teacher so close to the one year anniversary, then I have to go back to New York this summer. It’s just getting too much to bear. I just need to get away from it all. A new house, summer vacation and time away from that snobby stuffed school could cure my illness. I just have to tough out a few more weeks. Five more weeks of school seven exams then summer vacation. What more can go wrong in five week’s? What am I saying, I just jinxed myself.

“UGH” I sighed plopping down on a bus bench. This is quite the mess I find myself in. Skipping school, running out of a school full of cops and an ongoing investigation. How do I explain this when I get home? I don’t even have a home till tomorrow when we move into the new house. A house I have yet to see, into a room of unknown size and shape. All is the last few weeks of school. Why can’t life be simple for once?

“Miss? Hey Miss you getting on or not” the bus driver called to me. I’m skipping school why not take a ride around town? What’s the harm in that? I paid my two dollars and walked to a seat at the back of the bus. I watched the city I have grown to know pas me buy while I sat on this bus. People living their life going from one day to the next know knowing what the other is going through or feeling, just going about their day as normal. I looked at all the shop’s, stores, mall’s, houses and buildings. I never realized just how big this city actually is. I’ve lived here just shy of a year and I never took the time to really see the city. I pulled on the stop line. I see something I want to go check out.

The bus stops and I jump off. I walk up to the gates of City Project 101. Project ran and executed by Trinity Inc. The Grand Bell Hotel reopening December 2. I could not believe my eyes; this is amazing; The Grand Bell is where my grandparents met. This is where they had their wedding and where I always wanted to get married. I felt the excitement inside me rise. I walked onto the site watching as construction workers and men in suits walked around. I always wondered what it looked like inside.

“Hey kid. What do you think you’re doing here! This is an active construction site” a man in a yellow hard hat yelled at me. He ran over to me scolding me like a child. “You can’t be here. Are you crazy! Get out of here now!” he yelled. I had never been yelled at before by a construction worker. I never had the chance to visit a construction site either. The man grasped my arm tight “I’m calling the cops” he told me.

“Let go” I demanded. The more I tried to pull away the tighter his grip became.

“Let go of her” a voice yelled spinning the worker around.

“Roman?” I exclaimed shocked.

“Another kid? You two looking for trouble, eh? You can’t be here” the worker scolded us.

Roman pulled me away from the man “I said get your hands off her!” Wrapping me tightly in his arms Roman and the worker started a staring contest.

“What’s going on here?” a man in a blue pin striped suit questioned. The tall, slender man in the suit walked over handing hard hats to Roman and I.

“These kids” the worker complained “just walked onto the site. I’m about to call the cops. They should be in school.”

The man in the suit smiled and extended his hand “Please excuse the Foreman” The suit turned to the Foreman “I will handle this.” The Foreman reluctantly left us. “I’m Jerry Styles Project manager. It’s a pleasure to meet you Miss Teets” Mr. Styles greeted us “If you and your guest would please accompany me to the office I can answer any questions you have.”

“Thank you” I agreed. Roman took my hand and led me to the mobile office.

“Can I get you anything? Water, perhaps a snack?” Mr. Styles asked. “I’m fine” I answered “This is Roman Parks my…” I trailed off as I introduced Roman. I didn’t know what to call him.

Roman extended his hand to meet Mr. Styles “Her boyfriend.” He announced with a smile.

Mr. Styles gawked at us in shock and nodded “Yes, of course.” Roman and I sat down in the air-conditioned office. “I was not aware you would be coming by to oversee the project. If I had known, I would have notified the Foreman and this incident would never have happened. I take full responsibility.” Mr. Styles humbly apologized.

“It’s really OK Mr. Styles” I petitioned. Roman sat next to me watching me closely.

“If I had not met you at the funeral I would not have recognized you. Is there something you are concerned with?” Mr. Styles prompted.

“Oh, no, nothing is wrong. I had no idea that Trinity was interested in this bid. I am more than pleased to see the renovation of the Grand Bell.” I explained.

Mr. Styles sighed a bit relieved “Oh, well acting CEO Williams thought this would be right up your father’s alley, so he outbid the competition and started on it right away. He nearly bougt the property outright from the city.” Mr. Styles told me.

“May I ask if this is a remodel or restoration” I questioned.

Mr. Styles jumped up on his feet grabbed a binder handing it to me as he began “It’s called a remodel yet, it will looked just how she did in her hay-day minus a few new techniques. She will look just as she did in 1922 when she opened.”

“I’m sure she will be spectacular when she opens in December. Thank you for your time Mr. Styles. We should be going now” I insisted closing the binder. I have seen these images may times over. It’s my grandparent wedding album. Grandma took more pictures of the motel than the wedding.

“No, thank you for coming by. It’s good to see the true head of the company taking an interest in the small project and the process.” Mr. Styles walked us to the sidewalk. I waved good bye as I got on Romans bike. He seemed like a nice guy. He knew a lot about the Grand Bell. I can rest happy that her restoration is in his hands.

Roman took of fast as normal. Darting in and out of traffic like a mad dog. I held onto him so tight I thought I might die before he came to a stop. Roman drove faster and faster. Jumping intersections and passing between buses on their rout. “Please stop” I cried. I really don’t want to die. I don’t want to die because of someone else, what type of death is that? It’s a ridiculous death that’s what it is.

Roman came screeching to a stop. I jumped off as fast as I could. Fighting the tears and fear I just felt. Roman thrusted my helmet onto his bike and stomped off into the woods. He had driven us into the country, deep into the woods. This is a bit creepy to be honest. I dusted off my knees and got to my feet. What is his problem? He’s never acted like this before?

I went in search of Roman. He is my only way home anyhow. I was not paying attention to where we were going. I would have a hard time getting home. “Roman? Roman what’s with you?” I called looking for any sign of him. I spotted him slamming his fist into a tree. “Roman?” I called.

He put his head against the tree panting “You are the owner and successor to the Trinity fortune” he asked. Could he really be that angry that I didn’t tell him?

“Yes, Doc trinity is my father. Was, he was my father” I answered pained.

“You’re name is Teets, Winry Teets not Winry Trinity. Why?” he questioned. He has never shown an interest in my family or where I came from. All he wanted was someone to pretend to be his girlfriend right, so he could continue being the carefree playboy he is. What does any of this matter?

“Teets is my mother’s maiden name. All of my father’s children’s last name are Teets, to protect us from people who would want to hurt us. What’s wrong?” I pleaded. His behavior is concerning.

He began to hit the tree again. “You just had to be a Trinity. The one company directly in competition with my father’s company. The people who my family can’t stand. It just had to be you” he yelled at the tree.

I get it; this is about rivalry in business. For businesses that we neither run yet, but he is this upset over it. “Well, I’m sorry my inheritance is such a problem for you. You are bitching about a business I don’t even run. My father’s friend runs it. Good thing I’m nothing more than a fake girlfriend. I’m going home.” I yelled at him. I turned around to go back the way I came. I will find my own damn way home. Unbelievable; Roman is such a jerk. I wish I never met him.

A hand griped my arm and pulled me to a stop. Roman put his hands on my shoulders “It had to be you. The one I like had to be you. So stop fighting me; tell me what you think.” He demanded.

This is a joke, not five seconds ago he was cursing the fact that I’m a Trinity. “Are you drunk?” I questioned.

Roman looked hurt “I’ll just take you home.” He let go of me, walking back toward his bike.

I rooted my feet where I stood “I’m not going anywhere until you explain what your damage is? A few seconds ago you stood right over there having a fit over the fact that I inherited a company that just so happens to be your family’s competitor. Then you tell me you are in like of me? So, no; I don’t understand. I have every right at this moment to question your sanity” I yelled at him holding back tears. “Gah. You are such a spoiled brat.”

Roman pulled me to him. Grabbing my face he kissed me. The world became quiet. All I could think is of him. His lips taste of cherry and his hot breath warmed my bones. All the frustration and anger that was bottling up suddenly faded. Our lips moved perfectly like they were made for each other. His soft gentile lips pressed against mine as his tong dances its way around my mouth. My heart begins to pound harder.

Roman pulls out of the kiss placing his forehead on mine. “Be mine” he wished gazing into my eyes. Delicately running his hands down my cheek he smiled “I don’t care about anything else. As long as I have you” he declared.

My heart jumped for joy, beating hard and fast “I don’t know when, but, you made me fall for you Roman Parks” I professed.

Roman began to kiss me with a hot passion. I have never felt such passion in my life. My body temperature began to rise. My heart is trying to beat out of my chest. All I can taste is cherry. In this moment, in his arm, immersed in this kiss I wish for nothing more than to be with him.

I pushed Roman away “Wait, we have to get back” I reminded him. “We did skip school after all. The longer were gone the more trouble we will be in.”

Roman reluctantly put his head on mine “You’re right. We should get back.”

We got back to school just as the last bell rang. I spotted Papa outside talking with the Chief. Roman took my hand and walked me up to them. I have no idea what I will tell him. The only thing that I can do is hope he won’t be upset.

“Mr. Lee” Roman explained “Winry got upset over everything. She wanted to get away from it all. So I took her sightseeing around town. We went by the Grand Bell and she checked in on the progress there. I brought her back safely”

Papa looked us over. I tightened my grip on Romans hand. Here it comes. He is going to be so angry with us. No, with me for running away and not telling him. For not letting him know that it was too much for me to deal with.

“I knew this would be too much for you. Still, I brought you here to school.” Papa sighed “Thank you, Roman, for taking care of my little girl.”

I stood shocked at his reaction. I never in a million years would have thought he would react like this. It’s like he feels responsible for my actions.

“It was my pleasure Sir” Roman responded. Roman held my hand and gazed at me. I can see in his eyes that he truly cares. He really does care about me. This I know for certain. I didn’t think this little arrangement of Roman’s would turn out like this. However, I am just happy that it did. Life can throw you a curveball or two. It’s how you swing that determines how far the ball will fly. Steady as she goes, just take the hits as they come.