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verenea · 3 months

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II. Mutually Assured Destruction

Their practice started with conditioning drills. It should've been easy and normal for Vanessa, even with the harsh amount of sets their coach made them do. But her mind wasn't really just in the right place, her focus on Beth a few feet beside her. Add to that, her lack of sleep. She didn't ignore the girl, no. But she did limit their conversation every time Beth initiates one.

Vanessa stopped looking at Beth when Colette finally spoke up, acknowledging that all of them aren't in their best condition. The alcohol they consumed last night are still in their system, the headaches being a harsh motherfucker.

"You all look ride hard and put up wet, like maybe you were up to no good last night."

Vanessa breathed in deeply as she tried steadying her heartbeat while doing tuck jumps. She stopped and put her hand over her mouth in reflex as she felt the bile going up her throat. She forced it down with a gulp, she can't vomit in front of everyone in the squad, especially Colette French.

Speaking of her, the woman gave a disappointed sigh and continues, "Okay, stop."

At her words, the girls all breathed a sigh of relief before sitting down the math and hunched over in exhaustion. Everyone breathing heavily after the grueling exercise they just went through.

"Go home. Sleep it off," instructed Colette, her gaze surveying the girls before settling on Addy and then to Beth. "You two, my office." she pointed to the two before heading out of the gym.

Vanessa stopped herself from asking Beth. If she did, then her effort all day will all be just for naught. Instead, she sat down the mat to rest and after a few seconds heard RiRi call out to her.

"Did you know what's up?" gesturing to the two girls as they disappeared behind the doors. The redhead shook her head, "I reckon that's one of their little secrets."

"It's shocking that you don't look alright, Ness." Brianna joins in their conversation. "You always seem to be fine even after a night of heavy drinking. But right now, you look damn exhausted like the rest of us."

"I just didn't get enough sleep, that's all." she replied before getting up and walking towards the doors. "Where you going?" RiRi asked worriedly as the girl in question waves her hand to bid goodbye. "I still have an internship I need to go to."

***

"Now you don't look to good." Klein remarked as soon as he sees Vanessa. "I'm fine, it's just a headache."

Klein stood up as he shakes his head, "Nope, it's obviously more than just a headache. Vanessa, go home."

"I can't. Klein, you know what's up. That house is nothing more but an empty home. I'm too tired to be in there, at least here I wouldn't be too bored."

He was hesitant and worried, but in the end, he couldn't help but let the girl stay. And so, stay she did. Vanessa silently read and checked the manuscripts she was given to copy edit. A hand on her shoulder interrupted her focus, then a familiar voice.

"Hey, you look beat Nessa."

The redhead tilted her head up to look at the owner of the voice, placing her hand on top of the girl's to give it a little squeeze as a greeting. "Isn't today one of your day offs?" Vanessa questioned.

"Well, I dropped in to give Dad a surprise coffee. A brief hi, wouldn't bother you, no?"

A shake of her head and a smile. "Of course not,"

"But now, I think my greeting's not going to be quick." Amelia Winters grabbed a near swivel chair and sat down. "Nessa, you do know you can take a leave if you weren't feeling well."

The redhead was about to respond but stopped after Amelia placed her finger on the girl's lips, silencing her. "No excuses. I'll tell Klein to put you off for today." she mutters before standing up.

"Lia, I was the one who insisted. I'm literally fine, I swear."

A roll of the eyes and a pout of the lips. Soon, the blonde sat back down. "Okay, why don't we do this. I'm going to help you finish all this. And as soon as we're done, you're mine for the rest of the day."

Vanessa forced a small smile at her, "As much as I want to, I can't do much after this Lia." with the latter shaking her head. "Who said we're going to do something? You, Miss Vanessa Carr is going to take a rest at my house. I can't have you driving home in that condition, no."

"I appreciate the-" Amelia quickly cuts her off, "It's a deal then," before grabbing one of the manuscripts out of the small pile with a smug face.

"Don't worry, I'll make sure you'll have good rest."

***

Beth's form was perfect. Anyone could see that she's the perfect for the role of a top girl. "Chest up. Eyes up. Everything tight." said Colette after the stunt.

"That's how it's done." Vanessa commented with a proud smile directed to Beth as Colette nods at the redhead's words. "It is," But even after acknowledging that Beth's excellent, the woman still ready to take the risk. By putting a freshman as the flyer for a basket toss

"And now, we will do it again...with Tacy."

"My god," Vanessa cursed under her breath as she rolls her eyes.

Her eyes then trailed as the girl looked at her friends with a smug look before walking towards the mat and stopping beside Beth. Still, no one made a move to get into position.

I mean did she really think they'll want to toss Tacy up? It's like choosing a dish cooked by an amateur over a dish that was cooked by a professional chef with just the same price.

"You heard me elevator her up." Colette instructed the girls.

This time, RiRi spoke up. "Why? If Beth's the better top girl, aren't we just wasting time?"

Colette let out a sigh. "Listen up all of you. Getting into regionals isn't about one girl. It's about one squad, regardless of who's on top."

"Coach is right," Surprise filled Vanessa when her ears heard Beth's words. "You remember what she said. Top girl is a girl that can control herself. And last Friday night, I didn't see a lot of self-control."

Vanessa recognized that something was up at her best friend's last sentence, feeding her curiosity. Obviously, it was a jab, one that is directed towards Coach.

Colette started to saunter around them, her eyes still on Beth the whole time. "Self-control's just the beginning. What we need to see is hard work, sacrifice, trust. If we can't count each other, we fail. If we can't trust, we lose."

"Trust can be misplaced, you know." Vanessa starts before shifting her gaze towards Tacy. "Once you've placed your trust on the wrong person, all that hard work, the sacrifice—you did for them,"

She paused as her eyes went back to Colette, "...would all just be wasted." before getting off the mat shortly after, leaving the air more tense than earlier.

Colette didn't retort back. She can't. Even she knows Vanessa got a point. She was forced to place her trust on the the two teens for them not to tell anyone about the affair. But the question is, can they really be trusted?

The woman sighs, forcing the thought away before instructing the girls again. "Now, let's go."

Beth walked off the mat with Addy following her soon after. "I didn't expect for you to come on hard, Nessa." Beth stood beside Vanessa, sporting a proud smile.

"Oh please, I'm just getting started."

Addy stared at the redhead for a few seconds, before looking back at coach with a worried gaze. It was then when Vanessa gave Addy the side eye, noticing the latter's peculiar reaction at her words.

***

Vanessa confidently walks through the hallways, a lollipop on her mouth, Beth in the middle of her and RiRi. The two best friends ignore the looks of admiration, lust and jealousy they were receiving from their fellow schoolmates, while RiRi was entertaining a few.

The redhead rolls her eyes at the sight of Jordy Jones, bringing his hand up before imitating a gun as it recoils after a shot, as his friend quickly reprimanded him.

"Best control your little friend, unless you want me to." said Beth as she glanced at the two boys, with the three stopping right in front of Addy.

Vanessa let go of Beth's hand as she leaned against the lockers beside Addy. She broke into a smirk before gesturing towards the side with her eyebrow, "Look who's here again,"

The three girls followed her gaze to see Will walking through the hallway, greeting a jock briefly. RiRi soon adds, "Sarge has never been here two weeks in a row before. He must love us." earning a light chuckle from the redhead.

"Cold." Beth remarked as the marine passed by the four girls, ignoring Vanessa's playful wink. "After everything we shared Friday night."

Vanessa pulled the lollipop out of her mouth, "I wonder if he's here for a tryst." as she turns to face the three. "What do you think?"

"That girl must be lucky," RiRi answers before sizing him up and down. "Sarge's one hell of a snack, honestly."

Beth gazed at Addy playfully, "You never know, it might be a woman." before looking back at Vanessa with a smile.

As if on cue, the bell rang. "Anyways, see you later at practice bitches." the redhead winked before turning around and walking away.

***

Vanessa had just landed on her feet when Colette walked inside the gym, "Alright everybody, huddle up."

The girls surrounded their coach as she brought her iPad out. The woman then played a video, showing it to the girls as they watched silent, assessing the bid video with their watchful eyes.

"Tight, clean, perfect. This is Jeff East, my last squad, the bid video that got them into regionals and then all the way to states." Colette explained to the girls when Beth spoke up, "Where they came in fifth," as she continued staring at her nails instead of watching the video.

Vanessa couldn't help but snicker at Beth's comment, before quickly forcing her expression back to seriousness. Beth glanced up for a second to see Colette clenching her jaw.

"They wanted it. They worked for it. It happened." her eyes looking around the girls as she locked the iPad continuing her words, "And it could be you...now that you've been invited to submit.

As soon as those words have been said, gasps of surprise and excitement broke the silence. Vanessa eagerly winked at Brianna standing next to her, who returned it with a smile.

"That's why for the next two weeks, everything that we do in practice is about our video. Forget football games. Forget sideline cheer. The video is the only one thing that matters. Okay, let's get started on that tumbling."

Vanessa was excited, the hunger to be noticed, the hunger to be acknowledge were back full force. She had quickly decided that she'll be calling Klein later to share the news and inform him that she's planning to stop going to the company for the time being.

She was stretching her body, preparing to do her role perfectly when she heard Coach call out to Addy to talk. The redhead glanced at Beth and Addy in curiosity, but in the end, she walked towards the girls lined up, ready to do the tumbles.

Later, after their practice had ended, the girls were back at the lockers. She immediately felt that there was a tension between Beth and Addy as soon as she got closer. "Did something happen?" she questioned with furrowed eyebrows.

"It's rare to see you two this...tense."

Addy looks up at Vanessa, "It's noth-" but before she can finish, Beth cuts in. "It's just about the video,"

The redhead picked on the fact that Addy froze. "The bid video we need to submit." she continues before standing up and grabbing the redhead's arm. "Accompany me in the showers?"

Vanessa smiles weakly before glancing behind to look at Addy, who in turn gave her a forced smile. In the end, she let herself be dragged away by the brunette, letting the doubts be sealed away. For now, of course.

Something was going on. With the two being called by Coach the day after Friday night, Beth's statement about self-control which was obviously directed at Coach, and lastly was Addy's conversation with Coach earlier in practice.

With how she reacted when Beth mentions a video, that must be it. But what video...?

***

"Are you sure you can't find it?" asked Vanessa as she came to a stop in front of RiRi, Beth, and Addy.

RiRi then looked at Beth, "You know, I bet it's in the Jeep. Once, I find mine melted to my dashboard. Looked like lava. Couldn't even tell it was a phone."

"Maybe." Beth replied before looking at Addy once again, "Or maybe it went missing before that,"

Vanessa was able to tell something was up. She can notice the stare Beth was giving Addy. "You think it went missing at practice?" she heard RiRi ask, getting her attention.

Beth shrugged before looking at Addy once again, "Yeah." Right then and there, an idea formed; Beth has a video in her phone that Addy was so obsessed with.

It's not much a bit of a stretch. Before Beth mentions a video when I asked, the air was already tense. And now apparently, Beth's phone is missing after their conversation at the lockers.

Vanessa watch as Addy opens her mouth, "Here's an idea—buy a new one."

Beth and Addy arrived at the same answer to Addy's suggestion. The redhead starts, giving a glance to Beth, "Buy a new one,"

"…terrorists win." the brunette ended as they both look back at Addy. "Besides, I think I'm gonna get that phone back,"

RiRi broke the silence with a question, "So, you're gonna live without a phone?" as Beth gave her a smile, "No. You are." grabbing the girl's phone away from her hands and then proceeding to reach out to Vanessa's arm. "Let's go, we'll be late for class."

Vanessa let herself be dragged away by Beth and when she was sure there are out of earshot, the redhead asks, "Care to tell me what's really happening?"

"Nothing's happening."

Vanessa let out a sigh as she halted in her steps, "I've known you since we were kids, Beth. I've watched you two closely for years. Believe me when I say I can notice it. And I do,"

"So tell me, did something happened after that party at Lanvers?"

Beth stared at her for a few seconds, silent. This disappointed Vanessa, greatly. "Then I guess you don't trust me enough," she muttered, shaking her head as she pulled her arm away from Beth's hand.

"Nessa." Beth called out but the girl ignored her and continued walking, disappearing as she turns to the corner.

***

Vanessa gave Beth the cold shoulder the rest of the day. She even turned down RiRi's offer to have fun after school as she knows Beth will be there. Beth needed to know that this time, she's not going to talk to her unless she'd finally trust the girl. Enough to let her in on their little secret.

As usual, she'd arrived at the quiet home. Grabbing a protein bar and a bottle of water from the kitchen, she went up to her bedroom and got change into a gym outfit. She started off her exercise with yoga, and then moved to sets of dumbbell rows. And finally doing a heavy bag training session, to let out all of her anger and disappointment inside.

As soon as the girl got out of the showers, her phone started ringing. Vanessa stared at the caller's name for a second, before hesitantly grabbing the phone to answer the call.

"Beth, look-"

"Where are you Nessa? You're missing out on all of the fun we're having!"

She can hear the music and a few voices on the background. She pressed the speaker button, as she moved to grab an outfit to wear. "Uhuh, well is Addy there right now?"

"Dairy Cream." she answered with a laugh. Not directed to her but to someone who's physically with Beth. Something Vanessa was able to work out because of a male's voice in the background.

"Please tell me you're with the boys from school. And not just with some random men."

"I'm not going to tell you, Carr. If you want to know, then come to my house. Maybe, I'll finally let a few secrets out." without giving Vanessa anytime to say something, Beth ended the swift call.

A frustrated sigh came from the redhead as she had finished tying her hair up into a ponytail. Amelia called her earlier when she was busy doing her workout. The two decided to meet and Vanessa was already dressing up to go. But now, it looks like she's going to have to choose.

She grabbed a black windbreaker from her closet before rushing downstairs and out of the house. After closing the door of the car, she decided to call Amelia to inform that something important came up. The blonde was disappointed, and a bit upset, of course. But Vanessa was able to convince the girl with a deal.

Parking her car at the side of the road, the redhead stepped out and made her way towards the front door. Knowing Beth, she's the type to let the front door unlocked after giving an invite. Without hesitation, Vanessa let herself in. Making her way towards the direction of the stairs leading towards the house's basement.

The girl couldn't help but roll her eyes when she saw familiar faces. The men with her friends are the marines recruiting at their school. She forced a smile when RiRi and her made eye contact as the latter danced with a man.

Her eyes settled on the sight of Beth dancing on top of the counter. With a sigh, she made her way towards her direction, glancing at the man staring at her friend as she danced seductively. She watched as Beth's expression change from alluring into one of excitement, before jumping off the counter to meet her.

"I've been waiting for you Nessa." Beth greeted as she grabbed both of Vanessa's hand, before pulling her to the counter. "That was fast. Were you getting ready before I called?" she asked, giving the girl a bottle of beer.

"I was. But not for this party, a friend called me earlier than you did, we were supposed to hang out." She revealed taking a swig of the alcohol right after.

Her words earned a frown from the Brunette as she suddenly grabbed the alcohol from Vanessa. "You picked someone over us?" she asked, her voice sounding a bit upset at the idea that the redhead is capable of doing something like that.

Vanessa couldn't help but look at her incredulously. "I was upset, Beth, if you still hadn't noticed." She retorts with a shake of her head. "And now, you've just made me realize I made the wrong choice."

She was about to turn and leave when the brunette grabbed her wrist tightly. "Hey, I'm sorry. It's the alcohol talking. Let's just have a bit of a fun before I answer your question, okay?"

The redhead let out a sigh before leaning back at the counter and grabbing the beer to drink. Beth smiled before seeing Kurtz staring at them. Beth winked at him, earning a smile from the man.

Vanessa's eyes followed the direction Beth was looking and saw the same man who was staring at Beth as she was dancing earlier. She looked back at Beth and asks, "Who's he? It's rare to see a new face here."

Beth answers, "Corporal Kurtz, another soldier boy." her eyes lingering at the man for a few more seconds, before seeing Vanessa was assessing him. She grabbed the redhead's chin and leaned in for a kiss.

Vanessa was surprised for a moment but was able to recover and kiss back the girl with the same fervor. Beth pushed Vanessa against the counter, her hands at the side of Vanessa's face, enjoying the intimacy. Unbeknownst to the brunette, Vanessa was still looking straight at Kurtz while kissing Beth.

After a few more seconds, Vanessa pulled away with a chuckle. "Someone's getting a hard on, Beth." she whispers to Beth before gesturing to Kurtz with her eyes.

Beth glances and sees the man looking dazed, earning a laugh from her as Vanessa walks towards the fridge. She pulled a bottle of alcohol, raising it up to Beth with a wink. The two teens then proceeded to spend the night having fun with the company of marines.

When the party ended, Beth asked Vanessa to spend the night with her as RiRi was driven home by one of the soldiers. The two laid down Beth's bed with a chuckle as Vanessa sat up seconds after. "Now, I believe you owe me a secret, Cassidy."

"I was hoping for you to forget," Beth say as she stood up and grabbed her laptop sitting on top of the table. "Vanessa Carr never forgets, remember?" remarked the redhead as she watched the brunette sat back down the bed.

"So, my phone's missing, right?" Beth starts as the MacBook booted up. "It's not really missing since you know who has it," Vanessa answered with a smirk.

Beth shook her head as a light chuckle came out. "Even with the amount of detective crime book you have; I still can't believe how much of a detective you are."

"Well, after that chaotic night at Lanvers, Addy and I went back to search for my phone. And that was when we caught a sight of this," Beth clicked on a video file before showing it to Vanessa with a cunning smile.

As the video zoomed in, she watched as Vanessa's eyes widened at the sight of their Coach doing it with Sarge Will inside his truck. "Coach Colette French fucking Soldier Boy, can you believe it?" Beth stated with a laugh.

A knowing smile tugged the corner of the redhead's lips as she glances at Beth. "I guess this was the self-control you were talking about that time." Beth hums in affirmation. "And I'm guessing this is not the only time, they've done this."

"When I said that he's probably having a tryst in school, I honestly did not expect it to be Coach. So, this is why Addy's so hell bent in getting a hold of your phone?"

"I told her I deleted the video, and she believes otherwise. She's probably trying to search every nook and cranny of my phone." Beth closed the laptop before placing it back on the table again, adding, "Unfortunately for her, she can't delete it unless she can have access to my laptop."

"Honestly though, why is Addy siding with her? I mean, just what pushed her to be as desperate as stealing your phone just to delete that video?" Vanessa asks Beth as the girl slowly walked to her.

Beth placed both of her hands on top of Vanessa's shoulder, pushing her down the bed. "Even I don't know." she answers, before getting on top of Vanessa seductively. With a sultry smile, Beth went down and kissed the redhead.

To be continued...

Previous Chapter

#unrivaled #dare me #fanfiction #oc character

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verenea · 2 years

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I. Coup d'État

Her ears perked up at the sound of a notification coming from her phone. Closing the book she was reading half a second ago, Vanessa reached out for her phone that was sitting on top of the nightstand.

She has a text from the one and only, Captain Beth Cassidy. It was short: Nessa, still up? to which she quickly replied: I am. Why, can't sleep?

The girl already knows the answer. Of course she can't. A text from Beth asking if she's still awake the middle of the night always mean that her friend is having a hard time sleeping.

Can I come over?

This message prompted Vanessa to get out of her bed as she walked towards her window. She immediately saw her friend's Jeep under the glow of the nearest street light.

Vanessa let go of the blinds as she typed her reply: Of course, on my way down.

With both of her parents out of town because of their work, Vanessa was always alone in the house. Although she's not the type to get sad and scared of being alone, a presence of a close person is always welcome.

A small smile tugged her lips at the sight of her close friend. Beth smiled back, "Thanks Nessa." before stepping inside the house. "No worries. It's not like you're disturbing the sleep of parents since I'm the only one here." she remarked with a light chuckle before closing and locking the front door.

As she turned to Beth, Vanessa asked whether she want to drink something and talk or just go straight to her bedroom and attempt to sleep. Beth chose the latter without hesitation.

Vanessa nodded her head before walking pass Beth and towards the direction of the stairs. When the two girls arrived at the bedroom, Vanessa offered a spare t shirt and shorts to the brunette which she received and changed into.

With the door lock and the lights off, Vanessa grabbed the covers and slid inside the large bed. Beth quickly moved closer, interlocking her fingers with the taller redhead's and resting her head against her left shoulder.

It was silent for a few minutes, before Beth's voice got Vanessa's attention. "For some reason, being this close to you makes me sleepy." she remarked with her eyes closed.

"I guess I have that effect on people." said Vanessa as she continued staring at the ceiling. "Even my parents used to tell me that when I was a small kid, instead of being sleep deprived with me in their bed, their sleep actually got better."

"That's weird."

"I know right, it's definitely weird." She then heard Beth mutter, "Goodnight Nessa." which she responds with a whisper before shutting her own eyes.

"Sleep well, Beth."

***

At their captain's signal, the cheerleaders started to ran up the bleachers. "Move! You can bend those knees for ballers. You can bend them for me." Beth yelled as she watch them run with difficulty, save for Vanessa who was able to got up to the top first.

Addy Hanlon came soon after, closely followed by RiRi Curtis with the other cheerleaders reaching the top seconds after. They grabbed the wired fence for support as they inhaled for air as much as they can.

"Never gonna keep your thigh gap like that, Hanlon." yelled Beth prompting a smirk from Vanessa as she turns to Addy. "I share the same opinion, Addy." which made the taller and darker skinned girl to shake her head.

Unfortunately for those who want to take a break after the sprint, Beth isn't the type to let them rest. As soon as all of them finished the run, she signaled for them to get back down again.

"You gotta keep up Ri," uttered Vanessa to the girl on her left, before running back down the bleachers. "Cocky as ever Ness!" RiRi retorted back at the redhead.

"Always am!" she heard her answer back.

Beth yells at the girls still standing at the top, raising the stopwatch and waving it in their sight. "Need all of you down now."

A few girls clicked their tongue in annoyance before following the captain's order. "Go! Move those feet bitches!"

This time though, Vanessa did her best and arrived at the top much quicker than before. Her breathing was ragged for a few seconds before slowly getting back to its normal rhythm. At the same time, other girls had reached the top.

Addy couldn't help but ask after steadying her breathing, "Damn it Ness, how are you so fast?".

"Exercise more Hanlon...and eat healthy." Vanessa winked followed by a light chuckle right after. RiRi then noticed a new car parked at the side. "I think that's her." she glanced at the two before quickly adding, "Coming like an OG."

Vanessa's eyes followed the woman as she slammed the car door, her attention never leaving blonde even as she heard RiRi say, "I better tell Cap'n Beth." followed by her footsteps as the girl slowly went down.

"Well, she's certainly a looker, that I can tell you." remarked Vanessa before shifting her eyes to Addy standing next to her. She noticed the way the girl was staring, but didn't comment on it and instead walked down the bleachers.

"You're glaring too much B," As soon as she reached the two, the first thing she noticed was the intense glare their Captain was giving.

"And you seem surprisingly calm," Beth raised her eyebrow as she switched her attention to the newly arrived redhead. Vanessa shrugs, "I don't see any reason not to be." as she turns to see the new coach walking towards them.

"Unless she proves to be much more of a threat than we initially thought."

***

Under their new coach's supervision, they spent the remaining time of their practice inside the gym. Colette French then instructs the girls to do exercises such as running laps around the gym, burpees, kicks, etc.

"V-sets." Colette instructs as the girls stopped and got down to position without any words.

Vanessa kept her eyes staring straight in front of her as she held her legs and arms in position with her lips in a straight line.

When Colette sauntered in front of her, she couldn't help but follow the blonde's figure as she passed by the redhead. Vanessa removed her gaze from the woman and breathed in and out to stay focused in maintaining the position.

"Plank." Once again, the girls obeyed without saying anything.

Vanessa closed her eyes and did her best. Even though she's confident that she can hold the position longer than most of the cheerleaders in the squad, she's not the type to rest easy and not take it seriously.

She can hear the girl next to her grunting in pain doing her best to stay quiet and hold the position as long as possible. Luckily for them, Colette finally told them to stop.

"That's enough. Line up." which they did while trying to steady their ragged breathing.

'It looks like they're not used to this kind of routine.' concluded Vanessa as her eyes surveyed the condition of the other girls.

She stood straight beside Addy, hands on both sides, eyes locked on Colette as the woman's strict gaze assessed each of the girls.

"First game's next friday. What do I see?" Colette started, "Spray tans, gummy bear thighs, backyard tumblers. I don't see a squad."

She paused for a second as the tension in the air became more suffocating. "But luckily, I'm able to see my top girl."

Everyone in the cheer squad thought Beth's name would be the one their new coach will identify as the top girl. Everyone except Vanessa got the feeling that something wrong is going to happen. In the end, it wasn't Beth's name that came out of Colette's mouth.

"Carr."

This statement got almost everyone to stare at Vanessa with wide eyes, Beth being the only exception as she continued staring straight at her phone, her lips in a straight smile.

RiRi was quick to say, "Beth's top girl. She's always-" but was interrupted by Colette before she can finish. "On my squad, you earn your spot. You get strong, you rise. That's how you get to regionals. Become champions."

"Getting more for yourselves, than Big Gulps and ballers."

This time, Beth was the one who has something to say. "We graduated past ballers in the eighth grade." said the brunette with a mocking tone.

Vanessa watch as Colette walked past her before stopping in front of Beth, the latter's eyes still stuck on the phone in her hand. A scoff came out of their coach, "No phones in my squad."

Beth brought her head up and looked straight at Colette. She brought her phone up before pulling the strap of her sports bra and tucking the phone in between. She let go of the strap which then produced a rather loud sound as the whole gym was quiet.

The blonde's gaze lingered at Beth for a second before she sauntered past the brunette. Seeing this opportunity, Vanessa opened her mouth. "I might come off as unappreciative for saying this," she turns her head to the side and stared at their coach who also stared back.

"But I refuse to be the top girl."

Colette was silent for a second and when she finally registered the girl's words, Colette couldn't help but scoff. "I hope you have a good reason then."

"Easy. I'm the last person you want to expect turning up to every single cheer practice. I have an internship on the book publishing company situated in the town next to us. I can't and don't want to quit."

She then glanced at Beth, "Cassidy can do the job perfectly, I can vouch for it. The older Cassidy." She didn't forget to add which Cassidy she was complementing before looking back at their coach.

Vanessa discerned that their coach wanted to say something to her but in the end, she didn't. Instead, a sigh escaped her lips, "Fine. But as I had said earlier, on my squad, you earn your spot.".

Colette turns to walk away but then stopped in front of RiRi before gazing at the girl's chest. "Tomorrow, come in a bra that fits." RiRi's eyes widen after hearing that statement, her eyes meeting Beth's, Addy's and Vanessa's eyes.

It was then when they heard her voice again. This time she was in front of a JV, pointing out her stomach fat which was poorly hidden by the spandex.

"Fix this. We don't do this." she pointed out to everyone before finally walking away towards the direction of the gym doors.

"She's going to be a tough one," muttered Vanessa to both Addy and Beth as they watch their new coach disappear behind the gym doors.

***

"Does anyone have deodorant?" RiRi's voice echoed loudly as Vanessa walked passed by Tacy Cassidy and her group of JVs who were busy talking about Colette's hair.

"You heard Coach. Harness those babies." muttered Brianna Bradley, who they call Bri as she gestured at RiRi's chest.

"Hey, my mom said I should be proud of my body." the girl retorted back. "As you should," Vanessa cuts in after stopping behind RiRi to open her locker.

"Thanks Ness." replies the girl before turning back when she heard her name being called, a deodorant thrown towards them with RiRi successfully catching it.

Brianna watch as Vanessa change into her casual outfit before remembering what happened earlier. "If I were you, I'll gladly take Coach's offer to become top girl." she commented before taking in another gulp of her drink.

RiRi paused whatever she was doing and gave her a look. "What? Beth and Addy are still on the showers." Brianna reminded her, but her voice was quieter this time.

A laugh from the redhead took both Brianna's and RiRi's attention. "Unfortunately for you and fortunately for both Beth and me, I am not you, Bri."

"I don't care whether I'm the top girl of the squad or not, I enjoy doing cheer. That's enough for me. Besides, it's not like Beth doesn't have what it takes to be the top girl." said Vanessa as she finished changing and continuing to apply a light makeup.

After waiting for Addy and Beth to finish changing, the three friends walked out of the building. Vanessa was busy talking to Addy when they heard Beth call out, "Hey fetus!" to the JVs in front of them.

They stopped in their tracks, Tracy nervously looking back at her older half sister. Beth continues, "Didn't you hear about Coach's last squad? Top girl?" with Addy quickly following.

"Yeah. Girl took a header, scalped her ponytail clean off."

Feeling a bit brave, Tacy replied back. "Dad said you made that up."

"You better watch it or," Beth warns before grabbing the girl's ponytail with a tug.

"Ow, stop!" Tacy muttered in response before changing into a smile at the sight of Bert Cassidy, standing beside his black SUV with a smile.

Vanessa couldn't help but say, "My god, this sight makes me want to vomit." as she rolls her eyes watching Bert open the door of the passenger seat.

"Can I offer three lovely ladies a ride?"

Beth flipped the finger while the other two scoffed at the man. Seeing her first daughter's reaction made him uncomfortable as he went on and ask Tacy.

"Classic." Vanessa remarked with a proud smile after noticing Beth's gesture.

"Bert's ride is so real housewives." said Addy as the three watch him getting inside the car.

"Here's a thought. Blunts. Mom's patron. Lanver's peak."

Addy was the first to respond, "I can't."

"And I can't go home, come on."

A stressful sight came out of Addy's lips, "I'm crack down at home. Gotta study cause summer's officially over, all that shit."

Vanessa silently waited for Beth's question when the three girls heard the sound of a police car siren. They watch as the car came to a halt at the end of the school's entrance.

"You called the popo on me?" Beth turns to Addy with the latter replying with a small smile. "I'll text you later B. Okay?"

As the police car drove away, Beth finally turns to Vanessa with a pleading gaze. "Nessa, please." tightening her grip on her friend's hand.

The redhead reveals a gentle frown. "I wish I could, but I have an internship to tend to."

"Do you really have to? Why don't you just quit that already."

Vanessa sighs at her friend's statement. "Beth, we've already talked about this. Besides, look at what happened earlier, because of that internship I was able to talk my way out."

Beth lips turns to a frown, seeing this Vanessa then adds, "What about this. Tomorrow after practice, let's go to the mall. It'll be my treat and if Addy and RiRi has time, they can go too."

"I can't really pass it off today, B."

In the end, Beth finally accepted her offer as she softened her grip on the redhead's hand. Vanessa then smiled at Beth before enveloping the latter into a quick hug.

"I'll call you at night," said Beth before finally letting go of Vanessa's hand. "Okay!" the redhead replied before rushing to the direction of her parked car.

***

Vanessa's eyes silently watch as Beth and a few girls did a short routine, tossing the brunette high up in the air before catching her perfectly before she can hit the mats. Her attention then switch to Colette as the girl waited for the woman's reaction.

"Let's see your pyramid," yelled their coach as they quickly went to their respective positions and started the routine. Their movements were perfectly in sync with the counting since they've already done this hundred of times in the past.

Beth's proud smile didn't leave her even until both of her feet were planted on the ground, all of them clapping once at the end. Vanessa smiled as Beth winked at her before looking at their coach.

A nod came from the blonde before her eyes shift to the side, "Okay, let's shake things up." Vanessa failed to hold a scoff when she noticed just where Colette was looking.

The girl already had an idea of what their coach was about to do. She just couldn't understand why she's doing something as stupid as giving a JV the flyer position.

"Freshman, you're up." Colette gestured to Tacy before pointing at the mat.

'What the fuck is she up to?' thought Vanessa as she crossed her arms in front of her chest with a small frown.

"Her? A JV bottom-feeder? She's five feet of hair," Beth asked Colette. Even she couldn't believe the blonde's words.

Coach turns to Tracy again, "Five feet of hair, get up there."

Tacy's worried gaze met her half sister's icy glare before noticing the sneering look the redhead beside Beth was sporting.

She quickly focuses to Colette, "I..." already opening her mouth to spout some kind of excuse when she was interrupted by the blonde.

"You got this. Don't you wanna make their jaws drop? It could be you on game day."

Vanessa realizes that Coach's ridiculous statement pushed Tacy's decision to walk towards the mat, making the redhead shake her head in defeat.

She walked off the mat with Beth pulling Addy by the arm gently. The counting started, still in sync with the routine as expected. That was until, it is time for the flyer to get into the top position.

Tacy's hesitation was natural, but isn't good if you aim to become the squad's top girl. The counting continued, as Tacy's legs were supported in place, both her feet planted on the girls' hands.

"Hey-look out. Lock out. Lock out your knees." Coach tried reminding the girl.

Unfortunately for the both of them, the fear and nervousness won over Tacy in a heartbeat as the girl quickly brought her hands up. Without locking her knees in place, there was no balance, the posture incorrect. Therefore, even with the two backspots trying to steady her, they weren't enough to bear the momentum that resulted from her action of raising her hands.

A smirk tugged Vanessa's lips as she watch Tacy fall backwards. If it weren't for the spotters at the back, she might've gotten a sprain or a concussion on the head. But since some of them weren't fully ready, a few were pushed down to the ground.

"Incorrect posture, a weak core, and a distrustful mind. Such a mess." Vanessa remarked loudly, with the intention for everyone to hear her words. Even their lovely Coach.

Beth quirked her eyebrow proudly, giving a light laugh at Vanessa. With a smirk plastered across her face, her focus went to Tacy, the poor girl's face scrunched, trying to stop the tears threatening to fall.

Colette chose to ignore the redhead's comment. Vanessa's words, although came off a bit hard were definitely true. "Shake it off. Good. Okay, let's go over the choreography. Come on," she instructed with a clap of her hands.

"Coach just made a wrong move." Vanessa muttered towards Beth and Addy, both standing next to her before walking back to the mat and getting into position.

***

After slamming the car door close, the tall redhead gently grabbed her head before stretching her neck to both sides. At the sound of the knots on her neck unwinding themselves, Vanessa continued walking towards the front door.

Her right hand slid down the front pocket of her jeans, as she fished the keys out. As she grabbed the knob, the door opened without much force, halting Vanessa's movement.

She looked behind her in reflex, trying to see any strange movement amidst the darkness, save for the near light post. That was when she heard a voice which came from inside the house, calling her name. "Vanessa?"

This prompted a loud shriek from the redhead, as she quickly shut the door loudly. When the familiarity of the voice finally registered on her mind, she released the breath she didn't know she was holding.

"Klein! You actually scared the shit out of me!" yelled the girl as her eyes landed on the frame of Klein Wilson, her father's cousin who also happens to be her superior at the company where she's an intern.

"Sorry, I forgot I was supposed to lock the door." the man replied without turning around or stopping whatever he was doing.

"If you don't mind me asking, why are you here? And what are you cooking?"

"Well, your father wants me to check how you're fairing these days. And for your second question, I'm making pizza."

Vanessa stared at his back for a couple of seconds, contemplating. "Okay. I'll be upstairs in my bedroom reading a book. Just call me when the pizza's done." said the redhead before walking towards the direction of the stairs.

"Got it."

With a sigh, Vanessa threw her bag on the bed as her hand reached out for the book situated on top of the table. The redhead sat on her beanbag, changing her music playlist into something more, relaxing.

She became immersed at the book she was reading for half an hour when her phone suddenly rang, someone was calling. The girl smiled at Mom displayed on the screen, she quickly answered it.

"Hi sweetie," Lyssa Carr's greeted warmly, her voice sounding a bit strained. She's tired. "What's up Mom?" asked the girl.

"Is Klein there right now?" with the girl responding with a hum. "When will you able to get back here? I miss the both of you,"

Lyssa's tone turned sad, "I'm sorry sweetie, but we're still not sure. You know how it is."

Of course, I do. It's always been because of their work. She'd always seen them only for just a few days a month. It's like their life is there, not here, where their only child lives.

"Mom, I-" she tried saying but was interrupted when she heard a familiar voice in the other end. Work is calling.

There was a muffled conversation as Vanessa figured that her mother probably blocked the mic with her hand. She bit her lip hard, patiently waiting to hear her mother's voice.

"I'm so sorry Vanessa, I forgot I still have a meeting to get to. I'll call you back later, okay?"

"It's alright, Mom. You should just rest after work, you sound tired. I'm okay...Klein's here to accompany me at least. Just tell Dad I said hi,"

The girl couldn't help but roll her eyes at Lyssa's words of apology before the call was hurriedly ended. She closed her eyes for a few seconds, taking it all in and pushing the emotions down.

In the end, she didn't get back to reading and chose to take a cold shower before dinner and a talk with Klein about anything under the sun.

***

Vanessa stopped right on her tracks when her eyes landed on Addy and Coach, with the former doing back flips. She stayed quiet and watch as Colette assisted Addy to land perfectly.

"I didn't expect to see you here, Coach."

Their attention quickly went to Vanessa as she walked towards them, dressed in her sports attire. "Carr. I suppose you're here to practice too?" inquired the blonde.

The redhead hummed in response as she stretched her neck to the side and got into position to execute a back handspring.

"Getting kind of rusty with internship, better ready myself again. For the championship. Right Coach?"

Breathing out, Vanessa brought her hands up, biceps pressed against her ears, body and core as tight as she can before getting into a sitting position, bringing her hands down. She swung her arms up as she used the momentum to snap her legs out. With her hands planted on the ground, she pushed herself up before landing it perfectly.

She glanced at the side, giving a wink to Addy before quickly getting in position for a tumbling combination: round off back handspring back tuck. After landing the last one, Vanessa spun around with a proud smile.

"Do you have any tips for me, Coach?" inquired the girl. Colette stared at her silently for a second. "No, you're fine."

Her eyes went to Addy, "Well don't mind me and continue practicing Hanlon, you got this." before stretching her legs and arms in preparation for another tumble combination.

***

Cheer bag in hand and backpack at her shoulder, Vanessa walks towards her parked car. When her eyes settled on a familiar face leaning against the car's hood with a smirk.

"Now, don't give me that tired look, Nessa. You promised remember?" Beth reminded as she reached for the redhead's arm. "So that was why, you asked for a ride to school this morning huh."

All she can do is shake her head before unlocking the car. "Should I drive?" asked the brunette, with the redhead passing her the car keys. "Thanks."

The two bestfriends then got inside the car, as Beth started the engine before quickly driving away the parking lot. Rock music blasted on the speakers. Vanessa's eyes were closed as her thoughts went back to the conversation she had with Klein.

The man revealed that there's a huge chance her parents wouldn't be able to go home this month. As soon as Vanessa heard this, she immediately lost her appetite and in the end, couldn't finish the pizza slice she was eating.

Even after the hint that her parents still don't know when they'll be able to go back, she still had some hope that someday, she'll come home from school to see her father watching tv at the living room and her mother cooking in the kitchen.

She convinced herself that it will soon come, but that was the final straw for Vanessa Cass. The anger, the disappointment, the fear she desperately tried to hide and forget all came to the surface.

"Beth," Vanessa called out to her friend next to her. Beth answers with a hum as the redhead continues, "Can we...can we not go today? I'm not really feeling it right now."

Beth removed her gaze at the road as she looked towards Vanessa, the girl's eyes closed shut. But despite that, Beth already know that something serious was bothering her best friend. And it's only a matter of time before she broke down.

"Do you want to go to Lanver's Peak? Or should I drive you home?" asked Beth, her tone filled with worry. "I don't want to go home for the time being because every single time I arrived in that fucking place, I ended up being reminded that I have parents who I don't see."

She then opened her eyes, finally revealing the agony evident on her eyes. "I just want to take a rest." Vanessa muttered before looking at Beth. "Let's just go to my house, okay? You can rest there." the brunette replied as she gave her friend a small smile, trying to alleviate the mood.

"You're the best B. Thank you,"

The rest of the drive was spent in silence until they had arrived at Beth's house. The two headed straight towards Beth's bedroom. Laying down the bed, close with each other with Beth's arm wrapped around Vanessa's waist.

After a few more minutes of silence, Beth chose to ask the girl. "Do you want to talk about it?"

"I don't even know where to start." Vanessa laughed.

"You can start anywhere you're comfortable, Nessa."

This prompted the redhead to intertwine her fingers with Beth's. Vanessa hesitated for a moment, but with Beth giving her hand a squeeze the former opened up about her problems. She told Beth about the call from Lyssa and Klein's word before adding her own thoughts about her parents leaving their only child alone.

Vanessa let her raw emotions show, but the tears didn't fall, they didn't even appear. She didn't want to appear weak-minded in front of Beth who she had comforted many times in the past.

"I don't know why even until now, I'm still hoping for the day where they will arrive back home and tell me that they'll never leave me alone again. God, I feel like a kid."

Beth chuckles at her words, "The only time, Nessa. The only time." this made the redhead turn and face Beth. "Can you promise me something Beth?"

"Sure." she gave a smile as her other hand brushed the stray hair away from Vanessa's face. "Don't leave me alone please? I don't know what-"

She cuts in by leaning closer and planting a chaste kiss on the redhead's forehead, "I'll always be here for you Nessa. Always."

***

Pushing the door open, Vanessa walks in with a book in hand. It was then she heard a faint sound coming from one of the aisles, a gasp or something.

Really. In the library?

She shook her head before walking towards the shelves, minding her own business. As she moved a book to the side, she created enough space to peek on the other side. The first thing she saw was the familiar uniform of the cheer squad and the football team.

And then she noticed the color of the cheerleader, even amidst the darkness of the library with the lights off, she knows that hair. Seen it many times in the past, yesterday even. She rolls her eyes before tucking the book loudly for the two to hear.

For some reason, she was a bit upset. She didn't know if it was because they we're doing it inside the library, continuing even after hearing someone walk in. Or if it was because Beth's the one having a bit of a fun. No matter the reason, Vanessa was annoyed. She turns away, heading towards the door and out of the goddamn library.

As she trudge down the hallway, Vanessa forced the emotion away. She had better things to think about, the classes right now, the game later and the internship the next day. A suggestion went to her mind. The grip on the strap of the backpack loosened as the girl unlocked her phone.

She went to her messages and types a text: Spare me some time? The reply came a minute later. Rendezvous in five, see you there.

A smirk tugged the side of her lips. Her problems can go fuck themselves. If she wasn't feeling it yesterday, it hit hard today. It's time for her to unwind and have some much needed fun with a company of a gorgeous human.

***

She stepped out of the car, just in time before the game. "Carr's finally here." RiRi announced as soon as her eyes caught the redhead going in. "Where's Beth? Thought you were with her."

Vanessa shrugs, opening her locker. "And I thought she's with Hanlon." answers the girl before glancing at Addy. "Did you text her?"

"Already did but no response."

RiRi shook her head as Vanessa says, "It's Beth, it's impossible for her not to show up in this game." before continuing to tie her hair in a ponytail. After the girls had finished applying their makeup and glitters, the pepping up started.

"Get hard. Get mean. Go Eagles! Get down. Get hard. Get mean. Go Eagles!"

At the sound of the blow horn, Vanessa glanced towards Addy and RiRi as the two converse. "Any updates?" asked the girl when RiRi got back in position, the latter shaking her head. Vanessa frowns for a second before getting her focus back at the crowd and doing their cheer.

"Touchdown. Touchdown. We want an Eagle's touchdown!"

Vanessa's ears picked up the sound of Tracy's pathetic voice as the girl waved excitedly at Bert sitting on the crowd. "What a bitch." the redhead couldn't help but mutter in annoyance.

The disappointed aww of the crowd followed by the whistle of the referee, made the cheerleaders stop. "Still the same ever." remarked Vanessa to Brianna standing next to her with a frown.

The announcer's voice starts, "And that's the half. Stay seated."

The game continued on, with their football team getting crushed by the enemy team. Colette called for the girls to go to the tunnel between the bleachers for a talk before the break. The squad formed a circle, as their coach started her pep talk.

"I'm going to tell you a secret. There is no one better than you. You are the strongest, meanest, baddest women, this town has ever seen, and you are about to show everyone what you are made of: the hard, hard gold that pounds in your chests."

Colette's hard gaze swept across the girls, before settling on Vanessa. Their eyes met, "You are royalty now. You're gods. Make them bow down. Do me proud."

Vanessa's attention then went to Beth's appearance right after Coach's last sentence. It was silent for a moment, Vanessa refusing to look at the newly arrived brunette, her eyes waiting for Colette to continue.

"Mmkay. This is it. Fast, tight, light. Just like in practice."

They thought that was it. But when Colette suddenly looked at Tracy and says, "That means you. Tacy's top." Everyone was shock. Even Vanessa wasn't expecting it.

After what happened at practice, she's still taking the risk?

"You can't be serious." said Vanessa, the dissatisfaction evident in her voice. Beth adds right after, "You put her up there, she's gonna break her neck. I'm top girl."

Colette turns to the brunette, "Top girl is a girl who shows, every practice, every game." with the latter quickly countering, "I showed. I'm here." Their voices was loud as the two continues to argue, the other girls quietly watching them.

"No, I'm captain. This is my squad-"

"Wrong!" Colette exclaimed immediately shutting Beth up. "It's mine. My squads don't have captains."

The girls knows this greatly upset Beth, especially Addy and Vanessa. Their bestfriend was never the type to go under anyone, particularly when it comes to cheer. Beth was a rebel in and out, been like that since her family got broken up.

"You got this." Colette walked closer to Tacy and placed her hand on the girl's back, pushing her. "Make sure you do it properly, fetus. There might be no one to save you," Vanessa muttered to the girl before glaring at Colette and heading out of the tunnel.

As soon as the music started, the girls executed the routine cleanly, just like in practice. The tumbling combination flawless, the swing of the hips synchronous, and the proud smiles still in place.

But in the end, Vanessa couldn't help but worry when they finally moved to the formation of the pyramid. The last stunt and the killing part of their performance.

This time, Vanessa's one of the back spots. Her earlier threat to Tacy was nothing but a warning. If the JV did fall backwards in the wrong position, she'll be there to catch the girl as it is her role in the squad.

She readied herself when she noticed Tacy getting a bit shaky but thankfully she still didn't fell until it was time to go back down. She and the other girls caught the JV easily, helping her plant her feet on the ground before clapping as their performance ended without any problems.

Vanessa stayed behind though, waiting for both Addy and Beth to go back down. Although she couldn't see what happened clearly because of the angle, she already know something was up after seeing Addy's expression at that moment.

"Now what did you do Beth?" she asked the girl right after Addy walked away. The brunette glanced at her before looking back at Coach. "I know how upset you are but for fuck's sake don't do something that can sabotage our performance in public."

Beth didn't say anything and continued staring in front of her which made Vanessa sigh. "Look." the redhead mutters as she reached for Beth's shoulder, making the girl face her. "No matter what Coach say, you're this squad's captain. You're the top girl, Beth. Not because Coach said so, but because you earned it. Remember?"

Beth nodded in affirmation which made Vanessa smile, "Now, we still have a bonfire party to attend. Let's go," before giving her shoulder a squeeze and jogging off the field.

***

With Excellent by Princess Nokia, blasting on the car's speaker loudly, Beth, Vanessa, and Addy bounced and groove to it, feeling the music.

The redhead grabbed the alcohol from Beth before taking a big swig of the drink. A smile formed as she felt the burn of the drink as it go through her throat. Before quickly taking in her lit cigarette and exhaling the smoke afterwards, leaning against the passenger seat.

"What was I supposed to do?" Vanessa heard Addy say, getting her attention as she glanced at Beth driving next to her. "Let her fall? It was Coach's choice."

Beth glanced at Addy before looking back at the road, the alcohol in her hand. "You chose to be her little bitch."

"Girls come on, stop it. Whatever happened earlier is already gone. Why don't you just let bygones be bygones? Hm?" Vanessa cuts in their conversation before smoking her cigarette.

The two didn't said anything afterwards as they drive around town, drinking alcohol and smoking cigarettes, trying to have fun after the football game. Minutes later, on their way to Lanver's Peak for the bonfire, Addy suddenly pointed to the guy with the headphones standing in the middle of the parking lot with his friends, skateboards in hand. It was Jordy Jones, practically just a nobody in their school.

"Why him?" Beth questioned as she turns the wheel. "Why not?" Addy replied.

"Hey! Jordy Jones! Get in, it's your lucky day." Beth yelled loudly as the car came to a halt. "You better have weed." Vanessa soon adds as the guy opened the rear door and got in, sitting beside Addy who greeted him with a "Hey."

As soon as they had reached their destination, Vanessa opted to leave Beth and Addy as she went to seek the company of some of the football jocks she's close with. Talking, teasing about the game, dancing with them while drinking alcohol and smoking weeds helped her entertain and have fun.

A playful smile plastered on her face as she grinds her ass against one of the jocks in sync with the music. Their fun continued as the night goes on, even going as far as having a bit of a fun with the guy alone.

The redhead was chatting with a group of girls while drinking when they heard a loud pop, followed by two more. When their minds had finally clicked that those pops were gunshots, a few moved away but almost everyone stood in their place, chattering with each other in confusion.

Vanessa squinted her eyes and it took her quite long to recognize who was the one holding the gun. She immediately went closer to where Beth is standing. "Beth! Put the fucking gun down!" she heard Addy's voice.

"Listen to your friend," one of the Marines says to Beth as the girl retorted back, "What friend?"

"Hmm? I had a friend. Not anymore." she adds, the gun still in her hand.

Vanessa realized that Beth's talking about Addy, but the redhead couldn't help but feel a tinge of disappointment and anger after she heard those words from Beth.

Despite those words, Addy still tries to calm the brunette, "Beth. Look at me," but the girl suddenly brought the gun up. It was pointed straight at Addy.

Vanessa's eyes widen when she saw Beth's action and made a move but was stopped by one of the marines from getting closer.

"She was my girl. She was the only one. And she's gone."

"Put the fucking gun down." Addy's voice was anxious as she replied back.

Vanessa could've said something to Beth, some words that can convince the brunette to let go of the gun. But she didn't. After hearing what Beth just said, she couldn't. So, she just bit her lower lip hard, hoping for Beth not to do something ridiculously dangerous.

The air was tense as the two converse, Addy trying to calm Beth down while the latter still has the gun pointed towards her. Vanessa released the breath she didn't know she was holding when Sarge Will Mosley was able to get the gun out of Beth's hand.

Vanessa watch as Beth walked away before breathing a sigh of relief. The party soon ended after the incident. But instead of going after Beth and Addy to accompany the two, Vanessa steps towards a different car.

"Out." She muttered towards the guy sitting on the passenger seat, with him quickly getting out after his friend's nudging. Vanessa then got inside and settled on the passenger seat. "I need a ride,"

Aiden Lewis, the owner of the car and one of the football team's players asks, "Aren't you going with Cassidy and Hanlon? She seems-"

"Didn't you hear what I said? I need a ride home." The redhead cuts in sharply, "Addy can handle Beth perfectly, she doesn't need me to be there." before shutting her eyes. The guy didn't said anything after and just drove her home.

***

Next Chapter

Abstract

#Unrivaled

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