Back in reality, Jack’s currently sitting inside Eric’s car he borrowed for the date. He’s parked outside of Veronica’s elite neighbourhood, waiting for her to come out or be allowed through the giant guarded gate. He tried sneaking through by tailgating a car, but the security here’s better than that of the police doing their job outside in the streets. He made Jack stop and since the young guy looked suspicious and mean, he was judged first and shooed away by the elite security.

“Tch… damn security, but I don’t blame them with my appearance, I kinda wish the police were this good at their jobs patrolling our streets.” Raising his wrist to look at his watch to get the time, Jack’s patience was running thin.

Where is she… I’m here, I called, yet no answer. What a waste of time, honestly, especially over a stupid date, come on.

Jack laid an arm on the door’s open windshield frame, tapping his finger against his head and sighed. “Come on Veronica, I don’t have all—” His phone then rang. He reached for it inside his pants pocket to see who’s calling him. “Who is it now?”

Flipping it open, he saw it was Veronica. Finally, damn… He thought. He pressed it against his ear and answered. “Hello” in a very impatient tone.

Veronica hurried to her mirror and groaned. “Ho-hold up a second Jack…”

You’re blowing this Veronica you’re-you’re fucking blowing this! She thought.

Veronica stood in front of her mirror, half dressed with half her makeup put on. She was trying to figure out which shirt to put on or debated whether to put on a skirt or yoga pants.

Jack grunts and lays back on the car seat. “Yeah yeah, are we doing this or not?”

She understood why the young man replied in an impatient grunt and pointed at herself mad at her reflection. Veronica figured she was going to take longer on finding the right outfit for her first date with Jack.

Letting out a nervous chuckle, she cleared her throat before responding. “Ja-Jack I’m-I’m sorry, could you… perhaps meet me downtown, you know, the nice one?”

Jack lets out an aggravated groan. “Are you serious? I’ve been parked outside of your neighbourhood for a good fifteen minutes and then for you to—ahh!” He rubbed his fingers on his forehead feeling very annoyed.

She figured he’d get annoyed, but hearing Jack’s agitated voice made her frown, and feel angry at herself, which made her clench her skirt. “I’m sorry… I-I didn’t mean to make you angry.”

Hearing Veronica’s hurt voice made Jack feel like a jerk. He sighs and erases the sounds of frustration to keep her feeling joyful like earlier. “No no Veronica, it’s fine, just for future references, be more specific about how long it’ll take you, okay?”

Veronica laid her hand on her cheek, feeling as if she ruined the mood of her first date. “That’s understandable, I’ll see you in a bit Jack.” Veronica hung up, shed a single tear, and threw her phone on the ground. “I’m so stupid… what was I thinking! You already screwed this up, Veronica.”

Jack really didn’t like how Veronica sounded there before she hung up on him. So erasing that frown on his face, he’s now determined to make this day better for her, but more for his mentality since he still feels crazed.

“Don’t screw this up Jack, like Sarah said just chill.” He turned the car on and started driving off. “Yeah, just chill Jack, otherwise you’ll truly go insane.”

After a mild thirty minute drive with a few hiccups like traffic, Jack arrives in town. Parallel parking next to a familiar pizza shop that Randolph loved as well as Angela, he shut the car off and lay back on the seat. The sun's bright, the day’s busy with people all around, who are shopping, relaxing on benches, walking around, window shopping; the town’s thriving so brightly, more than he’s ever seen it. Jack thought perhaps it had to do with this time being different than before, an assumption that he’s going to keep driving forward regardless of what’s going to happen down this new journey.

Stretching his arm, jumping his shoulders, Jack lets out a long breath. “Okay, let's do this Jack. Don’t screw this up and ruin the day, this is to make up for all the mistakes you made with your friends… Even if they can’t remember now.” Getting out of the car, shutting the door and locking it, Jack walked out of the street onto the sidewalk.

Walking down left of the street, Jack proceeds onwards to the ice cream shop Veronica mentioned. Tucking his hands into his pockets, Jack glanced around, seeing just how thriving the town was from the people, the cleaningness, everything around him seemed like sparkles and glitter.

Jack had to pause so he could take in this new environment, looking around amongst the crowd of people around and walking past him. This place never shined this much before, I mean it was always more thrivy than the rest of this hellhole of a city, but to this extent? Huh, I wonder if we still have this town in our control, we should be, right?

Jack knits his brows, erratically glancing around now. “We should still have this place under control, right?!” For a moment Jack had completely forgotten about the date, and thought about running to the buildings he’s familiar with to check if they still had their gang print on the back of them.

With this thought in mind, Jack stormed off running down the street to the destined buildings he knew. Running through people, shoving some in the process, as he got closer to his destination where Veronica’s currently waiting for him without his acknowledgement, Jack’s senses finally kicked him to remind him of his original reasoning being here.

Smacking his hand on his forehead, coming to a halt, Jack chuckled. “Whoops, the date, almost forgot about that.” Sighing, he looked to his right and noticed he’s at the ice cream place that Angela used to love. “Wow, what a coincidence, huh.”

Walking into the vicinity of the shop where there’s a tiny front gate opened, a bunch of outside tables with umbrellas spread around neatly, benches too, Jack looked around to see if Veronica might be here since she wasn’t specific on where they’ll meet. But with all these people sitting, standing around on this busy day, it’s hard to spot her.

Veronica’s also here, but she on the other hand is sitting on a bench near her favourite ice cream shop that she and Anna love coming by. She’s wearing a frilly outfit for once but one that she thinks might be enough to woo the guy she’s had a crush on since childhood. Wearing a sparkly fancy shirt with see through long sleeves, a cute pink skirt short enough for her liking, wearing short heels, for once Veronica has her hair down. She sat there while people around here kept going about their day, enjoying the lively thriving town. Her arms rested on her knees, her phone in one hand, she let out a deep moan, feeling Jack might’ve ditched the date now after her mishap.

She blows air out mouth, and leans back on the bench. “I guess the date’s off. It’s been more than thirty; Stupid Veronica, you idiot!” She abruptly raised her voice, making people glimpse at her for a moment.

Veronica covered her face in embarrassment, and looked away. You’re so stupid! Oh my god you had to worsen yourself more didn’t you?!

In doing so, Veronica for a moment didn’t notice Jack casually walking past her. He looked confused, annoyed, but kept looking for his dear friend. Stopping for a moment a foot away from her, Jack reached into his pocket to get his phone.

Flipping it open, going to his contacts and pressing Veronica’s name, he dials her. “Where is she… damn I should've cleared things up easier than to bring her down.” Pressing his phone against his ear, Jack waits for her answer.

Her phone rang, and she quickly glanced at it, seeing Jack’s name to answer him. “He-hello? Jack.”

“Hey where are you, I’m here and I looked a bit but I can’t seem to find you.”

Veronica’s jaw dropped and she glances around, and spots him there a foot away from her. “Oh my god, I’m so—look behind you.”

Jack started turning around, “Look behind me? What are you—” and saw her sitting on the bench, teasley waving at him. “Oh, there you are.” He hung up his phone and walked up to Veronica who remained seated.

Arriving next to her, Jack stood there, not saying anything. Neither did she, the two only looked at each other. Veronica looked away, turning red, Jack blinked as his eyes bounced in confusion, scratching his cheek.

Jack then noticed how well dressed she was, more notably she had her hair down, which she rarely does. “Stand up Veronica,” he said in a calm tone.

Hearing his deep voice say that made her blush more. “O-Okay…” Veronica stands out of her seat, and finally looks at Jack with her arms and hands resting on top of each other to her abdomen.

Jack smiled. “Woah, never have I seen you dressed this cute, it’s very attractive and totally you.”

Veronica can’t take this. Those compliments almost knocked her out when they brushed against her eardrums. “Th-Th-Tha...nk you!” Poor girl covered her face again and looked away.

Jack chuckled and extended his hand out. “Grab my hand.”

Veronica dropped one of her hands, giving it to Jack, slowly. “Okay, now-now what?” Suddenly Jack grabbed it, reeled her in and turned her round. “Hah?!”

Jack’s twirling Veronica beneath his lifted arm, whistling, scanning her outfit as he spins her in circles. “Man Veronica, sorry for doing this but I had to just get a better view of this look of yours, wow!” He brought her to a stop, looking into her big brown eyes. “Seeing you like this today really made the cloud over my head go away.”

Veronica’s flustered to the max, his compliments, the machoness, and boldly doing things like grabbing her suddenly, it’s taking its toll on her. She’s on the verge of fainting but quickly remembered something about him, and that’s his dense mindset about things like this. It’s enough for her to cool down but remain red, sighing a little in relief.

She reached into her purse to get something. “Gosh Jack, never would I imagine you being this way. Anyways here,” She pulled out a little key chain, one that had a little doll on it. “A personal gift from me to you… as a thank you for accepting this date.” Veronica’s hand shook, and she gulped.

Jack grinned, and took it, examining it. “Thank you, now I’ll give you something in return, though I don’t know what.”

“It’s not necessary. Ahem, shall we go onward on this date of ours?” Veronica smiled greatly, burning the darkness away from Jack’s soul.

With Sarah’s advice, her help, Veronica’s presence, Jack almost forgot that history has been altered. But the thought of those men still lingered behind his mind, at the moment, he won’t let it overtake his whole thoughts to make his friend happy. He wanted to make this up to her, before, no matter the current timeline; Jack had to make things up to her for being a nuisance to her life ever since returning to it.

Jack extends his hand out again to Veronica who stood there with glistening eyes. “Shall we? Like old times, Veronica.”

Veronica stood there, grabbing the strap of her purse, staring at his hand, her eyes swirled in shine, feeling absolutely happy about the date she thought was only possible in her dreams. “Yes!” she said with an open mouth smile, grabbing his hand.

Both Jack and Veronica held hands, stood next to each other and proceeded to walk forward to start the date. Walking out and onto the public sidewalk, the two casually went on, talking about their past, how times were tough for Veronica and Jack. But while talking, Jack thought about something, he brought the two to a stop. The thought that made him stop was did he still behave badly towards his childhood friend. So he wanted answers and used this moment to ask her if he was still a jerk.

Veronica turned to Jack, tilting her head. “What’s the matter Jack? Why did you stop us?”

Jack turned to her, looking upset. “Veronica, I’m still sorry for calling you a bitch when we were kids… and pushing you too.”

She nudged Jack with an elbow. “You already apologised for that a long time ago when we reunited, there’s no need to say it again.”

Hearing her say that hit Jack with more questions about this current timeline they’re in. Gripping his chin, letting go of her hand, Jack thinks.

So things did go the way they did, but in a different matter, and reunion? I gotta ask her later how I reunited with them.

Veronica waved her hand in front of Jack. “Hello, is-is everything okay? Did I say something…” She looked away, frowning.

Jack snapped out of his thoughts and quickly grabbed her hand again. “No no, I was just thinking of something. Shall we continue?”

Veronica smiles again and nods. The two continued, returning to the conversation of embarrassing stories when they were children, their parents having their gatherings, parties, and old playdates, and much more. Jack grew annoyed by some of these old tales of him doing supid things in front of her parents. Veronica giggled, poking his cheek as he gritted his teeth, thinking of how he can go back in time to prevent such embarrassments. As the two continued talking, Veronica’s spoiled eyes caught the glimmer of a shiny object displayed in front of a store's window located just across the street.

While holding his hand, Veronica dragged Jack to the store by walking through a close-by crosswalk. “Jack Jack, look!”

Being dragged to wherever she’s talking about, Jack grinned. “What is it? You found something interesting?”

Veronica nods, and the two were getting closer. “Yes, it’s so shiny and cool! I have to check it out!” They arrived at a local jewellery store, and displayed in front of it, rotating on tiny spotlights, a nice big wedding ring. “Oh my god, it’s beautiful!”

Jack walked beside her to see what she’s fonding over. “What is?” He sees the diamond and shrugs. “Is this what you’re talking about?”

Veronica pressed her hands against the window with her eyes twinkling and expressing joy. “Wow, I can’t wait till we—I-I…!” She covered both hands over her mouth, turning red. “I mean wait to get something like that given to me, hehehe…” She looked nervous, even drawing a single drop of sweat.

Jack thought differently about it, moving his jaw and looking closer at it. “Isn’t it just a ring though? I mean yeah it’s shiny and all but is it really enough to gloat about?”

Veronica sighed and trickled a giggle afterward. “You wouldn’t understand of course, should’ve known. Anyways, let's keep going, I’m actually getting kinda hungry.”

Jack continued looking at the ring and thought of something. It seems like she really wants it, I’ll buy it for her as a gift back for the keychain she gave me.

“Hey Veronica I’ll be back for a second, in the meantime sit over there on the bench facing away from the store.” Jack points to a bench a couple feet down the sidewalk facing away the direction they were in.

Veronica raised a brow and shrugged. “Okay, don’t know what you’re up to but I’ll do as you say.” She walked over to the bench and Jack walked off to the direction of the car he came in.

Jaywalking across the street, Jack quickly ran to the car, opened the trunk and found what he was getting. “Holy shit… it’s still here? My personal money bag I’ve been saving up. Fucking Eric you dog.”

It’s a duffle bag, and upon zipping it open there’s stacks of cash seeming endless. Jack grabbed a nice chunk, tucking it into the secret pocket inside his new coat. Shutting the trunk, pressing the alarm on the car to lock it, Jack ran off to the jewellery shop. Arriving and going in through the front door, dinging the entrance bell, the owner who’s behind the counter walked up to him in a polite manner.

Being a well suited man, with gelled hair, in his mid thirties, he approached Jack who quickly went to the displayed ring. “Sir, are you okay or looking around?”

Jack analysed the ring with his eyes much closer now that he has a better view of it inside the store, getting too close to this expensive looking rock for the owner's liking. “Huh, it is really nice now that I’m this close.”

“Um sir, are you interested in this piece?” the owner said as he stepped beside Jack who was gripping his chin.

Jack steps away and looks at the clerk. “How much for this ring?” he said in a very serious tone, which the clerk noticed whenever someone’s actually going to buy something instead of window shopping.

The clerk's eyes sparkled and he rubbed his hands together. “For that marvellous ring sir, rather, the magnificent stone being held by the brushed glistening silver holding it still, it retails at fourteen thousand dollars.”

Jack’s eyes bugged out slightly, blinking rapidly too when he heard the price. “Wow! Over a stupid ring?”

The clerk stuck his lips out and raised his eyebrow, sharply. “Is that a problem sir? Would you like something smaller perhaps, maybe bigger if you’re thinking crazier.”

Jack waved one of his hands to him. “That won’t be necessary, I’ll take it now.”

The store owner went up to Jack and placed one of his hands on his broad shoulders. “And how will you compensate for such a large charge my good man? Credit, debit, perhaps in payments plus interest with that?”

“Cash, up front.” Jack said looking into his eyes.

The clerk's jaw dropped and he rubbed his hands together again with a bright smile, quickly grabbing the ring out of the display and carrying it over behind the counter. “Over here sir!”

Jack walked up to the counter as he watched the owner put the glorious ring into a nice pristine alcantara black case. “So is that all, are we ready to do this?”

“Yes sir, as you can see the ring is inside this marvellous box made out of the finest—”

“Yeah yeah whatever, I don’t have all day here.” Jack reached into his coat pocket and pulled out one fat stack of cash, quickly counting it in his head. “This is about sixteen thousand, here.” He slammed it on the counter, making the owner jump and drool in excitement.

The owner too grabbed the fat stack and counted as well but with a money counting machine behind his counter. “You’re right! It is sixteen, okay sir here!” He handed Jack the case and started neatly putting the money into a small safe beneath the counter. “I’ll just quickly hand you your change and you should—”

“Keep the change, I’m out of here, I gotta get back to my date so thanks. Sorry for being a bit pushy but you know, time is of the essence on my part.” Jack tucked the case into his coat pocket and started walking.

“Huh?! Ke-ke-keep the change! Are you sure sir?!” the owner shouted as he still had money in his hands.

Jack raised one of his hands, waving it as he opened the door. “Money isn’t an issue for me, have a good day mister.”

The clerk shed tears, sniffing and expressing an open mouth smile. “Bless you sir! Good luck on your date and proposal!”

Jack walked back onto the sidewalk, making his way to Veronica’s direction. With both hands tucked away into the pockets of his coat, he felt a bit fuzzy inside. For once in a while he felt nervous again about giving a gift to someone who he cares dearly for. It even made him express a grin all the way back to Veronica’s presence. Walking behind Veronica who’s just glancing around, Jack sat next to her, surprising her.

She brushed her hair behind her ear and chuckled. “My goodness Jack, you scared me! Don’t do that!” She playfully slapped his chest and realised it’s chiselled nature. “Oh… oh, I uh, may-may I?” she said as she slightly drooled and looked drunk.

Jack laid back on the bench and tilted his head to her. “What?” he asked with a raised brow.

Veronica slowly drove her left hand to his chest, patted it, gulped, drove her right and patted both on his big chest. “Oh, oh my… I-I never knew you were this, ooo…”

Jack smiled and patted her head, interrupting her hypnotised state. “Well aren’t you silly Veronica, come now, we should go get something to eat. I’ll pay for everything.”

Jack stood up and she did as well, she grabbed his hand again but clinged onto him, rubbing her face on his arm.

Jack looked at her confused but chuckled. “Woah, what are you trying to do, break my arm?”

Veronica turned bright red and buried her face onto his arm. “Oh you know you li-like it!”

The two went to a restaurant that was Italian, definitely up to Veronica’s liking and standards. She enjoyed every bit of it, every bite from the appetisers, to the full course meal, and dessert, but more importantly, she was having a blast with Jack. The two laughed, conversed about their endeavours, past again, the moments leading up till now; Jack’s actually feeling quite happy for once. After brunch the two walked around town again, pointing at things Veronica would enjoy getting once she’s done with school, but Jack thought otherwise, he’s making sure to remember these items to get them for her in the future. During their walk the idea of children came to mind for Veronica, but Jack wasn’t paying attention to that conversation because his brain was trying to figure out how much space it had left to store the items for Veronica she pointed out.

Once dawn was approaching, the two decided to walk to the park in the middle of town to ease their minds. Walking through the entrance with huge fields of grass coated in glamorous flowers and a neatly well maintained walkway to stay through, this was the perfect setting to end the date for Veronica. Walking down the path of beauty to the tall trees blooming in green, flowers seeming miles on end, bushes trimmed perfectly, the two decided to go sit down at a bench just a foot away. When they did arrive, the two sat without saying a word, let alone let go of each other's hands.

Jack did though, he reeled back his hand, and rested his arms on his thighs as he hunched forward, grining. “Veronica…” he said calmly.

Veronica smiled and clung onto him again. “Yes Jack?”

The young man mildly shook his head and let out a long breath. “Huh, you know; it’s been awhile since I’ve been this happy.”

Veronica let off for a moment to look at him. “Really?” she asked, feeling somewhat sad for him.

“Yeah, to be honest, I can’t remember the last time I was this happy other than—nevermind, I won’t speak about my emotions any longer.”

Veronica clung back but harder. “Don’t be too harsh on yourself, you big dope, people make mistakes and learn from them. But, I’m glad I was able to bring you happiness again.”

Jack gazed at the field of trees in front of them. “That reminds me…” Jack sat back straight and reached for the case he kept hidden from her.

“What are you doing now Jack?” Veronica asked, tilting.

Jack got the case and turned to her. “Close your eyes, I got something for you.”

Veronica puffed her cheeks out and crossed her arms. “Okay, but you better not do anything funny or weird, otherwise I’ll bite you!”

Jack pulled out the case and opened it, grabbing one of her hands startling her. “You can open them now.”

“What are you doing? You-you almost gave me a—” When Veronica did open her eyes she saw the surprise he mentioned and her heartbeat rose rapidly. “Jack… is-is that?!”

“You wanted the ring, right? So, I got it for you, here, let me just…” Jack let go of her hand to pull the ring out of the case and when he did, he grabbed her hand again. “...I’ll put it on for you.” He slides it into her ring finger and Veronica sheds a tear.

Her eyes glistening, gasping dramatically, Veronica couldn't believe what Jack just did to her, sliding the ring on her finger like that meant he just proposed to her.

“Jack… are-are you asking me too—?” She retracted her hand to stare at the shimmering diamond up close then covering her mouth with both hands to whimper.

Jack hugged her and rubbed her head. “Why are you so emotional, huh? It’s just a gift from me to you for the keychain, but I had no clue it would make you this happy.”

Veronica stopped whimpering and giggled. “You idiot Jack, thank you… you’re the best.” The two pulled away and turned back to face forward at the trees in silence.

Leaves sweeping past their feet, a nice chilled wind cooling their faces, Jack didn’t understand why it got so quiet till he glanced at Veronica who looked ready for something.

Why’s she looking like that? Is she giving me a sign for something? She’s so red, shaking, not to mention how—vulnerable she looks…

Veronica glimpsed at Jack and confirmed to him her vulnerability by mildly nodding. Jack’s face expressed confusion, he blinked, brought his vision to the sky briefly then back to her.

What do I do now? Isn’t this all to a date?! I did what Randolph and Eric taught me, if I remember correctly.

The young man crosses his arms and lays back on the bench, getting nervous.

We hung around, talked, ate, ehh, what else is there to a—wait! There is one final thing I didn’t do, but it was embarrassing when they were explaining it to me, especially the way they were recreating scenarios about what to do on a date.

Jack sighed and swallowed. He raised his left arm, wrapped it around Veronica’s shoulders and brought her closer to him. She’s totally relaxed, allowing him to do it, but she was still shaking mildly, but her breathing was interrupting Jack’s thinking from how slow and arousing it sounded to her chest mildly going in and out.

Okay… I did the arm thing. What's next? Hmm, well I can’t do the head grabbing thing Eric recreated by grabbing a girl's head and reeling it into your crotch area.

Jack slammed his eyes shut for a moment.

Randolph’s method sounded more logical without the extreme measures of groping someone to saying such dumb lines like “Damn girl you wanna fuck?” Damn it...

As Jack kept thinking, Veronica was trying to control her breathing when she suddenly made a soft gasping moaning sound, making Jack wonder why she made such an awkward sound. Looking at her, he realised now what made her make such a sound and it was his mistake, his hand was now resting on her breast.

His eyes grew big and his mouth opened a bit. Oh crap, I-I didn’t mean to do that… Do I apologise or…?

Veronica’s face was frozen, absolutely drenched in red, but after a few seconds, she rested one of her hands on Jack's hand that was touching her chest.

Veronica, don’t screw this up… He’s yours now, we’re engaged now, so-so, it’s okay… so long it’s him, it’s okay. Veronica thought.

Jack’s about to retract his hand until Veronica stops him. “Veronica?” he asked, feeling warm inside.

Veronica’s so flustered Jack thought she was about to pass out, but she looked into his dead eyes and Jack’s eyes couldn't help but stare at her chest from how heavily she was breathing.

Before speaking, Veronica licked her lips and clutched his hand. “I don’t mind, if it’s you…” She raised his hand and tucked it inside her shirt from the exposed low cut collar of her shirt. “...Because Jack, I like you more than just a friend, to the point I don’t mind you being my first and last.” Veronica blinked softly and moaned, which made Jack freeze.

Jack’s eyes were set on her chest area. Never before has he felt this feeling but he’s confused if this was another form of love. He thought this was another feeling of love from what she was doing, it even made him turn a bit red. Yet his heart didn’t race, he didn’t feel nervous, he just felt hot. He blew air out his nose to let out steam that’s heating inside and squeezed that area she consented.

Veronica pulled her hand out of that area, clutching his forearm as he gently squeezed, making a soft moaning sound and it made Jack swallow. Jack then moved that area around and couldn’t bring himself to stop now.

What am I… doing? What is this feeling? I'm having all types of thoughts, ones I could've never imagined, things I want to do to her… Is-Is this what the two were talking about? Randolph and Eric, was this the advice you were talking about! Is this another form of love? I can’t control myself, she’s so soft, her chest feels great, her voice too producing those sounds are familiar to my ears. I’m-I’m losing my mind!

Jack’s hormones were going crazy and instinctively he crept closer to Veronica and eventually, close enough to kiss her on the neck. Veronica made more embarrassing noises, rubbing her legs together, squirming around as he continued his actions. Jack stopped, pulling away and she turned to him as he stopped all his movements now. Her breathing was out of control, but she quickly controlled it as they both locked eyes. The two looked into each other's eyes, Veronica’s brown gems shining brightly, her cheeks beet red, Jack mildly blushing, he stared at her opened mouth, her glistening pink lips moving forward and back from her controlled breathing. They both got closer and closer, reeling in for a kiss when suddenly…

“Yo! VV, is that you?!” shouted a very familiar voice the two knew from their childhood.

Jack moved his head to the side to see if he was right. “Is-Is that Danny?”

Veronica bit her lip, furrowed her brows, and the edge of her lip rose in anger. “He had to ruin this moment…!” She tapped Jack’s hand still grabbing her breast, making him look. “We can continue this later if you want.” She said with a soft smile.

Jack nods. “If I have time, sure, but for now, let's see what he wants.” He pulled his hand away and stood up out of the seat.

Veronica adjusted her shirt, hair, and bra as she stood up too, turning to the direction Danny was coming from. Being a foot away now he recognized the person who he saw on the bench with which made him feel inner anger but he didn’t express it.

Stopping now, Danny brought out a forced smile, waving to her. “What's up guys?”

Veronica crossed her arms and stepped forward. “Why are you here Danny? Still stalking me or trying to get your luck?” She stuck her hip out, tapping her finger on her crossed arm.

Jack felt something from him, an odd sensation he’s felt from others with abnormalities but he decided to brush it off and didn’t think twice about it. “What’s going on Veronica?” Jack asked.

Veronica knitted her brows and her tone grew angrier. “This boy here after countless times being rejected by me still thinks he has a shot at me…! Honestly, like Sarah said, you're pathetic.”

“You’re still being rather harsh Veronica, I’m just trying to be a good friend that’s all.” Danny replied who kept his smile.

Veronica shakes her head. “Yeah right, a friend wouldn’t try fighting every boy who tried talking to me nor threaten their lives.”

Danny raised a brow. “Well I know how us guys are and most wanted to just sleep with you, it’s obvious.”

Veronica placed her hands on her hips now. “And you think I’d allow myself to let some random boy just touch me? Come on now!”

Danny squints. “I don’t know when you were just doing that with him…” he said as he pointed at Jack standing behind her. “...That’s not very like you Veronica to be groped like that, quite whorish if I must say.”

Veronica showed her teeth, raising the edge of her lip again. “I was right, you were stalking me! And, so? He’s someone I’ve liked since we were kids.” She grabbed Jack’s hand and the diamond on her ring finger was shown to Danny from its shine.

Danny stared at the ring as Jack kept staring at him. “So does this mean… you guys are official?” His tone changed and he too knitted his brows.

Veronica didn’t like Danny’s gaze, so she stepped back, standing next to Jack and clutching his arm. Jack felt their hands getting tighter, she’s shaking again.

Jack looked at her and she looked up to him, nodding. Gazing back to Danny Jack replied in a serious tone. “Yes we are, are there any issues with that, Danial?”

Hearing Jack call him Daniel triggered something inside him, the hatred he had for him reigniting. “No… no, I just wanted to check if it was true. Aren’t you lucky to have two beautiful girls to call girlfriends now, right Jack?” Danny expressed a smug grin to the two.

Half of Veronica’s face twitched upon hearing that. “You’re really trying me aren’t you? How dare you! You—”

“Hey Danny…” Jack said, abruptly.

Danny’s grin faded and he didn’t respond.

“I just remembered something, I know this is random, but it’s been awhile since I’ve seen her. The last time I did was when I was five years old. I don’t know why the thought of her just came up.”

“Who?” Danny asked.

Jack grinned. “You’re sister, how’s she doing? Has she been well or has she moved away too?”

Veronica’s eyes got big and she tugged on his arm. “Jack… his sister’s dead, remember?”

Jack looked at Veronica confused. “Huh? She’s dead? Since when? That's strange, this is the first time I’m hearing this.”

Veronica sighed and just shrugged it off. “Oh Jack, you’re so silly and dense.”

“What happened to his—” As Jack gazed back at Danny, he saw a fierce glint in his eyes, one he’s well aware of. “Hey, why’re you looking at me like that Danny?” Jack furrowed his brows and menacingly lowered his head.

Danny glared at Jack, clenching his fists, not responding to him.

Jack hunched forward, clenching his fists too as that glint in Danny’s eyes kept growing. “I know that look, Danny. You don’t want to just beat me up nor injure me, you want to do more than that? Don’t you, Daniel?” Jack stepped forward as Veronica still clinged on.

She felt Jack’s body tensing up and had never seen this side of him. The tension between the two grew more, the air around had a pressure of pure hatred. To ease the tension between the two, Veronica stepped between their gazes.

She put her arms out as she looked in Danny's direction. “Guys, enough, don’t fight over that. It’s not worth trying to—”

“Veronica, this is more serious than fighting.” Jack said, grabbing her shoulder. “He wants to do more than just fight me, I know that glare from anywhere…” Jack stepped forward again. “Right Danny?”

Danny glared for another second until he blinked and the glint disappeared. He raised both hands and backed away. “Jack, you’re so silly. Well, I’ll let you two love birds be, I’m going now so… see ya.” Before turning around, Danny gazed at Veronica. “I’m disappointed in you, I thought you were classier than that… vv.” He turned around and walked away from them, tucking his hands into his pockets without looking back.

Veronica crossed her arms, looked away and blew air out her nostrils. “Jerk, glad that’s over with, even if you two were gonna fight you’d win the fight, right Jack?”

Jack didn’t answer her, he just stared at Danny as he walked away in shame. Why did he stare at me like that when I mentioned his sister, strange. The real question is, why did I even think about her suddenly as they argued? More importantly, why am I feeling this weird sensation pulsing out of him, like that of Sarah, those guys, Mathew, and Mallory?

Veronica snapped her fingers in front of Jack. “Hello, sweety?”

Jack grabbed her hands suddenly, startling her. “Yeah, I would’ve beaten him to a pulp, easily, but let's end this day on a good note, shall we?”

Veronica sighed deeply but returned her smile. “Yeah, let's. So far this is the best day of my life, and I’m-I’m… uh…” She turned red again, wrapping both arms around his neck. “...Still want to finish what we were doing before he came but, back maybe, at my place?”

Jack nods. “We’ll see, that’s if nothing else stops us, right?”

Veronica’s eyes glistened and her smile grew bigger. “Okay!”

They both felt happy again, returning to walk next to each other, holding hands down the park path in the opposite direction Danny came from. They wanted to end the date on a good note so they deleted the scene he had shown up from their memories and went on till night’s vicinity approaches.

As night arrived, the crowd of people that roamed the streets of the town was dwindling, Veronica and Jack were just stepping out of a diner after enjoying a nice relaxing dinner to finish off the day. People around were getting in their cars parked by the side of the streets, leaving, getting on buses, walking off, stores closing down, the two stood beneath a street lamp to say their goodbyes for the night.

Veronica can’t help but smile brightly, she even spun around feeling great. “Jack, this was the best day ever!” she exclaimed.

Jack, placing his hand on his hip, smirked. “Really now? I wonder why.”

Veronica stopped her spinning and went up to Jack, wrapping her arms again around his neck. “So, my parents are going to pick me up and I was wondering how about we go to your car, go to my house first before they arrive and uh…” She crept close to his ear. “Perhaps finish our, yeah.”

Half of Jack’s face was squinted when he heard that. “I don’t know what you mean by that but if it's something like this…” Jack placed his hands to her waist and reeled her in. “Then that’s what you want right?”

Hope I did that right, Randolph please don’t be laughing at me from the heavens… heh.

Veronica’s face flustered. “Something along those lines.”

Jack drove his hands below her waist to her butt, grabbing it. She made more embarrassing noises and was getting closer to his face.

Veronica was red again but she was turned on again. “You’re… so dense yet, you know what to do?” Veronica giggled with arousement.

Jack on the other hand’s totally relaxed and just feeling hot again. “Well, let's just say I was around some okay life coaches.”

Veronica giggled more and as they were about to kiss again, car beams flashed on them. Both of them stopped whatever they were doing, covering their faces from the bright light. The lights dimmed, car doors opened and out came Veronica's parents.

Her mother ran up to them with an open mouth smile. “You two, oh my god it’s just glorious seeing this come true, isn’t it honey?!”

Her father quickly came and grabbed Jack’s shoulders. “I knew this would happen haha! I mean yes your parents did say but quickly bless their hearts may they rest in peace that you should choose whoever you want to marry especially they were rooting for you and Anna, but to think you would choose our Veronica! Yes! That’s what I’m talking about!”

Veronica covered her face, feeling more embarrassed. “You guys are so embarrassing, and you just ruined our moment too…”

Veronica’s mother hugged her, rubbing her head. “My daughter, I’m so proud that you got Jack to be your boyfriend, ahh! Look at him, tall, strong, handsome, he’s a catch!”

“This is the start of a beautiful marriage in the making!” her father said as he punched Jack’s shoulder.

Jack didn’t mind them being goofy, he enjoyed seeing them again. “Long time no see guys, I see you’re as energetic as usual.”

Both parents went up to Jack with suspicious gazes and raising brows. “Say Jack, what did you do to our daughter while on the date, huh?” her mother asked.

Her father quickly grabbed him and hunched both away from the girls to whisper to him. “Did you go to second base with my daughter, you vile demon hmm?”

Her mother grabbed Jack, pulling him away from her father’s whispering. “Oh stop it, Jack, are you guys official?”

Veronica got in between all three, pressing up against Jack with a fuming red face of embarrassed anger. “Can-Can you guys please just get back in the car so we can go back—”

“Yes, yes we are official.” Jack replied as the parents grew smiles, which made Veronica cover her face again. “The proof is on her finger if that’s what you mean, well rather it was a gift I gave her.”

Veronica blinked rapidly and grew a huge smile, proudly raising her hand to her parents to show them the gift. “Ye-Ye-Yes! He even proposed to me today as well!” she said letting the diamond shine brightly beneath the street light.

Veronica’s fathers eyes shattered but he shed a proud tear. Her mother covered her face and erratically moved herself side to side, sounding excited.

“Yes! I can die happy now that my little Veronica’s achieving her dreams earlier than expected!” her mother hugged her daughter to death, feeling proud.

Her father approached Jack, placing his hand on his shoulder. “I’m so goddamn heartbroken but happy this days finally come…” Then he covered his face, whimpering. “You’re-You’re… You’re gonna screw my daughter!”

Veronica had enough and started grabbing, pushing both of her parents away from Jack. “You guys, that's enough, get back in the car so I can say goodbye to him!” They continued acting goofy, expressing pure happiness as they’re dragged away by their daughter.

Jack chuckled softly as he watched their act, and both parents put in the car. This day started off bad, but with Sarah’s advice and to finish the day off like this, I’m glad I was able to make it up to Veronica after all the crap I dragged her in and what she had to witness.

Eventually Veronica convinced them enough to stay inside their luxury car while she said goodnight to Jack. Walking back to him, she released air. “I’m so sorry they acted like that, you know how they are. Anyways, Jack…” Veronica surprised him with a kiss on the cheek and gave him a warm hug after. “Thank you, I’ll never forget this day, you really made me the happiest girl alive today.”

Jack smiled and replied to her hug, wrapping his arms around her waist. “Don’t mention it, you deserved it, I’ll see ya tomorrow.”

Veronica let off and again kissed his cheek. “You have no idea how happy I am, really… Ah! We’re engaged! I can’t wait to tell Ann—” Veronica’s excitement was killed off and she let out a long breath, scratching her head. “You know what, that might be a bad idea because she might give me a reality check and make me feel dumb. For now I’ll just let it happen, hehe!”

Jack poked her nose and patted her head. “Yeah yeah, now go back to your parents before they go haywire.”

Veronica puffed her cheeks out and crossed her arms, looking away. “Oh poo, trying to get rid of your fiance now, huh?” She looked back to Jack, smiling. “Bye Jack, oh and maybe next time like I said we can… yeah.” She blushed, placed her arms behind her back and turned round, walking back to her parents car.

Jack shakes his head with a grin. “That Veronica, but she’s changed a bit, hasn’t she?” Jack wondered and crossed his arms, walking off his own way. “She’s much more confident than ever before, I wonder if it has to do with the time we’re in.”

Jack walked down the sidewalk, Veronica’s car drove off, honking at him as it drove by. Passing closed stores, restaurants, streetlamps, some people lurking in the shadows from typical Detroit crime, he kept thinking about the complications of the new time and the complexities surrounding him again. While doing so, a couple of feet from him, coming from around the corner was Sarah who happened to look exhausted, massaging her head and letting out a groan. The two were walking towards each other's vicinity as they were lost in their own train of thoughts. Jack’s looking down, his arms crossed, Sarah dangling an arm while massaging her head with one of her hands, she groans.

The two walked past each other for a second until they recognized each other. They paused, Jack forward, Sarah’s backwards, they both looked back at each other and blinked.

“Sarah?” Jack said.

“Jack?” Sarah replied.

Jack turned completely around to face her as she did the same to him. “What are you doing here late at night?” he asked.

“Well, it’s a bit complicated but, to answer your question, I was just done eating at my favourite coffee shop after hanging out with my dad for hours.”

Her father huh, I don’t think I’ve ever met him. Jack thought.

“You want to take a stroll while we catch up?” Jack said.

Sarah placed one of her hands on her wide hips. “Sure, I’m down, shall we?”

The two started walking back in the direction Jack was just coming from. As they did walk they continued their conversation about what happened to one another today.

“So, you were hanging out with your father? What did you guys do and how come I haven't met him ever?”

Sarah sighed. “I wish it were that easy to answer your question Jack, but to make it less complex lets just say, he gave me lessons about who I am, acceptance, the usual you know?”

Jack massaged his jaw. “Well I guess, but I’m still learning this weird crap, though I will say it’s cool that you get to hangout with your parents.” He then inserted his hands into the pockets of his pants.

“That’s true, and about meeting him that’s also not easy to answer, simply put, he’s just a very busy man.” Sarah yawned and scratched an eye.

Her contagious yawn infected Jack and he yawned as well. “Hmm, I can relate to that. My dad was the same but he also tried to make time for me. Heh, I guess we have more similarities than I thought.”

Sarah moaned, nudging Jack. “Fair enough, now then…” She stopped, placing her fists on her hips and he did the same, turning to his left. Hunching forward to Jack, Sarah raised both of her eyebrows. “So, how was your date with Veronica huh? I’m eager to know.”

Jack chuckled. “Oh that, it was great, I feel much better, well I was starting to feel relieved when I talked to you first but after spending the day with her everything got better.”

“Oo, sounds intriguing, I’m curious to know what you guys did during your date and I appreciate the compliment, you bold man.”

“Ha, alright I’ll tell you what happened.” Jack walked past Sarah, sitting on a sidewalk bench to stare at the half crescent moon. “Come on, sit next to me so I can tell you more.”

Sarah crossed her arms and did what he said, going to his side and taking a seat. “I’m here now, so give me the juicy details sir.”

Jack patted Sarah’s shoulder, surprising her. “I got you.”

Sarah exhaled as she touched her chest. “Woah, watch yourself now, don’t get too comfortable, like that, almost gave me a scare, idiot.”

“Whatever you pu—”

Sarah suddenly grabbed Jack’s arm, pinching it. “Watch your tongue.”

“Jesus… okay okay haha. Anyways to start this off, our date started off basic; talking, walking around, looking too, but then she gazed upon a diamond of shimmering glory.”

Sarah cringed. “Are-Are you making fun of me by using shimmering?”

Jack whistled. “Maybe…”

Sarah sighed but giggled without a grin. “You idiotic asshole…”

“Haha, okay to talk the way I am now, like I said she looked at some ring right and she said the line of wanting it someday or given to her.”

“So what did you do?” she asked, raising a brow.

Jack reached into his pocket and pulled out the keychain she gave him, handing it to Sarah. “She gave me that before the date started.”

Sarah rotated around in front of her eyes. “And…?”

Jack rubbed his hands as his arms were resting on his spread out legs. “So in return I bought the ring for her and surprised her by the middle of the date, putting it on her ring finger.”

At first Sarah didn’t think much about it, giving him back the keychain in silence. She gripped her chin, laying back on the bench until it finally hit her.

Her eyes widening, she jolted her head to Jack. “Huh?!” She got in his face, making him lean to his left. “What type of ring was it, Jack?!”

Jack gently placed one of his fingers on her forehead, gently pushing her away. “I’m not sure, all I know is that it cost me fourteen racks. It was big and she now claims me officially or in latenance terms, her fiance.”

Sarah playfully slapped Jack’s face. “Idiot, bad Jack bad… I knew you were this dense but this is much worse than I thought.”

Jack grabbed her hand. “Relax, will ya? All I know is that it made her very happy besides me touching her which made her more happy and made me experience feelings I thought were never possible.”

Sarah got more into Jack’s face. “Ja-Ja-Jack… what-what do you mean by… touching?” Sarah’s cheeks grew red and she retracted away.

Jack gripped his chin, closing his eyes briefly. “Well I was thinking about something first, and it distracted me quite a bit till I realised I accidentally grabbed her chest with one of my hands.”

Sarah’s face glowed red and her eyes were half shut. “Oh my god… then what? Wh-what did Veronica do?”

Jack’s face got a little red too. “At first I was going to pull away but she grabbed my hand and inserted it inside her shirt, giving me persimmon to grope her and do more like kiss her on the neck… oh fuck, it’s that feeling again…”

Sarah let out a very long breath to ease herself and sighed deeply after. “At least she consented, but damn! Her hormones are going bonkers, did she mention anything else after such a steaming moment?”

Jack sighed as well. “Yeah, she wanted to finish it and go even further than what we were doing, and I might have an idea what she meant by that.”

Sarah waved her hands. “No more, I don’t want to hear anymore of this perverted stuff. I know us girls are when our hormones are going crazy but she’s-she’s… how can I put this, ahem! H-o-r-n-y!”

Jack laughed and slapped his leg. “I’ve heard that word before from my uncles when they were giving me lessons about dates and stuff! God Sarah, you’re hilarious.”

Sarah pouts, and looks away. “Whatever…” But she got quiet for a moment and gazed at the night sky. “I guess that confirms you really like her, huh?”

Jack scratched his cheek and laid his arms out on the bench. “I think that’s what it is, you’re talking about love right?”

Sarah leaned back on the bench without realising one of his arms behind her. “Well kinda, it depends… Did you feel fuzzy inside? Was your heart racing? More notably, were you super nervous doing it?”

Jack’s eyes looked up and he looked at Sarah whose face expressed calmness. “To be honest, no.”

Sarah again jolted her head to Jack, making him nervous. “Are you for real? Wait, you said you experienced emotions never before feeling? Wasn’t it you finally understanding what love is now?”

“Well from the way you put it, love, no. I wasn’t feeling butterflies throughout the entire date, even in that moment, my heart was totally beating normally as it should, and I wasn’t nervous somewhat. I did feel warm, like very hot, maybe that’s why I blushed slightly, other than that, that was all really.”

Sarah for some reason let out a sigh of relief and just shook her head. “Then that means you don’t like her and those feelings you experienced were lust. It’s completely normal for guys your age to feel that way, any of us really, but it’s more on you freaks.” She placed her hands on her skirt and gazed at the moon again. “Have you ever experienced the emotions I just mentioned Jack?”

Jack’s eyes squinted, he looked to his right and thought about it for a moment. Then his eyes got big and his bottom lip trembled. “Yes…” he replied in a serious tone.

Sarah noticed something shaking behind her and looked, seeing his arm behind her and looking to him, noticing his lost state. “Jack… are you okay? And may I ask who?”

Jack bit his lip and the edge of his lip twitched. “Well, it’s actually two people. A girl named Lily and the other… Ma—” Jack’s eyes bugged out and he coughed violently.

Again, Sarah felt that horrid darkness reveal itself when he was about to say that name. “Jack?! Are you—”

“I’m-I’m fi-fine… fuck, again it happend!” Jack took deep breaths and got up. “I’ll be back, let me go get something to drink real quick. My head is starting to hurt.” He walked off, not realising that a black substance was dripping down to his chin.

Sarah gazed at Jack, sharpening her view as he walked to a nearby diner. “That was weird but the moment he tried saying that name… that sudden burst of darkness inside him exploded, preventing him from saying whatever he’s trying to let out.” She reached into her small carry bag, pulling out her phone.

Sarah stood up and walked a couple steps forward as she locked her eyes to her phone screen. Stopping in front of a dark alley, she quickly sensed the presence of someone if not many people. She stared down at the dark alley that barely had any street lights denting the darkness. Glancing around that small gap, she saw shadows emerge from the corners of dumpsters, stuck out doorways, a staircase, and piles of trash. A bunch of gentlemen/thugs, about four of them, came out from the darkness, making cat calling whistles, their hands inserted into their pockets, starting to surround Sarah with perverse eyes, and smug smiles.

A tall one, a white male with a black hoodie and sweats approached her as she remained calm. “Damn baby, watcha doing outside at this time?” He scans her from head to toe, letting out a whistle once he is finished. “Goddamn, you’re so fine too, sheesh.”

Another man, a shorter one average height for a guy also white stood next to his friend with a similar outfit but wore a beanie. “I would cut the fuck outta that cake, she’s so damn thick too, jesus look at those thighs man!”

A black man who’s standing a foot away behind her scanned her as well. “No lie man, she’s like a dream come true, I’ve never seen a girl as beautiful as her. Shit she’s even better looking than the most famous women in our country.”

Sarah remained calm as they complimented her, scanning her with their perversion. But silently she’s afraid and tries her best to hide it, clenching her fists and staying ready for anything necessary. The last guy, another black male who wore a plain shirt and jeans, tried approaching Sarah while she was facing front wards. She sensed him bridging the gap between the two and ran out of the circle down into the dark alley.

Okay Sarah, if you can get a big enough gap, you can teleport away— Sarah ran into a dead end, making her stop. This is as deep as it goes?!

The men all caught up because the run didn’t last even thirty seconds. They had her cornered and Sarah ground her teeth as she leaned back on the brick wall. The tall guy walked in front, spreading his arms out, indicating Sarah to come to him for a hug.

Drips of sweat ran down Sarah’s face, her eyes shaking, she shook her head. “Wh-What do you want from me?”

He laughed and pointed at her. “Oh man, she even has a sexy ass voice too! Girl you have to marry me at this point, we ain’t gonna hurt you or rape you, chill.”

The black man in the plain shirt smacked his lips. “Yeah we ain’t like that, we was just messing but you are mighty fine.”

Sarah’s legs trembled and her eyes were getting watery. “Please… don’t hurt me…”

The tall guy smiled and started walking up to her. Sarah looked away and was on the verge of crying until someone shouted from the entrance of the alley. They all turned around to look at who shouted, and saw someone taller than the white guy approaching them.

“You touch her, I’ll kill every last one of you.” they said in a deep menacing tone.

“Dude, who the fuck is this clown?” the other black male said as he shot a thumb in his direction.

The tall man's friend stepped forward and cracked his knuckles. “And who might you—” When the stranger got closer he realised who it was. “Oh fuck, it’s that Jack kid from that gang!”

All the men quickly ignored Sarah, prepared themselves as Jack came to them while the short white guy started reaching into his hoodie. Jack rushed in with a flying fist, knocking the guys lights out. He lands in front of his group, groaning and trying to get up. Jack pulled out his gun and shot once in their direction, spooking them enough to make them all scram along with their hurt friend. They all ran past Jack as he casually walked up to Sarah who had her eyes closed and was whimpering quietly.

The tall white guy shouted. “We’ll be back punk, just you wait!” As they all finally ran around the corner of the entrance.

Jack glanced back then back to Sarah and patted her head. “There there, it’s okay I’m…” Sarah suddenly grabbed onto Jack, clinging on tight as she whimpered. He rubbed her head and grinned. “It’s okay Sarah, you only experienced a small margin of what happens out here on these ruthless streets.”

She pulled off and rubbed her eyes. “This is what it’s like?! And only a margin! Jesus Jack, your lifestyle is scary…”

Jack chuckled. “Trust me, it’s worse than this, you should know better than to walk close to a dark alley, especially someone as beautiful as you.”

Sarah smacked her lips and hugged herself. “Shut up, you bold doofus…”

Jack looked over his shoulder. “Though one thing confuses me, why are guys like them here when this is our territory?” He closed his eyes, and gripped his chin. “It doesn’t make sense, it’s almost as if…” Jack’s thinking process was disrupted by a bunch of voices calling to them from behind.

Jack turned around, putting one of his arms out in front of Sarah as she readied herself too. Those same men that Jack ran off came back with five more men, this time from what Jack could make out of as they approached their area was that half had baseball bats and two had bags of glass bottles.

Sarah grabbed Jack’s hand, and he felt her shaking. “Jack… What’s going to happen to us? Because from what I can see they have weapons now, you think I might have to…”

“No Sarah, I want you to go somewhere safe… things are about to get ugly.” Jack glanced at Sarah with calm eyes. “Use your magic or whatever to suppress yourself or hide, could you do that for me?”

Sarah gasped and shook her head. “Jack, I can’t just leave you like—”

“Please, it’s not for me, do it for you.” Jack nodded and started walking to them.

Sarah shut her eyes and turned around, snapping her fingers and teleporting to a closed patio next to where the men were about to meet.

I hope mom doesn’t scold me for using my powers like this… Sarah thought.

It was dark inside the closed off patio, but it was enough for her to watch without being noticed. She stood there in the dark, watching them meet and starting to taunt Jack as he walked up to their leader who looked like Eric but with a fade and pimpish clothes.

Jack clenched his fists and raised his shoulders. “What are you guys doing in our territory?” he asked without a worry.

The leader came up to him and towered over Jack. “You’re territory? Are you fucking with me? This is our territory boy, you’re boss Eric never had the balls to take this town because of the strong police presence throughout the years so I got no clue where you got the information of you owning this lovely town of mines.”

Jack expressed concern, twitching an eye. Fuck… so this towns changed more than I thought! He raised his fists and softly blew air out his nostrils. We originally owned this lively town, but could it be that this town’s better off having a gang like him control it then ours?

Jack swallowed and knitted his brows. “What are you going to do to me?”

The leader cracked his knuckles. “We’re going to put you in your place for knocking out one of my boys and trying to intimidate the rest. How dare you shoot within the town's limits, there’s innocence all around and you just casually whip around a firearm and freely fire it off!” The boss menacingly bows his head to Jack’s level, making him take a step back. “You reckless menace to society…”

Those two guys who had bags of bottles let go, making the bag spill bottles all around the rest of the men. The boss started stepping backwards until Jack shot a surprising punch, but the leader dodged effortlessly and gave Jack a nice punch to his gut.

Jack got to his knees as he wrapped his arms around his waist, groaning. “Well you’re not wrong about that… so long as you hurt me and not the girl then I could care less.” Jack said, coughing.

The tall white guy who had a baseball bat now kept smacking it against his palm as he stared at Jack. “What happened to that beautiful girl anyways? And who is she to you?”

Jack stood back up as Sarah continued watching in worry. “She’s someone who I care about, that’s all you need to know, bunch of punks.”

The tall guy smacked his lips and snapped his finger to one of the men standing by. He picked up a bottle, the others pulled out cloth rags, wrapping it onto the head of their bats while he did the same.

His partner held it by the top close to his level and waited. “You tried swinging at the boss, you’re done now.” He readied his swings, practising and Jack immediately tried reaching for his gun until a gunshot went off, but a suppressed one.

Sarah’s eyes expanded as she covered her mouth and gasped in silence.

Jack’s abdomen expanded red and he coughed out blood, dropping to a knee. “You, bas-bastard…” He said while holding his fresh new wound.

The leader was smoking a cigar and had a suppressed handgun aiming in Jack’s direction. “You’re free to do as you like boys, I’ll be back to do business with the others and afterwards fuck my bitches waiting in line.” He tucked the gun back into his silk coat, walked away and his crew cheered but with claps and silent “woo’s”.

The tall guy grinned and again his buddy held the bottle for him. “Are you ready?”

Sarah’s eyes grew fiercely watery as she clutched her chest. “Jack… no…” she said quietly.

Jack’s eyes were baggy and he was in pain but he stood back up and started backing away. This is gonna hurt—a-lot… The tall guy finally swung his bat and the bottle hurtled in Jack’s direction. Me and my big ass mouth and relentless actions… Jack thought.

The bottle came into direct contact with Jack's hand making it let go of the wound. Jack flailed his hand while another bottle flung to his abdomen, another came crashing on his leg, shattering. Four of them were taking turns swinging while two kept reloading for their amusements. Two were swung, one hit Jack’s chest, another on his arm, he took a knee again and another shattered on his face.

Sarah quietly cried as she watched in horror while they continued swinging the empty bottles at her injured friend. Stop… stop, stop it!

The men kept laughing as they continued swinging more bottles at Jack’s direction, shattering so much glass around him as he collapsed to the ground. They swung a dozen more, shattering around Jack’s face that’s lying on the ground. His wound bled through his shirt and started staining the ground along with the cuts on his face. Finally, after one more swing they stopped and started walking up to Jack’s hurt body.

When they arrived, Jack grabbed one of their legs and one of them reacted by slamming the bat on his hand. He didn’t let out a scream nor react in pain, he just tried grabbing. One spat, another swung on Jack’s back and his body bounced from the hard impact.

The tall one took aim at Jack's legs but wanted to see his face so he kicked him to make him face up. “Damn we fucked you up good.”

Jack’s face was cut up, glass shards were present on his clothes and he was bleeding from all over.

He stared at the young man's leg and raised his bat. “Sorry it had come to this but you chose to mess with the wrong guys.” He slammed it on Jack’s kneecap, and he screamed.

Jack coughed and started chuckling. “Th-That all… ya—” Another bat landed on his other knee cap and more started coming down.

They ruthlessly kept raining wood onto Jack’s body. Sarah can’t take this, it’s too much to bear for her innocent mind. She started thinking on how to help him but enough to not expose herself or break her set of rules. Pacing back and forth, hearing Jack’s groans, they’re laughing, the bats making contact on his bones, Sarah let out a horrific screech, making the men stop because of how freaky it was.

Sarah’s eyes were bloodshot and she aimed two of her fingers to an electric pole close to the buildings, shooting a small shot of plasma and making the transformer explode. The men dispersed and ran away from the spookiness, leaving Jack a bloodied broken mess.

Sarah unlocked the door and hurried to him as he laid there, bleeding from his gunshot wound and cuts. “Oh my god… Jack!” She got to him and got to her knees, seeing his bloodied face up close as his eyelids were struggling to stay open. “No no, please don’t close your eyes if you can still hear me.”

She picked him up at an angle and started crying. Jack raised one of his hands, placing it on her shoulder. “Don’t… cry, Sarah. This is—normal.” he said in a dead tone.

“What?! You mean to tell me you’ve experienced worse than this type of beating?!” She started wiping his face with her shirt, staining it in his blood. “Jack stop saying such stupid statements, this is no time to joke around!”

Jack mildly chuckled and his arm fell off her shoulder. “Yes… I-I have; take this experience as-as a reality check, my friend.” His eyelids started lowering and Sarah’s eyes grew big. “To-Today… I showed you just how di-different our lives are…” He fell unconscious and Sarah clenched her teeth, reaching into her bag to call for help.

As Jack’s world came to darkness, inside his mind a voice, a strong English one spoke inside of it as Sarah’s voice started muffling out. The voice said, “Your trial starts now, Jacqueline, and your first one shall be located in the rural areas of Norway.”

The world around Jack started fading to misty white, his body floating in clouds, Jack’s wounds being healed by an abnormality. The world started spinning rapidly until his body came floating down to some grass. The world exploded into white sparkles, orbs flying away, colouring coming back into the picture. Jack’s now laying on a wet grassfield, the skies grey, mountains to the horizon, a small Norwegian town nearby, the voice came back and said one final thing…

“May you pass this first trail, but if you do fail… I’ll be waiting for you, my child, and when we reunite, I’ll give you a nice scolding. May I wish you the best of luck in this trail of your cleansing, Jack Samr.”