Ruby

Right. I do have another mother; the one who birthed me.

How could I forget the woman who didn't, for once, treat me like a daughter during the few times she managed to be around my dad and me?

My gaze hardened, I walked out of her grip and said, "You are not my mother. My mother is probably at her office working."

"Yes," she snorted. "That babysitter." The look of disgust on her face made me want to kick some sense into her. "I am sure she has bad-mouthed me. You know nothing about how vile she is."

My mind could only imagine what bad thing she was about to say about my mother. And my curiosity got the best of me.

"What do you mean?"

The tall woman wore a small smile and moved closer as though she had secrets she aimed to present to me.

"Do you know why I am not with your father? That woman stole him from me. She seduced him when I wasn't around."

Still wearing a fake surprise look, which encouraged her to talk more, I asked, "Really?"

"Look at me..." She beat her chest lightly. "I was a good mother to you, and I would still be with you if not for that woman who brainwashed your father."

"A good mother?" It would have been fun to watch her go on about how she was so good, but I had a class to attend, and so did Abby, who was watching the exchange in front of her as silently as she could. "Miss Diane..." Her eyes darkened. "I don't need you in my life."

"What?! But I am your mother! Do you know how long I have searched for you? If not for that tabloid that revealed your details, I'd still be searching relentlessly."

Of course, that article.

I licked my lower lip to contain how sickening her presence was.

With laziness in my tone, I gave her my response. "Do you think I don't remember how you treated me? How do you expect me to welcome you after you took pleasure in coming and leaving as you wished?"

"No, you've got it wrong. I-"

"Then, you find it so convenient to stand in front of me now and badmouth the woman who has taken care of me all these years? You should be ashamed, ma'am."

"But I am your mother. I-"

"You gave birth to me?" I guessed her last statement, and I scoffed. "From what I recall, you never once acted like a mother. So you have no right to stand here and expect me to act like everything is fine."

The little strength with which I was using to speak to her was getting dimmer as seconds passed. And then it finally hit me- I have two mothers.

"So, you are telling me off?" she scorned. "I guess you have your father's attitude after all."

An uncomfortable heat wrapped around me.

But I still managed a sarcastic smile and said, "Maybe I am like my father. And maybe I should call him right now and tell him who came looking for me in school. I am sure he'll be elated."

Diane did not miss the bitterness in my voice, so she just nodded and began to take small steps back. "Very well then. But know this, Ruby... The fact that I am your mother is just the tip of the iceberg. There are a lot of things you still don't know."

"Please..." I was beginning to feel stuffed. "Leave." I dropped the box in my hand and rested my hands on my kneecaps for a minute while my ears picked up the clicking of Diane's heels departing.

"Ruby?" Abby placed her hand on my back, her voice laced with worry. As I eventually stood straight and told her I was fine, she shook her head in disagreement. "You look pale. Do you want to go sit at our spot?"

I was sort of relieved that she did not question me about what just happened. Perhaps she understood that I needed to take things one step after another.

"That sounds good. But you are late for class," I said as my eyes swept through the surroundings and noticed the pizza bus had left. It took its loud music with it. " Don't worry, I'll go to the spot alone."

"Are you sure?" Abby asked, and I nodded and handed her the box. "I'll see you later."

We soon parted ways, and I made for a quiet spot just beside the main school building where Jake, Abby, and I usually study.

But someone was already there. Two people, actually. And they both seemed to be engaged in a heated conversation.

One of them, a young-looking man who wore a lot of bling around his neck, sensed my arrival and said something to the taller guy with dark hair, who quickly relaxed how he pinned the younger man against the wall.

This taller man shifted his gaze to me, and with a frown, he studied me just as I studied the handsome roughness of his face. I also noted his eyes... because there was something about them that I couldn't help but find intriguing. Maybe their colour, which seemed quite ethereal.

And his lips...

I would have kept staring if the man hadn't looked away.

Well, I did keep staring as he walked away, his broad shoulders swinging with an enviable swag, leaving me to wonder if they were doing something shady. Or if they were lovers.

Quickly deciding that was none of my business, I soon realised I should be in class before Mrs. Cook decides to mark me absent for the rest of the term.

(break)

As I stepped into our house, I met my mother in the living room, sitting freely. She seemed tired, but her current state revealed how beautiful she is even when stressed. No wonder my father fell in love with her while she was babysitting me.

"Hey Mum," I quietly greeted and sat on the white couch next to her.

"You are back. How are you?" Her eyes opened, and she flashed me a smile while her hand reached to cover mine.

"I'm good." I took off my backpack. "How was work today?"

"Oh, you know the usual... a lot of paperwork here and there. I'm glad I will be having a break soon."

I nodded in agreement. She does need a break.

"I met someone today." A pause followed. "She said she is my real mother."

She instantly sat up. "What? Who?"

"Diane."

"Oh, my God. Why would she-?" Her worried eyes darted at me. "What did she say to you?"

Shrugging, I replied, "She just said she had been looking for me for some time."

"Anything else?" I shook my head, and I had to wonder if there really was something else I shouldn't know. "How are you feeling baby?" Mum seemed more relaxed and I had to suspect something was being hidden.

"I was taken aback. But I'm fine now."

"Aww, my little girl," she cooed and pulled me into a huge hug, her hand running through my back. "I am so glad you are fine." I relaxed into her hold and failed to hold back my smile.

Her hug is the best.

"Can I get a hug too?" The tiny voice of my ever-cute brother asked and I looked his way. His full black hair danced as he approached us with those curious eyes of his.

"Hey Zee," I greeted him and he smiled. "How is my favourite boy?"

He climbed into Mum's lap and gave an inaudible response.

Typical of him.

"Look at you two... You are both so cute," Mum said, her eyes darting between my brother and me lovingly. "Alright, bring it in."

"Family hug?" asked the little one, and as my wonderful woman nodded, he squealed happily and dragged her into a hug. Then she did the same to me.

And I enjoyed that simple company.

Without a doubt, they are people I love with all my heart. And I certainly wasn't going to let people like Diane ruin such a good thing.

Ruby

I did not exactly sleep well last night. The return of Diane brought a rush of memories I wished to keep hidden.

So, as I walk down to the school cafeteria, I feel like a frustrated zombie, and it doesn't help that these kids keep glancing at me as if they're seeing me for the first time. 

Once I reached the doors of the cafeteria to wait for Abby and Jake, I wondered what the point of life was if we'd have to keep facing troubles now and then. 

As my mind searched for a suitable response, Abby and Jake appeared at the end of the hall, engaged in a conversation. 

Just as Abby's laughter rang through the hall, a tall blonde girl, whom I recognised as one of the many girls who always eye Jake as if he's some juicy element, dragged him from Abby's side.

Abby's face twitched with brisk sadness. She might have thought she wasn't showing it, but I could tell.

As she walked to me and apologised for keeping me waiting, I said, "I think we should lecture Jake on how to say no to people."

"You make him sound like a child." Abby hooked her arm with mine, and we made for the food counter while making sure to remember Jake's meal choice.

"I am just worried about him. Those girls just want to use him to fulfil their desires. I am afraid they will ruin our sweet, innocent Jake."

Abby squared her chin. "He is capable of taking care of himself. And did you call him innocent? I won't be surprised if he is doing it with those girls who swim around him."

"You sound bitter about it."

"Huh? No, I don't."

I grinned at her disagreeing expression and nothing more was said. 

Once we got our plated lunch, and found a table, Jake arrived and soon dug into the meal we didn't forget to get for him. 

"I can't do this anymore..." Seconds later, I slammed my half-eaten hamburger onto the plate.

"What?" The two stared at me concernedly.

"If everyone keeps checking me out as if I put a rich girl sign on my forehead, how am I supposed to eat in peace? I might as well take my lunch to the restroom and get my peace."

"Hell no! You are not doing that to yourself." Abby leaned toward me and flashed me a small smile. "They are just jealous of you."

"What's there to be jealous of? I am Dominic Powers' daughter, so what?" Their jaws dropped, and Jake forgot about the pasta he was crazily slurping seconds ago. "What is with you guys?" I asked.

"Are you even aware of how rich your father is?" Abby asked.

"Before the age of thirty, he was already making waves in the stock market," Jake added to the conversation with his recently gained deep voice. "Right now, he not only owns and runs the biggest companies in the business industry, but he also scares his rivals with his crazy competence. And his yearly assets? Crazy billions."

"I know all that." I frowned.

"And you are wondering why people stare at you? Do you know how many people wish they had your life?"

"But do they have to stare? At least do it discreetly." I scorned.

"They are just being human. But don't worry, in some weeks, they'll find something else interesting."

"I hope so."

Jake's words gave me hope. It sure would be nice to walk down the hallways without feeling like I am being stripped by hundreds of eyes.

"By the way, who was that woman I saw you two with yesterday?" Jake changed the topic to a heavier one. 

Abby looked my way as if asking my permission to blurt out what happened. But I knew she was also curious about the details.

Picking up my burger, I said almost inaudibly, "That was my real mother."

Abby's eyes widened in surprise.

"Mrs. Powers isn't your mother?" Jake asked, confusion all over his face.

"She didn't give birth to me, but she is my mother regardless."

"That's crazy, Ruby. I thought that woman was lying." 

A snort escaped me in response to Abby's words. But within me, I wished I didn't have such maternal complications.

"What did she want from you?" Jake asked.

"I believe she wants to be part of my life again."

"Do you want her to be?" Without thinking twice, I swiftly replied with a negative. "Are you fine though? I noticed how unsettled you looked." I nodded, and he reached to give me gentle pats on my back, and soon, everyone was facing their food without speaking a word more.

Ruby

When I got home, my father was pissed at Diane for showing up. It took bribing him with milk and cookies to change his mind about hiring security men to guard me in school.

Once it was certain that he wouldn't visit that idea again, I went to sleep. 

After four and a half hours of sleep, I woke up, my numerous assignments sprawled before me. And since I had no idea where to start, I grabbed my phone and texted Abby.

After ten minutes of doing nothing but alternating between staring at my phone and blankly checking the Chemistry textbook in front of me, I dialled Abby's number.

She didn't pick up, so I called Jake.

'Hey, you,' he sounded different, like he had been using his energy to do something.

"Hi. I am bored."

'Do you want to watch me work out?' he suggested swiftly. 'Let's switch to video chat so you can cheer me on as I do my push-ups.'

I chuckled. "Why would you need me to cheer you on?"

'Anything to make you feel good. Anyway, are you good?'

"Depends."

'Everything has changed so fast since that tabloid, hasn't it?' I nodded. 'I hope that doesn't mean you'll be exposed to danger, though. We'll all go nuts if something happens to you.'

His words made me smile.

"I hope nothing crazy happens. I pray my real mother showing up is the limit. My dad mentioned something about some of his business rivals playing dirty games. He is worried they'll target me."

'Let's hope they don't. And if they do, I will make them regret laying their hands on my girl.' The giggle I replied with could not be helped. 'I know how strong you are, Ruby, you'll survive whatever crazy thing it is that's coming your way.'

"Thanks, Jake."

'Are you certain you don't want to watch me work out? I am quite a sight.' He quickly changed the topic.

"Ugh... puh-lease. You can ask Abby, though."

'She'll chase me off,' Jake simply said, and I could picture the brunette screaming at a half-naked Jake to get off her phone.

Man, that girl definitely likes him. She either doesn't realise it or she's just good at pretending. But I should study Jake too, and see if he likes her.

Or... I could just stylishly ask him.

"Jake?" A loud noise followed- it sounded like it came from a motorbike. And since the noise hindered our conversation, Jake had to hang up, and I was left with my assignments. Well, I could as well start them.

'Oh Dominic.'

Like a deer about to be hunted, I became alert, and my eyes narrowed dramatically at what my ears just picked up.

′Hmm, yes Dom.'

My eyes widened. My parents are... doing it.

My hands on my ears as I tried to block out the noise, I scanned the room for my headset. Then, the door opened and Zion walked in quietly.

~~~

"So, what was your explanation?" Abby asked, stifling her laughter. 

Who knew the duo I call friends would find it amusing that my brother came to me to ask about the weird sounds my parents were making? While their noise didn't go on, Zion remained curious about it and apparently, neither Jake or I ended the call yesterday.

So Jake heard my little brother being inquisitive.

Stopping in front of Abby's locker, I said, "I told him they were praying for each other."

"What?"

I know, Jake.

Truthfully the answer  came from nowhere. I certainly wasn't going to lecture the nine-year-old about sex.

No, no. That's our mother's job.

"Did he believe you? I doubt he did," Abby pushed further.

"Ruby?" Jake called. He looked eager for a response as well.

"He somehow did."

"That's wild." Abby's eyebrows quirked as she seemed to decide whether to transform the wide smile on her face into full-blown laughter.

"The greatest sex talk ever," Jake added and received a smack from me.

"I wish my parents would do it though." Abby's voice lowered a "They are not talking to each other right now."

"Ruby's parents could give them a tip." Jake received another smack for his response and he scowled at me.

Ignoring him, I hugged my friend to my side, and said, "Things will be fine, Abby. They'll come around and see how apart they've grown and-"

"My own father thinks I am a failure." Sadness loomed around her and I had no idea what to say. But I held her still. "My mother doesn't even try to argue with him and when I do-"

"Abby!" Jake instantly interrupted. "What would you like for your birthday?"

"Uh?" 

"Tell me, anything I will get it for you."

"Really?" Her face brightened a bit and I couldn't have been more amused. As Jake nodded frantically, she looked ahead thoughtfully for some seconds before saying, "I have always wanted a bear."

"A real bear?" Jake looked frightened at first but he soon wore confidence. "Don't worry, I'll get one for you. Anything to-"

"If you get me a real bear, I promise you I'll feed you to it," Abby said almost threateningly and I shook my head.

"Hey! That's mean." He frowned. "I am just trying to make you feel good. Both of you are mean," he pointed out, almost sulking.

"Me?" I touched my chest. "What did I do?"

"You have been smacking me all day. What did I do to you?" He eyed me dramatically.

"When did I ever smack you?" Feigning ignorance made things more fun. "I only touched you."

Jake gasped, his hands over his mouth. He then faced Abby and asked, "You saw it, didn't you? She beat me here." He touched the spot on his arm that I decided to grace with my swift beating.

"I didn't see her touch you."

"You are both mean," Jake concluded after Abby's reply left him speechless for some seconds, and he gained two smiles from us, the two meanies.

"Celery's squad is finally complete," Abby said, her face no longer wearing the look she had earlier. "The school's rich kids all in one clique."

Jake turned and watched with us as the five-member group approached the corridors with unnecessary pride in their strides.

"Ruby is not part of them, though," he commented as he scanned through the three males and two females whose entry into the new school year held students' attention.

"Oh, please," Abby scoffed, and I wore a frown when I sighted an oddly familiar face. "Ruby is not at their level; she is on a higher scale," Abby completed.

"Is that Bryan Lockwood?" I asked even though I knew it was him. His brown locs were a giveaway, and that majestic stride of his was certainly still there.

"Yes, that's him. They released him already?" Abby asked an obvious question.

"I heard he was falsely accused," Jake replied.

"It's true. He was released two weeks ago, and he told me he wasn't coming back to school..." A part of me was trying to make eye contact with the Bryan guy, but he was too engrossed in making sure he gave everyone a show, most especially those who concluded he was a murderer when the cops came for him after school hours on a very cold day.

"Ruby?" Abby called. "I asked you a question."

"What?"

"When did he tell you he wasn't coming to school?"

"I saw him in prison and decided to visit him." The two of them questioned me with their brows, and I adjusted my stance before I began to properly explain. "My Mum had some business there, so I followed her. That's how I met him. He was about to be released that day, so we could only make small talk."

"Are you nuts?"

I frowned at Abby's question. "For talking to him?"

"Yes."

"What's your deal?" As I asked my question, I noticed that they didn't approve of my little confession.

"Bryan Lockwood isn't someone you walk up to and talk to like he's a next-door neighbour."

"Why? Is he God's son?"

"No. But he is dangerous to try to befriend."

Abby was making no sense. The guy did not flash a knife when I talked to him. So, I asked, "What exactly is your point?"

"He is a psycho, Ruby. And he is known for driving people crazy."

The strutting clique had already walked past us, and all I could see was Bryan's muscular back.

"That makes no sense. How is he friends with Celery if that's the case?" I asked Abby after I tore my eyes off the clique.

"Do you think they are friends?" Jake asked and I became certain Abby was being serious. Jake would never indulge in useless talks. "What you see is an alliance to make Celery appear more intriguing. Ever since Bryan Lockwood stepped into this school, people around him have lamented how quiet yet dangerous he is."

"I heard he stalks people too," Abby added.

"Okay, now you are being ridiculous. When we talked, he didn't seem like a psycho."

Abby shook her head and patted my shoulders. "Don't be deceived, babe. Stay far away from him."

"Uh..." Honestly, it still made no sense. But it doesn't hurt to sit back and watch things unfold. "I will."

"Good. Anyway, I heard you guys are getting a substitute English teacher," Abby changed the topic swiftly.

"Why? What happened to Mrs. Belinda?" I asked while wondering where she gets precious information from. 

"She's on maternity leave. Didn't you know she was pregnant?" I shook my head. "You should stop burying your head in books. Anyway, I need to go. I'll see you guys later."

"Is the whole Bryan thing really true?" I asked Jake, who stood beside me after Abby left.

"A huge part of it. If only Melinda were here, she'd tell you something about him."

"Who's Melinda?"

"The girl he was accused of murdering," Jake dropped, and my body grew cold.