âTHE PRETTY FACE WITH AN UGLY SOUL & A DARK PAST.â
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Warnings/Triggers: None (threats, smidge of harsh language).
Word Count: +2.8k
A/N: My paragraphs will look a little weird from here on out. By âweirdâ I mean itâs going to all look spread out.
If I ever manage to get my hands on a laptop, I will most definitely come back to fix it and make it look like the earlier chapters.
Thereâs like a reference to an old Jay-Z song that I thought was funny and threw in here lmao đ€Ł
P. S. I missed writing. :â)
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After being at small odds with my brother, it didnât stop me from drinking and partying to my heartâs content.
Sweet Pea wasnât in the mood to get drunk, so I was left to enjoy the adrenaline rush with Toni and Fangs. We lined up shots, played knife throw, a couple rounds of pool, and did a bunch of other things.
When the night had come to an end, Sweet Pea took me home. I was currently speaking nonsense as he walked me to my trailer.
âYouâre so strong.â I slurred as he carried me in his arms.
âThanks, I work out to impress you with my muscles.â He chuckled.
âOoo, we should run away!â I let out with excitement suddenly.
âWhere to, princess?â
âI donât know, somewhere far and foreign! Like Spain or Ireland!â I tried to do an Irish accent as I said the last part. He laughed at my poor attempt.
âSpain sounds hot. Imagine all the Spanish weâre gonna learn?-- the food!â He added on.
âSweet Pea...â I nuzzled my face in his neck.
âI love you so much...â I kissed his neck, making my way up.
âJesus, I told you to take it easy with the drinking.â He tensed at feeling my lips attack his skin, nervously readjusting his grip on me. I could tell he was trying to control his urges, but his body was failing him.
âYouâre so hot. I have the hottest boyfriend ever!â I smiled, kicking my feet in the air like a child.
âSo hot and so nice, very smart, oh and very sexy.â I kissed his cheek, leaving a small lipstick mark.
âAnd you are the most beautiful, thoughtful, and loving girlfriend Iâll ever have.â He kissed my forehead.
âThe only one?â I smiled widely, burring myself in him again.
âThe only one, and youâre all mine.â He reassured, taking us up the steps.
He called for Jughead to open the door and we were greeted by his presence. I pointed my chin in the air.
âOh look, itâs Mister Cranky Pants.â I slurred, looking away.
âWell, if it isnât my favorite little annoying, sassy, and lovely Mercenary.â He said back. I stuck my tongue out at him.
âDonât mind her, sheâs drunk.â Sweet Pea said as he walked inside with me.
âYeah, I can see that.â Jughead sighed.
âMy head hurts...â I groaned as Sweet Pea neared the bedroom. Everything was spinning.
âYou can set her on the bed.â Jughead offered.
âOh my god...â I felt the softness of the sheets and I sighed in delight.
âThis bed feels so good!â I stretched, turning over.
My boots were pulled off my feet, freeing me from the tight leather. I then turned over again to look over at the boys, lightly smiling.
âHow much did she drink?â My brother asked.
âTwo bottles of Fire Whisky, several tequila shots, and a few beers?â I proudly answered half-unsure.
âAnd yet you can still answer?â He raised his brows, shaking his head.
âI can take care of her from here. Thanks for bringing her home.â He thanked Sweet Pea.
âNo problem, sheâs my girlfriend so Iâll do anything for her.â He replied before coming to hover over me. I smiled toothily again.
âStay with meee.â I whined as he kissed my temple.
âYour brother wonât like that princess, heâs gonna get jealous and steal you away from me.â He teased, chuckling.
âWrap it up.â Jughead scoffed.
âOkayyy...â I pouted.
âGoodnight, princess.â He whispered in my ear, kissing me. I closed my eyes.
âGoodnight my prince charming...â I lingered, knocking out cold a few seconds after.
A few days passed. Jughead and I werenât on speaking terms, even more when he returned to Riverdale High.
He was there for a bit until he was fully enrolled at my school. I stayed at Southside High since I was more comfortable there.
Today, we skipped school together to head down to the station. We got summoned to speak with a public defender since we couldn't afford a legitimate attorney.
"I'm sorry about what happened a few nights ago. I shouldn't have yelled at you." Jughead finally spoke, breaking the silence we were in.
"No, Jug, it was my fault really." I took another sip from my coffee.
"I shouldn't have talked to you like that, and I shouldn't have brought work to home. Especially when I know where you stand with the Serpents." He lightly smiled.
"A little bird told me you're in love with Betty Cooper." I sang, hearing him chuckle and shake his head.
"Who told you?" He asked shyly.
"I think it's cute." I linked my arm in his.
"Well, I do love herâ Is that crazy? I mean she makes me feel normal and not like some outsider. She doesn't treat me differently knowing that I have gang members for family." His face lit up as he talked about Betty. It was comforting.
"It's not crazy brother, you're just in love." I giggled.
We went quiet again. For some reason, it put me on edge and with what he said next made all the sense in the world.
"Rhinnie, you know I wouldn't tell you this if I wasn't sureâ and you know I love you, right?" I looked up at him with furrowed brows. He was nervous.
"What's wrong?" I felt my hand grip my coffee tighter. He was quiet again.
"I don't like Sweet Pea." He finally said. I raised my brows.
"I don't know, he just doesn't give me a good vibe? I feel like this is all an act and he's only giving you temporary happiness. I just don't want to see you get hurt." At hearing this, I crushed my coffee cup. The scorching hot liquid drenching my hand.
"Is it because he's a Serpent?" The brown liquid stung my hand as I shook at it.
"Is it because Sweet Pea can give me something that no one else has been able to? All my life I've had to take care of everyone else. I had to be the big sister of the family. Then you go and tell me that my boyfriend doesn't rub you the right way?" I was angry at my brother all over again. Bastard.
"Fuck you, Jughead! Who are you to tell me who or what is good for me? Do you think I get swooned by just anyone? I'm not a child!" I let out annoyed, turning to walk away.
"No Rhinnie, that's not it! Itâs justâ.â
"Save it Jug! Last time I checked, our father was locked up, so spare me the lecture!" I cut him off, stomping away on my own.
The nerve this jerk had!
"Hi, daddy." I greeted him, sitting on his free side.
He was cuffed to the table, leaving him no room to move except for his hands. Comfort was nowhere seen.
Jughead was fixing up some paperwork with the public defender. It gave me a few minutes alone with dad.
"You okay sweetheart?" He asked, taking my hands in his.
"Yeah..." I lied. Bad, Rhiannon.
He shook his head, chuckling when he noticed the bruises on my knuckles. My hands managed to finally heal up after all.
"You could never step away from a fight, huh?" Despite the fact he knew I loved a good fight, he couldn't help display his worry. At the end of the day, he was still my dad.
"I can't help it." I giggled truthfully.
"You're getting down to the nitty and gritty already?â He teased.
"I saved the Blossom girl from drowning." I replied as a matter of fact.
"And then I helped Tall Boy deal with some business he had with Jughead, so yeah." I sprinkled in, making him laugh this time.
"Serpents are doing good though. They're holding down." I reassured.
"That's good to hear honey." He pat my hand.
"But I asked how my daughter was doing."
"I'm fine, daddy." I tried to play it cool.
My mind managed to trail off to Sweet Pea. I felt my cheeks heat up at the thought of him.
"Who's the boy?" Dad caught me.
"Daddd." I groaned.
"I'm your father, Rhinnie. I know when you get swept off your feet." He leaned closer, laughing.
"Plus, you have that same look on your face your brother has with Betty." I rolled my eyes, cursing Jughead for unintentionally giving me away.
"Whoever it is, they better know not to do you wrong or they'll hear it from meâ man or womanâ no one hurts my little girl." Dad cupped my face.
"You know?" I softened.
"I know everything sweetheart." He smiled, kissing the top of my head.
"I still love you whether you like girls or boys. You're my daughter and that doesn't make me love you any different." I became shy at his words. My old man was too good.
"You're too beautiful and smart to get your heart broken by some jackass." He made me chuckle.
"Thanks, daddy." I hugged him tightly now.
Jughead then came in, closing the door. He looked at me but I didn't bother to meet his eyes as I pulled away from my hug.
He went to sit on the opposite side of me, trying to get my attention. I never budged.
"You two really fighting?" Dad looked between us curiously.
"No!" We both said in unison.
"He started it!" I spat, crossing my arms.
"I said I was sorry!" Jughead protested.
Dad groaned, rubbing his temples together. This was the last thing he expected from us. Especially right now.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry..." I mimicked.
"Yeah, well sorry doesn't cut it chief." I continued bitterly.
"I was only being honest." He chirped, trying to justify himself. I laughed.
"You were being an asshole!" I stood up, getting ready to take him down. He too stood up to challenge me. We were head-to-head.
"Maybe it's because I've heard a thing or two about him that I didn't like." There was disgust in his voice. I furrowed my brows.
"Listen here son of a bitchâ." I grabbed his collar, swinging my fist back.
"Enough!" Dad's voice thundered as he slammed his hand against the table.
I stopped. My fingers still curled around my idiot brother's collar.
"Rhiannon, now!" He warned.
"Fine." I bit, letting go to sit back down.
"Stupid "I'm a weirdo" dumbass." I mumbled.
"Shut up, merc!" Jughead fought back, making me stick my tongue out at him.
I was about to give him the bird when the public defender came in. We were forced to compose ourselves.
"Forsythe Pendelton Jones II?" He called for dad, sitting with us.
"FP, please." Dad replied as he straightened up.
The lawyerâ one by oneâ began to sort through papers regarding the case. Followed by the procedure of the arraignment.
Jughead stood up from his chair at some point, not being able to handle hearing all of this. It made him uncomfortable and anxious.
I watched him pace around the room nervously. Seeing him like this only gave me anxiety.
"Let's talk about the damn deal." Dad was tired and wanted to get this all over and done with. This whole thing had been milked for too long.
"First, to review the charges you're facing..." The lawyer cleared his throat.
"Arson, destruction of evidence, making a false confession, obstruction of justice, not to mention this whole nasty mess of dumping a dead kid in the river." He slid over a sheet of the charges and I took it, furrowing my brows.
"I know what I did. What's the deal? What are they offering?" Dad asked, looking annoyed.
I brought my hands to my mouth, biting my thumbnail. I was trying so hard to keep myself composed. I felt like my heart was going to beat out of my chest at any given minute.
Jughead had stopped to stand at the corner of the room, listening and then getting lost in his thoughts.
I just wanted to hug my brother and tell him that everything was going to be okay. It wasn't.
The lawyer then handed dad a file containing a small pile of all the processed paperwork. In that pile laid his deal on paper.
Jughead stepped forward to read it with dad and I. We both looked at each other, a twin thing we did, and I instantly felt his sadness.
"You're gonna wanna to take it." The lawyer recommended.
"I'm telling you, I've been doing this a long time. It's a strong deal." I let out a scoff. What kind of bullshit deal was this?
"How many years?" Jughead asked now. There was a cold bitter tone in his question.
"Twenty years." I closed my eyes, letting out a heavy sigh at hearing the response.
I held my face in my hands. The tears I was holding back were slowly escaping the corners of my eyes.
It was hard for Jughead to contain himself, and it got harder as the seconds went by. This was all too much to take in.
He placed a hand on my shoulder and I put mine on top. We gave each other a comforting squeeze.
"And what if he doesn't take the deal?" I asked this time, wiping away a silent tear.
"If he doesn't take it and the case goes to trial, you could be looking at forty years." My heart sank to my stomach. Forty years?
"Forty years?" Jughead couldn't believe it either.
"Are you sure that's right?" There had to be another way. This couldn't be right.
Dad buried his face in his hands. He had a lot to think about.
"If I were you, I'd take it." The lawyer was finishing up.
"If not, you can say goodbye to your kids." That was all he said before standing up to leave.
"Wow, I hope he gets testicular cancer in the brain for being a dickhead." I cursed, making dad and Jughead crack a laugh.
"What the hell?" Jughead laughed, sniffling and wiping at his face.
"I'm sorry." I let another tear fall.
"I don't know where you got that from but that's certainly not me or your mom." Dad shook his head.
"A friend of mine back at home actually." I could already tell my eyes and cheeks were puffy. My nose was red and I looked like a straight mess.
I glanced over at my brother, sharing the same sad ocean eyes. We were twins. We were always mimicking each other.
"I need you both to listen to me..." Dad took either of our hands, making us look at him.
"You will need each other now more than anything." He began. I didn't like where this was going.
"You cannot separate from each other for anything, you hear?" Uncertainty washed over me and my brother.
"Whatever you guys are arguing about, throw it away, you'll have to be adults from now on." I furrowed my brows at the last bit.
"Daddy, that's not fair. We're just kids." I said.
Has this become our new reality? A world where Jughead and I are forced to become adults at sixteen?
"I know it's not fair, sweetheart." Dad's voice suddenly cracked.
"Don't you think I know that? You both deserve better." He motioned for us to all share a hug.
The three of us broke down in that room. It took everything in me to not let out several wails. I needed to relieve the pang in my heart.
"I know you kids." Dad sniffled.
"You two together can do anything." Our grip got tighter. My hand squeezed dad's shirt.
I kissed his cheek, staying there for a few long seconds. More tears flooded my face.
"We love you, dad." Jughead said.
"We love you so much daddy." I nodded.
The door opened again and we were startled by two officers coming to take him. No, please just a little more time.
Dad held the side of our faces with each of his hands. His rough thumb grazing our wet cheeks. Despite being handcuffed this whole time, he managed to touch us, hold us, love us.
"Take care of your sister, you hear me, boy? Take care of her." He looked at Jughead seriously.
"She's your prize." My brother sniffled with a nod before wrapping an arm around me.
"And you do the same for your brother. Don't get into too much trouble either." Dad conditioned the same terms and more for me. I nodded.
"You're family. You're all you have." He stood tall to let himself be taken into the embrace of the two officers.
"I love you." Was the last thing he said before disappearing out of the room, leaving me and Jughead alone.
When the door slammed, I lost it. I turned to crash into my brother's arms. I sobbed into his chest as he held me tightly.
So, last December my house got broken into when my family and I were out, and they managed to steal the laptop that I write all my fics on.
They stole a lot of things, but they managed to steal a little of my things. My precious laptop was one of them T^T
Iâm currently rewriting just on wattpad but I wonât be able to update Lady Serpent on here for a good while. Not until I get a new one.
I can write out the chapters here but itâs not set up the way how the prior chapters are. Me being the perfectionist that I can be, I canât accept it.
If you would like to keep up, I will do my best to link each chapter directly to it. Iâll even write a special book thatâs just strictly a tumblr edition so no one has to create accounts or anything of the sort. I want you guys to be able to read it for free.
If you guys recommend a better place or some tips please feel free to leave some suggestions! I really want you guys to read my stuff for the greater good of escapism lol.
âRhiannon Marie, will you stop moving!â Toni let out as she tugged on my hair harshly. She was putting my hair back how it was last night.
âOw, ow! Okay! Okay, Jughead!â I caved in, letting her finish.
âYou know I donât take that offense right?â She said. I whined, massaging the back of my head. I felt the small sting she gave me from where she pulled.
âSo youâre really not gonna tell me why weâre doing this?â I asked her again.
âNope, now stop talking, and let me do what I need to do.â She replied. I rolled my eyes, sticking my tongue out at her through the mirror.
We were at this for a few minutes until she handed me her phone. There was a big cheesy smile on her face.
âI managed to sneak a photo of you guys. You look so cute.â She giggled. I went in awe when I eyed the photo of me and Sweet Pea under the gazebo.
âAwe, Toni!â I let out, smiling.
âIâm just glad you two are official now. Do you know how long Fangs and I have been waiting for it to happen?â She teased.
âOh, stop.â I chuckled, setting her phone down. I couldnât help but be filled with a little bit of doubt.
âWhatâs wrong, babe?â She looked at me through the mirror.
âI donât know... I guess I think something isnât going to turn out right... or somethingâs gonna happen between me and Sweet Pea...â I admitted, looking down at my hands.
I let a few scenarios play out in my mind. I felt a ball of disgust form in my throat.
âHey...â Toni took my hands in her, giving me a reassuring smile.
âDonât let doubt cloud your mind like that. You finally found someone youâre really into and theyâre reciprocating everything you have to offer.â
âI know...â I nodded.
âAre you really gonna self-sabotage right now?â She raised a brow.
âNo Toni. Iâm not.â I said.
âSay it like you mean it!â She shouted back.
âIâm not!â I laughed.
âGood! Now give me a smile.â She smoothly kissed my cheek.
âToni!â I squealed.
âNext time itâs on the lips.â She was serious. I blushed.
âI like this bubbly effect he has on you. You seem to smile more often. I hope you guys last long so I can become auntie Toni to twin Swinnies.â She added. I playfully rolled my eyes.
âYouâre thinking too far into the future, Topaz.â She laughed.
âShut up killjoy number two.â I chuckled this time.
âHuh, I thought you would have your sex makeup on but it looks like you actually showered.â She moved on my makeup.
âIâm dirty but not that dirty.â I gasped, offended. She scoffed.
âI donât think youâre using the correct form of dirty, babe.â We both bust out laughing.
Toni continued to play with me as if I was her doll until she was finally finished. Now all I had to do was get dressed.
âPut this on...â She handed me a burgundy dress. I raised my brows.
âToni--.â
âAh-ah, shhh! No debating, just change!â She hushed me, holding her hand up and turning me to get dressed. I sighed as she left me to get changed.
The dress was a short spaghetti strap that rested above my thighs. It helped my breasts hang naturally, pushing them up.
I stepped into my boots from earlier and stood tall to check myself out. This look was very cute. It was inviting actually.
My silver locket sat around my neck and over my chest as always. My hair was back in its fancy form and my makeup was well done with a splash of dark lips that matched with the dress.
âToni, why am I wearing this?â I furrowed my brows with confusion. I looked oddly hot for an emergency.
âDid Sweet Pea put you up to this?â
âRhiannon Marie Jones just shut the hell up and open this goddamn door!â She replied with some seriousness.
I was dabbing my lip with my finger as she made me chuckle at her response. I complied and opened the door, letting her see. She lit up with a smile.
âToni Topaz strikes again! Ow!â She smacked my ass. I laughed.
âOh, you look so stunning! I knew red was your sexy color!â She looked me up and down. I playfully rolled my eyes.
âI still donât know why youâre doing this.â I said as she took my hand and pulled me along.
âYouâll see soon.â We went out to her bike, stopping so she could pull out a blindfold.
âAre you getting kinky with me Topaz?â I teased.
âI donât need to get kinky with you if I already am.â She giggled, covering my eyes.
âOkay, now carefully get on the bike.â She ordered. I held onto her hand for guidance.
I swung my leg over and waited for her to get on. I wrapped my arms around her waist and she quickly pulled forward, riding us out of Sunnyside.
Everything was quiet and the only sound I was able to hear was Toniâs voice and our footsteps against the dirt and gravel. We were going up a set of steps.
âCan I take this off now?â I groaned impatiently.
âNo, you cannot! You better not be peeking!â She warned, coming to check.
âIâm not I promise, Iâm just getting impatient.â I reassured.
âWeâre almost there anyways.â I heard some excitement in her voice when she said this.
My grip on her hand became tighter. She suddenly let me go as we came to a stop.
âToni?...â I called for her. No answer.
âToni, come on!â The blindfold came undone and I was greeted by a whole crowd of Serpents.
âSurprise!â They all cheered.
âWhat?!â I let out, going wide-eyed and cracking a confused laugh.
A pair of arms then wrapped around me followed by a kiss being placed on my cheek. A smile formed on my lips.
âHey, princess.â Sweet Peaâs voice comforted my ears.
âHey, handsome.â I chuckled, pecking his lips.
âYou guys did all of this for me?â I motioned to the grand gesture.
âIt was Fangs and Toniâs idea, the rest of us just helped.â He said.
âThey thought you deserved a proper welcome home and a belated sweet sixteen.â He took my hand and lead us toward the bar.
âOf course.â I shook my head.
âShot! Line âem up!â He tapped on the bar top with his ring.
âComing right up!â Toni came up from underneath the counter to take out four shot glasses, filling them to the brim with tequila. She was baring tonight for the occasion.
âYou guys didnât have to do all of this...â I became slightly embarrassed.
âOh, trust me we did.â Fangs chimed in as he sat on my open side.
âYou needed it.â Toni added, winking. I lightly smiled.
âIâm feelinâ all the love, thank you, guys.â I wrapped either arm around Sweet Pea and Fangs, bringing them in for a tight squeeze.
âTo Rhinnie!â Toni toasted, taking her glass. The rest of us joined in.
âTo Rhinnie!â The boys cheered as we all clinked glasses, taking down the shot.
âAnother!â I let out, slamming the glass. I felt the burning sensation coat my throat and I wanted to drink more.
âOh wow, you have a lot of tattoos.â Fangs noticed, taking my hands to examine them.
âYeah, Iâm thinking of getting more, but Iâm not sure of what yet.â I said, looking around for myself.
âThe Medusa head she has on her thigh is pretty petrifying if you ask me.â Toni added as she hustled up and down to serve everyone else.
âOh, this?...â I hiked up my dress. Sweet Pea looked down at my thigh and then up at me.
âOh, wow!â Fangs leaned forward to get a better look.
âShe has way more scattered around her body.â Sweet Pea dropped casually.
âOf course, you would know that!â Fangs scrunched his face in annoyance. Toni laughed.
âLeave some surprises for the rest of us, Sweet Pea.â She teased.
âYouâre not the only one whoâs dying to get their hands on her.â I raised my brows at hearing her.
âThatâs not true.â I scoffed.
âOh yeah? What about that Northsider with the weird lips and the nice body?â My mouth dropped this time.
âNorthsider?â Sweet Pea furrowed his brows, looking down at me.
âHeâs just some guy from Riverdale High.â I felt my face heat up. He smirked, wrapping his arm around me.
âAre you leaving me for Northside dick now?â He teased.
âNo!â I defended.
âIsnât his name Reginald or some shit?â Fangs lingered, nibbling some chips and salsa.
âReggie Mantle.â Toni semi-corrected him.
âIsnât he that guy that cornered you by the bathrooms?â He added.
âHe cornered you near the restrooms?â This made Sweet Pea laugh hysterically.
âFogartyyy.â I let out annoyed.
âGee, I wonder why you never thought to bring that up.â There was a little seriousness in his voice. His jaw even became slightly hard.
âBecause you have nothing to worry about, okay?â I placed a hand on his shoulder, snaking it up and over to bring him close.
âI love you and a Northsider like him isnât going to convince me otherwise.â I kissed him now. He playfully rolled his eyes, taking my face in his hands to kiss me a few more times.
âIâm still gonna kill him for trying with my girl.â I chuckled, shaking my head.
I pulled away slightly to lean over the counter. I pointed at an insanely large bottle of alcohol.
âYou think I can have that bottle of Fire Whisky?â I asked Toni. She turned to look at what I was pointing at, grabbing it.
âKnock yourself out babe.â She slid it over to me.
âPunk rock!â I lit up, expertly spinning the cap and flicking it open.
âYouâre kidding?â Fangs looked at me with furrowed brows.
âIf this is my party, then Iâm ordering my friends and my boyfriend to get shit-face wasted with me.â I took the bottle between my lips and savored the cinnamon flavor that burned my throat.
I chugged the bottle, finishing it in seconds. Sweet Pea, Fangs, and Toni looked at me as if I was crazy.
âRight! I call dibs on dancing this song with you!â Fangs got up from his seat and took my hand.
âFangsss!â Sweet Pea groaned as I went forward with his best friend. We managed to get away before he could protest any longer. I giggled, getting ready to dance.
He smoothly took my hands and we met in the middle so he could spin me around. I laughed, placing my arms around his shoulders so we could slow dance now.
We talked our usual, and in between, weâd look over at Sweet Pea giving us the death glare. Toni would hit his shoulder and get him to chill out, only making Fangs and I giggle.
âTell me the story about this song again.â Fangs pleaded.
âYouâve heard it like a hundred times already!â I playfully rolled my eyes.
âI donât care! I love it!â He shook his head. I chuckled.
âGladys and FP Jones met here in this very bar...â I started.
âMy mom was a well-known performer back in their time, enchanting every man and woman that stumbled in here.â Our hands were connected as I pointed over at the small stage.
He lightly smiled when he looked, picturing mom and anyone that went up on that stage to make a spectacle of themselves. Someone was always trying to woo her. It was always a good time with Gladys Jones.
âMy mom was singing this song that night, but it was this very song that made the night different.â We continued to sway and he continued to listen intently.
âThis song spoke to her in a way that no other song had. It made her dance and sing her heart out with everyone watching.â
âShe didnât care.â He added. I smiled, nodding.
âAmong those people watching her, my dad was one of them...â I watched Fangs grow eager.
âHe was so mesmerized by my mom, that he tried to win her all night long.â As I told the story, the song that I was talking about happened to engulf us. It was drowning us with its tune. It made us feel like it was just us two in the room.
âOf course, Gladys is a very stubborn woman, but she felt the same for him.â I went on.
âYeah, thatâs where you get your stubbornness and charm from.â He teased.
âHey! Iâm storytelling here!â I hit his arm with a laugh.
âRight when my dad was about to give up, thatâs when my mom finally caved into him...â
âYes!â Fangs cheered.
âThey shared a couple of drinks, made a deep connection with each other, and then Jughead and I were made afterward.â I finished.
âWhat a beautiful story.â He playfully wiped a tear away. I laughed again.
We danced in a hug. I sighed at being able to do this with him.
âIâm so glad you were made.â He sighed, hugging me tightly.
âMe too.â I smiled, hugging him back tighter.
Our moment was interrupted by Sweet Pea cutting in. He casually swooped in.
âMy turnnn.â He whined as we pulled away.
âCareful buddy, your neediness is showingâ Fangs teased him.
âSo what if Iâm needy? You like it.â Sweet Pea sassed, holding me.
âYouâre cheating on me already?â I gasped. He shook his head, taking my hands.
âNo, no, princess, I left Fangs for you.â
âSo, Iâm the other woman?â I put a hand over my chest offended.
âNice try, you came over earlier so we could cuddle.â Fangs pat his shoulder.
âYou two are such dorks!â I laughed, pushing Fangs away so I could dance with my boyfriend.
âWhat were you two talking about?â He asked, spinning me around to hold me again. Our noses rubbed.
âHe wanted me to tell him the story of how I was named after that Fleetwood Mac song.â I replied. He made a weird face and I laughed once again.
âDonât picture my parents, you creep!â He leaned his head back to laugh this time before dipping me, holding onto my leg. His lips grazed mine and I held his face in my hands.
âI think weâre gonna have to rethink that no kids life cause I wanna make love like that to you when we make our own.â He said. I giggled.
âWanna test that theory?â I taunted.
âJust say when and Iâm all yours.â He connected his lips with mine.
âOh, Rhiannon Jones you are the first thing I think of when I wake up and the last thing on my mind before going to bed.â He let me stand, holding my face in his hands. I smiled, kissing his palms.
âSweet Pea, you are everything I ever searched and longed for. I love you, I love you, I love you!â I laughed as I kissed him happily.
A throat cleared up beside us and we pulled away to look up at Tall Boy towering over us.
âWe got something for you, Lady.â He said.
âWhat is it?â I asked, placing a hand on Sweet Peaâs shoulder as he put one on my waist.
âItâs about what Jughead asked.â Tall Boy replied, eyeing us closely.
Blade then appeared with a Serpent in between his fists. I raised a brow, lowering myself to the manâs height.
âInteresting...â I cupped his chin.
âI wonder what youâll sing for me?â His eyes looked up at me hard but I wasnât intimidated. I smirked evilly.
âLetâs go handsome.â I motioned for Sweet Pea to join as the four of us slipped out of the bar, dragging the Serpent along.
We went back to Sunnyside where I let them take him to the trailer.
He and Blade bounded up the Serpent in tape. I tugged off one of the special rings I always wore, pulling it apart to form a brass knuckle. Each ring sat on my finger, following my movements.
âSo much for that party huh?â Sweet Pea huffed as he put on his own pair of gold brass knuckles.
âOh itâs still rolling, baby.â I looked down at the man in front of us.
âThis is just the beginning.â I squeezed the silver piece, making my knuckles turn white as they waited for an impact.
âThatâs too bad though, our hands were barely starting to heal.â I pouted.
âShame, my hands were starting to feel better.â Sweet Pea added.
I went to stand behind the man while the other three stood in front of him. I towered over the brute.
âWhatâs he here for?â I asked, lowering my head to his ear, smelling the alcohol and cigarettes off him. I had to move away from how strong the smell was. It was worse than what I wore.
âDuring your little soiree, he was going on about Fred Andrews...â Tall Boy said.
I slowly walked around, standing in front of the Serpent. I leaned in, placing my hands on either side of him.
âIs that true?â I lingered, tilting his chin to make him look at me. He didnât reply.
âWhat are you, mute? Speak!â I was more stern this time.
âFuck you!â He spat. I scoffed, standing again.
Without warning, I swung my fist back and collided it with his cheek. I felt my gashed reopen.
âWatch your fucking mouth, dumbass!â I cursed, taking hold if his collar roughly.
âIâm not gonna tell you shit! Youâre no leader to me!â He shouted.
âIâll keep you here all night if I have to.â I was unfazed.
âMaybe Iâll cut off that dirty tongue of yours while Iâm at it.â There was a little fear in his eyes and I thrived off it.
I stepped aside, letting Sweet Pea and Blade come in and take over for me. I stood behind the man again, looking up at the guys, nodding for them to go at it.
Sweet Pea grinned evilly as he was the first to take his shot. He and Blade went at him one by one until I was satisfied.
âWhat were you going on about at the Wyrm?â Tall Boy asked again. The Serpent still refused to speak.
âGentlemen, I think we have ourselves a crowd teaser.â I concluded. The fact he didnât say anything made me realize he was just an idiot drunk.
I was about to make my own rounds when the door swung open. I looked up to my brother walking in off guard. He went to hang his jacket but he looked up at us in horror.
âWhat the hell you guys? What is this?â He panicked, rushing forward.
âWent out like you asked.â Tall Boy said.
Jughead looked at the tied-up man. He was beaten down and messed up in the face. He then looked down at our hands with shock.
âThis guy was holding court in the Whyte Wyrm, talking about how if Fred Andrews was gonna let Hiram Lodgeâs bitch run the show and fire his crew, then itâs good he was gut-shot.â I sighed in annoyance at Tall Boy addressing Mrs. Lodge like that. Yes, misogyny while Iâm right here.
âSo we thought we might press him a bit, see if it was all just talk.â Blade said now.
âAnd?...â Jughead lingered, looking at me. I shrugged my shoulders.
âSon of a bitch is just a loudmouth, isnât that right my little bitch?â I cooed, cupping the manâs cheek but he pulled away roughly.
âAh-ah!â I hit him hard again, making him groan in pain.
âBe a good boy!â I warned as he spat out more blood.
âWh-What? Why did you bring him here if he didnât even do anything?â Jughead went on. I rolled my eyes.
âJug--.â
âSo you can see we did what you asked.â Tall Boy cut me off.
âSo you could tell your old man. Thatâs important to us.â I shared looks with Sweet Pea and Blade.
âWith or without the jacket, youâre a Serpent.â My brother looked hurt at hearing him.
I furrowed my brows. For once, the man said something that actually held value.
âGet him out of here and get back to the Wyrm.â I ordered as the three of them untied the Serpent.
âI donât wanna hear you spouting bullshit ever again, you hear?â I spoke lowly, looking down at him in disgust.
âIs that clear?â I said more sternly.
âYes, maâam.â He nodded lowly. I motioned for Blade and Tall Boy to step out.
âIâll meet you outside, I need to talk with him first.â I whispered to Sweet Pea.
âDonât be too long.â He nodded, looking over at my brother with a sour face before following the other two out.
âSeriously Rhiannon? What were you thinking?â Jughead raised his voice at me now. I scoffed.
âWhat did you expect Jughead? Weâre Serpents.â I fought back.
âNo! You are! Iâm not!â He remarked.
âYouâre not a Serpent?â I snickered, shaking my head.
âYou sure about that? Betty seems to think so since you were flaunting your new jacket when Tall Boy came to interrupt your little heated moment last night.â I walked towards the door.
âYou may say youâre not one but sooner or later, youâre gonna want in when youâre at your most powerless.â With that, I slammed the door shut. Jerk!
I felt a finger roam up my bare spine and then a weight on top of me. There was something else that traveled upwards, making goosebumps form on my skin.
âStop it, Sweet Pea!â I giggled at feeling his soft and plump lips. He kissed the back of my neck, making me sigh and arch my back at the small sensation.
Sweet Pea pressed himself into me and I felt his hard-on in between my legs.
I attempted to turn around to face him but he kept me in place, pinning my hands on the bed and forcing my legs to spread apart. He snaked a hand underneath and wrapped it around my neck, exposing my bare shoulder to him.
âI canât help it, princess. Youâre irresistible.â His hoarse voice rang through my ears, making my center ache. God, his voice sounded so good.
I bit my lip when he went from my ear down to my shoulder. He licked and gently bit it. I shivered in delight.
Our nakedness rubbed against each other. His hard cock edged my throbbing wet pussy, carefully coating it. He grunted at the feeling.
Sweet Peaâs touch was so tempting. I just wanted him to ruin me... hard.
âYou wanna fuck me again?â I taunted innocently. He grunted again, gripping my throat tighter. I moaned as he bit my ear.
My fingers were laced between his as he continued to hold me down. I gripped his hand tightly, trying to control myself.
âCan I, please?â He asked.
âYes, Sweet Pea.â I nodded softly.
His hips rubbed against mine and then he inserted himself in me. I gasped at the stretching feeling and my back arched again to adjust to his thick and long length. I could never adjust to him.
âFuck!â He cursed, burying his head in my shoulder. My pussy wrapped around him, welcoming him.
âFuck, I love you.â He kissed my shoulder, angling to thrust into me.
âI love you.â He sighed deeply. I moaned from the thrusts.
âI love you so much.â He grunted and moaned now, picking up his speed.
âFuck!â I cried as he hit all of my spots. I held his hands tighter.
Our panting and noise-making echoed throughout the trailer. If these walls could talk, they could tell you all the million things we were up to all night.
He forced my hips up to get a better grip on me. I dug my nails into the sheets as he fucked me senselessly.
âYou like that princess?â He grabbed a fistful of my hair, forcing me to look back at him.
âDoes my little cock slut like it when I do this to your pussy?â He went faster.
âYes, I do!â My eyes welled up from the stimulation.
âYour cock slut loves you inside her wet pussy!â I cried out in pleasure.
âGood girl.â He smirked evilly. I felt like a whore.
Sweet Pea pulsed and grew bigger inside me. I grew so wet from the movements that he thrust in and out of me with ease. I was vulnerable to him.
I pulled away to connect my lips with his hungrily, pushing him down onto the bed. I straddled him, our lips and tongues fighting for dominance.
I inserted his cock inside me again, making us both let out a heavy moan. Our foreheads touched and I looked down into his eyes. His eyes were nearly black.
âI love you.â I whimpered, moving my hips slowly.
âI fucking love you.â My hips became violent.
âFuck, Rhiannon!â He grunted, his hands gripping my ass meanly.
âFuck me just like that...â His husky voice on my ear went straight down to my bundle of nerves.
âGood girl...â He growled as I went faster.
I was getting close to my release. He knew it too because he started to pound into me from underneath. My brain was becoming foggy.
âCum with me...â He tempted me on my lips.
âCum on me, Rhiannon.â I felt his cock push up in me and my insides happily widened for him.
My hands tangled in his hair and his nails dug into the skin on my hips. My back arched from the pain and we both came together. Relief filled us at our juices being able to mix together.
I was about to collapse next to him but he shot up with me in his arms, taking me to the bathroom. He set me on the sink top, holding my face in his hands to kiss me.
âIf our sex is gonna be like this we should do this all the time.â He huffed, making me chuckle.
âOnly if we get creative every time.â I conditioned.
âAfter last night, thatâs a promise.â He smiled, kissing me before turning on the shower.
âI should let you dominate me more.â He said. I stretched my arms and readjusted my back.
âOh yeah?â I lingered, raising a brow.
I hopped off the counter, standing in front of him. I let a hand roam up his arm, tracing his shoulders and his chest, reaching his hips, and taking hold of his member. He jolted a bit, looking down at me curiously. I smirked.
âChoose your words wisely...â I taunted.
âYouâre gonna end up calling me mommy one day.â He leaned his head back to laugh, brushing my hair off my shoulders to take my face again.
âYouâre crazy, you know that right?â He teased, grazing my lips with his tattooed thumb.
âYouâre one to talk.â I smiled, pulling him under the warm water with me. Our lips connected once more and our high from earlier was making its return.
After our very heated shower, we went into the kitchen to make some breakfast.
Sweet Pea let me borrow one of his Led Zeppelin shirts since he claimed that they looked better on me. Really, it was just an excuse for him to get a pantie slip when he wanted to look.
I was in charge of making oatmeal with my own twist while he made us a breakfast burrito. It still surprised me every time that he could make a decent meal. A really good one too.
As we moved around the kitchen, it was hard keeping my eyes off of him since he was only in sweats. His muscles would flex and bulge up every now and then. It became hard for me to concentrate.
We sat at the table and got down to eat. I started helping him read a book he had to do a report on. While I read to him he listened intently, writing down the important parts and massaging my feet at the same time.
We were enjoying our morning up until my brother ruined the moment with his constant phone calls. Cockblocker.
âHey Jug, whatâs up?â I answered, feeding Sweet Pea a strawberry now. He took it between his teeth before pecking my lips. I giggled.
âIâm at Riverdale General Hospital, Fred Andrews got shot this morning at Pops. Archie thinks it was a Serpent that his dad had let off.â I became serious, furrowing my brows. Mr. Andrews got shot?
âWhat? And it happened this morning? Is he okay?â I became worried, biting the nail on my thumb.
âWe havenât heard anything yet weâre still waiting... you think you could get Tall Boy to come out?â He asked me.
Sweet Pea looked at me with concern, raising a brow. I brought a hand to my mouth, praying that Mr. Andrews was still alive. Please, let him still be alive.
âCan you do what I asked?â He said again. I sighed. Being a normal teenager was not cut out for me.
âYeah, Iâll be there in twenty. Meet us in the backlot.â I replied before hanging up.
âWhat happened?â Sweet Pea asked, continuing to massage me.
âFred Andrews-- carrot topâs dad-- he got shot this morning.â I replied, tossing my phone on the table. He furrowed his brows.
âAndrewsâ dad? The one that was with us that day on the ice?â I nodded.
âShit... does he know who did it?â
âHe thinks it was one of the Serpents that used to work for Mr. Andrews at the construction site.â I felt a headache coming in. It was way too soon for my good morning to take a complete one-eighty.
âJughead requested Tall Boy, wanna come with?â I invited. He let my feet drop, leaning in to kiss the top of my head.
âLetâs go find us a tall son of a bitch.â He said, making me laugh.
We cleaned up and I quickly went to grab my clothes, agreeing weâd meet back at my place.
I hurried down the dirt path until I reached my trailer. I went up the steps and rushed inside where I went to the room, quickly putting clothes away to get dressed.
I kept Sweet Peaâs shirt, tucking it in a pair of black jeans with the knees slit. I slipped my belt chain and stepped into some ankle boots.
I ran my hands through my hair, happy that I still had some of my waves from last night along with some makeup.
I went back out into the hallway, making for the door. I shrugged on my Serpent jacket, took my helmet and bike keys, getting on the bike to ride out with Sweet Pea for the Whyte Wyrm.
It was a quiet morning at the bar. A few Serpents roamed around as per usual. It was odd being here in the early morning.
Sweet Pea and I walked deep into the bar in search of Tall Boy. I took notice of a group of Serpents around a pool table in the front. A rather tall individual was among them and I knew it had to be the person I was looking for.
I exchanged looks with Sweet Pea and we both shrugged before approaching them. We managed to casually step into the game.
âGerald Petite...â I lingered, placing my hands on the table and hovering over it as I watched him make his calculated shots.
âRhiannon Marie Jones, whatcha need?â He let out as he finished, standing tall and hitting his pool stick against the floor. The Serpents looked between us.
âJones Junior. He wants a word with you.â I simply said.
âHe wants us at the hospital.â He raised his brows, sighing deeply.
âSweet Pea!â He called my boyfriend. I looked over at Sweet Pea suddenly appearing out from behind.
âTake over boy.â Tall Boy ordered, handing him his stick. He nodded.
âBlade!â I pointed at him with my finger, motioning for him to come forward.
âYouâre tagging along.â I said as he nodded, giving his stick to Marcus.
I pat his back as he followed behind Tall Boy. I glanced back at Sweet Pea. He gave me a comforting wink before I turned to walk out of the bar.
We drove out to Riverdale General and pulled up to the backlot where we found my brother waiting around for us.
Blade and I stood in the back where we shared a cigarette, watching Tall Boy and Jugheadâs interaction.
âI got nervous when Lady said to meet you here at the hospital.â Tall Boy motioned to me. I raised my brows as I exchanged looks with Jughead.
âLady, huh?â He made a half-face at hearing me being called by a different name.
âI was wondering about when you said the Serpents had my back...â Jughead lingered.
âDoes that courtesy extend to a guy whoâs like my brother and a man whoâs like a second father to me?â I was a little offended he didnât ask me this. Did he think I didnât take this seriously?
I dragged on the cigarette and let the smoke disappear into the air, away from Tall Boy and Jughead. I took hold of Blade, making us step away for a bit.
âDid you guys give him the jacket?â I whispered. He nodded, taking the smoke from me so he could give it a go.
âYeah, he got it but I donât see him repping it.â He whispered, looking back at Jughead.
âGood.â I chuckled, pleased at what I heard. Now Iâm one step closer to my plan.
âWhat do you need?â Tall Boy asked him now.
âFred Andrews, my buddyâs dad was just shot during a robbery at Pops...â I furrowed my brows. A robbery? Thatâs how it happened?
âThe guy was wearing a black hood.â A black hood?
âSerpents donât wear masks.â Blade chimed in as he blew out more smoke.
âYeah, I get it, but some of those Serpents were working for Fred Andrews when, for reasons of his own, he decided to let them go suddenly. Maybe someone took it personally and went rogue?â Jughead continued.
âYou guys know every hidey-hole in this town. Someone has to have heard something about what went down at Pops.â I shared looks with the other two Serpents.
âAlright, weâll knock some heads. Let you know.â Tall Boy replied as he turned to get back on his bike. Blade turned to do the same but I stopped him.
âIf you find anything hit my line.â He nodded.
âYes maâam.â We bumped knuckles and separated. I put out our smoke and went to pull my bike along with me.
The two drove out and I was left alone with Jughead. There was some tension in the air and I could tell there was a lot running through his mind.
âIs Mr. Andrews alive?â I asked as we made our way to the door.
âYeah, thank god.â He sighed in relief.
âHeâs out of surgery now but heâs in a coma.â A coma? Will he wake up?
âAnd carrot top? Howâs he doing?â I parked my bike.
âNot so good, to be honest with you...â He replied.
âHeâs blaming himself for what happened.â I shook my head at his response. It wasnât Archieâs fault his dad got shot. These things happen.
We ended up staying out here together for a few more minutes, having the moment to ourselves. We were leaning on a rail.
âWhat if it is a Serpent, Jug?â I asked. He wouldnât meet my eyes.
âI donât know, Rhinnie...â He meant it.
âI can already tell this is going to get a lot worse.â He looked around the parking lot, catching glimpse of a few people going in and out of the ER.
âAt this rate, Northside and Southside are gonna bump heads any day now.â I pat his shoulder before turning to head inside.
âYou just better hope your friends arenât on the losing side.â I added, leaving him by himself.
I walked down several hallways until I reached the surgery ward where I stumbled into their waiting area. I found a few familiar groups scattered in different spots.
Josie, Valerie, and Melody were here along with Reggie and the football jocks. I chuckled at seeing Reggie. I knew heâd be here.
âRhinnie!â Kevin called me as I turned to see him. He motioned me over to the coffee table where he was pouring himself and someone else a cup.
âHey, Kev.â I greeted him with a small smile, making myself a cup also.
He looked up at me for a split second, gasping lightly. I furrowed my brows.
âWhat?â I was confused. Was there something on my face?
âYouâre crazy for wearing that.â He was talking about my jacket.
âOh, please, Iâm a big girl. I can take care of myself.â I winked. He giggled.
âHow was dinner with tall and sexy last night?â He questioned me.
âHe took me up to Greendale at some vacation home that was insanely stunning, we dropped the âLâ bomb on each other and he asked me to be his girlfriend under a beautifully decorated gazebo, and it was all so romantic Kev!â I sighed.
âRomantic and cute!â He lit up.
âWait, wait, you guys are already on the âI love youâ stage? And youâre official? Please tell me you two made passionate love afterward.â He bombarded me now.
âYes! Yes to all of it!â I nodded. He fangirled more.
âOh my god, Iâm so happy for you! I just hope Betty struck with something too.â He added as we went to meet with her.
Betty was sitting by herself, doing something in her lap. She then looked up at us, grabbing the cup of coffee from Kevinâs hand.
âThank you.â She smiled at us.
âHey, Rhinnie.â She greeted me, taking a sip.
âHey, Betts.â I greeted her back, sitting on the opposite side of them.
Her eyes fell on my jacket and she went a little frigid, shifting uncomfortably. Is everyone just gonna be like that with me now?
âOf course, all any of us can think about is Mr. Andrews, but if we werenât so focused on his well-being, Iâd be asking if you and--.â
âWe didnât.â She cut him off, playfully rolling her eyes.
âWait, you and Jughead had sex?!â I was shocked.
âNo! Jughead and I didnât do it!â She blushed at my words. Yes! I can still punk on his virgin ass!
âOh come on!â I let out annoyed, trying to play it cool.
âWhat?!â Kevin scoffed. He and I shared a glance, making a sad face and reaching out to touch hands.
âBut wait, like, no--.â
âHe told me he loved me.â Betty cut him off again. Now we both gasped, placing a hand over our hearts.
âWait, what?!â Kevin and I let out in unison.
âShut up, really?!â We said again. She laughed at how in sync we were at the moment.
I leaned forward on the edge of my seat, bumping my coffee with Kevin as we basked in the cuteness. We were a pair for sure.
âIâm happy for you Betts.â I smiled, patting her hand.
âJughead Jones said I love you?â Kevin doubted, making her giggle with a nod.
âMister Iâm weird, Iâm a weirdo?â He added. I almost choked on my coffee at hearing him quote my brother. There is no way in hell he really said that.
âGod, please donât tell me my brother really said that.â I scrunched my face.
âI told him I loved him back.â She smiled, making Kevin and I go crazy once more.
âOh my god!â He squealed.
âThatâs so cute!â I couldnât take all of this. My brother, the weirdo, in love!
âWell...â Kevin lingered, motioning for Betty to continue.
âSpill everything!â I added as she sat in front of us a little puzzled.
âThings got...â She paused to find the right words.
âAwkward?â I tried to help.
âComplicated?â Kevin did the same.
âWeird.â Betty finally said, furrowing her brows.
âIn a âmy boyfriend may be joining the Serpentâ kind of way, no offense Rhinnie.â She didnât look at me anymore. I sighed, becoming annoyed.
Iâm really starting to hate the whole âno offense youâre a Serpentâ bullshit. I pretty much understood everything around here. There wasnât a need for all of that.
âBetty, no. No way. I mean did you learn nothing from me and Joaquin?â Kevin said now, making her roll her eyes.
âJoaquin was actually nice.â She defended.
âAnd Rhinnie is a Serpent and sheâs not all hardcore as she seems.â I hid an evil grin in my cup of coffee. If only these two had an idea of what I was capable of for the Serpents.
âYeah, when he wasnât dumping bodies in Sweetwater River or moping up buckets of blood.â Kevin retorted. I became slightly hurt.
Well, if that bothers him then I guess we canât be friends. Shame, I really liked Kevin.
âWhat the hell?â He let out suddenly, making Betty and I look up at what he was seeing.
I raised a brow when I saw Cheryl walking down the hall, tossing her flaming red hair to the side. She was following a group of nurses that were rolling someone away on a gurney. She made eye contact with us before disappearing into the next hallway.
We all exchanged looks before getting up to meet with her.
âCheryl?â Kevin called her. She was heading into a room but she stopped to wait for us.
âCheryl, whatâs going on? Is that your mom?â Betty asked as we stood before her.
I looked over at the mummy-wrapped person, raising my brows. Was that Penelope Blossom?
âOh, havenât you heard?â Cheryl lingered, making us share confused faces.
âThere was a terrible fire at Thornhill last night. I mightâve perished if not for mommyâs heroics.â Betty and Kevin were filled with shock at hearing her.
âOh my god, is this the apocalypse?â He let out. I didnât buy it.
This was weird. Iâve met Mrs. Blossom and that wasnât something she would do. Sheâd let Cheryl burn in that mansion if she could.
I looked at the redhead skeptically. There was a devious glow in her eyes. I raised a brow at her and she looked away. I got you.
âAfter my ordeal at Sweetwater River, I was asleep when the fire started.â She looked at me this time when she said this.
âWhich by the way, I havenât thanked you Rhinnie for being my knight in shining black leather.â She took my still-busted hands and rubbed them gently.
âYou broke that ice for me as if your life depended on it, and for that, I will forever be grateful to you.â She wrapped her arms around me, kissing my cheek.
âAnyways, they think it was a breeze knocking over a lit candle, catching the curtains. Mommy got home from The Jubilee and rushed headlong into the blaze, risking her life to save mine.â I tried to stifle a scoff, catching her bluff. Very clever, Blossom.
âUnfortunately, she suffered third-degree burns and acute smoke inhalation.â Betty and Kevin were filled with pity.
âBut what are you three doing here?â She changed the subject now. Kevin wrapped an arm around our blonde friend.
âFred Andrews got shot this morning.â Betty replied as we stood there awkwardly.
I went to look back at the group of jocks huddling around, noticing Reggie again. He looked really worried for Archie.
Jughead was walking towards us, nodding heads with me before stopping to look at Cheryl. He raised a brow.
âWhat happened to you?â He asked, seeing her white dress was covered in smoke grime. He stood by me and I wrapped an arm around his shoulders.
âI need to get back to mommy dearest. Betty, you can tell him what happened.â Cheryl then spun around on her red heels, walking away from us. I chuckled.
The four of us walked back into the waiting room. Betty and Jughead went to talk with Veronica and Archie while I stayed with Kevin, Midge, and The Pussycat girls in a group.
âSo, Rhiannon, where did you move from?â Midge Klump asked curiously. She was a very cute, tall, and slim girl with brown pixie-cut hair.
âUm, Ohio.â I replied, being thrown off my game.
âIs it true that you really saved Cheryl?â Josie asked, turning to look at Valerie and Melody. They shrugged.
âOf course I did.â I held my hands out, showing them.
âYour hands look better today.â Kevin said as he hovered over them, Midge and Melody taking a closer look also.
âGod damn girl.â Melody let out nervously.
âHoly shit, thatâs badass!â Valerie smiled. I lightly chuckled.
I went to pull my hands away but Midge wouldnât let go. She was mesmerized by the numerous tattoos I had on my fingers.
âYouâre that Serpent chick everyoneâs talking about at school, arenât you?â She looked from my hands to me, letting me go.
âSo they do talk about me.â I crossed my arms, smirking. She couldnât help but smirk back.
âSheâs harmless!â Kevin came to wrap an arm around me, smiling.
âTrust me, sheâs just a big âole teddy bear.â He squeezed me.
âThatâs right, snakes donât have a reason to bite unless you give them one.â I said, making them shift uncomfortably. Midge stayed impressed.
Jughead turned from his conversation to look up at me. He shrugged his shoulders, shaking his head. It was almost as if he was telling me that something wasnât adding up.
âYou know, you and Jughead may not look alike but at the same time you oddly do?â Valerie furrowed her brows, not knowing how to word it.
âI know, I canât put a pin on it myself.â I chuckled, understanding perfectly.
âI thought Jughead was wearing a wig on your first day.â Melody added, making all of us laugh now.
âNo way!â I let out, continuing to laugh.
Betty and Jughead had left suddenly while Veronica stormed off behind Mrs. Lodge. Archie stood with Reggie and his team of Bulldogs.
âBulldogs are here for you.â Reggie reassured him, patting his redheaded friendâs back.
âThanks, Reggie.â Archie gave him a small smile, accepting his support.
âAnd so are The Pussycats.â Josie brought their attention to us. The three of them went forward.
âWeâre sending your dad our prayers and giving him as many of our nine lives as he needs.â She smiled. Archie thanked her.
I stood at the far side behind Kevin with my arms crossed, watching. Reggie caught glimpse of me, raising a brow curiously before coming to poke at me.
âSup Jones.â He greeted me. I was unfazed.
âMantle, Iâve been bumping into you a lot lately.â He chuckled.
âMaybe itâs destiny saying to ditch your Serpent toy and get yourself a real man.â He teased. I scoffed.
âIâm happy with my Serpent boyfriend, Mantle. Iâm not interested.â I shook my head. He sighed in defeat, wrapping an arm around me.
âI donât like Serpent chicks anyways.â I knew he was lying.
My phone vibrated in my pocket. I fished for it, seeing that it was Toni who was calling me. She had been calling me this whole time and I didnât notice until now. Shit.
I pulled away from Reggie, getting his arm off me and slithering off to the side where I answered the call.
âHey, babe sorry I was busy here with Jughead.â I semi-lied.
âCome to my trailer! Itâs urgent!â She simply said before hanging up. I furrowed my brows, pulling away to look at the screen.
Sweet Pea took the state highway since he planned to take us to the town over called Greendale. It reminded me of those cute little towns you would see in an old Salem movie.
The drive was long but very worth it. I was pretty excited and nervous at the same time. I had to play it cool, but I couldnât help but let my mind wander to why Sweet Pea was taking us here.
I stuck my hand out the window, feeling the cool breeze pass through my fingers and brush up against my face. It all felt so good.
We shared a few songs that came on the radio and we got silly when a few throwbacks that we knew came on. Our ultimate favorite jams to sing together were anything by Billy Idol, Kiss, Metallica, Kendrick Lamar, or his personal favorite Led Zeppelin.
Weâve gone on plenty of night drives but this one was a little different. It felt different.
âYou know, Jughead getting all jealous over you made me jealous.â Sweet Pea admitted. I giggled, leaning over to kiss his cheek.
âI like it when youâre jealous.â I teased.
âYouâre too special thatâs why and he would agree with me.â He added, taking my hand and kissing it. I felt bubbly.
He pulled over to give me his full attention now. His eyes bored into me, making me turn away shyly.
âStop looking, perv.â I teased.
âCome here...â He chuckled, cupping my chin to make me look at him. Our eyes locked and we were mesmerized by our mixture of different colored eyes.
âYouâre so fucking beautiful...â He tucked my hair away, caressing my cheek with his thumb.
âThanks.â I lightly smiled, nuzzling my face in his hand. He was so gentle.
âAnd I think youâre so fucking hot and handsome I canât wrap my mind around it.â I giggled, kissing the palm of his hand.
âYouâre such a sweet talker.â He chuckled, rubbing our noses.
âTakes one to know one.â I smirked, wrapping my lips around his tattooed thumb.
Seeing the lines made me excited. They were taunting me, asking me how far I could go. I sucked on his thumb, passing the second line. I let it reach the back of my throat since I couldnât feel it.
Sweet Peaâs eyes lit up at my sudden need to provoke him. He let me continue to suck his thumb. I licked up and down, pretending it was his dick. He smirked, roughly wrapping his hand around my neck to bring me close.
âYou look so fucking sexy I wish I could fuck you right here right now.â He cursed against my lips.
âYeah?â My center ached and I tugged on his bottom lip with my teeth.
âWhatâs stopping you?â I taunted.
âThis...â He let me go to reach for the dashboard, pulling out a blindfold.
âWeâre gonna Fifty Shades it here?â I raised my brows in surprise.
âWhat?--â He cut himself off with his laugh.
âNo, no, thatâs not it, my little pet. This is where I blindfold you for the rest of the drive.â He said. I bit my lip at him calling me his pet.
My mind suddenly flooded with Sweet Pea dominating me with my sense of sight impaired. It gave me goosebumps. I admit I have my many kinks but the thought of him fulfilling every one of them made me weak.
He beckoned me closer and I leaned in, kissing him before I closed my eyes so he could tie the blindfold over them. I was now unaware of what was in front of me.
His minty breath tickled my face and his lips continued to graze mine. He let a single finger run along my chest, passing my locket and stopping at my breasts where he rubbed around my nipple. I was wearing a bralette so I was able to feel his finger.
My breath hitched and goosebumps formed at the sensation, making me shiver. I bit my lip. He was getting me excited on purpose.
âS-Sweet Pea...â I whimpered.
âShhh...â His lips were on my neck. Can he just fuck me now?
âWeâll have our fun later, I promise.â His tongue licked all the way up to my ear. I exposed my neck more to him, letting a small gasp escape me.
My center was throbbing at his teases and gestures. It was becoming unbearable.
âOkay...â I barely managed to get out.
âGood girl.â He chuckled, kissing me one last time before pulling away to get back on the road.
A little while had passed and we finally came to a stop. I heard the truck door open and close quickly. I felt around to see if Sweet Pea was still there but he wasnât. I was sitting by myself for a bit.
My mind began to wander to the endless possibilities of what could have happened to him, what he was up to, or what he was planning. Did something happen?
I played with my locket anxiously until I felt a cold breeze brush against me. My door had opened on its own.
âSorry I took a while, I had to make sure everything was perfect.â Sweet Peaâs voice filled my ears.
âOh thank god.â I sighed in relief.
âI was starting to think something happened to you.â He chuckled, taking my hand.
âYou and I both know that if I donât bring you back to Jughead myself, Iâm as good as dead.â I chuckled this time, smiling.
âYouâre right.â I carefully got out of the truck and he laced his fingers with mine, guiding me on our walk.
My heels gently tapped against the ground, I figured I was on cement. I furrowed my brows at figuring out where we were.
âStairs.â He mentioned, making me stop. Stairs?
âHow many?â I asked as he lightly counted. I smiled at hearing him. He was so cute.
âSix.â He answered, letting me go up first with his help.
We made it to the top and we walked a few inches forward. Another door opened and I was forced to walk again. There was soft music playing in the background. My heels were now touching a wood surface. We were somewhere fancy?
We came to a quick stop and I felt Sweet Pea step down a level below me. He helped me down and take another few steps forward before coming to a full complete stop.
âYou ready?â He asked, standing behind me. I bit my lip nervously.
âYeah.â I let out softly, nodding.
The blindfold came undone slowly and I brought my hands to my mouth when I saw the sight in front of me.
I was staring at a small open forest area. It encompassed the backyard in a circle so it wasnât too overwhelming.
We were standing on a white porch that had a matching gazebo in the middle of the grass area. It looked beautiful out there with the dim light surrounding it.
My eyes then went to a small dining table that was sitting under a huge tree on the side. There was a wooden swing on one of the branches with small lanterns and fairy lights that rained down on the table. It was straight out of a movie.
I was so mesmerized by the view in front of me that I pulled Sweet Pea along with excitement. I wanted to get a closer look at the setup.
âOh, Sweet Pea! This is so cute!â I let out a smile as we approached the table. In the middle sat a single white rose.
I turned to look up at him but he surprised me with another white rose. My cheeks heat up with embarrassment as I smiled.
âFor you, my lady.â He smiled boyishly, twisting the stem in his fingers. I brought the flower to my nose, smelling the sweet and natural scent it gave.
âThank you.â I wrapped my arms around him and he let his forehead rest against mine.
âYouâre welcome.â My fingers played with the nape of his neck. I smiled.
We got lost in each otherâs eyes for a bit, taking in the comfort. He looked like he wanted to say something else but he pushed it off. Again.
âCome on, Iâm hungry.â He said, kissing my lips and tilting his head to get me to sit down. He pushed my chair in for me before he sat down.
âWhen did you find the time to look for this place?â I asked.
âWell, Iâve had my eye on it for a while... I borrowed it for the night.â He replied, giving me a wink. I giggled. Idiot.
A pair of throats cleared up from behind me and I turned to see two familiar faces. My eyes went wide when I recognized who they were.
âWeâll be serving you two love birds tonight.â Toni chimed as her bright pink hair glowed under the lights.
âWhat drink can we start you off with?â Fangs asked now. Sweet Pea was happy at seeing his friends.
âSo this is what you two have been up to?â I raised a brow. They stood there with big dorky smiles.
âWeâre just trying to make sure our ship sails.â Fangs teased.
âYeah, weâre trying to secure the position of aunt and uncle.â Toni added.
âHaha, good one!â I let out a nervous laugh, tucking away a strand of my hair.
âThat jokeâs too early.â Sweet Pea and I shared an awkward glance. They were joking... right?
âWould you two stop with the baby thing and get us some wine?â Sweet Pea said, making me giggle.
âOh fine!... killjoy!â Fangs mumbled, turning to march off.
âLet a girl dream will ya?â Toni rolled her eyes as she turned to follow behind.
âIdiots.â Sweet Pea rolled his eyes and shook his head.
âSweet Pea, you didnât have to do all of this. I would have been happy if we stayed local too.â I said now, suddenly feeling guilty. I wasnât used to these kinds of gestures.
âI know but I wanted to.â He went to place a hand on top of mine over the table. His thumb went over the ripped skin on my knuckles where bruises were already forming. It turned into a nasty deep purple color.
âI really like you, Rhiannon...â He played with my rings.
âI know things have been moving fast between us but it just feels right... it feels good...â My lips parted at hearing him. I felt the same.
âThis feels good with you.â I looked up at him with lit eyes. I couldnât help but lightly smile.
I looked down at our hands. Despite us being in normal clothes, we were still out of place with our heavy set of rings. We always wore them. The difference between us was that I had a huge snake tattoo that wrapped around my arm and a bunch of finger tattoos.
I was feeling a little ballsy so I shrugged off my denim jacket, exposing my skin.
âI still canât believe you pushed Archie aside to break the ice on your own.â Sweet Pea remembered what happened earlier.
âI just wanted to show off that I can kick your ass if you ever play with me.â I teased. He leaned his head back to laugh.
Fangs and Toni came back with a bottle of red wine and two glasses. They poured them out before heading back to the mini-bar.
âI know how she felt... Cheryl.â I took a sip of my wine.
âI saw a little bit of me from a year ago in her and I just had to do something.â He looked at me slightly confused.
âI tried to do the same once-- when she passed away-- killing myself.â I admitted.
This was the first time I ever spoke about it out loud. The guys didnât even know about it. They certainly didnât what how it happened or how it went down that night either. It was one of the many secrets I was going to take with me to the grave.
âI knew how it felt finding out that you lost someone that you loved so much. The person that you loved so much being ripped away from you like that...â My mind wanted to relieve the memory but I didnât allow it.
âWhat stopped you?â He lingered.
âThere was this weird sensation I was feeling when it was happening that I still had a lot left to do. That I had some sort of mission I still needed to go on... there was just something telling me that it wasnât my time yet, I guess?â I chuckled, shaking my head. I sounded crazy.
âYou saying that doesnât make you sound crazy. If anything it saved your life.â He read my mind.
âThen again maybe it was just acceptance that finally took over. I mean, stuff like that was a price to pay for being a Jones and a Serpent.â He was watching me carefully.
âJust look at me...â I motioned to myself now.
âMy dadâs King of a biker gang and my mom is the leader of one of his charters, and now Iâm currently taking over the Serpents. Losing people is inevitable.â Weight was taken off my shoulders at saying all of this. I had no idea how long I had been bottling all of that up.
âIâm glad you didnât end up succumbing to your mind.â His hand went to my cheek, caressing it.
âWe wouldnât be sitting here together if you did.â I lightly smiled.
âImagine missing out on each other? How could you make a hard pass on that?â He teased. I giggled.
âYouâre right, I would disappoint our number one shippers for not giving them our love child.â I motioned to our friends. He laughed.
âFor dinner this evening we have...â Fangs and Toni came back again with a set of covered plates.
âPop Tates special!â Toni cheered as they uncovered the meal that was in front of us. I went heart eyes at seeing the cheeseburger with a side of fries.
âAwe, nothing beats Pops!â I smiled as Sweet Pea took a fry.
âHell no, nothing is better than Pop Tate.â He added.
We began to eat and talk about random things. We always talked about the most random things and it was normal. Fangs and Toni would even join in once in a while to tease Sweet Pea.
When we were done we decided to take a walk towards the mysterious gazebo that had been calling me since the moment I laid eyes on it.
Sweet Pea and I talked some more but it was on a much deeper level. It was more philosophical at that point.
The feelings of the trees surrounding us had made everything calm and spiritual, making our conversations more intimate. It felt nice talking to someone who was open-minded and willing to understand me down to the very last grain.
We would drop cheesy lines on each other and he would win for knowing way too many good ones. He came prepared.
Sweet Pea was showing me a side of him that I never saw coming or thought even existed. I mean, of course, weâve grown close and know each other pretty well at the moment but Iâve never seen him like this. It was refreshing.
âDance with me?â He held his hand out for me to take. I took it, lacing them together. He set his free hand on my waist and I put mine on his shoulder.
Soft music played in the background as we swayed almost elegantly. He brought his face close to mine. I smiled as our noses touched.
I stared into his dark eyes intently, feeling undisturbed. I was at peace and it was just me and him. He stared back at me nervously and it made me nervous.
âWhat?â I lingered softly.
âI...â There was a little spark of hope that ignited in him. He was gonna say it.
âI...â He struggled to find the words once more. I knew what he was trying to say.
We fell into a comfortable silence. I bit my lip, silently praying for the best.
âI love you.â I blurted out. He pulled his face away slightly to look at me. He couldnât believe what he just heard.
âI love you, Sweet Pea.â I said again. This time, a huge smile formed on his lips. His hands cupped my face and he crashed his lips against mine.
âI love you too, Rhiannon.â He sighed in relief.
âI loved you since the moment I realized I felt something different for you...â Our foreheads rested on each other.
âI knew I loved you more when you broke that ice for your friend because thatâs the real you.â We were staring into each otherâs souls.
âI was afraid to let it consume me but Iâm not afraid right now. I donât regret feeling one bit of it. I love you.â My eyes welled up but I wasnât going to cry.
âDo you remember when I fell into a depressive episode and it was so bad I missed a few days of school? I even disappeared from the bar for a bit?â I began, making him nod.
âYeah, I went to go visit you to see if you were okay, but I found you drunk, high, and passed out on the couch in the living room.â He was replaying the memory in his head.
âAnd instead of calling Jughead and ratting me out, what did you do?â I continued to jog his memory.
âI helped you get in the shower to clean and wash up, got you in bed to get some real sleep, made you some warm soup, and cleaned up the place for you. Then when you finally woke up, I fed you.â I placed my hands in his.
âI was a mess when you found me. I hadnât showered in days and I had picked up a tiny jingle-jangle addiction. I hit rock bottom. I hit such a low point and you didnât shy away from me. You didnât turn a blind eye. You helped me, Sweet Pea.â He tucked away my hair.
âWhen you held my hair back for me, scrubbed my back and hair for me, cooked and picked up after my mess, I almost told you I loved you then.â He smiled lightly.
âTruth is, I donât need seven months or a year to figure out that I love you. I donât need time to let me figure out that I love you.â I was more confident now at admitting that I did in fact love Sweet Pea.
âFuck that traditional shit. Weâre different.â He added.
âFuck that, we so fucking are.â I smiled.
âRhiannon Jones, will you be my girlfriend?â Sweet Pea officially asked. I giggled, wrapping my arms around his neck.
âOf course, I will.â I replied, letting our lips connect with passion and sweetness.
âSwinnie is canon!â Fangs whistled in the background.
âWeâre gonna be parents!â Toni squealed as she hugged him. They both made me and Sweet Pea break out in laughter as we looked up at them.
I let Sweet Pea come over so we could clean up our gashes together. Jughead was around so we werenât able to do anything that we shouldnât.
When Sweet Pea had left to get ready and pick up a few things, Toni sent me off to the dry cleaners to pick up something she had for me. I told her a few days ago that I needed help on what to wear and she said she had something in mind.
I couldnât find anything âJubilee appropriateâ in my closet because it was mostly all black. This is the only time Iâll ever curse my dark taste.
I arrived back home and quickly showered and blow-dried my hair before making my way out again to go over to Toniâs place. I was gonna get ready at her place.
âThank god you came to the right person. Who knows what kind of emo shit you would have worn.â She teased.
âHey! I like my emo shit!â I gasped offended.
âI hate wearing all that girly stuff.â I pursed my lips as she welcomed me inside.
âBabe, you always look to kill but you need a little color in your life.â She added, taking the wrapped surprise from my hands and leading me to her room where we took up the bathroom.
âI think my life is a little too sad at the moment to let any color in, but I promise to go thrifting for some lighter clothes after today.â I said with a small smile.
âCheer up Rhinnie, tonight is your night! Forget about whatever bullshit is going on in this town and just be a teenager.â I remembered dad was still locked up. I remembered all the bad things that happened throughout the year.
Remembering all of this was putting off my anticipation to see Sweet Pea, and I really wanted to go to this. He came into my life out of nowhere and he was making it worth the while.
âDonât you wanna go to dinner with that tall beast and have him wrap his arms around you and make you feel pretty?â She acted out what she was listing, sighing lightly when she finished. I giggled.
âOh what the hell, youâre right! I do want Sweet Pea to make me feel pretty. You have no idea how excited I am! I wonder what heâs planning on?â I smiled, being filled with a bubbly sensation. I felt light on my feet.
âOh, youâll see.â She winked with a small giggle.
I sat on a chair and she started to play with my hair, picturing what she was going to do with it. So far, she came up with curling the already wavy pieces and letting them fall on my side elegantly.
She originally wanted to pull it back but she said my eyes were a little bluer than usual and she wanted them to shine.
âSpeaking of, howâs dating each other going? Itâs been a little over a month already no?â She asked now.
âItâs... amazing Toni.â I began, reminiscing.
âItâs more serious than I thought it would be but Iâve been able to open up to him without any problems. I feel so... seen.â She continued with my hair, listening.
âI mean, you know how hard it is for me to open up... he just gets me and he makes me feel like Iâm not crazy or out of my mind.â I looked down at my hands, playing with my rings shyly. I felt Toni looking at me.
âHave you guys hooked up?â I felt my cheeks heat up at replaying last night in my mind.
âYeah, we finally did last night.â I bit my lip.
âWe started off slow at the beginning but we finally took it to the next level.â She giggled at my response.
âI think I love him...â I didnât realize what I had admitted. I covered my mouth.
âShut up!â She gasped, setting the curling iron down and wrapping her arms around me with a scream.
âNo fucking way! You love him?!â She squealed as her excitement pumped at a hundred miles per hour.
She ended up taking me down to the floor. My hands began to sting and I broke a sweat from the pain.
âToni, my hands.â I strained.
âIâm so happy for you babe!â She continued to attack me with squeals, laughing.
âAntoinette Topaz, my fucking hands!â She stopped to sit up and straddle me. I sighed at feeling the release.
âDo you really love him?â She asked.
âLike, love him?â She emphasized her words.
âIs it bad that I do?â I replied, feeling my face heat up again.
âNo thatâs god!â She reassured, letting out another scream.
I was embarrassed at admitting my real feelings towards Sweet Pea. The way how I felt about him was different compared to what I thought I knew about love... it was deeper.
During the month and a half that passed, Sweet Pea and I had grown closer. Weâd go out for Pops every Friday, go to the Bijou to watch whatever random movie sounded good, or sometimes weâd chill at his place and hangout.
He was also very supportive when the weight of not being able to reunite with dad started to push down on me. I had a lot going on in my mind that I willingly shared with him and he comforted me in the best ways he knew possible.
âI never thought I would see the day Sweet Pea would get serious with anyone. As Fangs said, heâs always fooling around with girls.â She started.
âHeâs never found a stable relationship because he developed a nasty lust and his good looks didnât help but itâs different with you. Trust me.â She smiled.
âToday at Sweetwater River I think he was going to drop it but he got scared.â I told her what I had suspected and her eyes lit up.
âBut Toni...â I had us stand up, taking her hands in mine.
âIâm kind of... scared. Iâm scared of it being real... Iâve never felt real and raw love before.â
âOf course itâs scary, babe!â She chuckled, making me look at her.
âWhen you fall in love with someone youâll never know what to expect. I think you should roll with it.â I lightly smiled.
âYouâve come this far and itâs treating you so well. Donât you think?â
âYeah...â I nodded.
âNow shake all that worry away and letâs get you looking gorgeous!â She added, making me laugh.
I let her go back to finishing the rest of my hair before starting on my makeup. She kept it light and simple how I wanted it and she touched me up with a nude lip.
âOh, I snapped on this one.â She took a step back to look at her work, impressed with herself. She motioned for me to take a look.
I raised my brows stunned when I looked at myself. My blue eyes popped out effortlessly with the makeup. My hair fell on my shoulder and it was extra wavy.
âHoly shit Toni I love it!â I smiled as I hugged her.
âThank you.â She hugged me back tightly.
âYouâre welcome, now put this on.â She pulled away to hand me the surprise that was hanging on the rack. I took it and she left me alone to dress.
I unzipped the cover and I was surprised at seeing the vintage piece in front of me. It was beautiful.
It was a long green spaghetti strap dress that fell right above my shins and sculpted my body perfectly. What made it more beautiful was the black floral designs. It was simple but extremely cute.
I buttoned it up and slipped into a pair of short black pumps. I fixed my hair and let my silver locket sit elegantly on my chest.
âCome on, I wanna see!â Toni whined, knocking on the door.
âAlright!â I laughed as I opened it, revealing the final product.
âOh yes! You look super cute!â She smiled as I gave her a small turn.
âYou donât think I look too girly?â I asked. She shook her head in protest.
âYou look perfect. Trust me, babe.â She reassured.
âHere...â She then leaned over to hand me a denim jacket, helping me slip it on.
âI figured since itâs more of a reserved dressing type of night, you have to cover up your tattoos.â I sighed knowing how right she was. I couldnât walk around town hall with a bunch of ink on my arms.
âYour chariot awaits you milady.â She made me turn to look at her so she could do a few more finishing touches.
âOh, Toni!â I giggled as we linked arms together to walk to the front door.
Kevin was my ride to the Jubilee tonight. He had taken his dadâs truck to come and get me. He was standing outside waiting for me when he looked up at me and Toni coming out.
âOh my god, you look so pretty!â He gasped.
âIâm suddenly straight.â He teased, making us giggle.
âHowâd you think I did on Jubilee chic?â Toni asked as she flaunted me.
âYour Yelp review is gonna be amazing.â He replied, winking.
âThanks again, Toni.â I hugged my best friend again.
âHave fun and be safe.â She whispered, kissing my cheek.
âGood luck on your date.â She winked.
I made my way down where Kevin opened the door for me and let me in. He then got into the driverâs side and began our drive into town.
âBetty told me what happened this morning by the way. I gotta hand it to you guys, youâre crazy.â He said as he passed a few buildings and then Pops, going over the tracks.
âI canât imagine how it feels like knowing your twin brother went out like that.â I said back, looking out onto Sweetwater River. I caressed my knuckles and bulky rings.
âAnd they were so close with each other. I feel bad for Cheryl.â He added. I nodded in agreement.
We reached the town hall and he parked in the front where it was reserved for police vehicles. We got out and I linked my arm with his, making our way inside where the assembly room was.
As we went down the aisle to find a seat there were a few looks made toward us. I felt slightly uncomfortable but Kevin didnât mind them. He didnât even notice.
We continued down until we found Mr. Keller sitting and reserving seats for us. He smiled.
âHey, Kev-- Is that you Rhiannon?â He took notice of me. I lightly smiled.
âHey, Mr. Keller.â I greeted him. He motioned for us to sit.
âYou look very much like your mother.â He added.
âThanks.â This was the second time someone says I look like mom. Iâm starting to think that these people were blind. No offense, dad.
âThe things I do for Betty.â I whispered to Kevin, crossing my legs to sit up.
âAt least we can see all the hot guys.â He smiled, looking around eagerly. I giggled.
âSpeaking of hot guys, whereâs that tall guy of yours?â He nudged me, wiggling his brows.
âBeing cute somewhere.â I replied.
âIt better be spicy. I want to hear the full details.â He winked, making me giggle again.
We continued to talk and I would look up once in a while to see if Jughead had arrived. Nothing.
Mayor McCoy then came out from behind the curtains and stood at the podium. She cleared her throat to get our attention and we all looked up at her. We quickly quieted and settled down to let her speak.
âWelcome one and all to Riverdaleâs seventy-fifth anniversary Jubilee celebration!â She welcomed us with enthusiasm. We clapped at her words.
The room was packed with parents and students of the town. I suddenly felt like an outcast and a complete idiot for coming. Everyone was together with their families and I didnât have anyone, not even Jughead.
I didnât belong and dad being in jail only tainted me and my brother more. We were judged for being who we were and for having such disappointing parents.
I found myself unwrapping my bandages, picking at my skin. I wish Jughead was here. I wish Sweet Pea was here.
âI couldnât be any more thrilled to introduce my daughter, Josie, and her Pussycats as they perform alongside our local hero, Archie Andrews!â Everyone clapped again with cheers added as Josie, Valerie, Melody, and Veronica came onto the stage with Archie following timidly behind.
âHi, hi, everyone!...â Josie was at the microphone now.
âWeâre switching things up tonight. We are singing the song that my boy, Archie Andrews wrote.â She smiled as she stepped aside to let Archie come forward with a guitar in his hand.
I lightly smiled as she looked up at the crowd. I never knew he got into music. It was a surprise to me after all these years.
We met eyes and I raised a busted-up fist in the air for him, encouraging him. He chuckled.
The piano began to play and he strummed his guitar with his messed-up hand. I donât know how he was able to play. I can barely keep my hands open.
I watched as Archie and Josie sang in harmony. Veronica, Valerie, and Melody vocalized in the background. They all sounded great.
Veronica exchanged looks with her carrot top boyfriend and smiled. Archie then looked over to Betty and Mayor McCoy standing beside each other on the other end and they smiled too.
When the performance was over it was time for Betty to shine. Her aquamarine converse made small tapping sounds as she walked up to the podium.
Her naturally wavy hair rested on her shoulders and her green eyes sparkled brightly. She looked so pretty. I smiled when her eyes met mine.
âSheâs so adorable.â I whispered to Kevin.
âDefinitely.â He nodded in agreement, taking pictures.
âGood evening, ladies and gentlemen...â She began nervously.
My phone vibrated and I looked down to see a message from my brother.
Jughead đ€Žđ»đ€
đČ Jughead: I'm outside. I went to see dad.
I lightly smiled at reading the message. At least he didnât chicken out.
âIâd like to thank Mayor McCoy for inviting me to speak on this historic day. Seventy-five years of Riverdale...â She cleared her throat to continue but she paused when she looked up again.
I turned to see if Jughead made his grand entrance and there he was in all his glory, my chum of a brother. He spotted me within the crowd and gave me a small wave. I smiled.
âBut what is Riverdale? Itâs the people, right? You, me, our friends, our neighbors.â Betty continued, looking from her cards to the crowd.
âRiverdale is Archie Andrews.â She looked over to Archie and returned the spotlight back to him. He smiled shyly as some people cheered and clapped at his name.
âKevin Keller is Riverdale.â I laced my hand in Kevinâs with a smile as he wrapped his arm around me.
âVeronica Lodge, sheâs Riverdale.â Betty paused for a moment to look at every person she was calling out.
âBut you know who else is Riverdale? FP Jones, who we were so quick to blame for Jasonâs murder.â People in the crowd began to murmur. Her speech had suddenly spun one-eighty, making me raise my brows.
âSheâs actually doing really good.â Kevin whispered.
âTotally.â I nodded.
âIâm so proud of her.â We both watched our friend do an amazing job. She was telling the town how it was and I was thoroughly enjoying her forwardness.
âRhiannon Jones is also Riverdale. Without her, we wouldnât be able to save a friend from making the worst mistake of her life...â I sank in my seat at hearing my name. Kevin forced me to sit up so everyone could see me. Did I tell you he was proud of sitting next to me?
âWhen Archie couldnât go on any longer she pushed everyone to the side and broke through that ice like it was a walk in the park. Like it was nothing.â Kevin squeezed his grip on me. I couldnât help but lightly chuckle at Betty.
âJughead Jones is Riverdale. The very soul of Riverdale. Without him, we may have not found out what happened to Jason...â I looked over to Jughead at the mention of our names. He raised his brows, shrugging.
âAnd yet, how do we thank him? By banishing him and his sister.â Definitely, Jones approved.
âWhich is what we do when the truth gets too ugly in Riverdale. The truth being that Clifford Blossom was also Riverdale.â Mrs. Blossom shifted uncomfortably in her seat at the mention of her dead husbandâs name.
âRiverdale is at a crossroads. If we donât face the reality of who and what we are... if we keep lying to ourselves and keep secrets from each other then what happened to Jason could happen again, or God forbid, something even worse. Riverdale must do better. We must do better.â She finished her rant and the room fell silent. She looked down in defeat, realizing that she had gone too far.
Her thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a single clap coming from Jughead. Kevin and I then shot up and clapped for her, making everyone else join. A beautiful smile formed on her lips.
Mayor McCoy returned to her position and ended by thanking everyone for coming, inviting us to dine with her in the dining hall. Everyone stood up to head out into the halls.
Kevin and I watched for Betty and Jughead. I watched as my brother came forward, wrapping an arm around me. I smiled at the gesture.
âYou heard that baby sis? Weâre famous.â He teased, pinching my nose.
âSo this is what it feels like being a celebrity?â I giggled.
âWill you guys be joining us?â Mr. Keller asked, placing a hand on his sonâs shoulder.
âNo sir.â Jughead and I replied in unison.
âThank you for sharing a seat with me.â I nodded kindly. He smiled, nodding back before excusing himself from us and anticipating Kevinâs appearance.
âRhiannon!â Someone called for me.
âRhin!â I turned to see a familiar tall giant approach us.
âSweet Pea?â I furrowed my brows when I realized he looked extremely different.
âNo way, did he really clean up for you?â Kevin gasped in shock. Jughead pursed his lips in annoyance.
âHe still looks the same to me.â He mumbled. We ignored him.
âIâm sad heâs not gay. Iâm so jealous.â Kevin continued as he took hold of my hand and pulled me forward.
âShhh!â I blushed when Sweet Pea got closer.
He wasnât wearing his Serpent jacket like I thought he would. He didnât even wear any chains or boots. His bad boy biker vibe was put on a hanger for the night and I couldnât help but smile. Idiot.
A denim button-down clad his body with black jeans rolled at the bottom to let his converse show. He looked like a normal person.
He flashed me a smile as he stood before me. I felt my face heat up.
âI donât believe weâve introduced each other, Iâm Kevin Keller, her gay best friend.â Kevin greeted him, holding his hand out.
âSweet Pea, nice to meet you.â He shook his hand in return.
âHuh, I wonder what Toni and Fangs will say when they hear you found a new best friend.â He teased.
âYou canât tell them!â I gasped, lunging forward to wrap myself around his waist.
âTheyâll kill me!â I looked up at him with a pout. He looked down at me with a laugh. I noticed that his left eye would squint more than the other and it was cute.
My face smoothly leaned into his chest and I was able to smell the old spice mixed with something else that smelled really good. I sighed in delight.
âYou look beautiful.â He took hold of my face, planting a kiss on my forehead. My cheeks turned red at him doing this in front of everyone.
âOh my god, I ship this so hard!â Kevin squealed.
âWhenâs the wedding? Children? Iâll be godfather right?â Sweet Pea went ghost white and Jughead turned to look at an overexaggerated Kevin.
âOver my dead body!â He let out.
âYouâre serious?â Sweet Pea let out a nervous laugh.
âYou guys stop it!â I tried to hide my embarrassment.
Betty then came into view with Archie and Veronica following behind her. They were happily holding hands.
âBetty! I loved your speech!â I pulled away from Sweet Pea to go and hug her.
âThanks, I was scared at first but I wanna thank you guys for being there.â She sighed in relief.
âIt means a lot.â Jughead then took her in his arms, looking at each other sweetly before he kissed her on the cheek.
âCouldnât miss it for the world.â He smiled, making her blush.
âSweet Pea...â I pouted playfully as I went to link my arm with his and rest my head on his bicep.
âWhy canât you look at me like that?â I teased.
âI give you all of my attention, whatchu mean?â He scoffed, wrapping his arm around me now. I giggled, kissing his hand.
We all conversed with each other for a bit until it was time to separate ways. I laced my hand with Sweet Peaâs as he lead the way.
âWeâre going to Pops. Iâll see you later sis.â My brother said, coming to rip me away. He gave me a tight hug and a large kiss on the forehead.
âJug, cut it out you jealous brat!â I laughed. He wouldnât let go.
âTake care of her or you wonât hear the last of me.â He warned, pulling away to look over at Sweet Pea.
âI always do.â He said back. I couldnât help but giggle at seeing my tiny brother threaten someone three times his height.
âCome on princess.â He took my hand again and walked us away, taking us to our date.
When we reached Sweetwater River lady luck wasnât on our side. Mother nature wasnât on our side.
We had to hike through mountains of snow in the small forest area to go down where the river was. Everyone rushed head-on and at full speed along the thin ice, making our way up where it was much thicker and more durable to walk on.
We called out for Cheryl in hopes that she would shout back at us but we got nothing. It was all just deafening silence. It was agonizing.
âCheryl!â Veronica called.
âCheryl!â Archie called afterward.
I was in the back with Sweet Pea while everyone else was in the front. I was struggling to walk with the large platforms I had on and he was guiding me.
The cold and frisky air rushed through my body. The breeze nipped through my shirt and I heard Sweet Pea laugh beside me.
âWhatâs so funny?â I huffed out vapor, looking up at him.
âYour nipples look nice.â He smirked, pulling me forward.
âPerv!â I gasped, punching his arm. He smacked my ass.
The brilliant white snow made his colored skin glow and when he smiled the light was brought to his face. My knees almost buckled from how handsome he looked.
âItâs okay I like your hard nipples.â He wrapped his arm around me, kissing my cheek.
âYou only like them because they make you hard.â I playfully rolled my eyes.
âNot true!â He gasped offended.
âThey keep me warm and theyâre excellent pillows because of how big they are.â His hand gripped one of my breasts, making me giggle.
âIâm trying to prevent my friend from killing herself, not get fucked in the snow.â I said as he brought his lips to my ear.
âWeâll do that later donât worry.â He whispered. I playfully hit him as he pulled away.
âCheryl!â Archie called out to her again as we continued up the harsh snowy hill before hitting the clearing. We stopped to look beyond the trees and over the view. Nothing.
âSheâs not here.â He panted heavily. It was getting hard to breathe due to the cold filling our lungs.
The frozen river ran before us for miles and it was covered in a smooth thick layer of snow. For something that looked so beautiful could also look so haunting.
âDid we find her yet?â Sweet Pea asked with a huff as we stood near Betty.
âNo, not yet.â She panted back.
I began to catch my breath. Jesus, climbing up that hill was harder than it looked. I need to lay off the smoking.
âOh my god, sheâs over there!â Betty pointed towards the river where we all focused on a moving figure. My breath hitched when I saw flaming red hair moving with the purity of the snow. It was Cheryl.
For a few long seconds, she was violently thrashing around trying to break the ice beneath her. It was taking all of her energy.
âCheryl!â I instantly shot forward after her.
âCheryl!â I shouted.
âCheryl, stop! What are you doing?!â Jughead followed after me, making everyone else do the same.
âRhiannon, wait!â Sweet Pea let out as he took hold of me. I was about to hit the ice when he stopped me, keeping me from making a wrong move.
âWait, wait! Wait, Jug!â Archie took into account what he was trying to do and he held back his best friend, keeping him from going under.
âThe ice, heâs right!â My brother heaved.
âToo much pressure and we all go under!â Sweet Pea and I exchanged worried looks.
âCheryl please!â I shouted this time.
âCheryl!â She stopped, slowly turning around to look at us.
âCheryl, just come to the shore and weâll figure this out together, okay?â Veronica added with a small break in her voice.
Cheryl stood there broken and tear-stained looking at us. It was almost as if she was telling us that it was already too late. It was.
It all happened in slow motion. Within the seconds of silence that we shared Cheryl finally fell through the ice. I was overcome with shock and terror.
âCheryl!â We all shouted in unison, running forward without a second thought. I felt the heels of my boots collide with force on the hard and icy surface. The floor cracked below me and I could care less if it did.
âCheryl!...â I shouted as I ran with all my might.
âCheryl!â I couldnât let her do this. I couldnât let her go out like this.
Archie pulled forward on me and got to her first. The others struggled to run through the ice not wanting to fall through with Cheryl.
He fell to his knees, his jeans getting wet from the water that was seeping out from the small hole that Cheryl created. I nearly slipped due to the water but Sweet Pea caught me.
âThe current has her! Spread out!â He yelled as he dug through the snow.
âHurry!â We all scattered around like wild animals digging through the snow to try and find where she had gone.
âSheâs here! Sheâs here!â Archie found her, making us all look up at him hovering over the ice. Cheryl was floating at the top.
Without warning he quickly drew his fist back, landing a punch to try and break the ice. With just one punch he managed to slightly break the first layer but it wasnât enough.
âArchie, be careful!â Veronica warned as he drew blood.
âHelp!â Jughead shouted now, hoping someone would hear him.
âSomebody help!â Betty cried now.
Archie continued his attempt to break the ice, causing more blood to draw and splatter across the floor. I was growing impatient at his decreasing speed and we were running out of time.
He had abruptly stopped to catch his breath. I cursed as I rushed forward. A girlâs gotta do everything, doesnât she?
âFor fuck sake Andrews!...â I pushed him aside, getting on my knees.
âMove!â I centered myself, balling my fist up.
âRhiannon, no!â Sweet Pea and Jughead let out.
In one swift motion, I threw my first punch against the ice. Everyone stood there in shock as they watched me break it with every blow. I didnât even need to try.
I looked like a beast with my insane ability to do such a thing. Cheryl was my friend, she needed help and she was going to get it. One way or another.
âDonât just stand there!â I yelled, making Archie return to punching the ice.
Sweet Pea came to help as well. Our large and bulky rings were working wonders and somewhat protecting our fingers but the impact was brutal. It crushed against our skin with every hit we made.
âCome on Cheryl!â I cried out as I continued to punch.
âCome!...â Punch.
âFucking!...â Punch.
âOn!â Punch. The ice finally broke through and a small hole collapsed in.
âYes!â I let out a heavy laugh.
âYes!â We were getting close.
Between the three of us, we began to hit the ice with our fists now. Seeing we created a hole gave us a newfound hope, making us hit harder and faster.
âCome on!â Archie cried out as the hole got bigger. The freezing water engulfed our hands, freezing them and tainting the water red.
âFuck!â Sweet Pea cursed as he pulled away from feeling the cold seep into his busted hands.
Archie and I stuck our arms in, pulling out Cheryl. I and sighed in relief at dragging her body and laying her on the snow. She was in one piece but the coast wasnât clear just yet.
Exhausted and in pain, Sweet Pea helped me stand and get away from the broken ice. We supported each other as we watched Archie perform CPR on an unconscious Cheryl.
âRhiannon...â Sweet Pea panted, taking my face in his hands.
âRhiannon, look at me.â He forced my head to turn and look up at him. For some reason, I felt my heart race. He was flustered and full of shock.
âI lo-- Holy fuck, just come here.â He kissed me and then hugged me.
Cheryl coughed up water a few moments later and turned over to breathe on her own. Now I was completely relieved.
Archie had then positioned himself to carry her and walked off. Sweet Pea and I pulled apart and held onto each other with our busted hands linked together.
We all tumbled down the hill until we reached the truck and the bikes. Archie let Cheryl inside his truck and grabbed a blanket from the back to wrap her cold and frail body. Veronica quickly got in to help warm her up.
âWeâre taking Cheryl to Ronnieâs. Iâll see you guys at the Jubilee tonight.â Archie said as he got in the truck to drive off. I looked over to Veronica hugging Cheryl under the blanket.
âSee you then...â Betty said as we all nodded, watching them disappear down the road.
âJesus christ, Rhiannon!â Jughead let out now as he turned to look at me.
âWhat the hell were you thinking?â He grabbed my hands.
âOw! Jughead!â I seethed, pulling away in pain.
âDonât get upset with her Jug!â Betty put some distance between us.
âAt least she managed to get her out!â He stared back at Betty with a hard gaze. She sighed, taking his face in her hands to get him to relax.
âWe did nothing.â She gave him a small smile before pulling away.
She then turned to look at us with a squeal. She clasped her hands together with a big smile this time.
âPersonally I think it was cool from the both of you.â She said, making Jughead roll his eyes.
âAre you also coming to the Jubilee?â She asked Sweet Pea. We both looked at each other, chuckling and lacing my hand with the one he wrapped his arm around me with.
âNah, I have to get ready for our date later.â He replied, kissing my cheek.
Jughead furrowed his brows with jealousy. Betty smiled again as she linked her arm with his.
âA date?â He lingered through his teeth. Betty rolled her eyes.
âTell me how it goes!â She started to push him away to get him to walk.
âMake sure you fix up your hands!â Was the last thing she said before they too took off.
I looked over at our raw red hands. They were irritated with blood and turning purple because of the bruising.
âTHE PRETTY FACE WITH AN UGLY SOUL & A DARK PAST.â
»»»»»»
Warnings/Triggers: Mentions of small cursing, digital play (fingering), mentions of sex, mentions of female/ male body fluids.
Word Count: +3.4k
A/N: Inspiration: FOR YOUR LOVE - MĂ„neskin
»»»»»»
đđŒđż đŹđŒđđż đđŒđđČ
Sweet Peaâs arm was covering my face when I opened my eyes. I chuckled, kissing it as I hovered over him. He was still sleeping and he looked peaceful doing it.
I left small kisses on his collarbone and up his neck. I stopped to look at his Serpent tattoo, letting a single finger trace it.
âYou done being a creep?â He was awake now. I giggled as I pecked his neck again, meeting with his lips.
âI like being a creep sometimes.â His hand grabbed my ass, giving it a slight squeeze. He let it roam up and down my back with that same one.
âLast night was pretty amazing.â He said, turning me over to face him.
âIt was better than amazing.â I smiled.
đ„đđŹđ đ§đąđ đĄđ...
We didnât get back to Sunnyside until very late at night. It was around one-thirty in the morning when Sweet Pea took us to his place.
âWho knew Jade was so good at pinball?â He chuckled, letting me go in first.
âHave you seen her on the Iron Man one?â I slipped off my jacket and threw it on the couch. He tossed his on top.
âThe girl is a champ.â I added, going to walk forward but he took my hand and pulled me into him. A small gasp left me from the sudden urgency.
He smirked, tilting my chin with his finger to make me look at him. He leaned forward, making our noses touch. I felt warm.
âIâve been waiting all night for us to finally be alone...â He lingered. I smiled, bringing my lips to his ear.
âMy pussy has been aching for you all night...â I licked his earlobe, gently biting it.
âWhat are you gonna do about it?â He threw me over his shoulder, making me giggle.
âIâm gonna put you in a wheelchair thatâs what.â He growled, biting my ass. I laughed as he took us to his room.
He let me stand on my own again and this time I pushed him up against the wall, making our lips connect with passion. I couldnât control myself.
Our hands pulled off each otherâs clothes. I tugged and ripped away at his flannel and shirt before undoing his belt. He lifted my shirt over my shoulders and pulled down on my skirt.
We stumbled onto the bed where he fell on top of me. I wrapped my legs around his waist tightly, feeling his hardness between my legs. I grew more excited.
He kissed down my neck to my large breasts, pulling down on my bra to take one in his mouth. He was rough, making my nipples swell and become erect. My hands tangled in his dark hair as he moved his attention to my other breast.
As he did this, he let his hand rub against my center. I sighed, pressing him closer. I moved my hips at his touch, wanting more.
Sweet Pea moved aside my panties, finally touching my wet skin. I moaned at feeling the callouses on his fingers. Hearing me made him bite my nipple and it cause a tingling sensation to build up. I let out another moan.
He then pulled away to adjust himself, tossing one of my legs over his shoulder and letting his rock-hard member rub against my throbbing wet core. My breath hitched when I felt him rub my clit.
âSweet Pea...â I bit my lip.
âYes, Rhiannon?â He hummed, leaning in to kiss me.
âPut it-- Ahhh!!â I moaned as he cut me off by inserting himself inside me.
âWhat was that?â He teased, grinning evilly.
âShut up.â I cursed as we kissed again.
He began to thrust in and out, my hips moving on their own with him. He punished me by holding me in place, making sure I couldnât thrust back or make any kind of movement. This was agonizing because I wanted to thrust back.
He pushed in and out slowly until he started to pick up his pace, making it harder. I gripped onto the bedsheets as he continued.
âS-Sweet Pea, please...â I whined into the sheets as he continued to go rough.
âFuck...â I bit my thumb, feeling his large member hit every angle that needed pleasure. My body was on fire and I was losing my train of thought.
Sweet Pea cupped my chin, making me look up at him. I watched as he moaned and grunted from fucking me. His moans were so deep and full of pleasure it made my insides drench in desire, becoming in dire need of him to fill me.
âPlease what?â He lingered, making one hard and last thrust. I cried as my hands grabbed onto his shoulders.
âWhat do you want?â He trapped me with his arms and buried his face in the crook of my neck.
âPlease let me fuck you!â I begged. He laughed, turning us over so he could wrap his arms around me and drill into me.
âNo.â He grunted.
âIâm fucking you tonight.â He continued rapidly underneath me.
I let out several more sets of moans, burying my face in the sheets. I couldnât take it anymore I needed a release.
âS-Sweet Pea...â I felt my stomach turn to knots. I was getting close very fast.
âMe too princess, me too.â He went faster and soon enough we both came undone. I felt his juices fill me to the brim and pour onto my thigh.
I lazily connected our lips, kissing him slowly and gently. He tucked away my hair, pulling away to look at me with a smile.
It was quiet for a moment and we just stared into each otherâs eyes. I felt warm and happy.
He looked like he was going to say something be he kissed me instead.
đ§đšđ°...
âCanât we stay in? Go to school tomorrow?â Sweet Pea lingered, touching me and peppering kisses on my skin.
âNo, big dick we have things to do.â I giggled, stopping him and pecking his lips before getting up.
âYou think I have a big dick?â He grinned.
âDid I say that?â I teased as I pulled on my panties and clasped my bra, working on my clothes.
He then stood up, towering over me with his naked olive body. He took my hand and wrapped it around his member, making me squeeze it.
âI donât know, you tell me cock slut.â My cheeks heated up at hearing him. I pulled away to put on my shoes.
âShut up.â I mumbled in embarrassment. I could sense his shit-eating grin from where I was standing.
He went to pull on a pair of sweats before escorting me to the door. I clung to him, not wanting to leave.
âIâll see you at school, princess.â He said, kissing me sweetly.
âYouâre slowly convincing me that we should just go tomorrow.â I pouted, kissing him again.
âGo before your brother finds you and kills me.â He pinched my nose.
âSee you then.â I giggled, turning to head down the steps and walk back home.
I jogged up and went through the door, finding Jughead eating at the table and writing again. I wonder how far he had gotten?
âMorning Juggie.â I greeted him as I kissed him on the forehead.
âGood morning Rhinnie.â He took a sip of his coffee, looking up at me with a smirk.
He noticed I was in a good mood and I did everything in my power to avoid his eyes. Dear god, if youâre listening... please get me out of this one and Iâll be good I swear!
âDonât say it.â I warned as I went into the room to grab a fresh pair of clothes.
âI donât know anything.â He lingered, shaking his head.
I stepped into the shower, washing away all the sweat and filth from last night. Sweet Peaâs touch still lingered on me and I became flustered.
When I was finished I quickly changed into newer and fresher clothes.
I rushed into a pair of skinny jeans with the knees ripped, pulling over a cropped fishnet shirt and tucking it with an undershirt. I slipped in my belt and stepped into my ankle boots.
I let my hair fall in its usual wavy mess and I did normal makeup with the exception of a dark lip this time.
Once I was ready I went back into the kitchen where I joined my brother for a small breakfast.
âSo Iâm guessing he asked you how you liked your eggs?â I coughed, choking on my orange juice.
âShut up Jughead!â I hit his arm as he laughed, taking another sip of his coffee.
âAt least Iâm not making any virgin jokes.â Now I was the one laughing.
âIâve never been a virgin. Sweet Pea wasnât my first.â His eyes went wide at hearing me.
âY-You lost your virginity before me?â
âYouâre still a virgin?â I furrowed my brows. His face went red.
âWe donât speak of this ever again!â He closed his laptop and stood up, grabbing his sherpa to pull it over his shoulders.
âDeal.â I giggled, doing the same but with my Serpent jacket.
âJug...â He went to open the door but I stopped him halfway. He looked down at me with concern.
âYou sure you wanna do this?â I asked. He sighed, shrugging his shoulders.
âI have no clue.â He replied, handing me my bookbag as I gave him his bike helmet.
âI mean, think about Betty and your friends...â We both descended the steps.
âArenât you scared?â I added.
âThe Serpents-- itâs become inevitable at this point.â He gave up.
âCome on, weâll be late.â He went for my bike and clasped his helmet. I gave up also as I put on my own helmet.
I swung my leg over and turned on the engine, revving it a bit before taking off and heading towards our new school.
I parked my bike at the back gate on the side. We then walked towards the front where students lined up the white marbled stairs one by one to get checked in by security.
âOh gee, what a warm welcome.â Jughead mumbled as we slowly made our way in.
âSweet Pea wasnât kidding when he said Southside High lives up to its name.â We walked down the line now. We were so close but still so far.
The student population here ranged from Ghoulie or Serpent. There were only twenty-five percent of students who werenât in a gang or associated with a gang. They just happened to live on the Southside. All in all, the tension and the atmosphere was impeccable.
I pulled out my belt in one swift motion and tossed my rings inside a basket before walking through the metal detector with my hands up. The security guards pat me down and I was a free woman.
I quickly grabbed my stuff and put them back on, waiting for Jughead to walk through and come out fine.
We headed off together but he seemed a little off. He wore this heavy expression on his face as I watched him reach for his phone.
âYou okay?â I asked him but he ignored me and went off to the side. I sighed as I let him talk on the phone privately. He was being a lot more dramatic about this than I thought.
I felt a pair of eyes on me and I looked up to see a couple of girls walking toward me. One of them had dark skin with piercing green eyes and the other was lighter-skinned with brown eyes that were full of malicious intent.
I traced their figures, seeing they both wore matching jackets with spikes and studs sticking out on their shoulders and all over. They seemed like punk heads who DIYâed their way into a denim cut but they were actually Ghoulie jackets. They were just the smaller part of a much larger gang that Sweet Pea told me about.
They exchanged looks and smirked as they walked past me. I turned my head halfway to keep my eyes on them. Well, I guess Iâm already making friends.
âLetâs go.â Jughead got my attention again. I looked up at him with a raised brow as he continued to ignore my concern.
âYeah.â I motioned for him to lead the way.
We went to check in at the office and we were given assigned lockers and schedules. Surprisingly our lockers were practically next to each other and we even shared a few classes.
Back at Riverdale High, we didnât share anything. The only time we ever saw each other was during lunch. Instead of taking normal classes, I was put in the advanced ones because of the academy I went to back in Toledo. All of that quickly changed once I transferred to the other side of the tracks.
We managed to make our way around the halls, ignoring the fact people eyed us-- seriously, have they never seen a pair of twins before?-- weirdly until we found the cafeteria. I searched the room and in the far back passing a gate, Serpent jackets crowded around on one side. I continued to look until I found pink hair, a familiar quaff, and the only tall guy in the room.
âYou can go and hang with your gang, Iâm gonna go sit by myself.â Jughead said, making the attempt to separate himself from me.
âYouâre coming with me.â I stopped him.
âI told you I donât want in.â He shook his head in protest.
âYou have fun.â I rolled my eyes and then made my way over to the group of leather jackets.
Sweet Pea glanced up for a few seconds, taking notice of my arrival and smiling. My heart skipped a few beats. He nudged Toni who looked up at him annoyed before doing a double-take on me and smiling also.
I was only a few feet away from the table when I was suddenly pulled to the side and shoved up against the gate. My eyes met an eerily familiar face.
âSo you really are back, huh Serpent Princess?â I furrowed my brows at their voice. I took a good look at them, being taken aback by their striking brown eyes and dark curly locks with the side shaved off.
âWell, shit... Malachai Destarros.â I scoffed, pushing him off me. I completely forgot he existed.
Malachai used to pick on Fangs a lot when we were little. He and I would always end up getting into fights and you can guess who always had the last laugh. Thatâs right, me.
âHeard through the Ghoul vine you took over the Serpents for daddy dearest.â He smirked, eyeing me.
âMaybe I did.â I crossed my arms as our eyes met again.
I couldnât help but notice him wearing a leather cut with studs all over. Was he a Ghoulie too?
âWell, youâre looking at the King of Menace and Mayhem. I run The Ghoulies now.â He smiled, answering my thoughts.
âWe should talking business... or do business if you know what I mean.â
âHard pass.â He got close to me again but I moved out of the way.
âI have a preference when it comes to hookups.â I rejected.
âDo you now?â He chuckled, trapping me with his arm.
I looked over to Sweet Pea and a few other Serpents coming towards us. Sweet Pea had a cold glimmer in his eyes and he looked scary.
He was the first to rush forward, ready to pound on anyone that stood in his way. I couldnât help but become excited at his impulse.
âCome on, we can form an Alliance and then youâll change your mind about that preference.â He lingered, tucking away a strand of my hair with his single finger.
âGet off me.â I warned, knowing where this was going.
He chuckled again, leaning in to whisper in my ear. That was all I needed for a painful memory to resurface in my mind. My hands balled up white.
âWhat are you gonna do with these soft hands of yours?...â He continued.
âIâm sure they would feel so good wrapped around my di--.â
âDonât fucking touch her!â Malachai wasnât able to finish his sentence due to Sweet Pea pulling him off.
The tall Serpent filled the air with his deep and harsh voice. He was territorial and hid me away from any more onlookers.
âWatch who youâre manhandling!â Malachai shoved him back.
âI donât give a fuck who you are!â Sweet Pea barked back, getting ready to fight.
Fangs and two other Serpents got in the way and pushed Malachai up against the gate. It was quickly going South very fast.
âShow some respect Jingle-Jangle scum!â Fangs spat.
âNo, you show it!â Another Ghoulie spat back at him.
I looked over to Jughead looking up at us in fear and in horror. The whole room was watching the scene unravel before them and they were holding their breaths.
More Ghoulies stood up to defend. One of them went for their back pocket and I quickly took hold of their hand, pressing it up against their back.
âDonât be stupid.â I noticed some security guards were coming our way.
âWeâll square it out another time.â
âAlright!â Malachai let out as he pushed away. I released the Ghoulie and we all backed off before anything serious happened.
âLetâs go.â I motioned for the Serpents to turn.
Sweet Pea took hold of my hand and walked us over to our side. He had me sit by him and he wouldnât leave me. His jaw was set and his face was serious. I couldnât help but chuckle.
âDamn Ghoulies, always thinking they can get what they want.â Fangs cursed as he sat on top of the table. Toni rolled her eyes as she placed a hand on my shoulder.
âYou okay?â She asked me.
âPunk rock, babe.â I nodded, winking.
âNot exactly the warm welcome I was hoping for but Iâll take what I can get.â I chuckled.
I tilted my head at the group of Serpents I recognized from last night. The group consisted of Marcus, Blade, Jade, Quinn, and two others. We exchanged a few words before they all went off to head towards Jughead.
They went across the room and crowded around my brother. He didnât want the company at first but then Marcus and Jade managed to get him to loosen up and he welcomed them with open arms. I lightly smiled at them all getting along.
âYou think your brother will get in with the gang?â Toni lingered as we all watched them have a good laugh.
âI have zero clue.â I replied, shrugging my shoulders.
My attention then went to more familiar figures. Three of them, and they were all standing before the group in utter horror.
âIsnât that your friend Tracey True?â Sweet Pea whispered, nudging one of them to me.
âFor fuck sake.â I cursed, burying my face in my hands at realizing the three figures were Betty, Veronica, and Archie.
âI can kick them out if you want.â He suggested with anticipation, cracking his knuckles.
âWe still have our square out with The Ghoulies. Another time.â I shook my head.
I looked up to Jughead white in the face. He then turned to look at me and I motioned for him to head outside where the quad was.
âI didnât know they let Northsiders in here.â Toni furrowed her brows.
âThey got some nerve coming here.â Sweet Pea added.
âSo much for getting your brother interested.â Fangs snickered. I rolled my eyes thinking the same thing. Itâs always something messing up the plan.
âAnyways, you ready for our date later?â Sweet Pea changed the subject now, kissing my temple.
âYeah, where are we going?â I asked. At this, Fangs and Toni giggled.
âWhatâs so funny?â I furrowed my brows.
âNothing, theyâre just dumb.â Sweet Pea gave them a death glare.
âOh, whatever do you mean lover boy?â Fangs gasped offended, putting a hand over his heart. Toni broke out in laughter, swinging her arm over him.
âCut him some slack Fangs, canât you see heâs sprung?â She joined in on the tease, making Sweet Pea embarrassed.
I then wrapped my arms around him, bringing him close. He buried his face in between my breasts.
âLeave him alone, he canât help it!â I let out playfully. They laughed.
âYeah! What she said!â Sweet Pea mumbled.
Toni and Fangs continued to bully and tease him. The whole time I was in fits of laughter.
My phone vibrated and I pulled it out of my jacket pocket, seeing I had a message from Cheryl. I was a little surprised.
Cheryl đ
đČ Cheryl: Thanks for trying. I'm going to be with Jason now...
I furrowed my brows at reading the message. I couldnât help but feel slightly confused.
I had to reread it a few times before it finally clicked in my head. I felt my heart drop to my ass.
âS-Sweet Pea...â I pat his arm to make him look down at the message.
âIs she...?â He shared the same feelings.
âRhiannon!â Jughead suddenly burst through the doors, rushing towards me.
âRhiannon, we have to go! Itâs Cheryl!â He motioned for me to hurry. No, it canât be... she canât be.
âDid you get the same message I did?â I asked, standing up.
âRonnie did. We have to go to Sweetwater.â He replied.
âWeâre right behind you.â I pat Sweet Peaâs shoulder and he stood up.
The three of us rushed out into the lot where we made our way for the bikes. I let Jughead take my bike to let him ride with Betty. I got on with Sweet Pea and we all sped out, racing against time.
âTHE PRETTY FACE WITH AN UGLY SOUL & A DARK PAST.â
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Warnings/Triggers: Small amounts of cursing, insinuating of sex, digital play (fingering).
Word Count: +4.7k
A/N: Inspiration: Hayloft - Mother Mother
»»»»»»
đđźđđčđŒđłđ
âSo no to the Jubilee?â I lingered, leaning over my bike to wrap my arms around Sweet Peaâs neck.
We were in front of my trailer. We never managed to cross the river but he treated me to Pops, letting us spend the rest of the day at his place until we found ourselves at a very interesting kickback down at the quarry.
I mentioned to him about the Jubilee-- like my brother-- he didnât like the idea of being in public places. Especially if it was over something that our kind wasnât welcomed to.
âNo, but I was thinking that we can go to dinner afterwards?â He suggested.
âA fancy but casual type of thing?â He was a little shy at asking me. I donât think heâs ever asked something like this.
âLike a date?â I raised a brow.
âYeah.â He nodded dorkishly. There was a shade of pink that tinted his cheeks. It made my heart melt and light up at his request.
âYes! Yes, Sweet Pea!-- Yeah, Iâll go to dinner with you.â I accepted with excitement.
He relaxed at me kissing him. He let out a nervous laugh, relieved at my response. Asking me made him severely nervous.
âSee you Jubilee night then.â He smiled, kissing me again.
âSee you then.â I whispered as he pulled away to readjust himself on his bike, taking off and disappearing.
I squealed, hitting my hand on the handlebar of the bike from not being able to contain myself. I already wanted Jubilee night to come! I canât believe I was losing my cool girl act over something so simple.
I sighed at the warm bubbly feeling, swinging my leg over to pull my bike along. I parked it in its place and jogged up the small steps.
I happily pushed open the door, dancing my way in. I spun around with a hum, bumping into my brother sitting at the kitchen table. He looked up from his laptop, giving me a weird look.
âYou disappeared after that smoke.â He said. I went to wrap my arms around him, kissing his temple. He put a hand on top of mine, chuckling.
âI was with Sweet Pea.â I admitted.
âOh, so weâre ditching school for hookups now?â He teased.
âWe didnât hook up!â I laughed, pulling away to head for the room to change into my sleepwear.
âWe just hung out.â I semi-lied. I pulled off my jacket and unlaced my boots, slipping out of my tight clothes.
âYou really like him, huh?â Jughead followed me with his laptop, sitting on the bed to type again.
âMaybe.â I lingered, pulling out one of his shirts I stole. I went across to the bathroom to change and then return to the room.
I threw myself on the bed to lay beside him. I took out a cigarette and lit it up. I puffed a few clouds of smoke through my nose before Jughead took it from me to have some for himself.
âWhen did you start smoking?â He asked, giving the cigarette another small puff and finally giving it back to me.
âJust last year, which by the way...â I tackled him with a bear hug and several kisses around his face.
âDammit, Rhinnie!â He laughed, secretly enjoying my showering of affection towards him.
âHappy late birthday!â I let out.
âHappy late birthday to you too.â He chuckled, pinching my nose.
âI heard you had a sweet sixteen and I didnât get an invitation.â I wiggled my brows.
âShut up!â He hit me with his pillow. I giggled.
âDad was there watching over us and everything...â He began to reminisce.
âIt ended with me getting punched out by Chuck Clayton.â My eyes went wide, letting out a laugh from picturing the scene.
âNo way?â I covered my mouth.
âChuck Clayton? What the hell did you do?â He rolled his eyes.
âHe was disrespecting Betty so I had to show him who was boss.â Nothing screamed cuteness than Jughead defending someone he cared about.
âI can get rid of him if you want.â I suggested, smiling wickedly.
âRhinnieee.â He shook his head.
âIâll make it quick and easy! No messes!â I added.
âIâve had enough of messes for the year. Besides, I still have to figure out where this Sweet Pea guy lives so I can go make my own mess.â He said, making me roll my eyes.
I continued with my cigarette, turning on the radio to play some music.
Sweet Pea filled my mind once more. It still stunned me that someone like him would be interested in me. He seemed like he was into the quiet ones but I guess he had his vices.
Paul Anka came on and I rid myself of my tobacco addiction, getting up from the bed.
âDance with me.â I beckoned for my brother to join me. He smirked, setting his laptop aside to get up and take my hand. He spun me around and then held my right hand in his left one, the both of us placing our free hands on each other.
âYou know, before you came back I used to be homeless...â He made me look up at him when he said this. We were swaying back and forth slowly.
âI didnât know that.â I spoke softly. He lightly smiled.
âI didnât want you to know because I was ashamed. I didnât want my little sister to worry about her big brother suffering.â A certain pain surfaced in his eyes. My heart ached.
âThings were so bad between me and dad... he kept letting me down and it took me to a really dark place. I had to get away.â I watched as he let himself sort through his mind.
âI would sleep under bridges with other homeless people for days, sometimes weeks...â He was reliving those times through memories.
âThen I landed a job at the Drive-In and turned it into my own place before it closed down. I found another place in the janitorâs closet at school and finished strong at Mr. Andrewsâ place.â Jughead had gone through his personal hell on his own. Just like me.
My heart clenched more. I couldnât find the words to form a sentence but my gut told me to just listen to him.
âArchie found out I had turned homeless by my own accord and he talked with his dad about taking me in. It resulted in Mr. Andrews letting me stay for as long as I needed.â I smiled lightly at hearing the great Fred Andrews once again being the man that he was.
Mr. Andrews had such a kind soul and shared ample amounts of empathy. He felt like a father to me and to anyone who heâs crossed paths with.
I remember back then our situation had gotten really bad that we didnât have enough money for personal pleasures.
Jughead and I had taken Jellybean to a nice playground on the Northside. She happened to be in the mood for something refreshing and us being the bigger siblings we felt bad. So as any stupid kid, we went to a liquor store to steal some candy for our little sister.
Of course, we both ended up getting caught and we were in deep shit. I had played out so many scenarios in my head about mom or even dad kicking our asses when they found out.
Right when I thought things were taking a turn for the worse, I was proved wrong by Mr. Andrews. He happened to be in that same liquor store and saw that we were in trouble. He told the owner of the store that he would pay for whatever we stole just as long as he wouldnât bring the authorities or our parents into it. He was a very convincing man.
Jughead and I were so relieved that day. Mr. Andrews didnât scold us for doing something as stupid as that because he understood why we were doing it. He was even nice enough to share a hot dog from Pops with us.
âYou have great friends Jughead, you know that?â I said.
âEspecially Archie.â He lightly smiled. He knew it was true.
âI was suffering too.â I admitted, finding a way to make him feel better.
âLike you and dad, mom and I didnât have a good relationship. To this day we still donât.â It made me angry thinking about mom.
âI will admit that she did a good job at raising us on her own and keeping us in line.â He shook his head.
âWe seriously gotta stop living the same lives.â He let out. I laughed as we swayed more.
âI went to Archieâs house after school today. Our social worker was there and she said our paperwork was processed and we transfer to Southside High by the end of the week.â He said. I sighed.
Donât get me wrong, I was happy to be going to school with my real friends and Sweet Pea but I didnât like the idea of my brother being away from his own friends. He had a great system on the Northside.
âYou know what this means right?â I lingered.
âSerpents are gonna come and pay tribute and youâre gonna end up turning Serpent.â
âSays who?â He scoffed. I stayed silent. Me.
He spun me around again, bringing me close. We were still dancing.
âIâm controlling the Serpents while dad is in.â I blurted out.
âThe bandages I had a few days ago-- I earned back my place and stepped up as leader-- I got into a fight.â He furrowed his brows in confusion.
âWait, what? How? I thought you had to go through a special process to get that high?â He asked. I made a half-face, shrugging my shoulders.
âWeâre FPâs kids, we have rights. Weâre Serpent royalty. Iâm Serpent Princess and that makes you the Prince.â I replied.
âThey have hierarchies in gangs?â He raised his brows in surprise.
âOh, youâd be surprised what gangs have and donât have.â I chuckled.
âDad thought the Serpents would end up in the wrong hands, thatâs why he called me up. He wanted to make sure they were in the ones he trusted for the meantime.â I continued.
âItâs okay Rhinnie.â He sighed.
âI get it. I understand.â He already expected this from me.
He hugged me now. The music had stopped. He held me tightly, kissing my hair.
âJust promise me you wonât get hurt, killed, or end up in jail like dad.â He whispered this time. I chuckled, pulling away to hold my pinkie out.
âI pinkie promise.â I smiled.
âPinkie promise.â He mimicked me, linking our fingers together.
A few weeks passed and I was sitting in the cafeteria with my brother at school. We were chatting and eating away. Well, he was because there was no way in hell I was going to put a shitty burger in my stomach.
âHow can you put that thing in you?â I said, feeling a lump form in my throat.
âI canât.â He devoured his burger.
âI just pretend I canât taste it.â I shook my head in disgust, drinking water.
Our sibling time was interrupted by a certain rich girl approaching us with her tray of food.
âBettyâs babysitting Polly, mind if I join?â She asked, exchanging looks with us.
âAre you sure you want to sit at the social Pariah table?â Jughead swallowed. She laughed before sitting down with a sigh.
âIâve been sitting on it for months, why should today be any different?â She replied as I drank the rest of my water.
âBy the way, Iâve been thinking... you and I have a lot in common.â She turned to look at him. I choked at hearing her, coughing violently. Is she serious?
What could she have in common with Jughead besides her dad also being in jail?
âThatâs funny!â I coughed.
âJesus Rhinnie.â Jughead pat my back to help clear up my throat.
âWhy because my dadâs going to prison and yours is getting out?â He remarked, continuing with his patting.
âI was going to say weâre dating each otherâs best friends but yes, the prison thing too.â She said, looking at me now.
âAnd Rhinnie, why is it that we barely find out youâre a Serpent?â She asked.
âBarely?â I rolled my eyes at her stupid question.
âBut sure let me give you three simple reasons...â I was enjoying my tiny quarrel with her. It filled me with a purpose.
âOne, youâre new here. Two, itâs up to Jughead to open up about his family, Three, my business is not your business.â She frowned at my response.
She was going to pick at me some more but a familiar redhead had made her appearance before us. It was Cheryl.
âJughead...â She began, looking down at her hands. She was fiddling with something in between her perfect red nails.
âIâm sorry.â We all furrowed our brows in confusion.
I looked into Cherylâs brown eyes. They were vacant and dull. There was no emotion whatsoever in them and it made me worry.
âI had no right to pummel you the way I did that day...â There was regret in her tone. It was genuine.
âAs recompense, Iâd like to give you this...â She threw a golden spider with a red back to my brother.
âMy iconic spider brooch.â He caught it, taken aback at the gesture.
âItâll catch a pretty penny at the local pawn shop. Enough to keep you in burgers and âSâ t-shirts for years if not decades.â She smiled lightly. Alright, something is wrong with her.
âCheryl, what is going on?â Veronica asked her now.
âEverything okay?â I couldnât help but ask. I took an interest in the red beauty.
The slender girl was hesitant to reply. She wasnât sure if she should tell us what was really going on or make up a story. She couldnât trust us.
Right when she was about to start talking and open up to us, Kevin rushed towards us with a haunted look on his face. We all looked up at him.
âGuys, hurry! Itâs Bettyâs locker!â He was full of panic.
âWhatâs wrong with Betts?â I asked as he panted heavily.
âCome on, itâs bad! Come on! Come on!â He took hold of my hand, leading me out. Jughead, Veronica, and now Archie followed behind us.
We went into the hallway where we found a crowd of students bunched up together. There were flashes of photos and gossip everywhere.
I pushed through the crowd, finding Betty and Polly standing beside each other full of shock. They were in front of Bettyâs locker with articles from the school newspaper that she had written scattered all over with thick maroon writing that spelled out the words âGo to Hell Serpent slut!â. Hovering over those words was a ragdoll of Betty hanging by a noose.
My eyes went wide at reading the vulgarity. I was more shaken when I realized it was blood. I covered my mouth, holding back a gasp.
I stood next to her not being able to comprehend how she of all people was receiving something as vile and vulgar as this.
âBetty!â Jugheadâs voice emerged from behind us as he too approached the scene stunned.
He quickly but slowly took hold of Betty but she had abruptly shot forward, making the attempt to brush the scene off and take everything down.
âItâs nothing Jug. Itâs just a jerk with a can of spray paint.â She nearly cried. She was hurt.
âI donât think thatâs spray paint...â He said, glancing at me before pulling her away.
Bettyâs eyes became glossy and she let a few tears slip. It hurt me to see her like that. She didnât deserve this.
Polly exchanged looks with me and lightly smiled, turning to join her sister.
Everyone was still standing around taking photos and recording videos of the whole scene. I became annoyed and went to rip everything down.
âFuck off!â I barked.
âParty is over!â I pushed people away.
âGet out!â I continued to shoo them away. Some tried to fight back but they knew better than to pick a fight with a gangster.
Archie then began to help me pick up the newspapers and throw them in the trash.
âWho would do this to Betty?â He questioned, furrowing his brows. He was upset and very protective of Betty. I sighed, asking myself the same question.
âI donât know Arch, but Iâm sure it has something to do with the article that she wrote, thatâs for sure.â I replied.
âI went to talk with FP this morning by the way... Iâm worried about Jughead.â He admitted. I nodded in agreement.
âYeah, me too... heâs closing himself off.â I added.
âI donât want him going to the dark side and by that, I mean the Serpents, no offense.â I raised my brows with a snicker.
âDude, relax this isnât Star Wars.â I said, making him look at me seriously.
âI wonât make him a Serpent.â I sighed.
âHe doesnât want to anyway.â I crossed my arms.
âBut if he changes his mind thatâs by his choice and you should respect it. If you say youâre his best friend youâll never look at him differently.â He loosened up when I said this. He knew I was right.
âYouâve really changed a lot...â He gave me a small smile.
âYouâre a Serpent now and one of the toughest and probably the most scariest girls ever.â
âYou can owe all of that to my mom if you remember her well.â I chuckled.
âYou should wash up too.â I turned to walk away.
âLater, carrot top.â I took off down the hall. I turned a corner to head for the bathroom but I accidentally bumped into someone.
âSorry.â I excused myself, looking up to see Reggie Mantle.
He was a face that looked oddly similar to Sweet Peaâs but the only difference was that he had weirdly shaped lips and was much shorter. They both shared the same luck of being born with good looks because those two together could steam up a room real quick.
Reggie had jet black hair with broad shoulders and a perfect built-- but I mean the meanest built I had ever seen-- there was no doubt in my mind that he had a six-pack underneath. It wouldnât hurt to take a peek, would it?
âOh, hey, Reggie.â He casually placed his arm on a locker to lean against it coolly.
âWatch out Serpent, wouldnât want this Bulldog to bite you.â He taunted, eyeing me from head to toe. I raised a brow, crossing my arms again.
âYou know, for such a very good-looking guy, the whole douchebag act really kills the hype.â He scoffed at hearing me, playfully pouting.
âYouâre lucky I like feisty girls if not I would be treating you like every other Serpent in this town.â He continued.
âHow convenient.â I rolled my eyes.
âNow wait a minute...â I went to walk around him but he stopped me.
âYou didnât even let me get to ask you out.â I raised my brows in surprise. Was he serious?
âAlright, you can ask me.â I motioned for him.
âWanna go out? Get high and maybe I donât know, hook up?â He asked. I scoffed, shaking my head.
âYouâre a little late to the party Iâm afraid.â My hands were at my hips now.
âIâm already taken.â I knew this wasnât true but I really liked Sweet Pea and I wasnât going to ruin it over a one-night stand.
âAnd let me guess...â
âItâs a Serpent.â We both finished in unison. There was a shit-eating grin on his face now.
âSorry, Reg but I donât go for Bulldog dick.â He let me walk away.
âSerpents have bigger ones.â
âAwe, like that?â He groaned. I laughed.
âIâll get you to say yes to me, Jones!â I turned to look at him.
âIâm not worth losing sleep over Mantle!â I smiled, turning on my heel to finally go into the bathroom.
I went over to the sink to clean up. I ran my hands under the cool water and checked myself out in the mirror.
There was a small whimper followed by a sniffle. Someone was crying. I furrowed my brows at the sound. I searched behind me through the reflection and I saw a pair of black heels.
âCheryl?â I guessed who it could be, considering that she was one of the few who actually wore heels to school.
The crying stopped and the stall door opened, revealing a redheaded mess in front of me. Her thick red lips were smeared at the ends and her hair was in knots from holding it in her hands. My shoulders fell.
âCher--.â Before I could say anything, she shot forward and rushed into my arms. I lost balance and we both collapsed to the floor. My bare legs hit the checkered linoleum as I supported her.
âI canât do this anymore.â She sobbed. I held her in my arms, petting her hair.
âItâs okay... cry it all out.â I hushed, comforting her.
For a moment, I saw the real Cheryl Blossom. The sad, broken, and helpless Cheryl that she hid so well from everyone. This was what her insides looked like underneath her cutthroat persona.
She pulled away to look at me and I held her face in my hands, wiping her tears away. Her deep brown eyes were soft as I tucked away a strand of her hair.
âItâs so hard trying to pretend that everything is okay...â She inhaled sharply.
âThe stares... the rumors... my own home... itâs all becoming a living hell.â She shook her head, causing more tears to fall.
âI know the feeling.â I sympathized.
âEveryone thinks you float above it all--.â
âAnd that youâre some mythic bitch.â She finished for me, laughing at my reference.
âExactly.â I smiled.
âBut it takes one day... just one bad day and then everything comes crashing down.â My mind couldnât help but flashback to where I was once in her shoes but over a much different situation. I knew how she was feeling better than anyone.
âItâs unbearable.â She nodded.
âIâm sorry.â She said.
âDonât worry about it you silly doll.â I shook my head with a small laugh.
âI donât blame you.â I winked, making her smile.
The light returned to her and she leaned in to hug me. I gladly hugged her back tightly. Cheryl and I were going to get along just fine.
When after school came around, she invited me over to her house so she wouldnât feel so lonely. She also seemed to trust me well enough to help her comfort some more.
Thornhill was insanely red. I never knew so much red could exist in one place. It was almost scary. Obsessive.
The mansion was big on the inside as much as the outside, maybe even bigger. It was also very creepy, empty, and severely lonely. I can see why Cheryl feels the way she does and it doesnât help when her own mom treats her like a waste of space.
I ended up at the Whyte Wyrm where I was up in the office with a group of Serpents that attended school on the Southside.
âJughead and I are transferring to Southside High tomorrow.â I began as I looked up at them individually. I caught glimpse of the Serpent trio in the background and I lightly smiled. Toni was so small next to Sweet Pea and Fangs, it was adorable.
âNow, Iâve been told that we share the Southside with The Ghoulies and Iâve also been told of the type of gang they are...â Sweet Pea realized I was talking about him and he couldnât help but grin.
âTomorrow when we get settled in I need you all to watch over him. Show The Ghoulies that heâs not weak and he has a family who protects him... is that clear?â I raised a brow. The group nodded in unison.
âI know my brother doesnât want anything with the club but we are still obligated to protect him for your Kingâs sake.â Some exchanged looks at hearing me.
âEven though Iâm currently subbing as your leader, weâre not doing this for me, weâre doing this for FP.â I looked around again.
âAnd if Jughead manages to want in with us we will allow it. Our unity will just give him a small push...â I tried to find the right words for the situation at hand.
When I was done, I dismissed them all. It was now just me, my friends, and my date. I smiled.
âFinally! I was beginning to think youâll never come!â Toni broke first as she came to hug me with excitement.
âNow youâll really hang with the Serpents.â Fangs added.
âYo Topaz! Hog Eye wants you back at the bar!â One of the girls popped her head back into the office.
âComing!â Toni sang as she kissed my cheek in a rush.
âSee you tomorrow, Lady!â She pulled away to head out quickly. I chuckled.
âSee you tomorrow Rhinnie, I gotta go back to work too.â Fangs said as he pat Sweet Pea on the shoulder, signaling him that he doesnât have much time either.
Sweet Pea and I were the last ones left. He closed the door and walked toward me with a predatory gaze. I bit my lip as his hand touched the side of my face. I missed his touch.
âI know I said until the Jubilee but fate has a way of bringing us together.â He whispered, grazing his lips against mine.
âWell, starting tomorrow we get to see each other every day.â I smiled, our noses rubbing.
âI canât wait to see your pretty ass every day.â He picked me up, wrapping my legs around his waist. I giggled as our lips connected with need.
He walked us to the desk where he set me down. His large hands went up my thighs, making me inhale sharply and grip his hair tighter.
His lips were at my neck teasing me. I smiled when he hit my sweet spots, letting out a small laugh to shake off the rush.
âWanna sleep over when I finish my shift?â He asked, looking at me again.
âIs that even a question?â I replied.
âGood answer.â He chuckled, kissing me again.
He pushed me on my back, letting my skirt hike on its own and revealing my panties. His hands gripped my thighs as he rubbed himself against me. I became excited at feeling his jeans rubbing my clit.
I stood up with our lips never breaking apart. One of his hands went for my throat and the other went for my ass, squeezing them together.
âYou wanna do it right here?â I pulled away with a pant. He grinned evilly.
âIâll take you whenever I want, wherever I want, is that a problem?â He growled with a deep huskiness. I bit my lip and shook my head.
âNo, because I have the same conditions.â We both smiled and rejoined our swollen lips.
I pulled off his flannel, letting my hands roam his veiny biceps and other places of his body. He felt amazing to the touch.
He took my jacket off, turning me to press my back against him. His lips were at my neck and I let out a soft moan when his fingers reached my center. My own hands tangled in his hair when he touched my flesh.
âFuck, Sweet Pea...â I cursed his name. He slipped two fingers in, making me arch forward at the sensation.
âYouâre so fucking wet.â He taunted in my ear. My pussy wrapped around his fingers as he pumped in and out.
I gripped the desk now, arching more from the pleasure he was giving me. I moaned when he curled his fingers inward.
Sweet Pea forced me to stand upright by grabbing my neck. He put his lips against my ear, continuing to go in and making it impossible for me to think.
âI bet you wish my fingers were actually me inside you.â He teased, prying inside me with my hips moving on their own. It felt so good.
âYes, I do!â I whined, moaning as he hit my sweet spot. He went faster.
I grabbed onto his shoulders, my back arching more than it could. He was making my body react in such a way I wasnât used to. It had to be because I was just horny... right? It had been a few days since I last saw him and since we did anything.
âSweet Pea Iâm getting close.â I whimpered, feeling myself coming around.
When he heard those words, he stopped. His fingers slipped out and he brought them to his lips, sucking on them. I watched him with a flushed face.
âMmm, I canât wait to taste more later.â I pouted. He was evil.
âAwe, donât look at me like that my darlinâ.â He chuckled, trapping me and connecting his lustful eyes with mine.
âYou can wait until we get home, right?â He raised a brow.
âMhm.â I nodded, whimpering.
âBe a good girl and youâll get your reward.â He pecked my lips before going to grab his flannel.
He kissed me one last time until he finally disappeared behind the door. It closed softly behind him and I laid on my back, catching my breath.
âTHE PRETTY FACE WITH AN UGLY SOUL & A DARK PAST.â
»»»»»»
Warnings/Triggers: None.
Word Count: +3.4k
A/N: FYI, I will never take a crack at a ship (Barchie in this case as you read between the lines). I have respect for everyoneâs preference... unless I say so :D (I only say that because Iâll take a crack out of the ships I like and I mean well lol).
Jughead and I stepped out of the sheriffâs station, greeted by the bright white layer of snow covering every inch of our little town called Riverdale.
The cold, rough, and bipolar winters had finally settled in and I was not anticipating getting sick or having to cover up twice as much. I was not too fond of the cold.
We had spent an uncomfortable night going back and forth with dad and Sheriff Keller. We didnât leave until after Sheriff Keller interrogated dad again. The difference this time was that there was a negotiation.
I was leaned up against the window with Jughead. I had my arms crossed as he supported himself behind me, hovering over my shoulder.
âSo, Blossom was the kingpin. He funneled drugs through Riverdale and then shipped them out...â Sheriff Keller began, sitting on the edge of a desk.
âWhat the Mayor and I care about is the local component of Blossomâs business. Someone is selling his drugs here in Riverdale, mostly on the Southside.â I grew nervous.
The Serpents strictly transported and distributed weed only, but when things got desperate and the club needed funds we sold the hard stuff. It didnât matter where we got it from we just sold it.
Dad and Sheriff Keller had been at it for hours now. It was tiring.
Dad became impatient and he shook his head with a scoff. He knew what was being implied.
My hand went for my locket, forming a fist. I couldnât smoke to help keep my fingers busy and I couldnât dig my nails into my palms either. I made a promise to work on it.
âBut it started to cross the tracks recently--.â
âAnd you think itâs the Serpents?â Dad cut him off with annoyance in his tone.
âWho else?â Sheriff Keller fired back.
âOf course, the Serpents are the first to be pinned out about everything.â I said under my breath.
âShhh, Rhinnie!â Jughead hushed me, tapping my shoulder. I frowned.
âSo hereâs the deal, you feed us names-- tell me whoâs pushing the dope-- the Mayor and the DA have a chat and maybe heâd be inclined to offer you a lesser sentence.â I exchanged subtle looks with dad. What was he going to do?
âSerpents donât get into the hard stuff. Itâs dime bags of weed...â He replied.
âAnd Iâm no snitch.â I smirked, stifling a laugh.
Sheriff Keller pushed off from his desk impatiently and went to stand in front of him. He wasnât having any of dadâs attitude.
âFP, if you donât help us and your case goes to trial there will be no leniency. Youâll be looking at twenty years in a federal penitentiary for your part in the cover-up of Jason Blossomâs murder.â He laid it out without any sugar, making Jughead death grip my shoulder.
I bit my lip at hearing the rather large number. Twenty years of federal prison? Iâll be in my mid-thirties before I even get a chance to hug dad again.
âTwenty years?â Jughead whispered.
âWeâll find a way Jug.â I whispered back, placing my hand on his and giving it a small squeeze.
I knew Jughead wanted dad to cave in but he understood what it meant to be Serpent King. He knew what it meant to be a part of a gang that relied on family and loyalty.
Dad didnât say anything else after that. He stayed quiet and Sheriff Keller had no choice but to leave with disappointment.
đ§đšđ°...
I rode us back to Sunnyside where we stumbled up the steps. Jughead was the first to shower and I did myself the favor of collapsing onto the bed.
My cheek rested against the soft surface. I managed to smell dad through the sheets and it made my eyes well up. I didnât have to energy to cry but the tears still threatened to pour out.
I laid there in thought, turning around to look up at the ceiling. What if I broke dad out of jail? That was too complicated. Easy but complicated.
There was nowhere to take him since Toledo would be the first place they would look and I didnât want to involve mom or Jellybean. Theyâve been through enough of troubles already.
âYou can go in now.â My brotherâs voice brought me back. I looked at him coming out of the shower.
âThanks.â I sighed, sniffling before getting up.
As I showered, my thoughts continued to cloud my mind but between them, Sweet Pea lingered. I smiled lightly as I ran the loofah over my shoulders.
I wonder how he was doing after seeing the video last night? I feel so bad for letting him tag along but he said he didnât mind. He still shouldnât have.
I stepped out of the shower and changed into fresher undergarments and pulled over one of Jugheadâs shirts. I went back into the room where I found him changing.
âNot even a month living together and youâre already stealing my clothes?â He teased as he pulled on a pair of jeans.
âAdmit it Juggie! I look better in these shirts than you do.â I went over to my drawers. He leaned his head back to laugh.
âKeep dreaming.â I giggled, getting dressed now.
I wore all black, pulling a dark denim skirt over a pair of tights and switching out my brotherâs shirt for one of my own. I tied the front in a small knot to show off my stomach.
My belt chain was buckled in its spot and I laced up my boots, making my way towards the mirror to put on some makeup. I kept it to my natural look, adding a bit of small eyeliner followed by a natural lip color.
âYou know, for a biker chick you sure know how to dress.â Jughead said as he watched me put on my lipstick.
âI have like two closets back home.â I said, running my hands through my hair.
âYouâre joking?â He furrowed his brows.
âI take my fashion very seriously.â I slipped on my Serpent jacket.
âWhy so much?â He raised a brow.
âIf Iâm gonna kick ass and scorch the earth before me, I have to look good while doing it.â I shrugged as we both made our way down the hall.
âIn other words, itâs a girl thing.â He chuckled.
We took hold of our bookbags and began our march to school. We decided on walking today and we cut corners through The Riverdale Family Cemetery.
Our boots kicked through the thick snow and it added extra time to our arrival. The cold breeze nipped at my exposed skin and it made me flashback to when I bumped into Sweet Pea that night. A small smile crept on my lips.
I wasnât paying attention and my brother had the audacity to throw a cold snowball at my back.
âJughead!â I yelped, feeling the snow seep into my patch.
âYou fucker!â I laughed, bending down to make a snowball for myself. I aimed for his neck. This was the beginning of our snow fight.
âHa! Beat that jerk!â I laughed as I ran away with a squeal.
âOh, itâs on bitch!â He laughed as he went to make another snowball.
We were like this the rest of the way, running and throwing piles of snow at each other. It felt like we were little kids again when it was just me and my big brother.
We rushed up the marble steps, pushing through the large double doors in a rush, and entering in a laughing fit. It earned us a few weird looks as we wiped off the snow.
I stood tall, looking around. There was feedback on the intercom by Principal Weatherbee summoning Archie and Betty up to his office.
âSounds like my girlfriend is headed up to the big chair.â I acknowledged, making Jughead scoff.
âVery funny womanizer. See you at lunch.â He bid his goodbye, doing our handshake before parting ways.
A few minutes later I found myself in the bathroom where I was lucky enough to have it to myself.
I sighed as I leaned over the sink. My eyes darted to my knuckles and fingers, seeing there was still some open skin from the fight. I then looked at the medusa head wrapped around my pointer finger, closing my eyes to center myself.
Coming back was a mistake. Mom warned me that I was somehow going to get involved with something much deeper and there I go being a daddyâs girl. Iâm fucked.
The door abruptly swung open behind me, breaking my concentration. I looked up in the mirror to see who had come in. My shoulders fell when I saw it was Riverdaleâs redheaded she-devil, Cheryl Blossom.
âWell, well, well, who do we have here?â She chimed, approaching me.
âGreat.â I cursed under my breath. I pushed up on my sleeves, washing my hands.
I really wasnât in the mood for petty fighting. I was in an even lesser mood to get into trouble. I had enough of that.
âWhatâs up red?â I greeted, turning to face her. She went silent for a few seconds.
Her eyes went to my hands holding onto the sink and she went a little frigid. There was a glimmer of fear in them and I smirked as I ate it. It always excited me to see people in fear. It gave me a power trip.
âYouâre Jugheadâs twin sister, right?â She asked now.
âLook...â I sighed, crossing my arms.
âIâm sorry if my dad confessing to killing your brother caused you pain but donât come looking for fights with me because I guarantee you wonât be looking pretty for a few days.â I warned.
âIâm not looking for a fight.â She shook her head.
âThat day I slapped your brother... and when you instantly went to defend him, it really stood out to me...â She began, inching closer.
âIt reminded me of when Jay-Jay used to always protect me.â She pulled my arms apart and took my hands in hers with a small smile.
âIâm sorry.â I softened, understanding her.
âRhiannon Jones.â I held my hand out for her to take.
âLetâs start over.â She looked at my hand and then at me.
âCheryl Blossom.â She replied, taking it. She saw I had dropped my tough girl act and she accepted me.
I couldnât help but feel for her. There was something about her that made me want to like Cheryl Blossom.
It was lunch now and I was sitting with Jughead and his friends again.
Aside from Betty, Iâve come to grow close with Kevin. I sat between him and my brother while Veronica and Archie sat on the opposite side together.
We were waiting on Betty to join us as she eventually came walking towards us at full speed from the lunch line.
âI told her I wouldnât do it. Not unless you guys are up there with us.â She huffed as she set her tray down and plopped beside Jughead.
âDo what Betts?â I asked, biting into my burrito. We all looked at her confused.
âThe Jubilee.â Archie answered for her. I exchanged looks between Kevin and Jughead, our brows raising simultaneously.
Archie and Betty began to go into detail about their talk with Mayor McCoy and Principal Weatherbee from this morning. They specifically wanted Betty to dismiss the series of unfortunate events that were happening in fair Riverdale.
âI appreciate the righteous indignation Betty, I do, but Jubilees arenât my thing.â Jughead said. I nudged his arm at seeing Betty sadden at his response.
âSo? Rhinnie is going, right?â She looked at me for backup.
âOf course I am.â I nodded with a smile.
âI wouldnât miss it for the world and Jughead will be there also.â I wrapped an arm around his shoulders.
âThere it is. I certainly did not miss you coercing me to embarrass myself.â He chuckled, looking down at me with a small smile.
âOh come on! Itâs just one night!â I lingered. He sighed, caving in.
Betty and Archie giggled as they knew what Jughead was talking about. I smiled widely, patting his back.
âHowâs your dad doing by the way? Did you guys get to see him?â Archie asked now.
âMayor McCoy wants dad to name names in exchange for a lesser sentence.â Jughead replied.
âWhat? Whose names? Betty asked, furrowing her brows.
âSerpent names. Sheriff Keller thinks weâre the ones dealing the drugs that the late Clifford Blossom brought into town.â At hearing me, Veronica and Archie shifted uncomfortably.
âLetâs cut the white elephant in the room bullshit, shall we?â I now gave them my full attention.
âIf it kills you to know that you have a Serpent among you then you shouldnât have gotten involved.â I took a sip of juice before continuing.
âYou should have just sat there and let your parents be villains and town figures, that way you can both continue to be the football jock and the new rich and hot cheerleader with daddy issues.â I finished with a sarcastic smile. The table went silent.
âWow.â Kevin let out. Jughead leaned his head back to laugh.
âJesus, sis.â
âYou werenât gonna say it.â I shrugged my shoulders. He rolled his eyes.
âNo offense but that was hot.â Kevin added.
Veronica and Archie held their tongues. Her jaw had clenched tight, making me smirk.
âBesides Archiekins, youâve known me since the first grade and youâre telling me you didnât expect this as Jugheadâs sister?â She rolled her eyes at hearing me use her pet name for him.
âPoint taken.â He replied, exchanging awkward glances with the raven girl beside him.
âAnyways, back to the matter at hand...â Betty changed the subject now.
âRight, well, my dad says more and more drugs are hitting the streets.â Kevin chimed in.
âRelax Kev, this isnât The Wire.â Jughead remarked with an eye roll.
âI would have heard something if the Serpents were dealing.â I added.
My mind began to wonder at the possibility of the Serpents doing this long before I had returned. They must have done this even long before dad was running the club. I had to protect them, even if it means I have to lie to them.
âAnd meanwhile, Mayor McCoy hasnât said the words, Clifford or Blossom, in public...â Betty went on.
âItâs all about how the Serpents are the problem. The villains. Itâs outrageous! Iâm writing an article about this, and not just for The Blue and Gold but for The Register. This is a town story.â She was angry. I admired her for it.
âOkay but as long as the article doesnât include my dad.â Jughead conditioned, looking at her in panic.
âNo, it is going to be about your dad, Jug.â She shook her head.
âIt doesnât matter how many Jubilees Mayor McCoy throws, this town has changed. That needs to be acknowledged. Why are people so afraid of the truth?â I couldnât have said it any better myself.
âSpeaking of the truth...â Veronica lingered, turning the attention to herself. I raised a brow at Archie looking at her in panic, giving her the âdonât do it!â eyes.
âArchie and I want to tell you...â She looked from Betty to Archie, motioning him to tell her. He sighed in defeat.
âWeâve kissed a couple of times.â He finally said. I tried to stifle a laugh.
âWait, I thought you guys were already together?â I furrowed my brows in confusion as my brother nudged my arm. The air became more uncomfortable.
âTheyâre still endgame for me.â Kevin whispered in my ear, making sure Jughead couldnât hear him. Betty got rejected by Archie? Holy shit, I really missed out on all the drama!
âItâs okay, Vee.â Betty chuckled nervously.
âI appreciate you being honest with me but Iâm with Jughead now.â She looked over to Jughead with the biggest smile and he gave her one in return. I softened.
âScrew Barchie, my Bughead heart.â I whispered back to Kevin. We both giggled.
âIf you guys want to be together Iâm happy for you.â The two sighed in relief.
âThanks, Bee.â Veronica smiled.
âYeah, thanks, Betty.â Archie added, sharing looks with her.
I noticed there was a tiny sense of hurt in Bettyâs eyes but she pushed through it. Did she still have feelings for Archie?
âIâm out.â I said, getting up.
âItâs getting too sweet in here for my taste. Later, losers.â I pat Jughead and Kevin on their shoulders, taking hold of my bookbag.
âWhere are you going?â My brother asked. I spun around, pretending to hold a cigarette.
âIâm gonna wake up the cancer!â I replied as he shook his head disapprovingly.
I spun around on my heels and pushed open the doors that lead outside into the quad. My boots clicked as I made my way through the small alleyway that went down to a gated area.
I pulled out my phone and unlocked it, typing away a message.
Sweet Pea đ
đČ Me: Ditch class for Sweetwater River?
đČ Sweet Pea: Done. Meet you at the Wyrm?
I lightly chuckled, throwing my bag over and climbing over the gate. Once I reached the top I vaulted over. I took hold of my bag again and made a run for it out of the parking lot, going down the street and eventually walking home.
Cutting corners through the cemetery helped me reach Sunnyside in no time. I stumbled into the trailer and ditched my school stuff for my bike helmet. I clasped it on and hopped on my bike, racing to the Wyrm.
I walked into the Wyrm in search of Sweet Pea. I looked over at the arcade machines where I thought he would be playing MK but he wasnât there. I continued deeper into the bar but I was surprised by someone wrapping their arms around me. It was Sweet Pea.
âHello, gorgeous.â His voice filled my ears.
âHey, sexy.â I greeted him, looking up to his face only a few inches away from mine. I smiled.
âHow was school?â He asked. I scrunched my face unsure.
âA little awkward to be honest with you.â I replied.
âOh, I bet it was.â He chuckled.
âWhat about with FP?â He tucked away my hair.
âNo change.â I sighed.
âMy dadâs still locked up for more reasons now.â He furrowed his brows.
âIâm sorry.â He took my chin. I felt my cheeks heat up.
âWhat about you? How was the drop last night?â I asked, taking hold of his hand and leading us out.
âPiece of cake, we got some leftovers for fun.â I heard his smirk.
âThereâs gonna be a kickback later down at the quarry with the Serpents. Theyâre planning on sharing if you wanna go?â He lingered.
âSounds like fun but letâs go see if the ice is good enough to cross.â I conditioned as she tossed me his helmet. He was letting me ride with him.
He revved up the engine and pulled forward, riding us down to Sweetwater River. It wasnât far from the Wyrm so we got there in less than ten minutes. He parked by a few trees within the small dirt trail he rode on.
We walked through the snow-covered ground, our hands touching and lacing each other smoothly. They felt nice together. His hand was much bigger than mine but they felt right.
âYou wear so many rings.â He broke me out of my thoughts.
âIâll add more just to make it harder for you to hold my hand.â I teased.
âI can handle it perfectly fine.â He pinched my nose, making me giggle.
When we reached the frozen river we stood in front of it, taking in the grand view. It was all white with the tall trees surrounding it and a light snowfall coming down on us. The river was still too thin to cross.
Our hands separated and he took a few steps forward to check. While he did this I took a few steps back, leaning down carefully to make a snowball. When I had a good size, I threw it. The snow smacked against his leather jacket, turning something out of place in the world into something beautiful.
âOh okay, so I see you want war.â He turned to look at me with an evil grin.
âNo, no, no wait!â I laughed, turning to run.
âGet back here!â He shouted.
âI take it back! Iâm sorry!â I squealed, struggling to get away due to the snow taking up my ankles.
âOh-ho, no way!â I turned to see him running after me. He had a snowball in his hand and threw it at me, missing.
âFuck!â He laughed, going for another one.
âStop moving!â I made a turn and he nearly slipped mid-throw.
âNo, Sweet Pea!â I avoided another hit.
âYou asked for it, Jones!â He finally caught me.
âNo!â I let out a scream.
âYour sentence is death by snow!â His arms wrapped around my waist.
âIâll be good I swear!â I squealed as he picked me up to attempt to throw me in the snow but he ended up slipping, taking both of us down.
We both hit the snowy hard surface. It was a hard impact that was going to leave a bruise for a couple of days.
I fell on top of him, sharing a laugh. Our eyes met and he held my face in his single hand, his thumb grazing my cheek. He lightly smiled before taking me into a kiss.
Sweet Pea and I managed to cover ground and make sure no one had followed us. We were all in the clear.
While we did this, we played around for a bit. You can guess where that lead us to. Steamy Wonderland.
We pulled up to Archieâs house and went through the side where the garage was dimly lit, signaling that everyone was gathered there. I pushed open the door, finding the group crowded around the jacket that was draped on a microphone stand.
âThis is meant to help FP?â Archie asked as he looked over to Kevin thinking if this was some sort of sick joke.
âI donât know, it just looks more like incriminating evidence to me.â Kevin replied.
âYeah, this just confirms that my dad torched Jasonâs getaway car.â Jughead said, shaking his head in disbelief.
âAnd that his confession is true.â I added as Sweet Pea and I stood with them.
âOkay, but what does a jacket have to do with any of this?â Sweet Pea asked.
âYouâre right, why would FP say Jasonâs varsity jacket is dangerous?â Bettyâs wheels began to turn before everyone elseâs.
âI can ask my father.â Veronicaâs voice filled the room now, making us look over to her closing the door and approaching us with full speed.
âWhoâs that?â Sweet Pea whispered to me.
âVeronica Lodge. Resident rich girl with daddy issues.â I whispered back. He tried to stifle a laugh.
âHe would know since we found concrete proof that he hired the Serpents to kill Jason.â She continued.
âWhich probably means that your dad pulled the trigger.â I got serious at hearing those words.
Sweet Pea placed his hand on my shoulder again, giving it a small squeeze.
âDonât give up okay?â He whispered. I placed my hand on top of his.
âI donât know what to believe anymore.â I admitted, sharing a quick glance.
I looked back at my brother. He seemed like he was about to lose it but his carrot top best friend comforted him. I grinned at remembering momâs words with these two.
âNo. No!â Betty let out angrily all of a sudden.
âWe canât give up yet.â She took the jacket and held it out towards Archie.
âPut this on.â He froze in place.
âWhat? No.â He protested but Betty shoved the jacket in his hands. He had no choice but to cave into the blondeâs curiosity.
âBetty, this is weird.â He whined as he slipped his arms in uncomfortably.
âItâs a dead kids jacket, isnât that like... bad?â Veronica eyed him skeptically.
Betty ignored them and continued with her work. We watched as she felt around Archie, patting him down when she stopped. She had scored something.
âThereâs a hole in the pocket.â She said with an eerie pause. I raised a brow.
âOkay, now weâre just grasping at straws.â Kevin said with furrowed brows.
âOkay, no.â She protested.
âI donât know about you guys but whenever I have a hole in my jacket pocket I always lose my chapstick in the lining.â She dug deeper in the pocket.
âOr my lighter.â I added.
âSwitchblade.â Sweet Pea chimed in, shrugging.
âOr my Montblanc.â Veronica joined.
âHold on...â Betty continued to feel around until she finally pulled out a USB card.
âWhat the hell?â Veronica spoke for all of us. We all raised our brows in astonishment.
âTracy True strikes again.â Kevin scoffed, impressed.
Archie took the device, leaving the garage to bring his laptop. Betty was proud of her efforts and she smiled.
âAlright, Iâve come to the conclusion that sheâs the smart one of the group.â Sweet Pea teased.
âYou have no idea.â I giggled as Archie returned, placing the laptop on the table. We all gathered around to see what was on the USB.
Betty sat in the middle between Jughead and Veronica. Kevin sat on Veronicaâs empty side while Archie sat on Jugheadâs empty side. Sweet Pea and I leaned against the wall as we waited.
Betty plugged the USB in and a white window opened up with a few files inside it. She clicked on one and a black and white video began to play. Two figures were on the screen, one was in an all white outfit with their head hanging low and the other figure was a Serpent.
My eyes examined the surroundings and I instantly knew where they were.
âThatâs the basement of the Whyte Wyrm.â I pointed out as we continued to watch.
âWhat?â Jughead looked back at me, looking worried. The air tensed and I didnât want to watch anymore.
âIsnât that Mustang?â Sweet Pea whispered to me, being able to recognize who the Serpent was.
âShit.â I cursed under my breath. My knuckles went white as I tightened my grip on my own arms.
The white figure looked up. I furrowed my brows at how familiar the face was. Veronica and Betty gasped when they knew it was Jason Blossom.
âSo a Serpent was a part of the plan.â Jughead lingered.
I bit my lip as I looked up to Sweet Pea who raised his brows. We went back to watch the screen.
âIs that... Clifford Blossom?â Veronica pointed out now as a third figure came into view. Mustang had walked off and in came Jasonâs father, Clifford Blossom.
We all inched forward and held our breaths. Nothing could prepare us for what we were about to see.
Mr. Blossom had stepped forward and made a sudden turn to grab something from under his blazer. The next second he was aiming a gun at his own sonâs head.
âHeâs not gonna--.â
âSweet Pea--.â Bang! The sound of a gunshot going off had cut me and Kevin off.
I covered my mouth. We all gasped in horror at seeing Mr. Blossom killing his own son. He killed Jason with just a bullet in between the eyes.
Jughead was on the verge of tears. Sweet Pea had walked off and gone out the door. My stomach churned as I stepped out to join him. He was leaning against the handles of his bike.
âI admit it more that I regret coming... what the hell was all of that?â He turned to look at me. He looked a little green in the face.
âI bet FP and Joaquin had to get rid of the body and that video is on there too.â I had no doubt he wasnât wrong.
âIâm sorry.â I sighed, crossing my arms.
âWhat are you sorry about?â He became confused, tilting my chin to make me look up at him.
âI shouldnât have let you come.â I said. He shook his head, giving me a small kiss.
âI came here for you.â He reassured me.
âWell, arenât you good to me?â I lightly smiled, making him chuckle.
His phone vibrated and he went fishing for it to see who it was. He furrowed his brows in annoyance.
âShit, I have to go make a drop.â He cursed.
âIâll call you later?â I nodded.
âBe safe.â I took his face in my hands, giving him a soft kiss. He pinched my nose before turning to leave.
Jughead came out abruptly and rushed towards me. Sweet Pea was already gone.
âWe have to go down to the station.â He huffed. I nodded.
âYeah, I have a few words to exchange with our beloved father.â I leaned over to hand him my helmet. Without thinking twice, we got on the bike and I sped us off to the sheriffâs station.
When we arrived, we were instantly greeted by Sheriff Keller himself. Between Jughead and I, we began to tell him everything that we knew.
âYou have to let him out Sheriff Keller, our dad is innocent!â I said.
âClifford Blossom shot his own son!â Jughead nodded in agreement.
âYou have an innocent man in there!â He added as the three of us continued to argue back and forth.
âOkay, heâs gonna get charged with tampering of evidence, obstruction of justice, mishandling a body, perjury, and thatâs just off the top of my head.â Sheriff Keller said to us.
âHeâs not gonna get out any time soon.â He added. My brother sighed heavily as he ran a hand through his hair.
I became annoyed. Youâre kidding, right? Thatâs it?
âCan we at least see him?â I asked. He shook his head.
âNo one is allowed to see him right now. You can come back tomorrow.â He replied before walking away and leaving us be.
We went to go sit on a bench and leaned up against it, sharing emptiness and hopelessness. We were feeling a lot of the same thing at the moment.
âWhat the hell are we gonna do now Juggie?â I cursed as he laced his hand in mine. He let out a deep sigh this time.
âWe both transfer to Southside High.â He said.
âI become a Serpent.â I shook my head.
âNo Jug, youâre not becoming a Serpent.â I said sternly. He fell silent.
A half-hour had passed since we waited for something to happen. We were getting desperate.
âI canât think about dad anymore.â Jughead shook his head.
âTalk to me about something else.â He rested his head on my lap. I continued to lean against the seat.
âTell me about Sweet Peaches.â I leaned my head back to laugh.
âSweet Pea, Jughead.â I laughed again, correcting him.
âWhatever.â He rolled his eyes.
âWhatâs the deal between you two? Was he your boyfriend this entire time and you never once mentioned him to me?â He asked.
âIâm offended.â I shook my head.
âNo, we just ran into each other... and then one thing lead to another, and well... weâre here.â I smiled to myself, reminiscing.
âD-Did you guys?...â He looked at me scared.
âNot yet.â I shook my head again. He sighed in relief.
âBut weâve done things...â I lingered.
âOh, Rhiannon why!â He returned to being scared.
âI thought I was the only guy you would ever love! Besides dad of course.â He teased. I giggled, playing with his hair.
âOh, dear Juggie and here I thought I was the only girl you were ever going to love.â I teased back, pinching his cheek.
âThatâs different!â He pursed his lips.
âBettyâs... Betty! This guy... heâs a gangster!â I scoffed at hearing him.
âExcuse you, I used to date a gangster and it turned out just fine.â I defended. He was going to fire back but he stopped himself when he noticed Sheriff Keller coming our way.
âDid you make the arrest?â He asked him as we both stood up. The man took his hat off and sighed. Oh, no.
âI hate to be the bearer of bad news but Clifford Blossom committed suicide...â
âWhat?!â Jughead and I let out in unison.
âThatâs not only it but heâs been transporting drugs in and out of Riverdale.â I felt anger rise within the deepest depths of me. Suicide?
âWhat do you mean Clifford Blossom committed suicide?â My fists balled up white.
âThe bastard rather kill himself than own up to murdering his own son?!â I shouted. Jughead took hold of me as I was getting ready to fight whoever came my way. That included Sheriff Keller.
âYou can go see your dad now.â He looked at us with pity.
âIâm really sorry.â That was the last thing he said before disappearing down the hall.
âIâm speaking to him alone.â I said as I walked away without letting my brother protest.
Once I was escorted to the isolation room where dad was being held in, all the anger I had from earlier vanished. All I cared about was seeing my dad.
âDad!â He looked up at his name.
âWhat are you--.â
âWhy didnât you tell me about Clifford Blossom?â I cut him off. He came to stand in front of me, holding onto the bars.
âI could have done something to help! Tall Boy has been paranoid about you giving up names.â He sighed heavily.
âSo you found out... how?â I shook my head.
âDoesnât matter, you shouldnât have done it.â I said.
âSweetheart, he threatened me with hurting you and your brother. I couldnât risk putting you two in danger.â He finally admitted.
âYouâre my little girl, Rhinnie.â My shoulders fell and I broke out of my seriousness.
âAnd Iâll do anything for daddy-- I know-- I still remember.â I chuckled.
âYou were always so quick to make me proud.â He pat my head.
âI feel horrible for not giving your brother the same attention.â There was sadness and regret on his face.
âYou were getting their daddy.â I wrapped my arms around the bars.
âYou were being better.â I reassured him.
âWe just got Jones luck, thatâs all.â He looked away.
âBefore you know it, youâll be out of here and giving Jughead what you gave me.â I smiled.
âThanks, sweetheart.â He appeared more hopeful at hearing this.
The gears in my head began to turn and the grand idea of suddenly pushing Jughead to become a Serpent surfaced. It was a bad idea.
I could give him a little push but if dad says heâs not ready it was a high chance that going through with this was going to backfire and land on me. I could handle it.
I was willing to take the risk but was I willing to jeopardize my title and credibility?
âRhinnie...â Someone called me, shaking me gently. I refused to open my eyes.
âGo away Jughead...â I mumbled, swatting their hand away sluggishly.
âRhin, wake up.â They said again, chuckling.
I opened my eyes when I realized it was Sweet Pea trying to wake me. I blushed, becoming embarrassed. Iâm always doing that with him.
âWhat happened?â I asked as I wiped the tiredness away from my face. I wanted to go back to sleep.
It was the afternoon now and we had unintentionally overslept. I wasnât complaining though because I was enjoying my time with Sweet Pea.
I bit my lip at remembering our small playtime. We didnât have sex. We could have but we decided on taking things slow, which was something new to both of us.
âItâs your friend Betty.â He replied, holding my phone out for me to take.
âWhat?â I took it and pressed it against my ear with concern.
âBetty? Whatâs wrong?â I answered, sitting up to speak better.
âHey, Rhinnie sorry to wake you but it was important...â She began.
Sweet Pea snaked his hand up my bare leg, making me inhale sharply when I felt his fingers graze my center. I closed my legs to stop him.
âDo you think you can meet me at school?â She asked.
âItâs about your dad...â I watched as his head rested coolly on my thigh, his silver-covered fingers setting fire to my skin with every passing second. The feeling was becoming excruciating.
Goosebumps formed when he touched a sensitive area. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up.
âY-Yeah!â I let out, shivering nervously. He smirked at hearing me, looking up with lust and desire.
âIâll be over soon.â The line went dead and I tossed my phone, leaning forward to kiss him.
âAs much as I would love to have your tongue in me again, I have to go.â I whispered.
âOh yeah?â He taunted, pulling my legs to get me underneath him.
âMhm.â I lingered, wrapping my arms around him.
âWhere to?â He pecked my lips, leaving them to place more down my chin, neck, and on my chest. I inhaled again, biting my lip.
âI-I have to meet a friend at s-school.â I stuttered as he went lower. I let out a heavy sigh when he kissed my clit.
âCan I tag along?â He asked for permission with his eyes. His tongue swirled around my tingling bud in circular motions.
âY-Yes!â I nodded, barely getting out words.
He chuckled against me. His hot breath tickled my wet and throbbing bud, teasing my bundle of nerves.
He then began to suck on it, humming and letting his tongue run all over my pussy. I whimpered.
âSweet Pea...â I moaned, gripping onto the bedframe and tangling my dark-colored nails in his hair.
âLet me have my dinner first and then weâll leave.â My back arched and my thighs clenched in delight at hearing his eagerness.
His hand rubbed on my clit with the slits between his fingers going against it roughly. The calloused lines made it impossible for me to hold back another moan.
âFuck...â I cursed as he inserted two fingers. His long digits filled my insides and curled inwards. They were searching for something.
My body moved on its own, matching the pace and the rhythm he was going at. He sucked and thrust simultaneously. I gripped the bedsheets tighter as another sound escaped me.
âOh, fuck yes...â I tugged on his hair, moving my hips but he held them down.
âBe good.â He grunted.
âSweet Pea...â I squirmed.
âIâm gonna cum!â I cried out, feeling my body reaching its limit.
âCum for me Rhiannon.â He ordered, going faster.
âI wanna taste your pussy again.â My head rolled back in pleasure.
âGive me what I want.â He growled. His husky voice alone was enough to get me off.
I let out a cry from my insides contracting and my thighs shaking on their own. I became lightheaded from the euphoric sensation.
Sweet Pea pushed his tongue inside me and collected his reward. I laid there helpless and nearly brain dead from how good he made me finish.
He pulled away and forced me to taste myself. I gladly brought him closer, feeling our bodies roughly press against each other.
âWe need to do this more often.â He huffed between kisses. I smiled evilly.
âWait until I really get my hands on you.â I teased as we pecked each other one last time before pulling away.
We began to change at top speed. I took hold of his jeans, tossing them to him as he tossed my own. I pulled them over, doing the same with my shirt.
I felt someone staring at me and I turned to look at Sweet Pea watching me.
âWhat pervert?â I blushed. He laughed, licking his lips.
âYou canât blame me, Iâm getting used to looking at your body.â He replied. I playfully rolled my eyes.
âShut up.â I laughed, finishing getting dressed and ending with my boots.
Once we were both ready we went out the door. I had him meet me at my place so I could switch out my Matrix look for biker chick attire. I pulled my Serpent jacket over my shoulders, tugging on it and readjusting it for comfort.
I checked to make sure I had my switchblade and stepped out again. I went down the wooden steps in a hurry, clasping on my helmet and getting on my bike.
I looked up to Sweet Pea approaching me with his bike and I was ready to roll out.
âI guess we can have that drag race after all, huh?â He teased. I chuckled, taking hold of the handles and turning on the engine.
âItâs on.â I revved up my bike and pulled forward.
âNo fair!â Our roaring engines mixed together as we sped out of Sunnyside.
We raced down the small highway before I took lead and took us to Riverdale High School. When we arrived, we parked in the side lot where Betty was waiting for us. There was a small smile on her face as Sweet Pea pulled up beside me.
I unclasped my helmet, sighing heavily to coolly lean on the metal bike handles.
âHey blondie, hope you donât mind a plus one.â I greeted, tilting my head towards the man of the hour. Sweet Pea.
He took his helmet off, looking up at Betty with a small, cocky, and slightly skeptical smile. He was being nice for my sake.
âSweet Pea.â He introduced himself, standing to shake her hand. She gladly took it. Wow, a real gentleman.
âBetty Cooper. Pleasure.â She said back, eyeing him up and down. She was taking into account how tall he was.
âIs he a Serpent friend of yours?â She asked, seeing his Serpent mark and matching jacket.
âSomething like that...â I replied, not sure what Sweet Pea and I really were at the moment. Fuck buddies?
âDonât be so modest Rhin. Weâre nothing official yet but we will be.â He added, coming to wrap his arm around me.
My mouth dropped. I was taken aback by his response. I was equally as surprised as Betty when she heard him.
She darted her eyes between us and giggled. She didnât seem to judge me so I was relieved. Her eyes met mine and she gave me a perverted smile. I knew she was going to grill me later.
âWell, come on! My mom is eager to see you again.â She motioned for us to follow her.
âRight.â I laughed nervously as we began to follow.
âSo weâre dating now?â I whispered to Sweet Pea as we walked up to the side door.
âWell duh, girl what do you think this is?â He replied with a tease. He went for the door, holding it open for us to go in first. Ah, chivalry is not dead.
âOh, I bet Juggie would love to hear that his little sister is dating someone already.â Betty lingered.
âYouâve been here how long?â I gasped.
âYou canât tell him!â I protested. She giggled, zipping her mouth shut and going in before me.
As we made a turn to head into the main hallway, there was a small gasp that came from Sweet Pea. I turned to look at him being mesmerized by the sight in front of him.
âOh wow... this school is way better than Southside High.â He said, letting his fingers run against the blue lockers.
âIsnât that school big though?â Betty lingered.
âYeah but Serpents and Ghoulies roughed it up badly.â I raised a brow at his response. We continued to walk down the hall, reaching for the set of stairs to go up.
The Ghoulies still exist on the Southside? Iâve heard about The Ghoulies being a brutal and notorious gang-- cannibalism included-- but I knew nothing about their leader or their history.
All I know is that the gang has been around for a while. Maybe a few years.
They didnât run under any sort of laws or code of honor. They went through various kinds of leaders, each one worse than the one before them.
The Ghoulies was a street gang that lived on the rather shitty side of the Southside. They didnât live anywhere near Serpent territory. They knew better.
The three of us made our way up the stairs, taking a left, and then going down another hallway until we reached a dimly lit room. We walked into the schoolâs newspaper office where we were met with not only Alice but my brother as well.
âRhinnie!-- Who are you?â Jughead was about to greet me when he noticed there was another guy in the room.
He walked forward, meeting with Sweet Pea. They were both tall but the skyscraper being taller, easily towered over my brother.
âHer secret boyfriend.â Sweet Pea replied, crossing his arms and raising his brows in a challenging manner.
âWhat did you say?â Jughead went ghost white at hearing him.
âHeâs joking, Jug!â I nervously laughed, smoothly keeping some distance between them.
âWish I wasnât though.â He added. I felt my cheeks heat up in embarrassment.
I looked up at Sweet Pea and he gave me a cute wink. My heart raced at the gesture. Was he being serious?
I went to focus my attention on Alice who I was happy to see.
âOh, Rhiannon sweetie is it really you?â She smiled in surprise. I hugged her as Betty looked between us happily.
âThe one and only.â I chuckled, pulling away to look at her. She held my face in her hands.
âElizabeth told me you were back but I couldnât believe her until I saw you for myself.â I exchanged looks with Betty, seeing her playfully roll her eyes.
âItâs good to see you, Mrs. Cooper.â I said with a smile.
She let her green eyes scan over my body, a small frown suddenly forming on her lips.
âItâs a shame that such a pretty young thing is twins with a scrappy boy and rustled up with a biker gang.â She added.
âMom!â Betty let out annoyed.
âCome on Alice, donât insult me already.â I chuckled nervously. She ignored the fact that we protested against her and continued.
The moment was cut short when Bettyâs odd ringtone went off. She went to answer her phone.
âHey Kev, you okay?â She greeted him, getting my attention. She looked over to Jughead as she listened to what Kevin was telling her. There was this haunting look on her face.
âAlright, weâll meet you there.â She hung up and furrowed her brows, looking at me.
âWhatâs wrong?â I asked with concern.
âBetty?â Jughead asked now.
âW-We need to go to Eversgreen Forest.â She stammered, searching through the drawers of the desk to take out a pair of flashlights.
I turned to make my way towards Sweet Pea, both of us heading out of the room together. I felt someone watching us and I looked back to see it was Jughead staring intently and closely.
âI didnât think weâd be face-to-face with the turncoat.â Sweet Pea said as I looked at Betty and Alice talking now.
âAnd you were just nice to her daughter earlier.â I teased. He chuckled.
âThatâs because sheâs your friend and Iâm not an asshole... sort of.â I laughed.
âHow sweet of you.â
âThey donât call me Sweet Pea for nothinâ.â He shrugged. I playfully rolled my eyes.
When I used to go to school on the Northside, Betty always invited me over for sleepovers and playdates. Alice Smith never treated me any different, up until now at least.
âDoes it bother you?â I asked, looking at him. He made a half face.
âDo you want me to lie to you?â He replied. I chuckled. Honesty looks good on him.
Once Betty and Alice were finished, the four of us headed down the stairs and made our way out of the school. Sweet Pea and I parted ways with Jughead and Betty so we could go on our bikes.
We rode up to the lost highway off Route 40, deserting our bikes and trucks to head into Eversgreen Forest.
âKevin!â Betty called out for him. He wasnât alone because Archie was with him.
âOh good, you guys are here!â Kevin looked up to his name.
âWe have to hurry.â He motioned as we all grouped together.
âJoaquin told me it was by the old maple sign.â We began to make our way to it.
âSerpents have been looking for him all day.â Sweet Pea said.
Everyone looked up at him. Kevinâs eyes were full of shock and interest. Archieâs jaw went hard at realizing there was a second Serpent among us.
âHe took a bus to San Junipero.â Kevin replied.
âHe said he had to get away from the townâs current dilemma.â He eyed the handsome giant from head to toe. Me too, Kev.
âAlright well, whatever it is, letâs hurry before the snow kicks in again.â Archie said as we returned to our walk.
The lot of us went down a path and got lost in the trees. Sweet Pea and I stayed in the back. We didnât have any flashlights so we were forced to trust my brother and his friends to guide us.
âDo you regret tagging along now?â I asked as I stumbled on the snow. He caught me with his hand. I held onto it tightly, staying connected.
âBe careful-- no not really. I find it interesting how someone like you managed to make friends with some Northsiders.â He replied, looking down at me.
âDid I mention I donât like liars?â I raised my brows.
âAlright, I admit it! I regret coming.â He groaned, stomping on the snow. I laughed.
âI only say that because I hate being around the Northsiders.â He added. I linked our arms together for more support.
âSadly, youâll have to get used to this kind of stuff if you plan on making this official.â I warned.
âWhatever it is weâre looking for, Joaquin didnât know if it would help your dad or make things worse.â Kevinâs voice brought us back. We went up a hill.
âDid he tell you what it was?â I asked. We were almost at our destination.
âWhy did he wait so long to tell us?â Betty added with a huff.
Jughead and Archie had reached the top of the hill first.
âFP called him from jail...â Kevin panted.
âHe told him to forget about their plan... some contingency plan. He said it was too dangerous.â I furrowed my brows. Plan? What plan?
I looked up at the old maple sign, huffing out when I reached the top with Sweet Pea. He was silently panting next to me. We exchanged looks.
We all took a quick glance before turning to him digging within the bushes beneath it, pulling out a duffel bag that was hidden within a tumbleweed. It was smart work. Serpent work.
âWhat the hell is in there?â I asked, watching him and Kevin break it apart more.
There was a hand on my shoulder. I looked at the familiar rings, recognizing Sweet Pea. I was anxious at the moment and this simple gesture seemed to put me at ease.
Jughead pulled out and revealed Riverdale Highâs jock jacket. My breath hitched when I read the white name embedded near the breast pocket. In perfect cursive, it spelled out âJasonâ.
We all exchanged looks of confusion and shared the mutual feeling of seeing a ghost.
âIs that... Jason Blossomâs jacket?â Sweet Pea asked as he leaned in to see the name more clearly.
âHoly shit...â He took a few steps back in bewilderment.
Jughead freaked out and accidentally dropped it. He turned to run his hands through his hair, tugging on his beanie.
âDonât flash it!â Betty gasped as she bent down to throw it back into the bag.
âSheâs right, someone could be following us and see it.â I snapped out of it and looked around.
I met glances with Sweet Pea and he nodded, turning. He knew exactly what I was thinking.
âAlright letâs just take it back to my place.â Archie suggested as he took hold of the bag now.
âGood idea Arch.â Betty nodded.
âRight, you guys go ahead.â I said, digging inside my jacket to take out my switchblade.
âSweet Pea and I are gonna patrol around and make sure no one did follow us. Weâll meet you guys there.â The blade shot open, going against the air. The sound tingled my adrenaline.
Jughead, Kevin, Betty, and Archie looked down at the switchblade, gulping in fear.
âAlright but come to the garage.â Archie added. I nodded as I motioned for Sweet Pea to get going.
âHey!â Jughead made me turn to look at him. He went from me to Sweet Pea and put up a finger.
âWatch over her.â He warned. I smirked. Sweet Pea leaned his head back to laugh before swinging his arm around me.
âI think sheâll protect me but Iâll do my best.â He reassured.
The four of them backed away one by one. We watched them disappear down the hill.
âYou think your brother likes me?â He teased.
âOh definitely.â I laughed, shaking my head.
âTHE PRETTY FACE WITH AN UGLY SOUL & A DARK PAST.â
»»»»»»
Warnings/Triggers: Just a teeny tiny smidge of fluff?? (Kissing, grabbing of body parts)
Word Count: +4k
A/N: As much as I love Falice, it wonât be happening in this story... well, maybe just a teeny tiny bit.
Inspiration: Daddy Issues - The Neighbourhood
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Around four in the morning, Sweet Pea took us back to Sunnyside.
I waved him off before heading inside. I giggled to myself as I crept past the living room.
After both of us shared a deep, dark, and personal part of ourselves with each other we decided to lighten the mood with a very heated makeout session followed by swimming.
I was a little skeptical of it at first because I was a tiny bit self-conscious but he told me it was okay. He even said we didnât have to do it but I wanted to.
He didnât seem to care about how I looked half-naked and I didnât care how he looked like. He was a little self-conscious like I was and it made us more comfortable with each other right away. I didnât feel judged when I was with him and it made me feel good.
I lightly smiled as I brought my fingers to my lips, savoring his watermelon chewing gum.
I crawled back into bed with my best friends, thinking they were both asleep only to be startled by Fangs pulling me into his embrace.
âFinally, I was starting to worry.â He whispered with a yawn, burying his face in my neck.
âSorry I worried you.â I chuckled as I took his hands and brought them close.
âHow long have you been up?â I asked, looking out onto the floor.
âNot that long. I barely realized you were gone.â He replied, yawning again.
I adjusted myself to the bed, getting ready to fall asleep. My eyes grew heavy and I closed them.
âIâm glad youâre back Rhinnie.â He whispered again. I smiled.
âMe too, Fangs.â I whispered back before we both drifted to sleep.
I managed to get a good few hours in and I was going for more until I was woken up by my phone ringing again. I held my hand out to grab it and I made sure to check it this time. I threw a silent fit when I read it was my brother. He always had bad timing.
I quietly got up from bed again, going into the bathroom where I wouldnât wake up Toni or Fangs.
âHey Jug.â I answered.
âHey, can you meet me at the trailer in like ten minutes?â He asked. I yawned.
âIâll be right over.â I replied before hanging up.
I rubbed my eyes and leaned against the sink. I moved my face around to check on the bruises and cuts. They werenât much but I did manage to score a good small bruise on my cheekbone and a cut on my upper lip. I shrugged it off knowing Iâll be fine.
I slithered back out to search for the clothes I had brought for myself and returned to the bathroom to change and get ready.
I showered and made sure to give more extra care to my wounds. Toni and Fangs helped me clean up my cuts with alcohol last night as they fangirled over the bar fight.
The skin was bound to open again so I grabbed a bandage wrap from under the sink and wrapped my hands Karate Kid style.
I wore black again. I tucked a tank top into a pair of denim mom jeans, buckled in my belt chain, and shrugged on a leather blazer to tie the look together.
My dark hair fell effortlessly on its own and I messed with it a bit to get the nice look I wanted. I then slipped into my boots and packed up my stuff.
I hovered over Toni to whisper her a thank you and goodbye. I pet her hair and kissed the top of her head. Fangs was fast asleep and I chuckled as I parted ways with him also.
We needed to have another sleepover where we actually woke up next to each other.
I made my way out the door and down the steps where I started my small journey back home. When I neared the trailer I noticed a dark blue truck parked outside. I furrowed my brows not knowing whose it was.
As I got closer, two figures were standing around and I relaxed when I saw it was just Jughead and Archie waiting for me.
âCarrot top! Jerk!â I called for them. They both turned to look up at me.
âHurry up, bitch!â Jughead called. I laughed.
âJesus Jug you sound so brutal when you call her that.â Archie said as he looked between us nervously. I went for the steps to head inside.
âDonât worry carrot top Iâve got nerves of steel.â I winked, pounding my fist over my chest. He chuckled.
I pushed open the door and quickly put my stuff in the bedroom. I couldnât help but be called to the bathroom where I put on some makeup. I wanted something dark to add to my mood so I went for some eyeliner and dark lips.
I then went into the kitchen to look for Aspirin and anything good to take it down with.
âPunk rock!â I let out with excitement when I found a good bottle of Fireball.
I took down two killers with a swig at the bottle. I took the rest with me as I headed back out.
Jughead and Archie were already inside the truck. My brother opened the door for me and he furrowed his brows at noticing my appearance.
âOne, what happened to your face and hands? Two, why are we drinking so early? Three, this is not The Matrix.â He asked. I laughed, chugging down the last of the Fireball before aiming it at a recyclable.
âDonât worry about it bro, now move your ass over.â I replied as he scooted to sit next to Archie. I sat by the window and stuck my hand out.
âWhere are we going?â I asked now. Archie pulled out of the space and drove off.
âPops. Weâre meeting with Mrs. Andrews sheâs helping us with dadâs case.â Jughead replied.
âDadâs case, huh?â I lingered, pulling out my pack of cigarettes. I swear I had a different pack in every jacket and sweater I owned.
Jughead sat there eyeing me carefully as I lit up the tobacco roll, puffing out a few clouds of smoke afterwards. I closed my eyes and felt the breeze hit me as I released everything out the window.
Riverdale looked better at dawn and the early morning. The sun was barely coming out to touch whatever got in its way, the atmosphere was peaceful, and the air was fresh and rejuvenating.
I blew the smoke out through my nose as I turned to look at my brotherâs best friend. I smirked as Archie continued to drive.
âYou know Arch, you got pretty hot.â I mentioned, making him chuckle.
âYou know heâs not single right?â Jughead scoffed. I rolled my eyes. Um, ew.
âOf course, I know that Iâm just saying it as a compliment! I mean come on Arch you were a lanky-ass kid the last time I saw you and now... boom! Puberty hit you like a bus!â They both laughed this time.
âThanks. You look better now too.â Archie said, making Jughead turn to look at him with a serious face.
âDude, sheâs my sister!â Archie blushed.
âItâs just a compliment Jug!â He defended. I laughed, shaking my head.
We continued our drive through the Southside, going down a small stretch of road that lead down to the tracks where we drove over and then turned to come to a stop. We looked up at the famous Popâs Chockâlit Shoppe and instantly became hungry.
We parked and headed inside where Mary Andrews, Archieâs mother, was waiting for us in a booth.
From what I remember Jughead telling me over phone calls, Archieâs parents had separated two years ago but the divorce never went through. Mrs. Andrews then moved to Chicago where she worked as a lawyer at a firm and now sheâs back in town for a while.
Mrs. Andrews offered to help with dadâs case in favor of Archie of course. Sheâs always been a great woman and an equally great mom. She and Mr. Andrews were the perfect pair.
It was nice to see the relationship my brother built and rebuilt with his best friend. I mean sure it was still a little rocky but they were always good friends. They were certainly better friends now.
âSo, Archie asked me to look in your fatherâs case...â She began, looking from me to Jughead. I sat next to her as the guys sat with each other.
âI went down to the station and passed myself off as his attorney to try and get as much information as I could.â I nervously played with my rings under the table.
âHowâs it looking mom?â Her son asked.
I looked over to my brother whose mood seemed to have slightly changed. My heart grew heavy.
I sat there grasping onto hope as hard as I could. I was praying that something good would be heard or come soon.
âWell, unfortunately, between FPâs list of priors, the anonymous tip, and the possession of the murder weapon--.â
âAnd donât forget that pesky confession.â Jughead interjected smugly. I furrowed my brows.
âThings look pretty bad.â She finally concluded. I sighed as I felt the weight push down on me again.
âI was with him all night and he never once budged from his story.â She added, sighing. I brought my hands to my mouth.
âItâs that bad huh?â I lingered. She nodded in defeat.
Dad couldnât have possibly really killed Jason Blossom. It doesnât make sense. It was like saying he would be willing to kill me or Jughead.
âWell, if nothing else at least heâs an honest murderer.â Jughead joked.
âJug.â Archie furrowed his brows in disgust at hearing him, shaking his head.
âHey, unless you have something good to say donât speak.â I snapped at my brother. He rolled his eyes and looked down at his plate. This wasnât funny.
âOh, also...â Mrs. Andrews continued.
âWho is Joaquin DeSantos?â She asked, turning to look at me. I raised my brows in surprise.
âThatâs--.â
âKevinâs boyfriend?â Archie finished for me.
âHe was FPâs one phone call.â I needed to find him.
Archie, Jughead, and I shared looks of confusion. What the hell did Joaquin have to do with dad?
âKids, my advice to you both is to go and see your father.â Mrs. Andrews began.
âTell him everything you wanna say because once heâs arraigned, things tend to move pretty quickly and there wonât be anything left to do. This might be your last chance.â I became sad at hearing her. So Iâll never be able to get a welcome home from dad how I wanted?
I exchanged looks with Jughead. Even though he was trying to put up a front and hide how he was truly feeling, his sad ocean eyes gave him away.
I brushed off my own feelings as I got up from the seat, making my way towards the bathroom. I pulled out my phone and dialed Sweet Pea.
âWhatâs up cum bucket, what can I do for you?â His deep voice rang through my ears. I rolled my eyes, chuckling at his weird pet name.
âHey pussy lips, I need a favor...â I greeted him back. He laughed. Oh-ho, I bet heâll use this one from now on.
âI need you, Fangs, and maybe a few other Serpents to look for Joaquin.â I said.
âFor sure, does it have to do with FP in jail?â He asked.
âYeah, he was my dadâs one phone call so I have a feeling Joaquin knows whatâs really going on.â I replied, holding the bridge of my nose.
âIf you find him take him somewhere safe, protected, and undetected. Give a holler and Iâll come by.â I went on.
âRight on darlinâ, see you soon.â He said before hanging up.
I chuckled, biting my lip. This one was really gonna screw me up.
After breakfast and letting me catch up with Mrs. Andrews, Jughead and I decided on heading down to the station to talk with dad.
Before that, I called Betty to ask her to get a hold of Kevin since I couldnât reach him. I had a feeling that if he and Joaquin are together, he would know where he would be.
âWhatâs going on in your head brother? What are you thinking about?â I asked him, swinging my arm over his shoulder.
âI donât know... Iâm just confused and unsure.â I sighed at his response as we continued to walk.
âDo you really think dad killed Jason?â The million dollar question.
âI donât know what to think or who to believe anymore!â He admitted.
âNone of this makes any sense to me but at the same time, it does. I donât want to think that dad is a murderer because I know what kind of father we have.â I held him tighter.
âIt fucking sucks to be a Jones!â He let out in frustration.
âYouâre right.â There was nothing I could do but chuckle and nod in agreement. He wasnât wrong.
âIt does suck to be a Jones but at least weâre Jones together.â He smiled, looking down at me.
âOh yeah, and itâs for life, my dear twin sister.â He teased, pinching my nose. I giggled.
We continued to walk until we arrived at the station. We waited for a bit until we were escorted into one of the isolation rooms. They had moved dad from the regular holding cells to the ones that transferred him to a real prison. It broke my heart.
We found dad leaning against the bars. He was minding his business until he looked up at the sound of us coming in. He wasnât happy and I was slightly annoyed at the way he was eyeing us.
âWhat are you kids doing here?â He asked impatiently. There was an icy tone in his voice.
âYou want us to go then?â I snapped, crossing my arms. He held his tongue. Thatâs what I thought old man.
I went to sit in a chair that was a few feet away as Jughead stood by the window. He was looking outside, forcing himself to not look at dad.
Dad eyed my face and hands, raising a brow in question. I nodded, reassuring him that I had control of the Serpents now. He relaxed, getting up to sit on the bed.
The room fell silent. It was a deafening silence that could swallow you whole if you sat alone in your thoughts for too long.
âWhen Archie told me about his little plan to help you, get you back on your feet, working with Fred-- deep down, I knew it was a mistake.â Jugheadâs voice filled the room suddenly. His voice wanted to betray him and crack but he wouldnât allow it. He sounded so sad and disappointed.
âShould have listened to your gut.â Dad snarled, making my head snap to look at him again.
âDaddy!â What the hell kind of response was that?
I took in his appearance. He was tired and distraught. He hasnât been sleeping and his eyes were full of heartbreak and determination. Determination? What was he determined for? Breaking our hearts?
âYou really had me...â Jugheadâs voice threatened to crack again. He was trying so hard to fight off his hurt.
âCleaning the trailer... convincing me that you had quit drinking...â He finally let a single tear slip and it was enough to make my own waterworks kick in. Dammit Jug, itâs always you.
Hearing dad attempting to change and trying to be better for my brother was the most comforting thing to hear.
Dad has always struggled with his drinking and now that he finally wanted to do some good, the world took that chance away from him. This town took that chance away from him. They took this shred of goodness away from Jughead and it wasnât fair.
âI was so happy... for the first time in a long time.â I wiped my face, sniffling.
âYou paid attention to me.â His words were hurting dad because they even hurt me. It felt like my heart was being torn into millions of pieces over and over again. It was nonstop. These were words that would haunt a person.
âLetâs be honest, the only reason you even read my manuscript about Jasonâs murder was to make sure that I wasnât onto you...â Jughead continued. Daddy was actually interested in his writing?
âAnd you didnât want to take me to Toledo to get the family back together, you wanted to get away. You wanted to run away.â Dad furrowed his brows in hurt.
If there was anyone that dad loved in the entire world besides his three children, it was Gladys Jones. He would do anything for that woman, that included getting the family back together if it meant he got to be with her.
Sure they had a rocky marriage but those two were literally head over heels for each other. They have been through the thickest and thinnest together. I donât know anyone else whoâs love compared to theirs.
âI did what I had to do! What I always do!â Dad raised his voice now.
âAre you even sorry?â Jughead pushed off from the window and rushed forward to stand in front of the white jail cell bars. Dad coolly stood up to challenge him.
âDaddy! Jug! Please...â I got in between them to make some distance.
I held onto Jugheadâs shoulder but he didnât mind me. Dad had a hard look and his jaw was set.
âSorry I got caught. We done?â He replied bitterly.
âDad!â My eyes went wide.
âLetâs go, Rhiannon.â He ordered sternly, taking hold of me and pulling me away.
âWait, Jug--.â
âLook at me! Both of you!â Dadâs loud voice echoed and I tensed.
We both turned to see him on the verge of tears. He paused for a moment to look at us carefully.
âNever come back here!â That was all I needed to hear before I let the real tears finally fall.
âUnderstand?â His voice cracked.
I looked up at Jughead who had changed expressions. His eyes gleamed with hope and he was almost smiling. What did he figure out?
âGo it.â He simply replied before leaving me alone to step out.
The door slammed shut and there was a whimper that came from behind me. My cheeks were wet and I went to stand in front of dad again, holding onto the bars.
âDaddy you donât mean that.â I cried.
âYou donât mean to push us away. I know youâre lying... please.â I begged. I wanted the truth.
He placed his hands on either side of my face and kissed my forehead. He stood there for a few long seconds before pulling away.
âI love you, Rhiannon.â He whispered.
âPlease go.â I shook my head, wiping at my face again before turning abruptly to leave.
I ran out of the station, leaving Jughead behind as I tried to get myself under control. I couldnât.
My hands fished for my phone and I dialed the one person who I found to trust so easily.
âHey Rhin, we havenât found Joaquin yet and we wonât be able to get our hands on him anymore. He left for San J.â Sweet Peaâs voice filled my ears. I chuckled with a cry.
âYou okay?â He asked with worry in his tone.
âYeah, um-- do you think you can come and get me?â I sniffled.
âI just need to get out of here.â My voice shook at the end.
âWhere are you?â There was a soft engine in the background and I smiled in relief.
A few moments later, Sweet Pea picked me up in his truck and he took me back home to his place. His trailer was pretty nice. It was neat but had a touch of him to it. The only exception was that his room was messy. Guys, amirite?
We were sitting up against the headboard of his bed and I sighed heavily as I brought my legs close to me.
âThanks for getting me.â I said as I continued to wipe my face. Jesus was I such a crybaby. It must be so unattractive to him.
âNo problem.â He said as he wrapped his arm around me, bringing me close. He rested his chin on my head and it made me feel small.
He seemed unnaturally used to this. I wonder who else heâs done this with?
âI bet me crying isnât so hot.â He laughed.
âNonsense, you look cute when you cry. Boogers and all.â He reassured me, making me laugh now. Idiot.
âYou went to go see your dad and what happened?â He asked. I sighed.
âI spoke to an attorney first and she didnât sugarcoat the fact that itâs not looking good for him at all...â I started. He nodded, signaling me to keep going.
He laid back on a pillow and pat his chest for me to lay there. I slightly furrowed my brows at his gesture. Oddly enough, Jughead had started to do that with me. He claims that it makes up for all the times we couldnât share a bed and just cuddle up with each other like we used to. Did I mention he was clingy?
I pulled off my blazer before laying my head on Sweet Peaâs chest. I was able to smell his old spice mixed with cheap cologne. It smelled really good and it made me lightly smile.
His arm wrapped around me and a single finger ran up and down my back. I instantly relaxed.
âMy brother isnât taking any of this too well... itâs more personal for him and heâs feeling a lot worse than I am at the moment...â Why am I telling him all of this?
âI hate that. I hate when heâs in more pain than I am. I would much rather suffer for the both of us.â How can I trust Sweet Pea so much already?
How can Sweet Pea just lay here with me like nothing and just listen to me? I barely managed to open up to Levi and even if I tried to he wouldnât sit through all of it.
âFirst it was me moving away and now this? Itâs not fair.â We let our fingers meet. His were calloused but gentle.
âWhat matters is that youâre here with him now.â He let them interlock.
âI bet he wouldnât be able to get through all of this if he didnât have you as his support.â I lightly smiled.
âYou know...â I lingered, unsure if it was the right time to be upfront.
âWhen I came back, I thought I was only coming to help get my dad out of this mess and then bring my family back together in Toledo, but now Iâm leading the Serpents and Iâm--.â We both looked at each other. He smirked, coming to level with me.
We faced each other and his hand reached out to tuck away a strand of my hair. His hand was warm.
âWhatâs the other thing?â I nuzzled my face in his palm. I felt safe right here with him.
âCatching feelings for someone... that wasnât part of my agenda.â I finally admitted. He smiled, hovering over me now.
âYou and me both, crybaby.â He admitted back.
âGood thing Iâm stubborn because Iâm not letting you get off easy.â He teased. I smiled, letting my finger curl around his chain.
âItâs an extra good thing Iâm twice as stubborn because youâre not getting away.â I whispered.
I gently tugged on his chain to lower his head into me. Our lips connected deeply and there was this sudden rush of electricity.
My arms wrapped around his neck and my fingers tangled in his soft hair. His hands were at my hips, going up and over my stomach to stop at my breasts. They wrapped around one, squeezing it roughly.
I turned us over so I could be on top. I straddled his waist while I pulled off my tank top. He couldnât handle our lips being apart, sitting up to force them to connect again.
He laid me on my back once more, taking his own shirt off and tossing it beside mine. He hovered over my stomach, kissing up to reach my neck. I let out a small sigh at his attention to my sweet spots. He was good.
I felt my body light on fire at his touch and I wanted more. I wanted him.
âSweet Pea...â I sighed his name out in delight. It was like candy on my tongue when I said it. It was sweet, just like his name.
He pulled away to look at me and his pupils were dilated. My lips parted a bit and I smiled before we continued.
âTHE PRETTY GIRL WITH AN UGLY SOUL & A DARK PAST.â
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Warnings/Triggers: Cursing, graphic violence (intense bar fight, punching and hitting of male/female), mentions of blood.
Word Count: +4.1k
A/N: Inspiration: Sweet Sixteen - Billy Idol
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We continued with our game, getting through the small talk until Fangs and Toni finally joined us.
The three caught up with each other and I was intrigued by how I didnât feel like an outcast. I had nothing to do with their relationship but Rhiannon included me in her conversations and I was grateful to her for it.
As we talked, I noticed it was hard for her to crack to new people. She needed time. Her guard was on high and I wondered who could have hurt her so much. An ex perhaps?
When the night rolled in, the assembly was nearing its hour. The Serpents around my age were growing tense by the minute. We were all worried.
I was drinking with a few of the guys to help relieve some of my worries. It wasnât working.
I looked over to Rhiannon sitting alone at the bar. She was lost deep in her thoughts. She was a sight for sore eyes.
âThatâs the chick Topaz and Fogarty want us to vouch for? Sheâs a new girl in town Iâm assuming?â Marcus lingered, eyeing her with me.
âNew girl? Does she even want to lead?â Blade added.
âSheâs Serpent royalty, she has no choice.â I replied, sipping my beer. They both shared a look, raising their brows.
âWhatever the case is I just want a piece of that ass.â Gecko commented.
âShe looks like she knows how to please. Have you seen those lips?â
âThey do look like they mean business.â Nachi added.
My grip tightened around my beer bottle. Hearing them talk about her like that triggered a dark thought. They werenât wrong but I wanted those lips to be just for me. Is it wrong to want such a thing so soon?
âIâll be back.â I excused myself from the group to head over to where Rhiannon was.
I was a little annoyed that I wasnât the only one who thought she was beautiful, gorgeous even. I was a little bothered that other people were starting to see her the way I was. I mean props to her for being such a sight but I instinctively wanted her for myself. She was mine.
At approaching the raven beauty, I caught glimpse of her looking down at her hands. There was a silver piece of jewelry dangling in her fingers. It was her locket. She seemed to favor it heavily and doesnât like to take it off.
I smoothly sat next to her, seeing a picture of a blonde girl. I furrowed my brows. Could she be her sister? No... was she a teen mom? A teen mom? Seriously man thatâs what you come up with?
âSomeone special?â I asked.
âUh, no...â She was a little startled by my sudden appearance, closing the locket quickly to look up at me with a small smile.
âJust a locket.â She lied again. Alright then, guess Iâll ask her when itâs just the two of us.
I took a swig at my beer again, eyeing her finger tattoos. I chuckled.
âI see you like being tatted up.â I motioned to them.
âYeah, I kind of picked it up from my mom.â She replied, holding back a smile.
âThis is probably the only tattoo I have besides our marks.â I held out my right thumb.
âYou should get more, make you look hotter.â She teased, making me laugh.
She took my hand, wanting to get a closer look when I suddenly felt a small shock of electricity shoot up my arm. It encompassed me in a warm sensation.
My racing heart from earlier was put to rest. It was relaxed. I had relaxed. I furrowed my brows at the feeling.
We both looked at each other. She had felt the same thing. She raised a brow and I tilted my head to her.
Our fingers laced and we leaned in closer. I brought my free hand to her cheek, bracing myself for the impact.
âAlright Serpents!â We were centimeters away when a familiarly loud voice shook through the air, making us both pull apart. Fuck.
The entire club of gang members had gone silent, looking up abruptly to see Tall Boy taking the stand. I rolled my eyes in annoyance.
Rhiannon and I looked away from each other, sharing embarrassment. I tried to look tough and brush off the growing itch I had. What just happened?
âNow that FP is sitting back we must assume our roles!...â The man began.
I searched for Toni and Fangs, they were standing a few feet away from him. They appeared uneasy, unsure, and afraid. They didnât know the right choices to make.
I could sense their doubt towards not only Tall Boy but Rhiannon as well. Hell, even I was doubtful about their plan. So were the others.
We didnât know anything about Rhiannon and we were gonna put her up as Serpent leader. What if she was just as bad or worse? That was the last thing we all needed.
âAnd as FPâs right hand, I will do the honor of taking his place--.â
âHa! And as FPâs daughter and rightful heir to lead, I, Rhiannon Jones will take his place!â The doubts and second thoughts were put to rest when her very voice and audacity broke through the bar.
We all turned to see her coolly looking up at Tall Boy with her arms crossed over her chest.
Tension thickened the air and the focus was on the girl that was sitting a few inches away from me. Everyoneâs eyes were on her and she wasnât bothered or fazed one bit.
âYou canât claim anything Princess!â Tall Boy snapped at her.
âYou deserted the throne! You are no longer entitled to anything!â He was annoyed that a girl would stand against him.
âExactly! Youâre just a Toledo Serpent!â Another Serpent stepped in to back him up. A few others agreed. She simply scoffed, rolling her eyes.
I exchanged looks with my friends again. Toni was getting ready to defend Rhiannon once more but the Serpent Princess herself was already on it. The first executions were already lined up at the guillotine.
âYes thatâs true gentlemen but...â Rhiannon casually paused mid-sentence, searching through her jacket pockets to take a cigarette. At this point, I thought she was cool.
I watched her light it up and take a few hits, some of the smoke escaping her nostrils like a dragon waiting to breathe fire. She even made smoking look hot.
She leaned down to where a small duffel bag pooled at the leg of her seat. She took out another leather jacket but it wasnât just any kind, this one meant business. It was everything that she stood for.
She stood up, letting her Toledo Serpent patch flash for the last time before holding the other jacket out to me, motioning for me to take it.
âYou wanna do my the honors, skyscraper?â I raised my brows, chuckling. She had balls Iâll give you that. Shit, they were bigger than mine.
âThe honor is all mine, crybaby.â I held the jacket out for her as she shrugged off the old and slipped into the new.
The tension grew when they all laid eyes on the higher rank patch of the Southside Serpents. She expertly pulled her long dark hair from underneath, showing off her double-headed Serpent.
âI may be a Toledo Serpent but Iâm a Southside Serpent first. The Southside comes first.â I felt the hairs on the back of my neck stand.
âThey are my family and as Serpent Princess, this is my gang now.â Her voice came out with bitter intimidation. She wasnât up for playing games.
The Serpents separated as she walked forward, forming a line on either side of her. It was almost as if she was walking down the meet the final boss in a video game, only this was real.
Toniâs eyes lit up with relief. After holding her breath for so long she relaxed, and our group felt the same way. Rhiannon Jones was going to be our leader and weâve been saved.
The smoke from her cigarette followed behind Rhiannon with every step that she made. I stood up to join Toni, Fangs, and the others as we watched and waited.
âYou really think that just being FPâs right hand gives you the right to claim my Serpents?â The bitter tone never left her. A chill went down my spine. No one dared to question her, not even Tall Boy.
âJeez, let a man breathe will ya?â I whispered.
âRemind me not to piss in her cereal.â Gecko whispered nervously.
âSheâs stone cold Iâll give you that.â Blade chuckled.
âI told you guys she would do it.â Toni added, looking up at us.
âI canât believe sheâs actually doing it and we didnât even tell her anything.â Fangs mentioned, looking surprised.
âIâm not sure if you buried your nose in a bad batch of nose candy but itâs rewired your dumbass brain. I mean, assuming that it is.â My eyes went wide and a few gasps were let out. Holy shit.
Toni and the guys tried to stifle a laugh. Fangs brought his hands to his mouth, doing the same. Some of the Serpents barely let out a laugh in fear of not wanting to pay the consequences.
âNow that weâve gotten that cleared up-- Some of you may not remember FP having a twin to his only son Jughead but heâs asked me to take over the Serpents while heâs on timeout.â Rhiannon turned to look at us now. I was under a trance from watching her.
She was dominant and naturally confident. She knew how to handle the attention. She liked the attention. No wonder Toni and Fangs were always talking about her.
She just had this thing where it was hard not to like her. Adore her even. No matter how cold she could be you had to love her even more for it.
âThatâs a load of crap!â Tall Boy taunted.
âFP would never fetch for you!â We watched back and forth, becoming scared when her head snapped to look at him.
She took a few steps forward, meeting face-to-face with him. She never blinked. Not even once. I had an odd feeling that Rhiannon Jones ate men like him for breakfast.
âKnow your place foot soldier. Youâre talking to your superior now.â I winced at her cold words yet again. Ouch, a foot soldier?
At hearing the disrespect, Tall Boy became angry. His jaw was set and he rolled his shoulders, signaling that all hell was going to break loose. Some of the Serpents stepped back.
The cigarette that Rhiannon was smoking disappeared under her heel. She relaxed her own shoulders, inching more forward with her hands on her hips in a dominant manner.
âIf thereâs a problem, let me know and weâll fix it right here right now. Everyone as our witness.â There was a mean and evil smile that formed on her lips as she spoke.
I felt my heart skip a beat. Who knew evil would ever look so good on anyone? Especially if they had such an innocent face.
âAnyone who wants to defy me can step up too.â She added.
âWhat?!â Fangs hissed.
âIs she serious?â He looked down at Toni who was now scared.
âRhinnie... what are you doing?â She whimpered, lacing her hand with his.
There is no way in hell she was going to agree to fight Tall Boy and anyone else. Not her alone. That was impossible.
âHa! Iâm not gonna take orders from a little girl!â Tall Boy bit.
âThat little girl you remember so fondly doesnât exist anymore, so get used to it.â I smirked at seeing her sassy side come out. She was perfect.
She searched among the crowd, finding Toni and Fangs. They both shared the same nervous and anxious faces but deep down they were also rooting for her. They wanted Rhiannon to challenge the Elders. They wanted her to prove that she was born to be a leader.
Her bright blue eyes met mine and there was that same glimmer they had last night. She was determined and I too was rooting for her.
I nodded at her, making the evil smile she once had morph into a soft one. Despite her need to be the Alpha of the club, she still managed to let some of her guard down. For me.
âWell, just remember...â She sighed, returning to look up at the tall man for a brief second.
âI warned you.â There it was. Her evil smile.
No one saw it coming due to her quickness. She elbowed Tall Boy in the head, causing him to drop to his knees and groan in pain.
âOh-ho, shit!â Marcus let out a small laugh.
âOh fuck that was wicked!â Gecko whistled.
The gasps turned into whistles and catcalls. Everyone seemed to favor a girl that could fight.
âOh my god...â Fangs let out, bringing a fist to his mouth.
âThis canât be Rhinnie!â Toni watched in shock as her best friend took down the very man we were all afraid of within a blink of an eye.
I chuckled at how right I was about Rhiannon knowing how to kick some ass. Iâd be lying if I said I wasnât turned on because my dick was up alright.
âI will fight for my father to keep his place as King if I have to!â Her voice ripped through the air. It was chilling.
âI wonât let any of you rando scumbags take that away from him!â She jumped off the stage, clashing with the defying Serpents.
We all spread out, forming a circle around the fight to form a ring. Everyone was riled up, throwing curses, cheers, and shouts at the carnage in front of them. We looked like crazed rich idiots at a dog fight.
âCome on Rhiannon!â Fangs clapped.
âLetâs go, Jones!â Blade barked, cheering on the beauty full of bloodlust.
âGet in there!â Marcus followed, doing an air uppercut to mimic her.
âSweet Pea do something! Get her out of there or sheâll get hurt!â Toni shouted, tugging on my arm.
âNo way! Sheâs doing great!â I shouted back, not being able to hear me through the commotion.
We both looked back at the fight seeing Rhiannon and her lightning-speed fighting. She reminded me a lot of Black Widow from The Avengers. What does that say about her?
Rhiannon had run, jumped, and wrapped her legs around one of the Serpentâs necks, spinning around, and then throwing them to the ground. She landed perfectly upright and anticipated more.
âHoly shit... how did she do that?â Toni gasped.
âOh-ho, sheâs fucking awesome!â I had become excited that I didnât realize I was cheering Rhiannon on the entire time.
Someone punched her square in the cheek, scratching it open and causing blood to pool out of her mouth. She looked... hot.
âOoo!â Some winced at the scene.
âGet in there!â Others commented.
Annoyed, she spat a thick amount of blood onto the floor. My stomach turned at seeing the chunks of skin that glistened under the lighting.
âCongrats!...â She smiled sarcastically, blood staining her perfect pearly whites.
âYou just pissed me the fuck off!â She shouted. Another chill went down my spine and my heart skipped a few more beats. I was feeling hot again and I was actually finding this... attractive.
If she could fight this good I bet she could fight better under the sheets. Again, this is what you think of man?
Rhiannon then reached for a chair, breaking it against her opponentâs head and causing a loud crashing sound. She knocked the third Serpent down within seconds. Holy shit this girl is crazy!
âOuch!â Blade seethed.
âOhhh shit!â Marcus held his mouth.
âOh, motherfucker!â Fangs clung onto me now.
âOh fuck yeah!â I let out as I held onto him too.
A Serpent ran towards her again, gripping her throat and slamming her against a pool table. This was nothing for her because with the help of her huge rings she sent two hard blows to the guyâs forehead, breaking his concentration.
âYeah! Thatâs how it feels!â Fangs continued with his banter.
âCome on crybaby! Show âem whoâs boss!â I cheered.
Smash. Another chair went. How could someone so innocent-looking be able to fight like such a badass?
Iâm actually considering this being love at first sight because I was in love. If I thought she took my breath away she took my heart with her.
I decided on coming to terms that I might want a serious relationship with Rhiannon. Maybe even more.
âFair game!â A Serpent called.
I focused back on the fight and noticed she went up against one of our own good street fighters and they came out a tie with Rhiannon in the lead by a lot.
Respects were shared and she disappeared within the crowd moments after where she went for the bar to grab a quick shot before heading out. This was my chance.
âShit Topaz why didnât you tell us your friend was that cool?â Marcus began, tossing an arm around Toni. She rolled her eyes.
âWe could have called her up ages ago!â
âI mean I didnât know about the fighting part... but I told you she was more than capable!â She said.
The group had gathered to talk but I slipped away. I went behind the bar counter where I grabbed a water bottle from the cooler, grabbed my bandanna from my jacket pocket, and headed out.
As I jogged down the steps, I found a small moving figure sitting on a bike. It was her. She seemed a little off and as if her social meter had drastically run out.
âWant some company?â I asked. She turned to look up at me slightly startled.
âYou actually scared me.â She chuckled lightly. I smiled, sitting on the bike beside her.
âHere let me help you...â I took her hands in mine, feeling the same rush of warmth I felt earlier.
Our eyes met for a brief second before I went back to our hands. I opened them, gently massaging between her knuckles. She relaxed and let out a whimper from the small delight I gave her. She was tired.
âYou fought hard in there. Iâm proud of you.â I said mindlessly. I meant it.
She looked at me surprised when she heard me. She didnât expect someone to say such things to her, especially me.
âThanks.â She whispered, giving me a small smile. There goes my heart skipping another beat like some pussy whipped idiot.
My fingers went over her crescent moon scars. I noticed them earlier when we were playing darts. They seemed old and reused. I figured this was a bad habit.
âI noticed you have these...â I lingered. I felt her watching me.
âHow long have you had them?â I pulled away to grab the water bottle, drenching my bandanna with it to help wipe off the blood and clean the open skin.
âFor as long as I can remember.â She replied. I nodded, continuing with my work.
Itâs no secret I was good at patching people up. It was no secret I was good at these sorts of things in general. I got it from my father.
âYou got issues dude.â I teased, making us both break out in laughter.
âYou have nooo idea.â She added.
Once I was finished, I pulled away from her. We had gone into a comfortable silence, staring at each other. There was this pull between us and we were both trying to desperately fight it off but I was already a slave to it ever since last night.
âYou know, that was pretty badass what you did.â I smiled now.
âJust watch a lot of Action movies with fighting scenes and youâre set.â She shrugged.
âI did take up some lessons from the streets though. Nothing is better than a good old-fashioned street fight.â I chuckled, shaking my head.
âNah, I donât think that was from Action movies. Thatâs real biker bitch energy.â I corrected. She looked away shyly. I was able to catch some of the rose on her cheeks brightening up her face.
I chuckled, running my hands through my hair to relieve some of the built up tension I had. If I could I would love to be laid up with her right now.
âFangs and Toni have told me so much about you from the time Iâve known them. I always thought you were interesting.â I donât know what was making me admit this to her. She raised a brow, not being able to buy what I told her.
She seemed used to receiving this type of flattery from other people. It made me wonder what kind of guys sheâs dealt with.
âReally?â She lingered. I nodded.
âYou can say Iâm more drawn to you.â She scoffed.
Her eyes were sharing the same desire that I was feeling but her face was saying otherwise. She was trying to protect herself.
âWhen I became a Serpent, that night, my parents got into a fight. A big one...â She began.
âMy dad was a deadbeat-- probably still is-- and my mom couldnât take it anymore.â She leaned up against the bike coolly, watching my reaction.
âHer last straw was when I got patched in with the Serpents. The next morning she hung my old man and my brother high and dry. She didnât want to do it alone so she dragged me and my sister into her mess.â She was scared of getting hurt.
âItâs funny when I think about it now considering sheâs a gang leader. She didnât support me being a Serpent but she forced me into her gang.â I softened at hearing her. She must have gone through a lot to get where she is right now.
It almost made me feel relieved that I didnât go through that much of a struggle. I mean I felt sorry for her of course but something was telling me to not show too much of that towards her. She didnât want to be treated as a special case.
Thereâs a lot that sheâs hiding and not telling but that was all to be revealed on its own. I understood her completely and I held nothing against her. I hope Toni and Fangs do the same.
âSo Sweet Pea, are you more drawn to me now? Because I have issues that not even you could handle.â Her words came out like a challenge but they were serious. I was starting to really enjoy the company of Rhiannon.
I leaned my head back to laugh, reaching across to pinch her nose. I nearly lost it when her pouty lips stuck out.
âMore drawn to you thank you think, crybaby.â I replied. She was impressed.
âSo you donât think Iâm delicate or need to be treated differently?â I shook my head.
âEveryone has their own deep shit. Iâve dealt with my own for too long that I finally decided to let someone in.â She lightly smiled at hearing me.
âYou know, ever since I moved back home I feel more like myself. Iâm happy to be home.â She said now. I can tell sheâs missed this town.
âAre you saying that because youâre our new Serpent leader?â I teased. She chuckled, shaking her head.
âNo. I mean it. Serpent leader or not, this is my home. Serpents are my family.â We couldnât help but connect our eyes again. Itâs becoming a habit.
âTo be honest darlinâ, I didnât take you as a leader when I first saw you. I didnât even know you were FPâs baby girl.â She bit her lip.
âWhy because Iâm a girl?â She teased back.
I pushed off the bike, leaning forward to trap her with my arms. She inhaled sharply at seeing our faces only inches apart. Her eyes went from my lips to my own and back. She wanted me to do something.
I tucked away at a strand of her dark hair. It felt soft and it was very curly. It suited her.
âThatâs not it.â I whispered, savoring the tease.
She couldnât contain the flush on her face and it only made me go further.
âYouâre a devil disguised as a sweet angel. Your face is so innocent-looking that no amount of tattoos and leather jackets can hide it. I see right through them. I can see right through you, Rhiannon.â Her lips parted, gasping.
âSure youâre a baddie at heart but you canât help show you have a huge amount of good. You have a heart.â I leaned closer, letting our lips rub against each other. I wanted to kiss her.
âYou think you know so much about me?â She whispered on my lips. I smiled.
âI honestly donât know jack shit about you.â This made us crack.
Hearing her genuine laugh for the first time, was all that I needed to assure me I wanted her more than anything at the moment.
âBut it doesnât hurt to do get to know you... because I really want to.â I admitted once more. My eyes scanned her face. She was speechless.
âGive me your phone.â I said as she searched through her jacket, handing it to me. She didnât have a password so I easily unlocked it and went right for her phonebook, adding my number.
Once I was finished and it was just the two of us again, I leaned in to take her face in my hands, enjoying the touch of her cool skin.
âItâs gonna be one hell of a ride for us, darlinâ.â I said.
âLetâs get riding then.â She added before I closed the space.
I gave her a small and single kiss on the lips. It was sweet and innocent, just how I imagined.
It was safe to say that I was very please with Rhiannon Jones and I couldnât wait to let her blow my mind away.
âTHE PRETTY FACE WITH AN UGLY SOUL & A DARK PAST.â
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Warnings/Triggers: Small cursing
Word Count: +2.3k
A/N: Inspiration: Kiwi - Harry Styles
»»»»»»
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âMan, this shit with the new leader is rough!â Fangs let out as he made his mark. I watched and waited for my turn.
We were gathered at a pool table talking and chatting. It was late in the evening.
âItâs just bullshit! No one wants Tall Boy up. We have to do something Fangs!â Toni cursed from the table she was sitting at. She was only a few feet away.
âWhat can we do Toni? FPâs kid doesnât want anything to do with us and Rhiannon... sheâs gone... we donât even know where she is.â He looked up at her as he said this. There was a slight tone of hurt in his voice.
âI know... but we canât just sit here and let this happen.â She said again. I sighed, going for my turn at shots.
When morning came, the Serpents were called in early for a meeting at the Wyrm. We had to set up court later to vote for our new leader. This was a rather sensitive topic since we were currently riding without a King.
With FP being our Serpent King and out of the race, that left the club in a vulnerable position. Any rival gang can decide to attack us and weâd be wiped out within a blink of an eye. We needed a new direction and we needed it fast.
There were a few Serpents who were next in line, two of them being the famous Jones twins, Rhiannon and Jughead. They were a special case.
Jughead, being FPâs only son, was supposed to take up the mantle when the time came, but he wasnât interested in our affairs. His mind, body, and soul belonged to the Northside.
Rhiannon was the second, she was a Southside Serpent herself and she was one of the first kid Serpents of my generation from the ripe age of seven. Toni and Fangs were part of the handful themselves.
According to Toni, Mrs. Jones took her away along with the third Jones child and disappeared. No one knows where they went. They were here one day and gone the next.
Then there was one man in particular that a few of the Serpents my age didnât take to. Tall Boy.
Donât get me wrong, the man was a good crew member but he couldnât lead for anything. The last time FP was out on Kingâs business and Tall Boy filled in for him, we were clashing with The Ghoulies and several other gangs left and right. We made some serious enemies because of him.
âWhat if we ask Joaquin to ask his boyfriend if he can look her up in the police database? I bet they have something about her there. They have to!â Toni rambled on, thinking of a way to get her friend home.
Toni has always been hopeful of Rhiannon coming back to Riverdale. She swears by the Uktena spirits that she will return. Fangs was equally as hopeful but even he saw the unlikeliness of that happening. I felt bad for them because I knew how much they loved her.
âNah, Joaquin wonât like that, you know how he is when it comes to Kevin.â Fangs shook his head.
âIt doesnât hurt to try!â She groaned, rolling her eyes in annoyance.
The two started to argue back and forth and I drifted off on my own, going back to last night when I had bumped into the very thing of beauty who was clouding my mind. She was so beautiful.
I chuckled softly at remembering her tough act. She was crying and looked a little broken, but she still managed to brush all of that off to kick some ass. She reminded me of Toni who was able to switch between moods so quickly.
Despite my obvious attraction towards her, I hated how she effortlessly managed to make me feel some type of way, but a part of me didnât mind it. A part of me wanted more.
I still didnât want to think about relationships, let alone a girl. I didnât want to grow comfortable with someone with who I was most likely going to dump or purposely fuck things up with when it gets too serious.
âWhat do you think, Sweet Pea? Will you help us?â Toni asked me now. I couldnât hear her as I continued to get lost in my thoughts.
The crybabyâs beauty, face, and essence just stuck with me. It was so rare for a face to stick with me, so why is it happening with her?
She seemed to be into makeup but it didnât overpower what she was born with. Her innocent-looking face and pouty lips. Her ocean blue eyes and dilated pupils sparkled when she looked up at me.
âDamn.â I cursed, hitting a few 8-balls and making it in the slots.
âGod dammit.â I cursed again. Why her?
âSweet Pea!â Fangs tried to get my attention this time.
My lips formed into an unintentional smile. She was so beautiful without even trying.
Her long, wavy, and raven hair draped over her shoulders with the front resting on her right side. Her clothes hugged her body tightly, showing off her great figure.
I stopped, bringing my forehead to my hand when I realized I never asked for her name. Out of all things I forget, I didnât ask for her name?!
âIdiot!â I let out annoyed.
âYo!â Fangs snapped his fingers in front of me, bringing me back to the conversation.
âSorry, what were you saying?â I shook my head to shake off the fact that I was distracted by a girl. They both eyed me closely.
âOkay, whatâs got you in this dream-like state? Youâve been like this all morning.â Toni said, taking a sip of her drink.
âWhat? No one. Itâs nothing.â I lied.
âI asked for a what not a who.â She smiled evilly. Shit.
âWait, someoneâs got you like this? Whoâs the girl?â Fangs became interested.
âFor fuck sakes alright! Yes, itâs a girl!â I groaned, giving up. I really need to stop giving myself away like that.
âFinally! I thought you were gonna end up catching herpes or worse dude.â Toni teased seriously.
âShut up!â I scoffed.
âSo, whoâs the lucky broad buddy? Tell us.â Fangs edged on.
âI bumped into her last night at the park after making a run...â I bit my lip.
âShe was just-- just so beautiful and hot and innocent.â I didnât bother to hide my attraction anymore.
âBeautiful and innocent, eh?â Toni lingered.
âShe better not be one of those girls you just randomly hook up with because then youâll really set the bar low not only for us Serpents but for yourself.â Fangs added. I scrunched my face in offense.
âWhat? Nah man, this girl is way better than what I pick up. Sheâs different.â I defended.
âShe looks like she got brains and style. Sheâs sassy, has a little humor, maybe a little kinky...â I smiled shyly as I thought about her.
âSheâs probably-- if not-- one of the finest but I mean finest broads Iâve ever seen and Iâve seen pretty.â They both exchanged surprised looks.
âWow, she must be a sight for sore eyes then?â Toni smiled. They both continued to listen to me rant about crybaby.
âAnd she had these amazing blue eyes that were like the ocean. I felt relaxed when I looked into them.â I emphasized her beauty once more. I bet I sounded like some pussy whipped idiot.
âOn top of that, she seems to know how to kick some good ass. Do any of you know her? I never got her name.â I asked them.
âHuh, no idea who she is.â Toni replied, taking another sip of her drink.
âIs she a new girl in town?â Fangs asked.
âYeah, I forgot where she was from but she said she recently arrived.â I returned to our game.
âDid she tell you how recent?â Toni continued. I shook my head.
âThere hasnât been word of a girl who recently moved here. You said you saw her at Sunnyside?â Fangs added. I nodded.
âWhat did you say her eyes were like again? Did she look like someone we know?â Toni asked again. Right when I was about to answer her, I froze at seeing the very face of the person I was talking about. I felt my heart sink to my ass.
My beloved crybaby had appeared from behind to wrap her arms around Toni, kissing her cheek and whispering in her ear. It was smooth work.
âRhiannon!â Toni let out, turning abruptly to hug her.
âRhiannon?! Where?!â Fangs then stopped to look up, gasping.
âOh my god, youâre back!â He tossed his pool stick to the side and rushed over to the pair.
I was taken aback by how they both clung onto crybaby-- I mean, Rhiannon, for dear life.
I smirked at finally being able to meet the Rhiannon Jones that these two were always talking about. The girl who I didnât mind giving a try if I was granted the chance.
There was never a day that went by where Fangs and Toni didnât talk about her. They were always mentioning how tough she was but also how very sweet and kind she is.
A rush of embarrassment suddenly filled me at realizing that crybaby was actually Rhiannon and Rhiannon was the face that stuck with me. It was her. Fuck.
âHow come we didnât see you at school?â My throat tightened at hearing Toni. She was gonna go to Southside High? Thatâs it, Iâm dropping out.
âJust things with my brother... I promise to tell you guys everything if we have a sleepover.â No wonder she looked so familiar, she was Jonesâ twin sister. They didnât look too much alike but you could definitely see the resemblance.
âBut before we do any celebrating of our own, you have to meet our newest group member.â Fangs said now, taking hold of Rhiannonâs hand and leading her towards me. Dammit Fangs, the betrayal.
âThis is Sweet Pea. Heâs become more of my best friend but heâs part of our small trio.â He introduced us, standing beside me to pat his hand on my back.
Rhiannon then stood in front of me, easily stopping at my chest just like she did last night. Her blue eyes lit up with mischief as she remembered me. I tried to hold back a smile but it was hard when a girl like her was looking at me.
âIâve missed you, skyscraper.â She teased, dusting off my shoulder coolly. I laughed, shaking my head at her pet name for me.
âMissed you more, crybaby.â I teased back, leaning against the table and using the pool stick to support my arm. I was ready to fold underneath her then and there and I needed balance.
âWhat?! You guys already met?â Fangs let out with disappointment.
âWhy am I not surprised.â Toni rolled her eyes at how dense our friend could be.
âSo Iâm guessing this is the finest broad youâve ever seen?â Toni asked, smirking evilly from putting me in the hot seat.
The three of them looked up at me, waiting for a response. There was this playful but stunned look on Rhiannonâs face.
âYeah, am I?â She lingered. Her ocean eyes lit up with mischief and even though I wanted to play, I had to put some sort of distance between us. I was still skeptical.
âI donât know what youâre talking about.â I simply said, standing up straight and clearing my throat.
I went back to my game, ignoring her careful eyes on me. For some reason, I was oddly enjoying her attention.
âWell Sweet Pea I hate to break it to you but Fangs is my best friend.â She emphasized now, linking her arm with Fangs.
âHa! Youâll have to fight me for that one.â I smirked.
âNow, now, you two can share.â Fangs let out nervously. She shook her head, pouting and pulling puppy eyes.
âBut I want you more.â She whined innocently.
My mind went to dark and forbidden thoughts. I wonder how she would sound if I made her say those exact words to me? I may be slightly jealous of Fangs at the moment.
Fangs and Toni went to talk with each other about later tonight, seeing if they could get the rest of our group to support Rhiannon as a Serpent leader. They were determined to find Tall Boyâs replacement.
While they did this, it gave me the chance to be alone with Rhiannon and get comfortable with each other.
âSo I finally get to meet the very girl that those two dorks donât stop talking about.â I motioned to the pair, making my shot. We were up against each other in our game of pool. She had taken over Fangsâ game.
âYou can call me Rhinnie or Lady or whatever you wanna call me, but yeah I guess so.â She lightly chuckled, waiting out her turn before she could step up.
âWhyâd you leave?â My curiosity jumped out right away.
âThatâs a hard question.â She sighed, seeming sad thinking about her reasons. I can tell she was hiding a lot of pain.
I went to pass behind her, getting a better glance of her angle. I caught a whiff of the same amazing scent she wore last night. It filled my nostrils like an overwhelming scented candle.
My chest brushed against her back and our eyes met smoothly. I was suddenly feeling hot and bothered.
If I could I would take her upstairs into FPâs office and put her to work. Then again, she looked like she would make me do the work. That I wouldnât mind.
Rhiannon had this dominating presence that was slightly intimidating. Anyone could easily misinterpret it as her being standoff-ish but she meant well. She proved it.
âFamily stuff that landed me out of state.â She finally answered.
âInteresting.â I nodded, quickly making my shot.
I knew that wasnât it. There was more. I wanted to pry but I had to give up and wait for the appropriate place to ask. I couldnât risk it.
âYour turn darlinâ.â I said, tilting my head to her.
She tried to hold back a smile but she couldnât. I felt my heart come up to my throat. She was so beautiful when she smiled.
