And we continue

...

There was nothing like the sound of his sharks howling with excitement in the huge room. The abandoned factory was filled with swimming sharks all celebrating in anticipation for tonight's announcement, it was going to be the last one ever.

and at the center of it an arena where they could watch the night's entertainment. Eddward wasn't in the ring tonight but that didn't mean some of his sharks weren't good at giving shows. A dark skinned boy and a brunette were throwing punches at tonight's meat, Trevor.

With hands in his black ripped jeans he smirked as he watched the conniving Trevor getting beat up by the current sharks. He made his way through the crowd and as he passed the sharks would move out of his way. He had to make a big announcement but that would be later in the night, for now? It was all fun and games.

"Sam" a short girl made her way to him and pulled at his white leather jacket with the shark logo stitched on the back. He bent down to hear her words "One of the kids you had us track is in your office looking for you"

"Girl or boy?" Sam asked, extremely curious to know which one it was.

"Boy" she said pointing towards the direction of his office.

"Freckles" Sam chuckled out nodding and then making his way up to the office. When he was at the top of the stairs he stared down with wide amusement as a black striped beanie caught his eye. He wondered if Eddward knew the freckled boy was currently in his office. With a mischievous smile he opened the door to find Kevin staring out the window down at what seemed to be the arena. "Enjoying the view?" Kevin looked up at him with a stern look "...Not here to have fun I see" Sam closed the door and locked it. He noticed Kevin got slightly uncomfortable by his action and it only fueled his entertainment. "Does Eddward know you're here?"

"No and I'd like to keep it that way" Kevin started crossing his arms.

"Fine by me" Sam smiled walking to stand beside Kevin and look out "So what brings you here freckles? Did you want to see the King of sharks in action? I can have that arranged"

Kevin wasn't amused by Sam's comment and instead breathed out annoyed "...You and I both know that the guy down there isn't the masked man" Kevin pointed at the area where Trevor was now laying on the floor in pain.

"Oh, what makes you say that?" Sam tilted his head amused at the boy's comment.

"You would have killed him" Kevin lowered his hand and crossed his arms again "or am I wrong"

With a chuckle Sam responded "You aren't wrong"

"Then the puppeteer is still out there somewhere and it's someone who is after Eddward" Kevin felt his chest hurt as he recalled his fight with Nazz. "And I want to catch him"

"We all do Freckles," Sam laughed out. "I think Trevor just took advantage of the situation and tried to get back at Eddward through you. Most of the sharks know how closely he swims beside you, he protects you." Sam pointed a finger in the direction where he saw the beanie in the crowd. "We all know him to be ruthless, but not protective and for the first time he has someone he cares enough to protect. Trevor saw that. I don't think our big bad man is specifically after Eddward. I think Trevor was, he has a motive. That being said, I think you and Eddward are out of harm's way."

Sam's words made Kevin's chest stop making him hold his breath. Sam almost spoke of Kevin as if he was Eddward's ultimate weakness "But Trevor's not the only one. The one who attacked Nazz? That guy was blonde, Nazz said it was Jimmy '' Kevin barked out, looked down the window again and spotted the curly blonde in the middle of the crowd close to where Eddward was. "He has to be one of them"

"Freckles, trust me. I've been keeping tabs on him since the incident and he has done nothing but obey my every command. There are so many others who fit the same description. Besides, wouldn't Jimmy go after you too instead of Nazz? What hatred does he have against Nazz?" Sam followed the other's gaze down to the crowd "Jimmy's been careful...he's learned a lot from Eddward"

"What does that mean?" Kevin turned to look at Sam.

"Why do you think Eddward has remained by my side for so long?" Sam smirked looking at Eddward now who seemed to be checking his phone a lot as if texting with someone. "He has my trust. Eddward is my most trusted shark, and Jimmy has absorbed Eddward's behavior and kept low. Jimmy used to be my second in command. Once I replaced him with Eddward, Jimmy hasn't behaved the same."

"It's possible it was Jimmy that night but he has nothing to gain from betraying me. In fact, he has a lot to lose and whatever he has against Nazz… Jimmy doesn't seem to want to bring up again. Have you noticed he hasn't gone after her since? I wonder what changed?"

"Yet, there's the possibility that he knows who the real masked man is" Kevin breathed out "Why haven't you interrogated him instead of Trevor!"

Sam laughed out "I'm waiting, my dear Freckles"

"For what?" Kevin angrily questioned, astonished of how ridiculous Sam was.

"To play my cards" Sam smirked, relaxing his posture "Jimmy is playing carefully playing with fire, he doesn't want to get burned. Not like Trevor. But I want to hunt him down, it's no fun if he straight up kneels. If he is a part of this, his mask is going to fall and I'll be the one to rip it off his fucking face"

The dark eyes that stared evilly at the curly blonde downstairs gave Kevin chills. He didn't see what Nazz saw. "I'll have him be my pawn and I'll break him little by little until he is no longer use to me"

"You trust him?" Kevin could feel the anger boiling inside of him of how lightly Sam was taking the situation.

"Again, he has a lot to lose Freckles" Sam smiled "I trust a fearful man more than a loyal one."

"Do you trust Eddward?" Kevin gritted out his hands tight in fists remembering Nat's words.

"Of course, he's the most fearful of me" Sam laughed out reaching a hand to wrap around Kevin. "Do you need anything else from me besides telling me something I already know love?"

With a frustrated sigh Kevin nodded looking back down and seeing Eddward calling someone. He felt his phone vibrate but he wasn't going to answer. "I need more of those Eastern Shark tattoos"

Sam looked down intrigued and with a raised eyebrow said "What mischief are you plotting Freckles?"

"Do I have to answer the obvious?" Kevin frowned glaring up at Sam.

"Oh, your rebellious behavior turns me on Freckles" Sam laughed out letting go of Kevin and walking behind the desk. He took out a small key and opened a cabinet and started searching "Ah...here they are" he pulled out two "These are the last ones I currently have, if you need more I'm going to need payment the next time"

"How much?" Kevin walked towards the desk.

"We can arrange something" Sam winked and as Kevin was going to grab the tattoos in his hand, Sam grabbed Kevin's hand and pulled him forward then pushing the ginger onto the desk. The dirty blonde leaned down pressing up against Kevin and in a low husky voice spoke out "I warn you Freckles, You were not here, I did not give these to you and most importantly do not cost me my beloved shark."

"Understood" Kevin glared grabbing the tattoos and shoving Sam off of him "and I warn you...Do not hurt Nazz"

"Understood" Sam chuckled leaving Kevin behind and making his way back out "I do pray your little adventure doesn't end like last time, see you around."

…

Eddward was beyond annoyed. Kevin wasn't answering and he couldn't run out of this fucking gathering until Sam made his announcement. Nazz had arrived hysterical telling him what Kevin planned to do and he wasn't going to let Kevin get anywhere near those Northern mutts. He had sent Ed to hunt down Kevin but apparently the kid was nowhere in sight. Ed talked to Kevin's trackers and the guy said Kevin met up with the green haired guy again and had gone back home after his fight with Nazz, but because of Sam's gathering the guy had to call it a night.

Kevin could be anywhere right now and there was nothing he could do about it because of fucking Sam. Shoving his fists into the pockets of his leather jacket he angrily stared up at the arena where Trevor currently was, someone was finally taking him out of the arena.

However, a loud yelp took away his attention from the center and he looked towards the back of the room where a tall dark haired girl was angrily yelling at someone. "AH Come On sweet cheeks!" The loud, annoying, high pitch of the short guy easily irritated Eddward to no end every time he heard it.

With a roll of his eyes he turned away and made to move further away. He pulled out his phone once again calling Ed this time. It took a few rings before the brunette answered "Ed...Please tell me you found him"

"Sorry buddy…" Ed sounded so dejected "My only guess is that he has already left for Lemon Brooke but neither of us can set foot in wolf territory. That's asking for a death sentence"

"Damn it" Eddward made a fist, ready to just punch whatever or whoever "...I'll go after him as soon as Sam ends this. You go home"

"Double D...You can't go after him. The wolves will be ruthless"

Eddward turned as the sharks cheered watching Sam walk up the stairs and paused with a raised hand "Exactly why I can't let him go alone, he's getting into more danger by being alone. I'll call you after, I need to go"

"Double-" Ed was cut off as Eddward ended the call and made his way into the crowd. He was going to need a tombstone pill after the night ended. He was already feeling anxious because he had to skip out on it the previous night since Kevin had stayed over. And because of that...he didn't get much sleep.

He watched Sam smile and look down at him and with a swift movement of his head commanded for Eddward to stand with him. Eddward breathed out annoyed and made his way up the stairs, stopping only a few steps under Sam.

Sam raised a hand again making everyone in the room quiet down, a short girl gave the blonde a microphone. The blonde tapped it once confirming it worked then smirked down at his gang "Let's begin shall we?"

…

Kevin lifted the hood of his coat and took off his glasses putting them and the tattoos in his pocket and walking out of the room. He slowly made his way down the stairs and into the crowd, everyone was drinking and smoking and cheering for the new set of kids beating up Trevor. Kevin couldn't help but feel for the guy but there wasn't anything he could do in Sam's school of sharks. With a shake of his head he moved towards the back of the crowd where he could look for suspicious activities much easier.

He had been watching Jimmy since he arrived but the platinum blonde did nothing but stand beside Eddward and watch the arena. Occasionally, he would pull at a shark and command them to do something then cross his arms again watching that everything went smoothly. Jimmy clearly still did some responsibilities that should belong to Eddward. He wondered how they coordinated with one another. Eddward hated Jimmy and Jimmy...well there was clear dislike. Kevin frowned leaning against the wall as he watched everyone around him.

There had to be more spies among these sharks, most of these members weren't loyal to Sam. Kevin knew that some of these kids didn't even know the severity of the gang, some passing the time while others looked to take it seriously. Kevin questioned how many of these kids were actually puppets of the masked man? What if the entire room was full of them? A sense of panic raised up his rib cage as he noticed how far away he was from the raven haired teen. If anything happened right there and then, he could be too far from Eddward.

With a heavy breath in Kevin walked along the wall closely watching every member in the room. Some drunk and high off their minds, others gambling on the fights and other things. He stopped when he more clearly spotted Eddward at the far end of the room again and he couldn't see the swimmers expression from the distance but he could see Eddward looking at his phone. He felt guilty.

A loud yelp caught his attention, on his right a tall dark haired girl had angrily slapped a much shorter guy. Kevin looked curiously at the scene as the guy shrugged arguing with the girl "AH Come on sweet cheeks!"

"I hate that you're like this Eddy!" She barked at him "Fucking perverted asshole!"

Eddy? Kevin's interest increased. He stood close and watched the pair argue, the guy was definitely shorter than him and had three prominent strands of hair gelled back. "What can I say sweetheart, I'm a man with needs" the guy laughed out earning him a roll of eyes from the girl.

So this was the guy Eddwrad had fought with way back when…This meeting only stirred questions. It was hard to imagine Eddward being close friends with a guy like this. He wondered what the reason for their fight had been that they ended their friendship so horribly. His thought process was interrupted when Eddy's phone rang and immediately the short man waved off the girl he had been arguing with.

Eddy answered his phone and made his way out of the crowd to a more isolated area. He pulled out a cigarette and lit it. He took a deep breath in before groaning out a reply. Curious Kevin slowly followed hoping he could hear but Eddy was talking low and it was beyond hard to hear from all the loud cheering in the back. "...meet me...Brooke" Eddy mumbled out. Kevin could see Eddy shake a leg as if anxious and take in various drags. "Fine Fine!" he bursted out, turning around and looking up "Sam's is going to start" he laughed out "see you tonight" the short teen shoved the phone in his pocket.

Kevin took a few steps back and followed Eddy's gaze watching as Sam motioned with his head to someone in the crowd. A few moments later as he squinted he saw a familiar striped beanie make its way up the stairs making a stop close to Sam. Kevin took his glasses out of his pocket and put them back on seeing Sam and Eddward much clearly.

"Let's begin shall we?" Sam started.

Eddward stood beside Sam in all black, but the leather jacket he wore was the one with the great white logo on the back. His posture was uncomfortable but he still seemed to look out onto the crowd.

"As you all know, a very important date is just around the corner" Sam smiled and lifted a white envelope "My birthday" he laughed out "But to those of you who are new… This isn't just an invitation to my birthday party. This" he lifted the envelope "This is an opportunity for your future"

Kevin heard everyone around him whispering excitedly "You all know my Father, my brother...My birthday party will be filled with incredible men. Men that are looking to recruit, now if you are serious about going to play with the big men. This is your chance to join me" Sam paused looking behind at Eddward as if he had said it to him instead of the crowded room. "I spent the entire year getting to know some of you and observing your loyalty. Your worthiness" Sam turned back with a head held high "I'm giving this opportunity to only a select few who I think have proved to me that they are worthy of this"

Sam opened the envelope "In my hand" he lifted a paper "I have the names of the sharks I have selected. When your name is called out, come up to receive your invitation and do not lose it or else you won't get in" Sam laughed darkly. He straightened the paper "Alright who is ready?"

The room was filled with a roar that stirred the gringer teen as he watched the room unravel with excitement. "We start off with my most loyal shark, the unbeatable man in the arena and your King '' he laughed out and everyone cheered. Kevin knew who Sam was announcing and it made him pale. Sam stared right at Eddward and the raven haired teen glared back at Sam. "Eddward James Vincent '' Sam slowly announced his name. Making sure to pronounce each name loudly and clearly and grabbed an envelope from the short girl and personally handed it to Eddward. The raven haired teen seemed to mumble something in Sam's ear but Sam frowned and whispered something back which only seemed to irritate Eddward. The swimmer stepped back to his place and Sam continued. Kevin couldn't see his face clearly from the distance but he could see how Eddward's posture changed from uncomfortable to tense and furious. He wasn't looking at the crowd anymore but at the envelope in his hand, his broad shoulders hunched and his stance stiff.

Kevin questioned if Eddward would actually go to this party. Sam seemed to be giving the option of going or not but knowing the blonde he figured he probably was going to force Eddward. With a shake of his head, Kevin decided to leave knowing he was wasting time now. Raine was waiting for him back at Fangs. He snuck out of the factory and walked out into the distance back to his home where his motorcycle was.

…

As soon as Sam ended his long speech, Eddward was ready to leave. However, Sam seemed to have further plans to annoy him further. The blonde turned to grab him by the arm "Why in such a hurry?"

"Kevin…" Eddward growled out "I need to go look for Kevin"

"You can't keep him on a tight leash can you Vincent?" Sam chuckled out watching Eddward only just glare at him "Also, you're expected" the blonde tapped the white envelope with gold detailing. "Don't you dare skip out like last year. I won't have it this time."

"Understood, may I leave now. I unfortunately have more important matters to attend to" Eddward shoved off Sam's hold on his arm.

"Run a long" the blonde smiled "But do be sure to train your pet. It's a bit annoying having him run off into trouble every five minutes you aren't with him. It's getting to be too much of a distraction for you."

"He's not my pet" Eddward barked out in anger stirring in the pit of his stomach.

"Oh yes he is, you've been toying him." Sam laughed out giving Eddward a pat "Just like you are mine." Sam then nodded towards the exit "Go on then"

Eddward didn't have time right now to argue with Sam. Instead with a puff of annoyance he went further up the stairs onto the upper level of the factory. Here, there were some sharks hanging around dealing tables and others just smokin away whatever recreational drug they had.

The raven haired teen quickly exited the building and made his way to his car outside. As he turned on the car he tried calling Kevin again but with no luck, the ginger boy did not answer once again. "Damn it Kevin" he mumbled out putting the car into drive and speeding away scaring some of the sharks hanging outside.

…

The Fangs were as lively as ever. The bar, although not in such a party mood due to recent events, didn't fail to feel welcoming. Kevin had arrived with Nat on his motorcycle. Nat had waited for him in the wolf pub knowing that Nazz would run off to tell Eddward and therefore Eddward would send Ed to look for him.

After Kevin left the shark factory, he had grabbed his bike from home and sped off to pick up Nat. He had put on the fake tattoo and thrown on the Eastern Sharks jacket. "Eastern" a deep voice called out behind them, making Kevin turn.

"Raine" Kevin gave them a nod and a small smile that was soon reciprocated.

"It's good to see you again little shark" Raine smiled guiding Kevin inside and turning to gracefully greet Nat as well "You are in your second home now"

As they entered Kevin noticed that one of the windows had been smashed. When Raine opened the door every wolf in the club turned to greet Kevin and Nat's return with howls and fists bumps. These were cool people Kevin thought unlike the vulgarity of the Great Whites. It made him so curious to see how the Eastern's behaved. He wondered if they were just as positively rambunctious as the Northern Fangs.

The fact that they were located on his side of the town made him excited to try and track them down. All he knew about them was that Eddward's mother had one day been an Eastern. He didn't know what that said about the woman, maybe just what she had used to have been. "They never howl at me like this when I come in" Nat spoke out elbowing Kevin on the side.

"You're here every other day, Nathan. There's not much to miss" Raine chuckled out giving Nat a light pat on his back.

"And I'll skip more if it means I get to hang out with this cutie" Nat winked at Kevin before sliding across the room "Can I get a mimosa! It's fucking friday night bitches!" He swung his arms and hips towards the bar counter.

"Want something?" Raine offered with a gesture of his hand.

"No thanks, I rather just look over that video footage Nat mentioned" the ginger boy looked up at Raines cool hazel eyes. If he didn't know any better he could swear that Raine was a real life werewolf. Their eyes, big and round and predator like. Their posture is careful yet powerful like a true leader of the pack.

"Yes, let's figure this out then. Follow me" Raine motioned with their head. They cut through the crowd and wandered into a room on the first floor. This was Raine's office Kevin assumed as he saw a desk first when they opened the door.

"Nathan tells me your last encounter with this fiend ended unfortunate for you. I'm glad to see you recovered" Raine sat down on a leather chair and began clicking through the screen pausing a moment to look over Kevin. "I'll make sure to send you off with back up this time around"

With an awkward shrug of his shoulder Kevin frowned, remembering the last time he had been here. "Yeah...he really messed me up, can't really lift my arm all that high anymore but I'm alive" Kevin smiled gripping the side of his arm that he couldn't fully lift.

"That is no laughing matter. He could have killed you" Raine gave him a look at the arm Kevin was lightly holding onto. "I promise you we'll catch this man before he does anything else"

"You sound like my friend" Kevin chuckled out knowing that's what Eddward might have said to him.

"Your friend is a reasonable one" Raine smiled then gestured with a nod for Kevin to step beside them to see the computer screen. "Does this fit what your friend described that night?"

Kevin leaned over Raine's shoulder and watched the black and white footage of a tall man casually walking up to the entrance of the club. They had a bat like Nazz had mentioned before and had a black hoodie on with the hood over their head. Their faces were covered by a hockey mask and ripped jeans and familiar leather boots.

He couldn't be sure, but height wise it looked like one of the J's. This person was wearing an oversized hoodie and jacket making it possible to truly judge their figure. While Eddward was slender he had a clear swimmer's body, broad shoulders and strong legs. Jimmy in comparison was much slender than Eddward, it was easy to point him out, his back and shoulders weren't as broad but he had arm muscle. Johnny was bigger weight wise than Jimmy and Eddward but he was also shorter than the two.

Another thing that caught his attention as he watched the masked man staring at the camera as he stabbed through the shark logo was their posture. The straight posture immediately ruled out Johnny, if there was one physical identifying feature the baldie had, besides plank, was his horrendous posture at all times. Johnny was always hunched over as if he was ready to fight.

This guy? This guy was the complete opposite. He was casual but purposeful in his movements. Kevin watched as the masked man held up his bat and smashed it against the window. The movement removed some of the hood revealing the slightest peek of hair. "Rewind and stop right when he hits the window" he mumbled out.

Raine did so and paused waiting for Kevin to analyse the footage. "Blonde" Raine spoke out into the quiet room.

"It has to be blonde" Kevin stared wide eyed at the small peek of curly blonde hair that was shown on camera. It had to be Jimmy… What was he doing provoking the Fangs? What did he have to gain from all this? Why attack Nazz? Kevin reached up to his chest and took hold of a dog tag underneath his shirt for comfort.

"So this is our guy" Raine smirked and looked up at Kevin.

"I think it is" Kevin breathed out trying to answer his own questions, was Jimmy truly the man behind it all? "You've kept track of the vandalism right?"

"Certainly" Raine turned back to the computer and clicked around pulling up a map of Lemon Brooke. Pulling out a digital pen Raine started circling a huge chunk of the city. "This is Fang territory. The other side is Shark and this small area" They circled the small area in green "This is serpent territory"

"There's a third gang here?" Kevin questioned looking at the map.

"Female gang. You don't fuck with them, they don't fuck with you type of women" Raine then opened a layer where a bunch of red X's popped on the screen. "That's the vandalizing and sightings from my wolves"

"The masked man has picked fights with you?" Kevin continued to look at the map playing connect the dots hoping the marks would lead him somewhere.

"Yes, they have gotten quite aggressive. I personally think this is the behavior of the Great Whites trying to gain territory" Raine sat back crossing their legs and letting out a sigh.

"No, Sam is proud and egotistical. He wouldn't hide like this" Kevin mumbled out and with a finger started following the red marks "They lead towards Lemon Brooke High. The school isn't anybody's territory?"

"No, the schools are off limits for everyone. But the Sharks continue to insist on taking over" Raine shook their head. "If you don't think this is the work of the sharks then is this the uprising of a new gang? Trying to gain territory?"

Kevin looked down at Raine. So the masked man...not only wanted to ruin Sam but also wanted to take over? "It definitely makes sense. And if there is more than one person hiding behind the mask then they must have a hideout as well. All gangs have a hideout"

"So we follow one" Raine smiled with mischief.

"We might not have to" Kevin pointed at the screen "Look at all the marks, they don't venture too far out of range. It's all centered around this area, where all three gang areas meet."

"You don't suggest they're hiding in plain sight." Raine glared at the map.

"What other building is there?" Kevin raised an eyebrow "They're hiding in Lemon Brooke High"

Sitting back down with a sigh Raine uncrossed their legs looking livid "Those motherfuckers" they chuckled out then slowly looked up at the ginger boy "Papa Aloe has found a worthy Shark, I bet he's proud"

The compliment filled Kevins stomach with butterflies. Finally he felt like he was doing something worthwhile. "We need to make sure it's there before just bursting in"

"Are you suggesting we have a steak out?" Raine crossed their arms.

"We could, but it's easier if we just hide cameras around the area and at the school. Unless we manage to get the footage from the school 's security."

"Brilliant" With a wide smile Raine stood up and rushed out of the room "Wolves!" The music was immediately quieted and every wolf turned to look at the pair. "Where is Hunter and his pack!"

"Hunter!" A girl shouted up the stairs and immediately a short but serious guy with dark brown shaggy hair and light brown eyes walked down into view. He had tanned skin and wore ripped black jeans, a black v-necked shirt with his wolf jean jacket.

"Hunter gather your pack immediately, and bring your all your cameras" Kevin felt the powerful predatory presence of Raine, it rivaled Sam's.

"Oh?" Hunter light eyes shined brightly at Raine's command. He immediately turned around and ran up the stairs.

"Alright, let's get you some protection" Raine patted Kevin and turned back inside the office where Kevin followed. They walked up to a closet behind the desk and opened the lock with a key again.

There was an assortment of bats and knives and there was a large case under lock on the floor of the closet. Raine handed Kevin a bat as well as a pocket knife. Then they took another key and opened the box "Don't get alarmed little shark. But you should know by now in this field, anything can happen." Raine took a small pistol from the box and placed it under their shirt shoving it into their pants. "Better to be safe than sorry"

He was alarmed but as far as things were going it didn't surprise him that this could end in a shooting. He hoped to all deities that the night didn't end in the worst case scenario or else Eddward would have his head.

At the sound of a loud bang Kevin turned around to see the girl with lavender hair from the Wolf pub come in with a serious look on her face as she watched Raine lock the metal box again. "Raine, let me come with you too"

"No, you look after Fangs Llan" Raine stood up closing the closet as well.

"Gray can look after Fangs perfectly fine. Let me come with you please" Llan stepped closer to Raine but kept a distance. Kevin stood quietly observing the interaction, and as he watched the expression on Llan and Raine's face he could tell that there seemed to be a silent conversation between the two. A part of him wanted to leave the room and give them privacy but Raine moved and walked past Llan.

"Grab your things then" Raine stated coldly walking out of the room "Eastern! Follow along you'll stay by my side"

Kevin gave Llan an encouraging smile and they walked together out of the room where Hunter and his gang were all gathered in the front. Llan ran off upstairs and Kevin watched as Nat ran up to him grabbing his hand "Where are you going?" he asked eyeing Raine and the other wolves.

"To figure out the problem" Kevin smiled watching Nathan's hands hold his tightly

"Can I go?" Nat asked puffing out his chest in courage.

Raine gave Nat a smile and reached to caress Nat's cheek then gave him a firm grip on his shoulder "No" they simply stated but the tone of their voice was cold and powerful. It made Kevin and Nat shiver "You will stay here where it is safe"

Kevin watched as Hunter came back down with a green navy backpack on where he assumed the gear was in. The ginger teen was able to take a better look at Hunter now and noticed he wore a nose ring like Llan, but also had one on his eyebrow. Aside from that, the kid was about the same height as Kevin maybe a tad bit shorter.

It was then that Llan came running down the stairs and met up with them "I'm ready" she said and Raine lifted a hand making all wolves howl then they silenced.

"Guard your home, wolves" Raine lowered their hand and smirked "Your alpha is going on the hunt" With that Raine started walking away and Kevin, Llan, Hunter and his four other wolves followed along.

They walked together for a couple of blocks deciding it was easier to sneak on foot. The night was quiet and as they passed blocks Kevin saw some of the graffiti in person. It was always the same, a great white shark with a crown harpooned. It chilled his skin every time he looked at one, he was convinced it was a threat towards Eddward, but Raine thought it was for Sam.

As they got closer to the center of the city, Kevin was able to experience the party vibe of this place. Lemon Brooke was colorful and alive. All different kinds of people walked the streets and there was a place for everyone. Eventually, Raine mumbled something to Hunter and with a nod he looked at one of his wolves and gestured towards Raine.

Hunter then crossed the street with the three wolves and separated from them. "Hunter knows the alleyways of Lemon Brooke better than anyone else. His team will install cameras while we keep our eyes out for any masked person. We'll be the distraction" Kevin held tightly to his bat watching Hunter shove his hands in his pockets. He wondered if the kid was carrying any weapons at all? "Don't worry little shark" Raine smiled down at Kevin "Hunter is a skilled fighter. I'm proud to say he could easily go up against Eddward Vincent"

Although Raine's comment did ease some of his worry for the small wolf it did only spark another worry. The thought that if the Great White Sharks and the Northern Fangs ever went up against one another, Eddward had a worthy opponent to fight against. Raine had them stay clear of the more isolated areas in town, informing them that Hunter and his pack would cover those areas.

As they were a few blocks away from the school they heard running footsteps ahead of them. The area was more isolated than mid town but there were still people out and about. Raine seemed to get uneasy too and they motioned to stick close together. The running footsteps were that of shoes with heels, and Kevin looked into the alleyway looking to spot Hunter and his wolves or the enemy.

When Raine heard a loud bang against metal they knew Hunter and his group had found one of them. They ran across the street ignoring the few cars driving by and the singing and laughing crowds of people. They went into the alleyways and heard Hunter's wolves moving about and yelling after someone. Kevin kept up with Raine but it wasn't long before they spotted the figure Hunter and his pack were after.

A few feet away ahead of them there was a female masked person running towards their direction with a spray can in their hand and covered by an oversized black hoodie. Then Hunter's group came into view from the other end and the girl knew she was blocked. She looked both ways and then stood still lifting her hands in the air.

The dark alleyway was lit by a single light blue flickering lamp, orange lighting coming from the main streets on both ends. The girl stayed in the middle of the concrete alley and tilted her head, the hockey mask giving Kevin the chills. She seemed to make eye contact with him and then she lowered a hand, two figures pointing at him, her thumb up.

"Llan!" Hunter screamed out from the other end, making everyone jump and Kevin quickly turned around. He stood frozen and wide eyed as he saw a tall slender black hooded masked man standing right behind Llan pointing a knife to her neck.

Raine reached for his gun but the masked man shoved the knife harder to Llan and he shook his head in disapproval. Raine had no choice but to stay still, and wait. Raine's phone rang loudly breaking the icy silence. The masked man nodded at Raine's phone, so they compiled and answered their phone "...What's the matter Gray?" they spoke angrily not taking their eyes off the masked man. "...You have got to be fucking kidding me. Keep the fucking shark out of Fangs!" Raine yelled out livid hanging up. "There's a fucking shark in our territory! You!" Raine pointed at the masked man "Did you send someone out there?"

As if he was laughing the masked man shook his head. "I recommend you go protect your base, mutt" they spoke slowly and deeply their voice muffled by the mask.

The masked man that was threatening them, seemed cocky and Kevin looked down at their leather boots and casual guy was none of than the guy from the security footage and most likely the one who went after Nazz. Kevin whispered out speechlessly "Jimmy…?" this had to be Jimmy, same height and possibly same build.

Before Kevin could register what was happening the masked girl had pulled out a gun and stood pointing it with both hands right at Kevin. Raine immediately stepped forward pulling out their pistole as well ignoring the masked man's demand. Kevin stood anxiously between them all but stared right at the masked man trying to see the man behind the mask. "Now now" the masked man laughed out darkly "No need for such violence...yet"

"Tell your bitch to put it down. If she shoots, I shoot and then the police get involved" Raine commanded both hands on their gun. Kevin could hear Raine's phone buzz from yet another phone call and it was only then that it dawned on him that the shark that was back at the fangs was none other than Eddward! Nazz had ran to tell Eddward and as soon as Sam allowed it Eddward had surely ran to drag him home.

"Shit" Kevin hissed out feeling a swirl of emotions in his stomach. He should have known Eddward would be a brute, but how could he dare to run straight to the Fang home? The place was swarmed with Wolves and the fool that was Eddward would probably fight his way through to drag Kevin out.

Raine looked back hearing Kevin's distress "What's the matter with you?" he whispered out.

"We need to go back, now" Kevin said catching everyone's attention.

The masked man chuckled out stepping back and dragging Llan with him "You should listen to your Eastern"

"why? We have our guy right in front of us. We can't leave now" Raine growled out with unwavering eyes glaring at the masked man.

"Because Eddward Vincent is raiding your home" The masked man laughed out "Sam sent him over knowing the Eastern was going to you"

Raine turned his glare at Kevin for a second before addressing the masked man "How did Sam know? How did you know?"

"The eastern lives in Sam's territory of course he got spies all over, mutt. He know who goes in and out of town" The masked person laughed giving Kevin a long look that unnerved the freckled boy as if they knew of his secret "You wolves better run back" it was then that six other masked people walked out of the classrooms all with either knives or bats in hand.

"Shit" Raine swore pulling out another knife "Did you intended for us to find you?" Raine roared out at the masked person.

The masked man smiled "We spotted you close by. You made our job easier". With much anger Raine gestured with their head for everyone to start walking back while they stayed with the gun in hand. As Kevin made to move the masked man shook their head and pointed at Kevin "We want the Eastern shark"

"Oh no, that's impossible" Raine laughed out shaking their head watching the masked man now drew blood from Llan.

"You'll leave him with us, if you know what's good for you… and her '' The masked man almost sighed out irritated and dug the knife deeper.

"I'm not leaving him" Raine growled out slowly moving closer to Kevin. "Hunter!" they breathed out giving the short wolf a command.

"You are going to do this the hard way?" the masked man nodded then turned to look feeling a sharp knife digging into his back. Hunter had managed to sneak into the main street while they were all talking and quietly come out from the other end of the alleyway.

Hunter had two knives in hand, one was held at his side in a tight grip while the other stabbed onto the man's back. "You're not the only with ninja tricks asshole" Hunter glared with a smirk on his face.

The masked man let Llan go with amusement and the nearest wolf from Hunter's pack grabbed her. They then raised their hands up "You're hinderous" they chuckled out then kicked backwards. The masked man knew they would hit Hunter easily with their long legs and Hunter's short stature made it impossible to have been at a safer distance.

It was then that all hell broke loose because there was a gun shot from behind. Kevin looked back seeing that the girl had aimed up in the air and lowered it again pointing it at Kevin once more, she curled a finger indicating for him to follow her. Raine grabbed him before Kevin could consider anything and dragged him out of the alleyway along with the rest of the wolves. They heard another gunshot and police sirens close mixed with some screams from the main street "What about Hunter!" Kevin yelled out looking back seeing that the shorter wolf and two of his pack members hadn't followed them.

"He's capable of escaping by himself. He's slowing them down for now. Don't worry!" Raine called out heading back into the main street "Any idea why they're after you Eastern?" their grip on Kevin was tight and it made Kevin question if Raine was doubting him.

"No clue" Kevin muttered out seeing the police cars head past them as they walked quickly away trying to avoid any suspicion. They could have gone back into the alleyways but that could put them at risk of running into more masked members. It was safer to stick in the crowded streets with a mix of confusion and fearful people. Kevin just hoped they would get back to Fangs in time before anything happened to Eddward.

…

Eddward had enough of Kevin's recklessness, why couldn't he just sit still! He quickly sped into Lemon Brooke where he knew Fang territory to be. He had called Ed to let him know he was on his way to Lemon Brooke and despite many protests from the brunette, Eddward was set on dragging Kevin out of that mutt cave.

As soon as he entered Lemon Brooke, Ed had sent him the location of Fangs. As a former resident of the town, Ed still knew where things were. He heard his gps announce that he was almost there and with a tight grip on the handle he sped through the roaring town.

Personally, he detested places like Lemon Brooke. It was loud and obnoxious with crazy people as it's residents. Be knew that was why Eddy had moved to Lemon Brooke, because he thrived in this type of environment. That was the second reason why he hated the town, the third? It was overrun by the God damned wolves.

Fangs soon came into view and the raven haired teen parked across the street. There was enough distance where the wolves wouldn't see him just yet. This was the farthest he had ever trespassed on rival gang territory, alone. A part of him regretted not having asked Sam to lend him backup just in case but he wasn't going to involve Sam after the last time.

Eddward called Kevin for the last time holding his breath hoping the freckled boy would answer and tell him he was safe at home playing his video games. Nothing. Letting his lungs compress he through his phone onto the seat and stepped out of the car. Fangs was lit in an illuminous lavender and aqua colors that reflected onto his skin the closer he got to the place. The area was crowded with wolves, a handful smoking outside laughing until they spotted him walking towards them.

They raise their brows at him and seem completely uninterested until one of them seems to recognize him and gasps out. The smaller teen pulls at the taller ones jean jacket and quickly whispers something. Eddward can only assume he is identifying him. Immediately the taller wolf steps forward and the smaller one runs inside. "Stop right there shark" the other two look at him confused.

Eddward stops and looks at them sternly "Where is Kevin Barr?" At his question they all looked at him surprised and then a flood of other members came running out. A tall bald guy steps out pushing his members behind him as if for their safety. Eddward knew this wasn't Raine, he'd seen them once while he had been in Lemon Brooke before. Perhaps his second in command?

"What business do you have with us, shark?" the man asked a few feet away from Eddward. The guy was tall, taller than Ed for sure and seemed older by a few years. He was muscular and his thick skin was ghostly pale contrasting vibrantly with his tattoo sleeves on both his arms. The man embodied power but that didn't intimitade Eddward Vincent.

"Kevin Barr" Eddward said again getting more frustrated by the second. "I know he's here"

"The eastern is under our care, leave him be" The bald guy scoffed gesturing with a hand "Now leave, your not welcome here"

"I'm not leaving without him" Eddward growled out his hands turning into fists.

"He isn't here right now, get out!" the little wolf stepped from behind the taller one. "Gray…" they looked up at the bald guy with hesitation.

This got Eddward's attention and he felt his heart stutter at the panic that Kevin wasn't there. Was he safe? "Where is he?"

"With Raine, hunting down your people" the bald guy named Gray responded "Raine knows your people are behind the masked man"

Something in the pit of his stomach seemed to nauseate him. The idea that Kevin was out there by himself looking for the masked man terrified him. "Where are they?" He gritted out.

"Don't know"

Stepping forward angrily Eddward barked out again "Tell me!"

"Step back shark!" A wolf member yelled out stepping up close to Eddward and pushing him back.

Eddward retaliated by pushing back harder and then another wolf got involved by stepping in and punching Eddward. The raven haired teen glared up at Gray who stood ready to jump in just in case. "Must I force you to tell me where he is?"

"Do you expect to take on an entire pack by yourself?" Gray laughed out amused. "What's your deal with the eastern anyways?"

"None of your fucking buisness" Eddward pushed forward against the two wolves who where trying to keep him away.

"Well he shouldn't be your fking buisness, last chance. Leave now or I'll force you to leave"

At that Eddward kicked off one of the wolves that was holding him back and turned to punch at the other one on his left. "I'm not leaving without him"

"Oh yes you are" Gray now stepped forward grabbing Eddward easily by his jacket and janking him back hard enough to make him fall "leave"

Standing back up Eddward took a second to observe the guys body stance. How the guy was offensive and ready to throw punches. Eddward had fought many guys like this one in the cage fights, they were all brutes. But Eddward was angry and anxious.

Eddward launched forward and grabbed one of the wolves that had started the fight and pulled out his pocket knife pointing to the wolf's side. There were gasps and angry yells from all the Fangs members. He didn't want to do this… but he knew trying to beat this guy up to give him the information he wanted wasn't going to do the trick. "Tell me" he said again poking the wolf.

"We don't fucking know!" One yelled.

"Leave them alone!" Another yelled

"You better set them free shark" Gray lowered their voice as rage clearly overtook them.

"Someone here HAS to fucking know!" Eddward barked out.

Slowly the wolves started surrounding him. They were testing to see if he was truly willing to hurt their member. No, he wasn't. Kevin would hate him, and in retrospect, this wolf was innocent.

So no he wasn't actually going to and as soon as they all realized this they were going to collectively pounce on him. He needed to get to Kevin somehow, even if that meant fighting everyone here.

He threw the wolf he was holding hostage and the moment that happened other members jumped him from behind while others rescued the wolf. Gray stepped up and started punching at him. Eddward tried his best to fight him off but it was difficult when there were many more grabbing at him and punching and kicking and yelling at him.

Eddward threw himself at some of the wolves wishing he had more than just his fists. They were all on him like ants desperate to take their bite. He elbowed one in the chest that sent them into a coughing fit. He kicked another in the balls, while it was a dirty trick it did the job. He punched another right in the nose sending them back and as he turned back to Gray he noticed that the guy had just hung up his phone. He did know where they were!

Screaming out he pushed against more wolves trying to get to the damned lying mutt. What was Kevin thinking coming here again! What was he thinking putting himself in the hands of these fucking wolves!

More fang members stood back up and grabbed him pulling off his jacket and beanie. Some yanking his head back from the grip they on on his hair. One with a ring on their finger got him by his right temple, Eddward could feel the blood flow down. Another hit him in the chest causing him to cough out, it must have been the one he had hit but he couldn't tell.

There was just a sea of blurred faces and as one got him on his face it brought back a disgusting feeling. He recalled the times it had been him doing the attacking. That day after sophomore year ended… the day he had turned his back on Kevin and Nazz.

He wanted to vomit. It was as if Karma was finally getting him back. Maybe he deserved this.

But not right now. Right now, he needed to find Kevin and get him home. Get him back. But where was he and why wasn't he answering him? Why put himself in danger when time and time again he told the freckled boy to leave it to him.

Eddward felt his nose and his mouth bleed.

But was Eddward going to fix it? He hadn't truthfully lifted a finger in trying to figure all this out. Instead, he had left it to Sam and Eddward knew better than to trust Sam. Maybe that's why Kevin was being so rebellious. It was the teens way of showing him what it meant to actually act.

Maybe he had failed Kevin again.

That was why Kevin was out here siding with the Northern Fangs instead of with him.

Eddward launched forward again shoving some of the wolves off of him. Punching in every direction just trying to get his hands on that filthy mutt named Gray. It was as if a bubble of rage had popped in his stomach as he watched Gray stare at him as if Eddward was the wild animal.

Perhaps the man was intimidated that Eddward Vincent alone could continue to fight off an entire pack of gangsters. But Eddward was going to show him. He was going to beat the living shit out of him and win. Eddward Vincent was going to win if it was the last thing he did.

The challenge seemed to transmit to Gray because he lifted a hand and shouted to grab his members attention. All the wolves paused, when they saw their leaders expression they seemed to get the hint and hesitantly backed away.

Eddward breathed in harshly feeling an ache on his chest but he curled his hands into fists.

Time seemed to slow and everything was a blur, only shades of lavender reflected on his opponent. Eddward focused on the movement of his opponent because his face was unnecessary. Eddward would use the advantage of being smaller by easily dodging many of Gray's hits. He'd swing to the other side kick Gray on his calves to trip him and then punched the guy at any vulnerable part of his body.

This however didn't last too long because Eddward had already been beaten down by all the other wolves. He was tired and light headed while this guy had only received only a couple hits. He wasn't about to let his exhaustion show. He couldn't.

He saw a sharp light hit his eyes and he closed them. However, he quickly realized his mistake and moved backward almost losing his footing. A short dark haired kid was standing in front of him red faced, completely out of breath and with a knife on hand.

"Fucking shark!" The kid said with a vile smile and wide dark eyes. He launched forward and Eddward had to quickly steady his balance and dodge the guy's attack.

Eddward let the short guy swing close at him and took the opportunity of hitting the guy right in the middle of his arm causing him to lose grip of his knife and Eddward grabbed the falling knife with the other hand. However, the short teen was laughing as he stared at him wide eyed in an almost psychotic manner "Bitch, you think you have the upper hand?" Hunter reached under his shirt and pulled out yet another knife "Let's see how many the king of sharks can manage to steal, but I promise you that was the only one you'll get"

Exhaustion and a harsh headache was taking the majority of Eddward's attention but he focused it onto the short wolf in front of him. He would use the damned mutt's weapon against him and he would make him regret jumping in. "Watch me take them one by one"

The darked haired wolf launched forward swinging his knife again and Eddward blocked the swing by grabbing the guy's wrist and he swung his knife but the guy twisted his wrist out of Eddward's hold and tried to slash Eddward's exposed wrist.

Eddward swung his arm out of the way but not before the guy got a small cut on him. Eddwrad kept his distance and flicked his knife towards the guy keeping that safe distance between them. The short wolf unafraid waited for Eddward to strike again before crouching low and underneath the swing. Eddward realized he opened himself up to the little wolf who was light on his feet and they managed to slash at his thigh. Eddward hissed out at the sting of the cut.

"Hunter!" A deep voice called out from within the crowd.

It was a faintly familiar voice that caught Eddward's attention. He turned his blurry gaze to the direction they talked and he watched as the crowd parted. Another red faced and exhausted wolf walked forward. They wore a dark jean jacket and had the look of someone who had just about enough.

Eddward immediately recognized those attacking golden eyes, this was Raine. And for whatever reason they were pissed. His attention however quickly was drawn to a head of ginger hair right behind Raine.

Gray had moved behind Eddward and with a hand forcibly shoved him down on the ground. Eddward hissed out in pain letting go of the knife in his hand and looked up again.

His eyes met with shocked olive eyes and freckled flushed cheeks. Kevin. A sense of relief washed over him as he saw that Kevin was in fact here and uninjured. Yet Eddward quickly noticed that Kevin was wearing the fucking Eastern sharks jacket and it only flared his annoyance with the teen once again. Kevin slowly shook his head telling him No with eyes wides as he stared at Eddward beaten face and injured state. Eddward lowered his gaze hoping that the boy would understand to stay quiet and still.

"Kevin!" A voice called out and rushed through the crowd. Eddward spotted a green haired boy make his way over and wrap his arms around Kevin. Kevin murmured something to the boy and Eddward could feel his blood turn cold.

He turned his attention back to Raine, shaky now. Raine stood a few feet away glaring with fury down at Eddward. "Why are you here?" he snarled out with just as much anger and disgust as his father would. The tone seemed to punch him harder than any of the attacks he had just received.

Eddward stayed quiet. There was the risk that once exposing Kevin's tricks and lies that the boy might be in danger of Raine's fury. He looked over at Kevin again trying to figure out a way to leave with the freckled boy without endangering him.

His attention was quickly ripped from Kevin as Raine slapped Eddward hard enough leaving a mark and a trail of blood from their long nails scratching him. "Get out" was all Raine said as every wolf stared at the interaction with tension.

"He said he was here for the Eastern" Gray announced catching Raine's attention.

Raine looked back at Kevin "you seem to be quite popular, little shark" Kevin didn't look at anyone his eyes were glued to Eddward in fear. Eddward could tell the boy was trying to get them both out without exposing himself. "What do you want with him? He's an eastern, no threat to your kind"

Eddward breathed out ripping his gaze from Kevin's and looking up at Raine again. "Would you believe me if I said I don't intend to harm him?" He had rushed in trying to get to the freckled boy and now there was more of a distance between them. Eddward had to play his words right or it might all go chaotic once again. His shoulder stinged from how tight Gray was holding on to it, his knees shoved harshly onto the concrete and the blood was still running down his face and leg.

This didn't change Raine's pissed off expression instead they just raised an eyebrow at him "Maybe not, but Sam surely will'' Raine lowered down getting close to Eddward's face "Can you answer me why you and the masked man are after him? You both seek him out on the same night. He's an Eastern. He is harmless...as far as I'm aware" Raine spoke slowly as he watched Eddward's controlled expression. "So…" Raine pulled out his knife and touched Eddward's injured temple with it "...What makes this little shark so special, King of sharks?"

Eddward snarled from the pain of the knife pressing to his wound "Just like you, Sam is after the masked man." he breathed out his stare unwavering from Raine's piercing eyes. "The masked man is after us all and for some reason is also after Kevin Barr '' Raine lowered his knife listening now "Sam wants to keep this kid alive, because he has come after him twice now. Meaning we can use him...Sam knows that will bring out the bastard for a third time"

Raine stood up and stared down at Eddward "Kevin Barr is under my protection, he doesn't need Sam"

"Where were you when one of the masked men came after him just yesterday?" Eddward breathed out observing the Fang leader angrily. How dare he say they were protecting Kevin? Since when? Raine turned to look at Kevin with increasing interest "I was there and so was Sam. Peach Creek is our territory and Kevin Barr is under our protection"

Raine cracked a smirk now "...alright" looking over to Kevin and lifting a hand motioning for him to step forward. Kevin did, he moved slowly almost afraid that Raine was going to hurt Eddward. Kevin took Raine's hand and Raine only smiled down at him in the same way he did to Nat, an older sibling kind of way.

Eddward watched at the green haired kid stuck like glue to Kevin. It annoyed him how the boy followed Kevin like a puppy and Raine didn't seem to care that he had come forward as well. Eddward saw the boy's eyes were covered in a light glitter sparkling bright against the neon lights of the club. Raine pulled Kevin close to their side and tilted their head lowering their voice into a soft murmur "You seem to have some secrets little shark" Eddwrad watched a Kevin's eyes widen and for a second Eddward thought Raine had seen through him, he felt his stomach drop. Raine rolled up Kevin's sleeve and lightly ran a finger at his tattoo "This, little shark, is the mark of family, trust and loyalty. Don't forget where your loyalty lies"

"Sam is just using me" Kevin finally spoke up "Once he catches the masked man, I'm no longer of any use to him" Raine paused a long moment almost thinking and analysing everything that had happened that night. "I don't know…" Kevin spoke and it confused Eddward but he realized that Raine was questioning more than Kevin's loyalty. He was questioning why the masked man was after him to begin with and Kevin had replied with honesty.

"Tell Sam I want to speak with him, we will settle this between us" Raine announced turning back to Eddward and motioning to Gray to let go of Eddward.

A sense of relief was brought back to him when the brute let go but he wasn't safe yet he needed to leave with Kevin. "Understood" Up close Eddward was able to get a good look at Kevin, he saw how the boy appeared unafraid but his hands were trembling and there was no doubt that Raine could feel it. He wanted to so badly grab his freckled hand and run away.

Eddward was finally able to stand up and it was physically painful to do so. He knew it showed because Kevin was staring at him with glazed wide eyes and Eddward could only stare back with unemotional ones. He felt so detached from Kevin, almost as if they were standing on two different platforms miles away from one another. He scratched his wrists as a familiar empty feeling began to eat at him.

"Leave then, you have no more business here" Raine announced letting go of Kevin's hand now.

Shaking his head slowly Eddward pointed at Kevin "I can't leave without him"

"Tell Sam we'll escort him home" Raine frowned, getting quickly annoyed with Eddward.

Kevin stood in front of Raine now "I'll go...There's a lot to figure out after tonight. I'll see you after you talk with Sam"

"I'll have to talk with Papa Aloe as well" Raine placed a hand on his shoulder "Something tells me you haven't been all that honest with your family little shark. You belong among the early members of the Eastern sharks" Raine smiled down. "You're a wild one"

Eddward watched as Kevin's hand became fists as if hiding his emotions "I'll talk with him first...you're right. I've been meddling where I shouldn't… he has to know from me first, please" Kevin gulped his nerves down.

"As you wish" Raine moved his hand in a wave that got the group of wolves to break the circle. "Get back inside Wolves! The party's over for tonight!" The short wolf named Hunter only glared at him before picking up the knife Eddward had stolen and following his pack.

Eddward stood still waiting for Kevin to follow him. Raine gave Kevin a pat on his shoulder "You are sure you want to leave with...him alone? I can send Hunter to ride alongside you" Kevin simply shook his head rejecting the offer and reassuring Raine and then they let go and crossed their arms in defeat.

The green haired boy then stepped close to Kevin wrapping his arms around Kevin's shoulders and Kevin smiled at him. Eddward looked away letting out a breath wanting to get back home as soon as possible and begin the process of numbing the fuck out. He felt tired, in pain and disappointed.

"Don't worry...I'll see you soon Nat" Kevin said wanting to tell Nat the Eddward was the boy they had been talking so much about.

Eddwrad looked back up hesitantly catching as the green haired kid named Nat gave Kevin one last hug and then looked over at Eddward with a glare. Eddward only glared back more viciously although it only seemed to make the guy hold Kevin tighter.

Eddward breathed out again annoyed and cleared his throat loudly. He spotted his jacket and beanie all dirty and crumbled on the street and he picked them up as he slowly headed back to his car across the street not checking to see if Kevin followed. He was in pain and wanted to let his body relax but he couldn't show it front of the fucking Fangs leader. He heard quick footsteps coming up to him as he opened the door to his car. "I'll follow on my bike" Kevin whispered out with a shaky tone almost afraid that Raine would hear them even if they were at a far enough distance.

"Fine...your house" Eddward murmured back not turning but looking at Kevin through his side mirror on his car. He saw Kevin give him a confused expression.

"I thought we'd go to your place...your wounded" Kevin's shaky tone was glossed in panic.

"I can deal with it myself" Eddward spoke out, feeling that sense of detachment creeping in again.

"You're cut all over Eddward and we... need to talk '' Kevin's voice increased in volume a bit.

"Not tonight Kevin, I'm tired. I can clean up by myself" Eddward finally turned to clearly see Kevin and his heart only sunk. Kevin's was staring at him with those same glazed wide eyes as if desperate and panicked. "I'll follow you home ok?" Swallowing his words Kevin nodded and turned back to grab his bike.

Eddward got into his car and turned it on. His heart was dangling, his head was dizzy and his sight still a bit blurry from all the hits he received to the head. His scar burned again and he scrunched his face as flashes of a sharp glass dug into his skull. When he heard the familiar engine of Kevin's motorcycle, he opened his eyes and drove after Kevin leaving behind the loud city of Lemon Brooke.

When they arrived at Kevin's house, Tom's truck was parked outside a light in the living room still on as a muffled sound of TV could be heard from outside. Kevin parked his bike and walked to Eddward and lightly tapped on his car's window. Eddward looked up as Kevin was handing him the Eastern sharks jacket as if knowing Eddward was going to take it away again. But the freckled boy was wrong. "Keep it" Kevin looked at him with a surprised expression "No point in taking it away when you're going to steal it back whenever you want"

"Eddward" Kevin pleaded "He's out there... I needed to do something. I can't sit around while he's out there plotting and taking action. We can't wait for Sam to get it together."

"I know...you always just need to" Eddwrad murmured watching an older man outside his home smoking away as he enjoyed the night and that made him crave the bitter taste of nicotine.

"Stop" Kevin dropped the jacket by his side "Don't be like that" he frowned leaning down trying to catch Eddwrad's gaze "Eddward...You keep wanting to do things your way but...when?"

Eddward frowned, holding the wheel of the car tightly. He knew it. He felt his nausea come back, his wrists were so itchy he needed to end this conversation because it was giving him a headache. It was the guilt of disappointing Kevin once again. "Good night Kevin."

"Eddward" Kevin placed a hand to the window but Eddward was driving off and the freckled boy was left with a sinking feeling of regret and worry.

Eddward sped off in the opposite direction to his house trying to ignore everything he was feeling. The drive was a blur and he was sure he had passed a red light more than once. His hyper emotions were getting the better of him and he was desperate, his palms sweaty and his eyes turned red and glazy. He felt flooded with terrible and haunting feelings. It was hard getting air into his lungs and his brain pulsed with hurt. He dug through the compartment of his car and found the small bottle filled with his current sin.

As he felt the small pill fall down his dry throat and he knew it was going to be ok. Soon he wouldn't have to deal with all these emotions and thoughts again, he would be able to sleep peacefully. By the time he got home the euphoria had kicked in, and he chuckled as he felt tears falling down his cheeks mixing with the dried blood. Eddward stumbled out of his car and struggled to open his door but when it opened he fell down at the entrance.

His knees hurt and his shoulder pulsed but his head felt lighter. He rolled over onto his back feeling the cold air from outside hit him but his body was warm. He looked up at his wrist no longer feeling the itch but laughed as he stared at all the faint scars on it. The moonlight hit his skin in a glittery way and it captivated his attention, but then a head of green hair popped into his head. He stopped smiling, feeling a rush of emotion hit him as he remembered the way the boy had latched onto Kevin. Lowering his hand Eddward was unable to keep his thoughts cohesive. There was a sharp sting in his chest but at the same time there was a sense of wonder at the idea that Kevin...was with a boy.

He couldn't understand. He hadn't seen it emerge in the freckled boy and a part of him wondered if Tom or Nazz knew? Eddward heaved himself up and stumbled up the long set of stairs slowly smiling as Blaine's laugh popped into his head. He looked up and saw the image of what Blaine might look like now at his age standing at the top of the stairs. Eddward missed the boy...The way he had been carefree. Blaine had been the only thing normal in his fucking life, he had given Eddward a happy childhood. And had been what started this whole fucking mess and then left him behind. He loved and hated the boy...

The image simply shook his head at him with a smile as he raised a hand giving Eddward a cigarette. Eddward reached a hand out trying to grab the cigarette but it made him lose his poor balance and he felt his body fall back on his weak legs.

With a harsh crash, Eddward hit the ground and he went sliding down the stairs until mid way down. His body quickly was turning cold and empty. There was a buzz in his head, almost like the one he would get after drinking wine and it was unnerving. He was quickly feeling numbness all over and no longer had any strength to stand back up. So he stared up at the empty white ceiling high above him. The white walls emerged and created patterns as shadows danced along its flat surface. "You're killing yourself" Eddward remembered telling Blaine once as he had watched the boy take a cigarette in his mouth.

Eddward was enveloped in the darkness of his hollow home. He wished he could just disappear among the shadows of this home and let himself just be another haunting memory. Maybe one day it would be demolished...and his ghost would be forever forgotten along with the house. No more terrible memories would be created here.

There would be a few good memories he would grieve for. The memory of a bright ginger head of hair curled up to his side, the memory of the warmth the boy brought, the same warmth and light Blaine would bless him with too. He missed it...he wanted the feeling again. Eddward felt the stairs almost shift underneath him and he felt as if he was falling all over again. It was his fault the ginger boy wasn't by his side, he had told him no. He hadn't meant it, but he couldn't take it back.

He closed his eyes letting the drug kill him.

..

Kevin hadn't slept at all that night. He had stayed by his window holding onto his dog tag staring out until the early peeks of morning blue started to paint the sky. He then stood up to change and sneaked down the stairs. He grabbed the Eastern jacket and headed downstairs. It was the weekend, his father was home and it was just past five in the morning. Eddward would be home just having woken up, hopefully in a calmer mindset. He had felt anxious and fearful of leaving the raven haired teen to go back home alone. Or rather, Kevin hadn't wanted to leave Eddward's side, not after seeing him so beaten up and dejected. He had been scared of something stirring in Eddward and… with a gulp and shaky hands he closed the front door.

No, he wouldn't. Kevin closed his eyes tightly pushing down the fear, if anything Eddward was probably angry with him and the only thing that would have come out of him staying over was another fight. Nothing ever went the way he hoped, and maybe it was his fault but he was tired of nothing happening. Eddward wasn't taking this masked man case seriously nor was Sam. Something needs to move forward no matter how mad Eddward and Nazz are with him.

He took his bike out around the cul-de-sac so when he turned on the engine he wouldn't wake up his father or the rest of the neighborhood. As soon as he was far enough he mounted his bike and sped off across town feeling his stomach mix with nerves but just hoping that Eddward was just upset with him.

As Kevin was passing Nazz's neighborhood Kevin could feel a guilty stir in his chest and he knew he had to talk with her too. He passed the girl's house and picked up the pace knowing he was moments from Eddward's house. He turned into the neighborhood and saw the big white home, and as he pulled into the driveway his heart stopped. Kevin saw Eddward's car parked completely skewed, the drivers door open and the front door's of the home wide open as well.

He ripped off his helmet letting it drop on the ground and he jumped off his bike and ran inside the house "Eddward!" Kevin yelled out loudly looking in the living room. "Where are you!" he felt his hand tremble and his eyes glaze. Maybe he should have been demanding about not letting him leave alone...something bad happened or maybe he had been far more injured than Kevin had believed him to be. He started up the stairs and stopped when he saw wavy long hair and a lifeless body laid across the stairs "EDDWARD!"

Kevin ran up to Eddward and fell on his knees grabbing the raven haired boy in his arms and shaking him. "Eddward!" Kevin cried out in panic and quickly rolled up the sleeves to check the boy's wrists. With a sigh of relief there were no new injuries just the ones Eddward had on his face and cuts from his fight with the wolves. Kevin pressed a hand to Eddward's chest and felt it rise and fall and a huge sense of relief washed over him, it made Kevin start crying. Eddwrad had not treated his wounds, and it looked like the boy had driven intoxicated and fallen.

The ginger boy leaned down pressing his nose close to Eddward's lips trying to smell liquor or any other substance that could have intoxicated Eddward. Yet, there was nothing… Had it been because of the amount of blood loss? It couldn't have… "Eddward…" Kevin whimpered out sniffling slightly shaking him "...Please wake up" when the boy continued to stay unconscious Kevin breathed in lifting a hand to dry his tears. He tried his best to lift the injured boy up but the deadweight of the teen was far too heavy for Kevin and it only ended in Kevin falling down. Sitting back up Kevin pressed his face to Eddward's chest desperate to feel the teen's heartbeat. "I'm sorry" the boy pressed his lips together gripping Eddwrad's shirt "What's wrong?" Kevin cried.

A few minutes passed by and Kevin tried to lift Eddward up the stairs again. He fell once again but he stood up again and tried. This time he slowly made it up the stairs while taking breaks, and Eddward continued to stay unconscious. "Eddward please help me out here. I can't do this by myself" Kevin pleaded, letting out tears again. He didn't know what was wrong with Eddward and why the teen wouldn't wake up but Eddward was seemingly just deeply asleep.

Kevin slowly dragged Eddward's body across the upper hall until he finally made it into the swimmer's room. Getting the boy onto the bed was the second hardest task but Kevin wrapped his arms around Eddward's torso and he lifted himself onto Eddward's bed and as soon as they hit the bed Kevin let his body stay still. Eddward laid on top of him and Kevin's hand continued to grip to the swimmer's chest. Kevin then let himself curl under the boy's body "Eddward...please wake up" he whimpered out.

It wasn't until an hour later when Kevin finally felt Eddward shift. "...pum" the raven haired teen mumbled out and Kevin rapidly sat up moving from underneath the teen.

"Eddward, I'm here" Kevin whispered out laying next to Eddward with a hand on Eddward's chest.

"pum...kin" Eddward's chapped and bloody lips mumbled out weakly and the return of the nickname made Kevin tear up all over again.

"I'm here" Kevin cried out leaning down pressing his forehead to Eddwrad's "I'm here"

Eddward turned his head and pressed against Kevin "...I didn't…" he whispered out "...quedate...conmigo"

"It's ok, I'm here" Kevin reassured Eddward, pressing a kiss to his temple holding Eddward's cold hand. He was thankful he understood a good amount of spanish to understand Eddward now "I'm not leaving you"

"No te vayas..." Eddwrad frowned trying to hold onto Kevin's hand but it was a weak grip.

Kevin shook his head "No" Kevin wiped away his tears that were falling onto Eddward's cheeks "I'm not leaving"

"pumpkin" Eddward tried to look up at Kevin with half lidded eyes and then closed them falling back asleep again.

"...eddward?" Kevin whispered with a shaky voice but when he got no response he sadly layed back down, pressing close to the sleeping swimmer.

A few hours later Kevin opened his eyes realizing he had fallen asleep along with Eddward. There was a buzzing in the pocket of his jeans and he figured it was his father wondering where he was. Kevin looked up at Eddward and stiffened when he saw that Eddward's eyes were fully opened and he was looking up at the ceiling.

The raven haired teen turned to look at Kevin with a tired expression and it was almost haunting how calm the teen appeared. "H...How are you feeling?" Kevin asked.

Eddward only blinked and looked at him almost with a somber expression but the calmness of his state didn't seem to allow him to fully feel "tired" he spoke in a raspy morning voice. "When...did you get here?"

The morning light was much brighter now and cars could be heard outside "A couple hours ago... it was early" Kevin replied.

"Sorry…" Eddward looked back up at the ceiling "...I made you cry again"

Kevin frowned and lifted his body up supporting himself on an elbow "Eddward… What happened to you?"

"...I don't know," Eddward lied continuing to look up at the uninteresting ceiling. "I kind of blacked out"

"B-but what happened?" Kevin looked down at Eddward sadly "Were you that angry with me? Did you drink? I don't know, something?" his voice was anxious again "You were unresponsive when I found you Eddward...you wouldn't wake up..."

"I'm sorry you had to see me like that" Eddward looked back at Kevin lips pressed together with a shake of his head "I don't know Kevin...I don't know"

Kevin nodded knowing fully well that Eddward was keeping something from him but he lowered himself back down and laid his head on Eddward's shoulder and stared up at the white ceiling along with the raven haired teen. He placed a hand to the boy's chest and closed his eyes tightly trying to erase the image of Eddward's slumped body on the stairs. Truth be told...He didn't know how he felt about finding Eddward in that situation. How many more times was he supposed to find him like that? He'd be lying if he said it wasn't starting to take a negative affect on his mental health. Having to worry about the raven haired boy...worry that if left alone the teen might kill himself. "I'm sorry too" Kevin spoke out.

"Hm?"

"For stealing the jacket… and going behind your back...and letting you get hurt because of me" he sniffled out. He felt Eddward shift then and wrapped an arm around Kevin but stayed quiet.

Then after a breath Eddward spoke "I should know better than to think that you're going to sit back and stay out of trouble. I know it's frustrating for you."

Kevin pressed closer to Eddward "I'm sorry"

"No" Eddward whispered out "You're not"

Looking up with a worried expression Kevin pressed his lips together watching the unemotional expression on Eddward ``I am...I do this trying to help you to stay away from danger but… look at you" Kevin gently reached a hand to have Eddward face him, his voice falling at the sight. Eddward was covered in bruises and dried blood. He had a black and swollen eye, and on the same side his temple was a small open wound. There was a dark bruise on Eddward's nose, scratch marks on his cheek and a busted bottom lip.

"It's not your fault" Eddward mumbled out.

"But it is" Kevin frowned "Maybe if I listened to Nazz. you wouldn't be in this state right now"

"If you didn't listen to Nazz… We wouldn't get anywhere" Eddward tried to smile but it fell from his face and he looked away. "I understand Kevin...why you do these reckless things. I know you're upset with me" Eddward turned his head to look at the other side of the room as if he couldn't bear to look at Kevin "I promised you I would fix everything and that I would handle it...but I haven't done that have I?"

Kevin frowned "there's a lot going on Eddward. I don't blame you for unfulfilling that. I just don't want you to think you have to do this alone...I want to help and protect you too. I want you to keep me beside you instead of shielding me from everything. I can handle it."

Eddward turned to face Kevin again " I know...I suppose our greatest flaw is trying to protect one another…"

Kevin smiled up at Eddward ``I suppose so" he then felt a rush of warmth on his cheeks and looked at his hand on Eddward's chest. He watched it rise and fall along with Eddward's breathing. "...Don't scare me like that again...please"

The raven haired teen lifted a hand to grab the trembling freckled one tightly. "I don't mean for you to find me like that"

"You don't. But I keep finding you" Kevin pressed his face to Eddward's body hiding himself "...please don't turn me away..."

Eddward shifted to his side and wrapped his arms around Kevin in a tight embrace pressing his face into Kevin's neck. "Then don't block me out...don't pretend and then run off" Eddward mumbled out.

Kevin ran his hands along the cold fabric of Eddward's shirt feeling the boy's spine and shoulder blades. He felt the raven haired teen shudder from the slow touches. A hand curled into the boy's long raven hair and he felt the smooth texture of it. "I have been doing that...haven't I?"

"Hm" the athlete mumbled out tiredly "you've been weird since..."

Kevin felt Eddward's hold on him tighten and he remembered Ed's comment. With a flush on his cheeks he ran a hand soothingly across the broad back. "I don't mean to be weird...I've had a lot on my mind...mostly about myself"

Eddward lifted his head and looked at Kevin with curiosity and surprise "what... about yourself?" He asked cautiously.

There was a quickly spreading swirl of butterflies as Kevin stared into Eddward's eyes. The boy was so close their noses could easily bump against each other if one of them moved "I don't really know yet" Kevin mumbled wanting to look away but found himself absolutely captivated. "I still need to figure it out"

Eddward closed his eyes and breathed out "when you figure it out...tell me..."

Kevin continued to run his hand through Eddward's hair and lightly scratch at his scalp. "...Don't fall asleep again...we need to fix you up"

"Later" Eddward mumbled out

"Now" Kevin smiled bumping his forehead with Eddward "they could get infected"

"We need more sleep, it can wait" Eddward mumbled out with a slight smile to his face.

Lightly tapping on Eddward's back Kevin replied "Ok, then let go so I can go grab the first aid"

"...you didn't sleep last night did you?"

Kevin frowned realizing he probably looked kind of a mess too. "We can sleep after I clean your injuries"

Finally opening his eyes, Eddward stared at Kevin for a silent moment. "Fine" he then rolled over and let the ginger boy free and it was at that moment Kevin realized his mistake.

With a frown, he crawled out of bed knowing Eddward wasn't going to embrace him like that again. He missed it already. The freckled boy made his way across the room to the bathroom and pulled out the little box.

He paused to grab his phone and text his father back then made his way back to the bed. It didn't take long to bandage up all the little scratches and injuries Eddward had. But it seemed that the one on his temple was the most hurtful one because Eddward closed his eyes tightly and hissed his hands curling to fists. The one on his thigh was deeper than Kevin was comfortable with and damned Hunter for his skill with knives. Yet, he knew it had also saved them all from the masked man. "Sorry" Kevin frowned then quietly finished up.

"Kevin" Eddward called, staring down at him, showing more emotion now.

"Yeah?" Kevin asked a bit upset that Eddward wasn't calling him by the nickname.

"Where did you go with Raine last night?" Kevin looked over with wide eyes "I need to meet with Sam later today…" he explained.

"I think I know where the masked members are meeting" Kevin started. "I looked at a map on Raine's computer and all the attacks and markings center around Lemon Brooke Highschool."

"So there is, in fact, multiple masked people?" Eddward saw Kevin nod "and if there is a base at the school then that would mean most of them have to be students there"

"Maybe the leader is a student too. Nat gave me the idea that it might be another gangster that has it out for Sam but after last night I think it might be another student. And… I think really do think Jimmy is one of them"

"What happened last night?" Eddward lowered his brow tense and slightly annoyed that the green haired kid was mentioned. Kevin told him about the night and how they encountered the masked people and how they weren't able to get to the school because Eddward had arrived at Fangs and for some reason the masked man wanted them to turn back and deal with Eddward. "Perhaps it was for the best that you didn't arrive at the school. At least for now, but they're going to change their location if you were right"

"Maybe...can't I go with you to see Sam?" Kevin slumped his shoulders as he looked over Eddward's beaten face.

"You haven't slept" Eddward reached over and ran a thumb underneath Kevin's eye where the freckled boy assumed there were dark bags. "You should stay and sleep… we'll talk later"

Kevin leaned his face onto Eddward's hand instinctively "I need to figure out what to do about Papa Aloe...if Raine talks to him, my covers blown"

"Raine will think Sam is truly behind it all and will seek to end us." Eddward breathed out pressing a hand to his forehead. "I don't know the Eastern leader… I don't know what he'll say or do" But Eddward knew he needed to talk to the man as well because for some reason his mother had been an Eastern shark as well. He turned back to Kevin "We'll figure it out when I'm back"

"Ok" Kevin let Eddward drag him back into bed and he pressed up close to him and closed his eyes. Smelling the familiar scent of Eddward, of chlorine mixed with sweat and the oak detergent he used. It wasn't sweet… but it was enough that it got Kevin to easily fall back asleep. He felt the rise and fall of Eddward chest and that slow motion was enough to let Kevin sleep peacefully.

At some point an hour or two later, Kevin heard Eddward murmuring something by his ear. Something about sleeping well...something about later that day...something about…"...pumpkin..."

…

"We do what Kevin suggests. We use him as bait. This is the third time they have come after him. It's no fucking coincidence that they show themselves twice in back to back days. It's safer to send him into the field than sending Nazz. He's got experience with surviving these encounters and..." Sam shoved a lit cigarette in his mouth as he leaned back on his leather chair "...for one reason or another they want him."

"...I don't like it," Eddward muttered out crossed arms.

"You don't ever like everything I fucking do" Sam laughed out lifted his legs onto the desk "But you know I'm fucking right. Tell Kevin to tell Raine that I'll head over to Lemon Brooke after my party. I won't have a filthy wolf step foot in the factory."

"So that's that?" Eddward frowned

"Trevor hasn't said shit yet if that's what you want to know." Sam breathed out letting smoke cover his face.

"He can't talk" Eddward shook his head with disapproval.

"He can write can't he?" Sam shrugged, swinging his cigarette in his hand. It irritated Eddward to know that this fucked up lifestyle suited Sam so well. Probably more so than his brother Liam who was the one who would inherited almost everything "The bastard isn't that stupid"

With a roll of his eyes Eddward placed a hand on the desk "Isolate him, constantly beating him up isn't going to get him to spill anything. Let him rest up and offer him something he can't resist."

"An offer?" Sam took in the cigarette in thought. "What offer could our masked man have given him? Something to turn him against us, something...We need to top"

"Desperate times call for desperate measures" Eddward mumbled out feeling a sinking feeling in his stomach knowing Sam would understand.

Sam paused staring at Eddward for a silent moment before laughing and letting out more smoke. "Are you suggesting I threaten him with what he cares about most?" The raven haired teen stayed silent unable to confirm or deny the suggestion. He didn't like coming to a measure this extreme, but he knew Sam had no problem. "You're a Vincent alright"

The comment made Eddward's stomach swirl with anger at the thought of ever being compared to his bastard father. "...We should hide cameras around the factory and town. Just like Trevor was one of them, there could be more hiding in plain sight"

The dirty blonde haired teen nodded "I'll have someone get on that" finally standing up from his seat Sam then shoved a hand into the pocket of his jeans and looked out the window to the handful of people lingering about the factory.

"What do we do about the Eastern Sharks?" Eddward sighed out staring at the ground.

"You know what I think?" Sam crossed his arms, cigarette in hand. "If we let Kevin join, not only will we be able to manipulate and control the Fangs but we can finally tear down the pathetic-"

"My mother was an Eastern" Eddward turned to look at Sam who had stopped mid way and did not look back. Eddward couldn't see Sam's expression, he couldn't see if Sam cared or not about this revelation and he didn't truly know why he was confiding in Sam now of all people about this information. "Funny how life works that way. Did you know?" After all, Sam's family must have been a part of the Great White Sharks at the time.

Sam finally turned to face Eddward with his cigarette on his lips and eyes as dark as ever "If I knew, wouldn't I have told you already?"

"I think you might not have wanted me on the wrong side." Eddward lowered his eyebrows doubt starting to cloud his mind, he never knew what to believe when it came to Sam "You've so insistent on having me join since I met you"

The blonde smiled letting out smoke between his lips. "All I know is that we both lost a friend. Blaine brought me to you and as soon as I took one look at you I saw a broken and rage filled kid. I knew you and I were the same"

"You make it sound as if you care" Eddwrad glared at Sam.

"I do care" Sam smiled "And I am as curious as you about your mother now"

Eddward looked down at Sam's feet, repressed memories of what he had experienced in the gang only causing his nausea to become almost unbearable. How could Sam say he cared? After forcing him to witness such…atrocity time and time again. After sending him to fight night after night. After manipulating his emotions for Sam's own personal gain. "What do you remember about the Eastern sharks back then?"

"Only everything my brother told me. How one of the members killed the then current leader, how they split up. The one group that broke off became the Eastern sharks and then they fought over turf. The Easterns were just as vicious as us back then, just as conniving and power hungry." Sam took the cigarette out of his lips and tapped it lightly in thought. "The Easterns must have started back up some time after their leader and my uncle were killed...sometime between then and when my brother started his reign."

"Between that time Papa Aloe must have been around right?" Eddward could feel his hand starting to shake with the anticipation of finding out more.

"Maybe it was Papa Aloe who took over after their first leader was killed, and your mother must have been in highschool at the time. She must have witnessed the turf wars" Sam smiled "I wonder why the Easterns...She has shit taste in gangs"

With a frown Eddward looked at Sam's desk "She never...struck me as someone who would join a gang"

"If you plan to confront Papa Aloe, please consider doing it sometime after this whole mess with the masked man is fixed." Sam placed a hand on Eddward's shoulder "We need to let Kevin infiltrate them first"

With a huff of breath Eddward glared at Sam annoyed he couldn't look further into the situation with his mother for the time being "What is going to take for Kevin to get in?"

"If it's half of what we do" Sam began laughing "I suggest you start training your little minnow" he offered the rest of the cigarette to Eddward who instantly took it. "How's the pill working?"

"It's been fine" Eddward grumbled out, shoving the cigarette to his lips.

"Fine?" Sam smiled with a raised eyebrow.

Eyeing the blonde, Eddward annoyed restated his words "It's working...I'm sleeping"

"No nightmares?"

"No" Eddward breathed out smoke.

With a pat to Eddward's shoulder Sam seemed uplifted "Good" he then stepped back behind his desk and sat down lifting his boots on to the surface. "Now, we got some work to do"

…

"Ow!" Kevin's body came crashing down on the cold wet ground. Eddward and Kevin had been hauled up inside Eddward's house for most of the day talking about possible outcomes when confronting the Eastern Sharks. It had rained most of the day and finally it had calmed down enough to let him and Eddward spare outside in the backyard. "You're cheating" he grumbled out exhausted.

"No, you're not trying hard enough" Eddward's looked down at Kevin with a sympathetic look.

"Last time you told me to run...this time…" Kevin sat up looking at his messed up and dirtied sweatpants thinking about every Eddward had told him. About how Sam was going to actually listen to Kevin and go with their plan to get Kevin into the Eastern sharks. "If I do have a trial like you say so...I don't think I can...do it"

Eddward bent down to Kevin's eye level "Kevin, yes you can. You're a quick learner."

"This isn't just about learning a skill fast… I've seen the way you fight, I can't do that" Kevin felt his chest panic at the thought of having to do any sort of trial, but he couldn't let this fail or else Raine would know and they won't have the cooperation of the gangs.

"We just got to find a way that works for you" Eddward smiled giving a hand to help the other stand. "Come on let's try again"

"How have you been able to win so many fights" Kevin took the hand and let the raven haired teen drag him up.

"I observe my opponent. See their stance and preferred method of attack. I figure out what weaknesses they leave open and what works against them" Eddward then lightly tapped Kevin's chest "that way of fighting I know you can learn and once you figure that out you can win most fights"

"Most?" Kevin smiled

"Most" Eddward confirmed with a smile "but I'm afraid some can only be won by brute force and will"

"Those are the ones I'll lose" Kevin breathed out his hand still lingering in Eddward's hold. And he could feel the roughness of them from Eddward's many battles, physical and internal ones.

Giving Kevin an encouraging squeeze "I hope to be there to fight those fights instead of you, but I can't fight this one for you...I'm sorry"

"You don't have to be sorry. We don't even know what Papa Aloe will say or do. For all we know I might not have to do anything" Kevin breathed out hopeful that Papa Aloe wasn't some big scary dude who only took the toughest of the tough in his gang. Because then…Kevin wouldn't come out of it alive.

"I've heard nothing about the trials of the Easterns, all I know is that it's been a while since they last took in a member." Eddward let go of Kevin's hand and looked firmly at the freckled boy. "Last I heard, the Northern Fangs former leader...He would have his members play a game. 6 pennies are thrown on the ground and the new member must pick them up as he is being assaulted by his peers. The beating stops when all pennies are gathered."

Curious Kevin asked with hesitation to know the truth "what's the initiation into the Great White Sharks?"

Eddward paused and shoved his hands into his sweatpants pockets. "For regular new member's, it's simple. They either spend a night in the woods hiding from the rest of us. If we find them, they're out. Other times we switch it up and they have to chase targets. They catch one, they're in"

"What did you do?" Kevin breathed out, curious the teen had said regular.

Eddward bit his lip and looked away "I...well I had my first cage fight with...a guy twice my size and he had the advantage of wearing brass knuckles" the raven haired teen rubbed his jaw as if remembering the pain of being hit with the metal. "But I won" Eddward smiled and reached for Kevin's hands and placing the freckled knuckles to the boy's nose "I used his own weapon against him"

"Why did Sam give you such special treatment?" the ginger boy frowned feeling the drops of rain gently hitting his face, his hand cold once again from the other letting go.

"It was Sam's step-brother, Liam. It was his last year of reign when I entered. They've been wanting me to join them in their father's mob. I don't particularly know why… Sam's reasoning has always been bullshit" Eddward looked up watching the dark clouds moving now leaving a light breeze and he knew there was going to be heavy rainfall soon. "But sometimes I believe him"

Kevin stayed silent watching Eddward's messy wavy hair frame his stretched neck and emphasizing his adam's apple. "What does he say?"

"He says we are the same. Says he is going to overthrow his father and in turn I can do the same by his side." Eddward stared into Kevin's observative eyes "says I've been breaking bad alongside him anyways"

"But you don't want that...anymore" The swimmer paused and then shook his head and that slight hesitation to his question made Kevin feel unsteady.

"...No" Eddward's voice was quiet and somber yet sure and that seemed to be enough for Kevin. "We need to get you ready for this initiation Kevin. Whatever it is it won't be easy"

"Yeah I know" Kevin thought back to his fear and struggle against Trevor. He couldn't afford to feel like that again, he needed to get better. Eddward couldn't possibly be there all the time to save his ass. "Ok" he bent his knees getting ready for Eddward to launch at him again.

…

Was it normal to feel a sinking feeling when the boy you had a complicated crush on left a pretty box with a rose and a note on it? Because that was how Nazz felt at the moment. A sinking feeling neither good nor bad but she knew she was stable on the ground she currently stood. Her mother had informed her of the gift Sam had left an hour before she had arrived home and it sat at the center of her bed almost intimidatingly.

Nazz sat down and took the note that had been attacked with tape. Unfolding it she found the paper had beautiful swirl designs with gold on the edges. The letter said…

Afternoon or perhaps it is Evening by the time you see this,

Nonetheless, I pray you have some peace of mind.

I know I shouldn't probably involve you in the mess and stressful environment that is my life. However, I believe that perhaps you may need a change in perspective considering what you had to witness the previous week. I am sorry for that, love.

These past couple of months have been rough for me too, personally… I find that having you by my side is a good way to clear my head. You're adorable attempts to reject my advances amuse me, and despite everything you have seen, you continue to treat me the same.

I enjoy you Nazz. I want you to accompany me during my birthday ball. This will be something formal, but do not worry, I'll be there to guide you through. I hope you will be there to aid me through as well.

I've picked out something for you to wear and I know only you will be able to flourish in this dress. I will send someone to pick you up tomorrow night.

Sam Dubois

Nazz stared at the letter with a feeling of numbness. Shouldn't she feel all giddy? Like in the movies when the rich boy treats the girl next door like a princess? Because that was how Sam made her feel every time they were together. But she wasn't giddy. It was hard to be after witnessing the Prince slicing someone's tongue off.

As she stared at the letter she knew she didn't truly have a choice. Sam was demanding for her to go, so she breathed in and bottled her conflicting feels away. She found comfort in knowing that Eddward was going to be there and would bring Ed as his plus one. She and Kevin were supposed to be left behind and she wondered if she should talk with him about this? They hadn't really talked since that day they had argued about Kevin's reckless determination of facing the masked man. The whole situation made her feel so lonesome, she hadn't ever truly argued like this with Kevin, like ever.

Ed had seemed to pick up on the current strain between the two best friends and had tried to comfort her and Kevin. She appreciated Ed for that. He was always there for all of them when they needed him, no questions asked. Nazz placed the letter aside with the rose and opened the lid of the box.

Her heart stopped as she saw the most beautiful dress she had ever seen. It almost made her want to cry, unbelieving how spoiled she was being treated. The jewelry, the attention and now this dress. She was truly spoiled but something in her couldn't fully even begin to enjoy this moment.

She ran her pale finger through the light sheer fabric. Nazz pulled it out of the box unable to stand just seeing the top half of it. It was pale blue, the heart shaped top a smooth satin with white flowers attached from the chest and meeting in the middle leading to the bottom half of the dress. The white flowers then lightly scattered throughout, and she noticed that underneath the dress where a pair of folded glaves to accompany it. Truly she felt like Cinderella at this very moment. Never in her life did she think she would wear a dress so beautiful.

She placed it against her chest and walked to her mirror to imagine what she would look like wearing it. Tucking her hair behind her ears with a free hand she imagined pearl earrings and a beautiful braid to go along. She envisioned what it would be like to be truly happy and giddy wearing this dress and dancing with Sam.

But the more she stared at herself in the mirror the more she felt guilty and horrified that her reality wasn't a true fantasy. Her reality was having feelings for a criminal, someone who would grow up to become a true monster like his father. Nazz couldn't for the life of her see herself standing beside Sam in that future. But he made her feel protected and adored.

She wondered how Kevin felt when he was first trying to help out Eddward. She wondered if there truly was any chance in pulling Sam out of this path. Was there a way to reverse the conditioning he has been exposed to or was there a possibility that Sam would want to let his ambition go? Would they ever truly work out? Was she fine just settling with Sam?

The questions and conflict only choked her and made her chest feel tight because somehow at the bottom of her heart she knew whatever she had with Sam might just be a tragedy. But another part of her didn't want to turn her back on him just yet.

…

Eddward was outside leaning against one of the columns of his front porch overlooking the yard. With cigarette in hand and wearing an all black suit he waited for Ed to finish getting ready for them to head out. Scratching at his free arm feeling a sudden irritation sensation he groaned out at the annoyance it caused. Then forcing himself to ignore it Eddwrad ran a hand through his hair now reminded of the annoyance at the loss of his hat. It was quite an annoying afternoon to say the least.

"Woah"

Eddward looked up upon hearing a familiar soft voice in the distance. It was Kevin Barr making his way towards him, his olive green eyes standing out even amongst the darkening night. As he got closer the porch lighting illuminating him he noticed Kevin's nose and cheeks redden from the cold. "What?" he questioned.

"You" Kevin breathed out standing close to Eddward now. The freckled boy seemed to pause a moment, eyeing him from head to toe and then stopping to stare right at his face. "It suits you" Kevin smiled, lifting a hand and letting his fingers touch the soft leather material of the notched lapel of his suit. Kevin was admiring all the little gold detailing of the black suit. Eddward noticed the boy seemed to hesitate on letting his fingers wander further and he wanted to take a hold of that cautious freckled hand and guide it.

"I already want to take the suit off" Eddward looked back out to his yard seeing the lights inside the house across the street.

Kevin chuckled out facing the same direction as Eddward looking as if there truly was something so interesting across the street "You don't like it?"

"I'd rather be wearing my sweatpants at this hour" Eddward lightly tapped the cigarette letting the excess drop.

"I mean under normal circumstances" Kevin began leaning against a pillar now "It's not so bad dressing up every once in a while"

"Do you like it?" The raven haired teen smirked, engulfed with a warm sensation at Kevin's comment.

"...I do"

Eddward turned his gaze to the ginger boy as he felt his heartbeat a little faster. Kevin then looked down at Eddward's hand that held the cigarette before frowning. However, instead of the smaller teen rambling about how smoking was a terrible habit to have like he usually did, Kevin pushed off the column and pressed close to Eddward. He grabbed a hold of Eddward's hand and instead of taking the cigarette from his fingers, Kevin leaned down letting his lips take a drag.

The action totally left Eddward speechless and his cheeks became flushed. He watched as the teen coughed out and made a grossed out expression "What is it about them?" Kevin mumbled out shaking his head "I don't understand why you like smoking"

"...I like the bitterness" he croaked out, unable to tear his eyes away from the lips that had just touched his cigarette.

"It's shit" Kevin chuckled out turning around to face the house "...Are you going to be alright?"

It took a second for Eddward to refocus his brain to what Kevin was referring to but he soon realized that the teen was just worried about the party. "I will be, it'll be over before we know it"

"...can I stay the night?" Kevin quietly asked, almost too shy.

Eddward raised a brow at this "You don't have to ask…"

"Yeah…" the freckled boy looked down at his finger as if anxious "How late will you guys be out?"

"I don't know" Eddward gazed at the boy's red nose and his lowered gaze letting his eyelashes stand out. His long ginger hair moving in the soft breeze in the cool afternoon. "I recommend you don't stay up waiting...We'll be back when you wake up"

"It's going to be hard falling asleep tonight" Kevin breathed in slowly.

"You're welcome to call Nazz. It might be better so you're not here alone" Eddward dropped the cigarette on the floor and stepped on it.

"Nah...it's fine" Kevin shook his head with guilt in his chest. He hadn't told Eddward about his fight with Nazz but he knew the teen was perceptive enough. Hearing movement, they turned their attention to see the opened door to reveal Ed in a beige colored suit with a green bowtie. "I guess it's time" Kevin mumbled out solemnly.

"You ready?" Eddward gestured towards Ed who looked a bit spooked about going to the lion's den but nodded nonetheless. Eddward then gave Kevin a soft pat to his back and stepped inside to grab his keys.

Ed took this moment to address his concerns with the freckled boy. "What's up between you and everybody?"

"Are you referring to Nazz?" Kevin frowned looking down at his fingers in guilt.

"Yes...and Double D and the whole running off with this green haired kid we don't know" Ed placed his hands into his pockets and tilted his head to try and catch the smaller boy's eyes.

With a sigh Kevin's shoulders dropped "...Nazz seems to be transfixed with Sam and it's starting to annoy me"

"Annoy you? How?" Ed smiled knowing fully well the oddity of the developing relationship between Sam and Nazz but he didn't think it was to the point of annoyance. Not like the frustrating pinning between the boy in front of him and the one inside the house at this very moment. That was annoying, for good reasons.

"Have you talked to her since...Trevor?" Kevin asked, finally looking up to meet Ed's eyes.

"Well yeah, but not about that. I try not to think about it" Ed lifted a hand to his stomach "I get nauseous just thinking about it"

"Don't you think it's fucked up that she still seems to be crushing on someone who would do that to another person?" the ginger boy eyebrows lowered almost getting angry all over again. "I mean...I didn't see it happen but I've already had a nightmare about it. I can't see Sam the same...He's dangerous."

"Don't you think I know that?" Ed mumbled out looking down at the lonesome dark street "I didn't experience what Double D experienced in the gang but...I know that Sam isn't forgiving. He gets what he wants the way that he wants it. He's the son of a fucking criminal, it's the way he was raised and it's the only way that he knows life to be."

"Why let Nazz fall for someone like him then?" Kevin frowned disturbed Ed would let it get this far. He hadn't known Sam's true person beside what little he remembered from their elementary days, it had to take seeing it for Kevin to truly understand why Eddward feared him.

"Because we don't get a say on who she falls in love with. That's not how it works." Ed glared down "What if you see Double D do something similar to what Sam did that night? How would you feel about him then?"

This question stuttered Kevin for a moment. It brought back the memory of when he was at the park, the one Sam had told him to go to 'see it' for himself. He remembered how ruthless Eddward had been to the people they were beating up. Eddward had not hesitated and it made Kevin's heart stop when he recalled asking the raven haired boy if he had been serious about killing Trevor?

Had Eddward truly been serious? Had he done something like Sam before and was keeping it from him? Just what had Eddward experienced since being in the gang being run by actual criminals? Kevin's chest tightened and he felt shortness of breath. How would he feel if Eddward had done inhumane things like Sam? What would that say about both of them? Was he being a hypocrite in judging Nazz? "I...I don't know" was all he mumbled out, realizing that he might be in too deep to just toss his feelings for Eddward aside. Would it be bad to feel the same after finding out something so sinister from someone you longed for?

"...He wouldn't...do something like that" Kevin croaked out, staring at Ed with glazed eyes. How would Eddward have such sinister intentions towards someone else when those intentions only ever manifested as self harm? Eddward wouldn't go as far as Sam would.

With a sigh Ed stepped towards Kevin and wrapped an arm around him giving him a side hug "No...I don't think so" Kevin pressed his lips together and leaned into the hug "Just talk to her and make up, ok? She's just worried about you"

"...I know" he whispered out still conflicted on his thoughts about Sam still. "But...I still don't like it"

"You never know...Sam might just turn around. He might want to be better for her" Ed breathed out feeling chills up his arms.

"I don't know Ed...Sam shows more devotion for Eddward. I think this whole thing he has with Nazz is just a game for him"

"Then she'll open her eyes eventually. It's cruel" Ed gave the boy's arm a rub of comfort. "And you…" he pointed at Kevin's chest with his other hand "Need to open your eyes too"

"About what?" Kevin asked, confused.

"Nazz isn't the only one thinking selfishly because she's blinded by a handsome face" Ed chuckled, taping his finger to Kevin's face too. "You're being a bit troublesome too"

This made Kevin's face flush completely and as he stared up at Ed with wide eyes wondering what the taller boy meant "What do you mean?"

"Last month? When you were being weird?" Ed relaxed looking back at the door knowing fully well that Eddward must be hiding behind the door listening in because Eddward was taking far too long in getting just his keys. "And now you're running around with some green haired kid?"

"Nathan?" Kevin breathed out catching on quickly that the people tracking him around town must have told Sam or Eddward about who he was with. It was a bit disturbing knowing he had human security cameras on him informing people about everything. "He's a friend from the Northern Fangs"

"Really?" Ed smiled nodding "Still...you've been a bit cruel to mister grumpy shark"

"...Are you talking about what happened over at Lemon Brooke? I didn't mean for him to just rush on over and-"

"No not that" Ed interrupted "I'm talking about you not being fully honest with him" Ed pointed to the right side of Kevin's chest and tapped it again.

Kevin understood he meant his heart and therefore… his feelings for the raven haired teen. "I can't…" was he so obvious? 7

"Why not?" Ed quirked a brow baffled by his response.

"I can't," Kevin glared down his freckled hands. Ed would understand if he told him wouldn't he? Eddward was already so fucked up about this identity he didn't need more problems to that. He didn't want to trouble Eddward further with his feelings. He didn't need that. How could Eddwrad feel the same as him when the teen despised that part of himself? The only thing he would be doing is compromising what they had.

"Why?" Ed pushed stepping back now feeling frustrated at the boy's hesitance. "Kevin-"

"Let's get going Ed, it's getting late" Kevin's heart stopped upon hearing Eddward's voice break the tension. He looked up wide eyed as the raven haired teen stepped out with keys in hand and a blanket. He walked up to them and the ginger teen could feel his hand tremble wondering if Eddward had heard what they had been talking about. "Here, you look cold" Kevin stared down at the blanket and slowly grabbed onto it pressing it close to himself. Eddwrad made it so hard to bottle his feelings away. "Don't wait up… we won't be long" Eddward mumbled out before looking over to Ed and gesturing with his head for the brunette to follow.

Kevin stayed quietly still, wrapped in the blanket watching the car drive out of the yard and out of the neighborhood and out of sight. With face flushed he sighed out "Ok...I gotta get going too…" he mumbled out. He knew he was being reckless, just like Nazz had accused him of. He was, he could admit. But the initiation into the Easterns was something he had to do on his own and knowing Eddward. Well, the guy wouldn't have let him go alone, Sam had instructed him to go that night.

He had met Sam at the factory once again, and although it was hard to be in the presence of someone so monstrous, he still had to interact with the damned criminal. Sam had asked him if Kevin felt ready to go and face the Easterns, and truth be told Kevin didn't feel ready at all but he knew he couldn't hold off much longer. Ready or not he HAD to do this now and do it well or else it would all go to shit. Kevin just hoped the initiation was going to be something much easier than what he imagined it to be.

Inhaling he walked back into the house and dropped the blanket on a couch and locked the door as he walked out into the cool late afternoon. Eddward was going to murder him and somehow that thought made him smile.

…

"Did you hear Double D?" Ed asked with a smile on his face. He had let most of the hour long drive go by quietly as he played soft music from his phone knowing Eddward probably didn't want to talk about anything and just take it all in, but his stomach was just antsy to tease the raven haired boy.

"Hear what?" Eddward mumbled out with a tone already quiet and dark.

"Our conversation" Ed tried to cover his smile with a hand as he eyed his friend.

"No"

Ed chuckled out "Well, you know that green haired kid you've been so worried about? Turns out you have nothing to worry about"

"Why would I be worried?" Eddward held the steering wheel just a little tighter and Ed totally noticed.

"Just thought I'd let you know. Kid is just a friend, and you know Kevin wouldn't lie about something like that" Ed hummed out "I think someone else already beat that guy"

"The fuck are you talking about?" Eddward whispered out, not daring to glance at Ed at all.

"More importantly…" Ed sighed out "what were you thinking when you thought he was going out with a guy?"

"...I wasn't thinking anything…"

"Yeah you were, because you called me" Ed turned his head to look out the car window.

"I don't know Ed" Eddward's voice was quiet and strained and Ed gave his friend a sad smile knowing the teen must have been thinking and feeling so many things since the whole incident with Kevin and his father.

"Let me know when you've figured it out buddy" Ed smiled as they watched the large land of the mansion come into sight. "Damn…is this where he lives?"

"No, this is just one of his father's many estates. But Sam doesn't live here. You'd be surprised to see the house he lives in" Eddward breathed out staring out at the many cars driving through the large land to get to the estate.

"As in like a bigger mansion?" Ed breathed out feeling his legs start to shake. He'd never been to something as official as this gathering with real and dangerous people. One wrong move and he'd be a dead man.

"You would think with the way he acts sometimes" Eddward smiled, slowing down to park his car, fuck the valet he wasn't about to let anyone touch his car. "But he actually lives in a modest home...smaller than my own"

"Really? You've been there?" Ed breathed in feeling his body shake from the nerves of seeing nicely dressed criminals all entering the mansion.

"Once, I didn't go in. It's somewhere between lemon brooke and peach creek" the raven haired teen mumbled out turning off the car and letting his body relax for a moment. He frowned looking at his fingers just barely holding onto the leather steering wheel. He wanted to erase everything he had heard between Ed and Kevin's conversation. He didn't want to know what Kevin was about to say because he knew that it would only haunt him for life. He couldn't bear the thought of losing Kevin's companionship, he'd rather bottle away his feelings than create the distance. He had learned his lesson when he had that major falling out with Eddy.

"We should get going" Ed mumbled out looking over at Eddward cautiously.

"Yeah"

They walked up to the mansion avoiding the crowds lingering outside. There was a fountain at front where the cars would circulate around and two staircases leading to the entrance and a balcony one could easily see the commotion from the rooftop. There were many blue flowers scattered throughout the place and fairy lights wrapped around them like fireflies. Eddward pulled out his invitation showing it to a built man with shades and a nasty scar peeking from under his suit. "Why aren't they showing invitations?" Ed whispered under his breath motioning to the men and women all much older than them entering the mansion without interference.

Eddward motioned for Ed to follow along and spoke just as quietly "They are personally invited by Sam's father. It's a show of respect and trust" upon entering the double doors the grand spectacle of the entrance hall was the large chandelier dangling from the tall ceiling. Ed had paused to look up taking in all the details in the white and gold ceiling. Then looking down, he saw the double set of stairs leading to the second level of the home and the illuminating marbled flooring reflecting all the lights in the room. Making the brunette boy uncomfortable to set foot in such a vast home.

"Have you been here before?" Ed asked gulping as he felt his hands get all sweaty. There was a crowd in this room but most wondered to the room on the right side. Women were dressed in long dresses, some wearing silk, others lace but both accentuated their figures however their heavy makeup was the true highlight. The men all wore much more boring plain suits, ranging between black, grey and maroons.

"No, I've skipped out on these parties. Didn't want to be scouted." Eddward whispered, lifting his hands to place in his pockets and move to a less crowded area. This was a lion's den, they were prey among predators. If one of the mob bosses wanted you, there was little to be done. Of course, he knew he wouldn't be chosen tonight, Sam had already claimed Eddward this year and had given everyone participating in the scouting rings to show that they wanted to be chosen. Everyone else not wearing one was more than likely the plus one of the participant and therefore not allowed to participate. "I need a cigarette" he sighed out already so fed up.

"We just got here" Ed smiled, turning to look up the stairs seeing a light blue dress catch his attention above all the dark colors on the first floor. "...wait" he took a few steps feeling his heart stop and his sweaty hands turn cold upon seeing the face of the blonde girl in the blue dress looking down at the crowd. "Double D...I'm hallucinating right?"

"What are you talking about?" Eddward grumbled out from behind.

Ed turned with wide eyes "I'm seeing things r-right?" Ed grabbed at Eddward's arm tightly "That girl up there…" the raven haired boy followed Ed's gaze and set his eyes on the lonesome blonde girl upstairs "Tell me that's not Nazz!"

Eddward stopped unable to rip his eyes away from the blonde girl that was without a doubt "Nazz…Son of a-" Eddward whispered out angrily "Fucking Sam, what is he thinking bringing her out here?"

"We have to get her out of here!" Ed started to move forward but Eddward stopped him pulling him back roughly.

"We can't approach her until she does. She is here as Sam's woman, look at the necklace she's wearing...that's a Dubois heirloom." Eddward whispered out trying to get Ed's attention.

"The hell does that matter right now? More reason to get her out of here" Ed whispered back.

"Ed look at me! We are beneath everyone else here! One wrong move against anyone here and these criminals will have our fucking heads, understand?" He finally got the brunette to look at him.

"What about Nazz?" Ed frowned with tight fists.

"She'll be fine as long as she stays quiet and by Sam's side" Eddward breathed out hoping he was right "We'll wait until Sam's let her go to go back home"

"How long will that be?" Ed groaned out angrily seeing that Eddwrad's hold on him was tight and he knew he was just as angry as he was.

"I don't know, until the end of the night I assume" Eddward sighed out realizing that Kevin might be waiting longer than he had planned for. "...I just fucking wish he would have given us a fucking heads up"

"I can't believe that bastard" Ed mumbled up looking back up at Nazz who looked uncomfortable standing up there by herself. She scanned the room before finally catching sight of the boys down below.

With a sigh of relief a woman dressed in a skin tight lace dress approached Nazz and whispered something in Nazz's ear. With a nod Nazz made her way down the stairs and the boy's couldn't help staring at how beautifully the dress she was wearing complimented her. It wasn't sexy or revealing like most of the women in the mansion, it was modest and pretty like her. The top of the light blue dress was covered in lacy white flowers and lightly scattered throughout the rest. She was small, but the puffy dress didn't consume her, instead she was truly illuminated compared to the rest of the women in the room.

Nazz cautiously approached the boys, hesitantly avoiding the eyes of the older men and women. "Nazz keep your distance" Eddward whispered out the warning as he quickly bowed his head in greeting and nudged Ed to do the same.

"I've been told…" Nazz smiled interwinding her gloved hands together and straightening her posture. "This thing is intimidating huh"

"Only because there are real gangsters in the room, Sam's father is one of the most powerful men in the country. Everyone has to show respect to Sam and because you are here as his...that includes you too." Eddward mumbled out "Don't let these creeps touch you in any way. Stay by Sam's side at all times unless he lets us look after you"

"I'm guessing this is the reason why he let me tag along huh?" Ed mumbled out looking over at Eddward knowing they were getting stares from everyone surrounding them.

"Yeah...keep your guard up at all times, both of you" Eddward looked between Ed and Nazz "There aren't any weapons allowed but...It's not like their checking. They're trusting that all of them are too scared of the King to do anything"

"That's dumb" Nazz mumbled out looking around her "They all look susicious"

"That's just how much power the man has over this business" Ed followed her gaze "...Why didn't you tell us Sam had invited you"

The girl looked back up to a worried expression on the brunette that made her feel awfully guilty "Sam told me not to tell...sorry"

"I think his intention in bringing you here was to make sure I didn't leave early" Eddward sighed out "...Just be cautious and don't say too much. If someone speaks to you, make it short and sweet."

"Thanks Eddward...Honestly I'm terrified of being here right now, so I'm happy the both of you are here with me. I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't come" Nazz looked between the two boys wanting nothing more than to hug them both but she couldn't. They weren't allowed to touch what was Sam's and for the night, she was to be just that, Sam's. "More importantly...how's Kevin?" she asked quietly.

"Why don't you ask him when we get back home?" Ed smiled pulling his hands behind his back as instinctually he wanted to comfort the girl by placing a hand on her shoulder but reminding himself that he wasn't allowed to touch her.

"Is he waiting for you to come home?" Nazz giggled looking over at Eddward who looked away with flushed ears. "He worries about you...that's why he does all those reckless things you know. He's always thinking about you...even back then when you turned your back on us? Even then he worried about you, it's in his nature. I think he gets it from his dad" Nazz sighed out with a smile. "They're Barr men"

"Does this mean you'll reconcile with him?" Ed smiled down at her.

"Of course...But I think he just needs a break. To understand somethings and think it all over. I understand him...but I don't think he understands me" She looks down at her hands staring at the bracelet clinging to her wrist.

"It's because you have some things to think about yourself" Ed mumbled out "Nazz… you do realize you picked the most dangerous guy to fall for right?"

With pressed lips she nodded "I understand that now...after that night"

"How do you feel now?" the brunette asked, feeling bad for the girl.

"I don't know, I'm disturbed but…" Nazz looked up meeting the boys stare "A part of me...hopes...wishes it can all change"

"Nazz" Eddward interrupted with a frown knowing the girls hopes were eventually going to be crushed "Sam isn't going to back down from this. He has one goal in life and that involves falling deeper in this dangerous life. You have to make a decision by the end of the year. Do you stay with him and support him in this business or do you back down."

They heard loud clapping around them and it grabbed their attention. Nazz turned round and spotted Sam making his way down the stairs, the spot light was on him and he was the only one wearing an all white suit with gold detailings, almost matching the gold on Eddwrad's suit. He was a handsome predator on the loose. Some gangsters approached, no men making a move to touch unless Sam initiated with a hand.

Then a young man with the same dirty blonde hair came rushing up to Sam and wrapped him up in a hug. The guy's hair was longer, pulled back in a low ponytail and he wore a white suit with black pants. "Who is that?" Nazz whispered.

"That's Sam's older brother, Liam Dubois" Eddwrad whispered back "He's the only one allowed to kiss your hand, so don't be surprised if he approaches you"

"His brother is here?" Ed whispered out surprised "Wait does that mean their father is here too?"

"No, the King of Beasts wouldn't concern himself with these types of matters. You see, the man doesn't really care about Sam, he only cares about Liam because he will be his heir." The raven haired teen explained "It's complicated"

"But Sam seems to have a really good relationship with his brother" Nazz pointed out as they stared at the two boys laughing about something. She saw the way Sam looked up at his brother in an admiration and childish manner that she hadn't ever seen before. This was a more normal and human side to the boy, the side she prayed to see much more often.

"He does. They may have different mothers but Liam has always loved Sam, he spoiled Sam because he knows their father wouldn't. Because of that Sam has always respected and loved Liam in return"

Nazz's eyes widened when Sam caught sight of her and the boys in the back corner and motioned for his brother to follow him. "Oh no no no…." she mumbled panicking but kept her posture and trembling hand hidden behind her back.

"Breath in Nazz, don't freak out" Ed whispered stepping behind her as he felt Eddward pull his suit motioning to keep his distance.

"Don't say anything unless they speak to you Ed, and don't stare at them either" Eddward warned the brunette.

"Evening love" Sam greeted Nazz and a kiss to her cheek. "You look ravishing"

"Well, you do have a knack for picking out beautiful things" Nazz smiled lifting her dress and looking down at it's seamless flow.

"Indeed he does" Liam stepped up reaching a hand out and she hesitantly took it and watched as he leaned down to place a kiss. He straightened up and looked at her from head to toe but held her hand in his "You do have a knack for finding beauties, little brother"

Sam grinned looking over Nazz once again "a pure rose compared to these simple weeds"

Liam laughed out letting go of Nazz's hand and lightly shoving Sam "You're so mean." With a bow of his head he greeted Nazz once again "Well, anyhow nice to meet you little flower. You can just call me Liam, may I know your name?" the boy Nazz noticed had two colored eyes, one the same dark tone as Sam and the other a light blue. She guessed that they both shared their dark eyes from their father.

"Nazz van Bartonschmeer, a pleasure to meet you" Nazz greeted with a bow and a smile. Every ounce of her body screamed to run away, she was in front of two dangerous men despite their appearances.

"Beautiful name for a beautiful girl" Liam smiled down at her before looking behind her and widening his eyes upon seeing Eddward behind her. "Eddward James Vincent, what a surprise to see you here" Liam smiled.

"Sam would kill me if I skipped out on his last birthday before initiation" Eddward grinned, bowing his head.

"Oh I wouldn't let the fool" Liam laughed out moving closer to shake Eddward's hand.

Taking a moment to turn to Sam, Eddward handed him a small nicely wrapped box "Happy birthday" he mumbled out politely. Sam took it with a smile and didn't open it instead he only chuckled as if already knowing exactly what was inside.

"Wow, you've really grown since I last saw you. Sam's been really giving you a rough time huh?" Liam interrupted.

"Nothing I can't handle" Eddward responded quietly.

"Still" Liam turned to Sam with a firm look "you shouldn't push around your pet Sam. We need him intact"

Nazz who had moved to stand beside Sam and made a face at the mention of the word pet and looked at Eddward who didn't seem bothered about the name. She noticed Ed behind Eddward and was keeping his head low "I'm only just training him brother, where is yours?" the blonde looked around.

"Ah… don't remind me" Liam made an exasperated face "Rival gang shot him, I'm on the hunt for a new one. Got someone like Eddward here? Unless you'll gift him to me?"

"On my birthday? Really brother" Sam chuckled out looking around "I have a select few from the gang here participating if you're interested. Out of all of them here, I'd recommend Jimmy. He's no brute, not like Eddward who can win most cage fights. But he's intelligent, I'm sure if you train him, he will make you money fast"

"Hm, I'll have to inspect him later tonight" Liam turned back and spotted Ed behind and shoved a firm hand on the tall boy's shoulder "how about this one?" Liam motioned to Ed who slightly shook at the mention of him.

"Not for grabs" Sam laughed out "Wouldn't make you any income"

"Damn, he seems well built too" With a sigh he turned back to Eddward "Sorry Eddward, I guess you're stuck with this little monster"

A monster Sam was, Eddward thought simply smiling and shrugging. But he wouldn't stay with Sam, the guy was letting him go at the end of this year and that sight of freedom was the one thing lifting his spirit. He wanted to see Kevin's light up expression when all this was over, when he was free from all this. He wouldn't be disappointing the freckled boy ever again.

"Alright shall we get going" Sam motioned to Liam and raised his arm for Nazz to take. The three of them left to walk into the room on the right side where the party was most lively and a modern take on Jazz music blasted.

Eddward let out a sigh and looked up at Ed who looked already just as mentally exhausted as him. "I guess we should follow. No hiding away"

"Double D, what did they mean by pet…" Ed cautiously asked disturbed by the title Liam had placed on his friend.

"Don't worry about it, I won't belong to Sam after he leaves" Eddward could feel his stomach swirl with anxiety, he wished he could just pass out on a tombstone right about now. Or at least have a smoke.

"Double D…" Ed begged with tight fists at his sides "What does that mean?"

Eddward looked up at Ed with tired eyes and a frown "It means exactly what it means Ed. It means he can do with me whatever the fuck he wants. It is why he puts me to fight. Among these mobsters, that's the most popular sport, they send their pets to fight each other. Sometimes it's to the death. But I'd have the privilege to also play as Sam's right hand man. The one he trusts the most, and I would be his loyal dog protecting his back."

"W-what the fuck Double D" Ed breathed out with wide eyes "Since when?"

"Since I was initiated into the Great White Sharks" Eddward stared at Ed with a firm look "I had a different mindset back then, I didn't care. Sam gave me what I wanted, so I let him put a leash on me."

"Double D I had no idea" Ed mumbled out his fists only getting tighter from how angry he was at Sam.

"Don't worry about it...Sam's letting me go after he is initiated" Eddward looked over at the dirty haired blonde dragging Nazz to dance with him in the other room. "I'm willing to devote my all to this monster for the rest of the year if it means getting him far away from all of you in the end"

"...That's still concerning Double D" Ed mumbled out upset and highly uncomfortable at Eddward's current mindset. "Just...don't let him hurt you"

Eddward laughed out "That's the last thing Sam wants"

…

Nazz looked around the room as she danced with Sam in the middle of the crowded room. Although the crowd had stepped out of their way, and she saw Liam had snatched a girl in a dark purple silk dress with a beautiful headpiece. The current song was slow and seductive, played by a live band at the far end of the room, and it almost seemed like a party the Great Gatsby would hold. Yes, she was Daisy, the falsely innocent and pure character, hiding her true colors while he was Gatsby, the charming and mysterious protagonist with complicated morals. The whole situation made her want to laugh, it was ridiculous.

As the song transitioned Sam spun her around smiling down at her "Are you enjoying yourself love?"

"Quite" Nazz said, although she wasn't smiling.

Sam laughed pressing her close to his chest "You could enjoy many more events like this. You would be the center of attention"

Nazz chuckled "Hardly, they're all staring at you"

"Oh?" Sam tilted his head, spinning her around again but keeping her back to his chest as he extended one of her arms out. "But take a good look...All the women envious of you, and all the men hungry for your beauty" he whispered huskily. "You are the jewel tonight love"

Turning back uncomfortable at all the staring Nazz looked down "Then…" she breathed in looking into Sam's dark eyes "I'll shine for you tonight, so...Happy Birthday"

Something in Sam's changed expression made her feel confident. He was pleased with her and it showed as he bent down and placed a kiss to her cheek. It was funny how far they had intertwined in their mutual crushes for one another but...she thought it odd that Sam hadn't made any attempt in furthering his intimacy. Was it out of respect for her?

As she looked around the room and noticed something else and caught her attention. Where was his mother? "Sam...may I ask something?" she whispered out.

"What is it, love?"

"May I ask why your parents aren't here? It would be rude of me to...you know not at least introduce myself" She felt Sam's hands tense around her and she looked up scared she had said something bad.

"M-my mother doesn't belong here…" he said quietly.

"Why?" she cautiously continued.

Sam looked around with a slight glare at the people around them "She is nothing but my father's concubine. She is not allowed to these events"

Nazz made a face and stared at Sam with a frown as she saw his anger. "Why do you say it like that?"

"Like what?"

"You say it almost forced" She tightened her hold on him.

With a chuckle Sam looked away, "That's the answer my father would want me to say."

"Then what is your answer?" She questioned him with a raised eyebrow.

Sam looked down at her with a curious expression and smiled "She's a poor woman who was manipulated into the clutches of a mad man and forced to live like a slut all because he is determined to not give her the rightful place at his side because he is still madly in love with his deceased wife."

"Liam's mother?" she breathed out looking over the other dirty blond happily dancing at the new more lively tune the band was playing.

"Yes" Sam breathed out "But I'll give her the life she deserves, I'll spoil her rotten"

"You hate your father…" Nazz stated, running a comforting hand along the teen's shoulder.

"Loathe him" Sam muttered out his finger following the curve of her back "Let's not indulge in that conversation any further love"

"Alright" she nodded, giving him a smile playing the part then teen wanted from her. She would get it out of him another time when she was in control and out of harm's way.

A couple of songs changed and Liam walked over reaching a hand out for her to take. Sam gave her a small push forward and she took the older brother's hand while the woman who was with Liam took Sam's hand. Nazz noticed that the girl had a tattoo on her thigh, it almost looked like a serpent. Liam dragged her further away from Sam and twirled her around amazed to see her dress move so beautifully. "You're a spectacle, little flower"

"Thank you" Nazz smiled as her insides twisted from the pure instinctual fear of the man dancing with her.

"Tell me, how did my brother manage to snatch an innocent girl like you?"

"You assume I'm innocent?" Nazz smiled up at him with curiosity wondering how far she was able to be casual with this man.

Liam laughed pulling her far too close for her comfort "Oh, I know an innocent girl when I see one. My brother hasn't defiled you just yet." Nazz pressed her lips together trying to keep her composure but it was hard when Sam's older brother was freely touching her exposed skin. "I'm surprised really. Perhaps he's preparing you before he devours you. Mentally...physically" the man tilted his head a hand running through her hair "Watch yourself, little flower"

Eyeing Sam a few feet away from them she watched as the women gave him a seductive smile. Was Liam trying to make her jealous? Seduce her? With a smile she turned back to look up at Liam's observant eyes "You're a thoughtful man" The man only chuckled out leading her in the dance. She kept her eyes out in the crowd watching all different faces looking onto them as they danced too. However, among the crowd she saw a familiar curly hair platinum boy. His expression wasn't threatening and when he saw her looking at him he moved his eyes to gesture out of the room. Nazz could read that the boy wanted to speak to her alone. Her nerves were telling her to stay put but she was far too curious now to turn away. This might be her chance to find out about the night she was attacked by the masked man. Nazz faked being dizzy letting Liam's hand go "Mind if I take a breather? It's a bit stuffy in here"

"Of course, don't wander too far" Liam kissed her hand and stepped aside grabbing another woman to dance with.

With that she walked out of the room, she had kept her eyes open hoping to spot Eddward or Ed along the way to keep a watch but she hadn't seen them on the way out. She hoped they would find her in case anything happened. The platinum blonde was standing across the entrance hall waiting for her. "Jimmy" she called out.

He turned towards her hand in his pants pockets "What do you think you are doing here nerd?"

Taken aback she rolled her eyes "You think I'm here willingly? What are you doing here?"

"Invitation dumbass" Jimmy frowned down at her "I'm surprised the other nerd isn't glued to your side right now"

"Kevin?" Nazz asked annoyed, she was rethinking coming out here to talk to him.

"Is he home?" Jimmy asked quietly.

"You should know" she snarled at him.

"No, I don't know. That's why I'm fucking asking you" Jimmy looked up scanning the crowd before motioning for her to follow.

"I'm not following you anywhere else" she said, arms crossed.

"I can't be seen talking to you...come on" Jimmy said awfully calm yet irritated.

"Are you going to attack me again?" Nazz frowned knowing she shouldn't be here right now.

Jimmy stepped close to her and quietly whispered out "Fucking follow me if you want to survive the fucking night, skank"

Nazz starred up wide eyed. She was angry at how he was talking to her but...something in her told her to follow him. So taking a bit of Kevin's bravery she nodded but kept her guard up.

…

Eddward was ready to fucking murder the loud bastard that was already drunk off his ass and talking senslessly a few feet away from where he was suppose to be watching Nazz dance around with Sam. But had lost sight of her when Liam had grabbed her. Eddward and Ed annoyingly looked over to where the loud short teen was gushing over a much taller dark skinned woman skin tight leather and long silver braided hair. The women simply smiled down and ran a hand through the teen's gelled back hair as she looked over to where Sam was.

"Looks like Eddy found one to tolerate him" Ed mumbled out surprised. He turned to see a short girl come up to them and he recognized her as the one who followed Sam around.

"Sam wants to speak with you in private" The girl said motioning for Eddward to follow her.

"He couldn't just tell me himself?" Eddward raised an eyebrow looking at Sam still dancing with the woman. He turned to Ed "Stay here and look for Nazz, Liam probably took her across the room. Don't talk to anyone else."

Eddward followed the girl out of the room and up the stairs to the second floor into a room on the right side. He was honestly pleased Sam had pulled him out because he already had a headache with the loud music and the annoying Eddy down the stairs. However he couldn't figure out what Sam needed to talk to him about now of all times. The girl led him into a living room area with a lit false fireplace. "Wait here a moment, he'll be right over"

He watched the girl leave the room assuming she was going to fetch Sam. Eddward walked over to one of the windows and looked outside seeing the vast back yard of the mansion. There was a large rose garden and a comfortable sitting area to have barbecues on the other side. A large lit up pool in the center was the only source illuminating the backyard.

He wondered if Sam would allow him to have a cigarette in this room.

…

Ed maneuvered through the room looking around where Liam and Nazz had moved too but he saw that Liam had taken another woman in his hold. Ed looked back to Sam who was still with the same girl. But where was Nazz?

He searched around the room hoping to find that the girl just had changed dance partners but she was nowhere to be seen. Ed spotted the short girl fetch Sam and with a kiss on the hand to the girl he was dancing with and headed out of the room. What was he supposed to do now?

Ed left the room seeing Sam being guided up the stairs to the left side. He pulled out his phone and sent Double D a message letting him know he couldn't find Nazz. It wasn't like he could wander through the entire fucking mansion.

…

Sam stepped into the study with an annoyed look "I assumed Eddward would be here already" he leaned against the desk crossing his arms. He watched as the girl had her hand behind her back and wouldn't move from the doors. "Well, go get him" he gestured with a hand.

The door opened only slightly to let someone in. The woman he had just been dancing with was the one who slid through the door "I'm sorry Boss" The short girl looked at him before pulling up her dress and grabbing a gun and pointing it straight at Sam and the woman followed by doing the same.

The dirty haired blonde had acted on instinct and had pulled out a small pistol from under his suit and pointed it at the girl. "Who?" Sam growled out. Was this his father's doing? Was he trying to get rid of him so he wouldn't ever try to overthrow Liam? Was this the masked man? Damn him...he should have been more careful about people he let in...but he thought...

"She sends her regards" the short girl spoke out carefully.

…

Two loud gun shot could be heard from across the mansion ripping Eddward's attention from Ed's message he had just received. He rushed over to open the door to investigate the commotion but the doors had been locked from the outside. He had been led into the room so he wouldn't interfere with whatever was happening. He kicked hard at the door but it wouldn't budge and he immediately called Ed praying he would pick up. "Where are you!" he heard the brunette yell in a panic "I can't find Nazz and-"

"Ed! I'm locked in a room to the right side of the second floor!" Eddward paced the room and made his way to the window hoping to see anything and when he spotted Nazz's blue dress faintly being lit he stopped. "She's outside!" he yelled out. Nazz was trying to go inside but he quickly noticed a hand holding onto her and Eddward squinted seeing Jimmy's curly hair. "She's outside Ed! Jimmy has her! I'll figure a way out of here! Get to them first!"

The brunette didn't even respond and hung up. Eddward impatiently tried kicking at the door once more but quickly gave up and decided to scan the room for anything small enough for him to pick the door with. He searched through every nook and cranny for anything he could use to open the fucking door but upon spotting a small bull statue sitting on the coffee table Eddward decided to just fucking destroy the lock. He picked up the statue and with all his force smashed it onto the lock, and although it didn't fully break he finally had figured it out. It took two more hits before the lock broke and Eddward let the statue drop as he kicked open the door. He saw a large crowd hovering over the other side and trusting Ed would get to Nazz he decided to investigate what the gun shots had been.

Eddward shoved his way through the crowd as some people gasped and looked horrified. Finally getting into the room he spotted Liam on the phone calling someone while holding onto his brother's bleeding boody. Eddward felt his blood turn cold...Sam had been shot.

He had been locked up so someone could easily get to Sam. "Sam" Eddward bent down next to Liam inspecting the bleeding teen. Sam had been shot around his waist on his right side and on his upper left shoulder "Sam, who shot you?" The short haired blonde didn't respond, only looked at them with half closed eyes and small grunts of pain.

Liam was raging giving out orders behind him to get the people out of the mansion and to look out for someone suspicious. Eddward carefully grabbed Sam's suit jacket and placed it on one of the wounds pressing down hard "We need to at least stop the bleeding" he muttered out. It was then they heard another faint gun shot making everyone around them scream and gasp. With wide eyes Eddward looked at the window though he couldn't see anything but the dark sky and the moon. "Liam, hold this down!" Eddward rushed out of the room praying to god that it wasn't his friends. That Nazz and Ed were alright and it had been literally anybody else.

…

Nazz followed Jimmy outside hesitantly. It was cold and dark out and only the light from the pool and mansion was what illuminated the outside, but they stopped by the rose garden where Jimmy could easily hide. "What do you want"

"You shouldn't have come here" Jimmy spoke out with a vicious frown on his face as he looked at her "You're always just fucking making yourself such an easy target"

"What are you talking about? What's going to happen?" The blonde haired girl felt her chest tighten with worry knowing the two Ed's were still inside, probably looking for her.

"You need to get the hell out of here before someone sees you." Jimmy warned avoiding telling her anything else. "Three of you are wanted, and two of you are here. It's going to make her job so much easier."

"Three of us?" Nazz asked confused "Me…?" she stopped to think about what the boy had just hinted. If two were here at the party it would either be Eddward or Ed and the one who wasn't here must be referring to Kevin. "Kevin and who else? Is it Ed or Eddward? Why are we wanted?"

"Neither...and you'll find out soon enough" Jimmy mumbled out, shoving his hands starting to walk away motioning for her to follow.

"Wait!" Nazz grabbed onto his suit "You can't just warn me about something so freaking ominous and expect me to nod along! Tell me, first...tell me it was you that night" she knew that he knew she was referring to the night she got attacked by the masked man. "It was you wasn't it?"

Jimmy only glared at her with pressed lips before responding "Are you going to tell Sam?"

"Why...why hunt me down then and now you're… you're helping me?" she shook her head confused "What's going on?"

Jimmy breathed out looking away from her "I hate you...I still fucking hate you. For letting her get in that fucking car. I hate you" Nazz looked at him with a pity look because she hated herself just as much as he did. "...But, I'm no killer...I was just so fucking angry"

"Are you behind this whole masked man thing?" she continued to question trying to get more answers.

"No...and I can't tell you who it is so don't even ask" Jimmy glared at her.

"Why can't you tell me?"

"Because I fucking can't" Jimmy growled out shoving Nazz's hand away and stepping back.

"Are you going to keep going after my friends?" Nazz felt her heart pump with a hunger to get what she wanted. This was her chance to finally put things together because for one reason or another her attacker was trying to save her.

It was then that they heard a gunshot from inside and Nazz looked up wided eyed realizing this was what Jimmy was referring to. Had it been one of the Ed's? With terrified thoughts she tried to rush inside but was stopped by Jimmy. "You can't go inside, they'll find you!"

"Eddward and Ed are still inside!" Nazz called out trying to shove away his hold on her.

"They'll be fine! Stay here until one of them finds you dumbass!" Jimmy yanked her closer into the darkness of the garden.

"NAZZ!" Ed's voice interrupted their argument.

"Speak of the devil and he shall appear" Jimmy mumbled out letting go of Nazz and sinking further into the garden.

Ed had passed Nazz and shoved Jimmy to the ground harshly "What the HELL are you doing to her!" he screamed out.

Jimmy glared up at Ed but raised his hands in defeat "Nothing you fucking brute! I've been trying to fucking hide her!"

"Ed! Where is Eddward?" Nazz asked worried about the gun shot they had just heard.

"Inside" Ed responded before turning back to Jimmy "Why were hiding her?"

"So she doesn't end up like the boss" Jimmy frowned shoving Ed off himself "Hide her before anyone else finds her!"

"Sam!" Nazz gasped out looking back inside wondering if Eddward was by his side at this very moment. "He's the third target?"

"Get off of me you brute!" Jimmy tried to desperately get out of Ed's hold but the brunette was just so much stronger.

"What the hell is all this Jimmy?" Ed continued shoving harshly at Jimmy.

They heard a click behind them and made them all stop breathing. Slowly turning Ed saw a dark skinned woman with braided silver hair. It was the woman that had accompanied Eddy to the party, and she was standing a few feet away with a pistol in hand pointing it right at Nazz. "I'd recommend you take your filthy hands off of him" she threatened.

Ed let go standing up slowly feeling his heart pump rapidly. "Lower your gun and let's talk" he spoke out cautiously and controlled but internally he was freaking out and his palms were a sweaty mess. He hadn't ever been in a situation like this one. How would he defuse the situation? Was there a way? He just needed to get that gun pointing somewhere else that wasn't at Nazz.

"There isn't anything to talk about" the woman smiled "You all didn't listen to her, so why should she?"

"Who?" Ed questioned taking deep breaths to calm himself "Who is she?"

"My business isn't with you" Taking her aim she stepped closer towards Nazz, who was looking at Ed with wide eyes. Nazz wouldn't just stand there, she knew if she didn't move she would be directly shot but running into the garden where she could hide would only put Ed and Jimmy in danger.

"Wait!" Ed rushed closer to grab Nazz out of harm's way but it was then that they heard the woman shoot. Ed groaned in pain as he fell to the ground on top of Nazz with the realization that he had been shot on his left thigh.

Nazz sat up in shock, her eyes shaky as she saw Ed's blood stain her dress. "Oh... my god, Ed!" her trembling hands grabbed at the brunette's suit jacket.

"You stupid cunt!" Jimmy barked standing up "Get out of here!"

It took a moment for Nazz to realize that Jimmy wasn't yelling at her but rather at the silver haired woman who stood with angered eyes, as if she knew she had fucked up big time. With an irritated growl she started running knowing a crowd would soon follow. She ran past them in the darkness leaving behind the teens.

"Fucking hell, he's bleeding a lot" Jimmy took off his jacket covering Ed's injury.

"He needs a doctor!" Nazz yelled frantically.

"No!" Ed shook his head his hands turning into fists at the sting of the wound "I can't go to the hospital"

"What's wrong with you?" Nazz yelped out "You've been shot!" she turned around defensive as she heard quick footsteps making their way towards them. Upon seeing Eddward she felt tears begin to build in her eyes "Eddward! Ed needs help!"

"Shit!" Eddward crashed down on his knees hard and inspected Ed's thigh "What fucking happened?" it was then that he noticed Jimmy on the other side of Ed. "What fucking happened Jimmy!"

It was that very anger that always seemed to dominate Jimmy, this was why Sam had chosen Eddward over him. Eddward just had that rage inside of him that could always scare anyone present, and it was evident because as he looked over at the blonde girl she stared up at Eddward with wide eyes. Taking a breath he finally answered "Eddy's date was going to shoot Nazz, Ed saved her"

"Tell me who she was? Cause whoever she was also fucking shot Sam!" Eddward yelled out.

"Not now! We need to get Ed to a hospital!" Nazz yelled, yanking Eddward's jacket sleeve.

"No hospitals!" Ed groaned out his face scrunched up in pain.

"Ed this isn't up for discussion, This is a fucking gun shot wound!" Eddward argued trying to lift Ed "I'll call an ambul-"

"I said No!" Ed yelled out "My parents can't afford another medical bill, and not to mention they will find out about everything and the police are going to get involved. You could be arrested for gang affiliation!"

"Ed! The bullet needs to be pulled out! And we need to see the extent of your wound!" Eddward held tightly to Ed's hand who tried to sit up with a loud groan.

"I know a 'doctor' that can help us. He's hella sketchy but...he'll get the job done for a good price" Jimmy finally spoke out.

"I can ask Liam for help" Eddward spoke out hating the idea of listening to Jimmy at this very moment. Especially because this must have been particularly the teen's fucking fault in one way or another.

"You know as well as I do that asking the Dubois for help will only tighten their hold on you" Jimmy smirked.

With a click of his tongue Eddward squeezed his hold on Ed before giving up "I'd rather take my chances with being in debt to Liam than you"

"Alright, have it your way" Jimmy frowned looking away

The raven haired teen looked down at Ed questioning him in a silent expression if he was ok with their current and best option. Upon getting Ed's approval, Eddward glared up at Jimmy "Ed can you stand up?" Eddward tried to drag Ed to stand up. Nazz and Eddward held onto each side of Ed as the tall boy balanced on one leg and slowly they made their way back up to the mansion.

As it turns out, they had a small audience whispering about, but Liam had ordered security people to keep the crowd controlled. They let them through and as they made their way Jimmy was on the phone with this doctor of his describing Ed's condition and quickly noting down an address on his phone. Liam had met them downstairs and Eddward noticed that the room Sam had been shot in was guarded by three security guards and it was then Eddward realized that the security had been disguised as attendees. They had all been armed, of fucking course they all were, they were all fucking paranoid criminals.

Nazz had gazed upstairs in worry but had decided not to part from her friends, right now Ed was the one who needed her the most. Sam would get the best medical attention thanks to his brother Liam, and she had to trust that the boy was going to make it out fine. She would see him soon, but not now.

Accepting Liam's offer, they tried to quickly make their way to the front where ambulances had just arrived. The walk there was agonizingly slow, but thankfully Ed wasn't bleeding as much as he had been. The paramedics rushed to their side and took hold of Ed helping him lay down on a stretcher. Once Ed was inside the ambulance, Nazz had crawled in after him.

Liam gave them directions to the secluded hospital that the ambulance would take them too. Eddward frowned because of course they had a corrupted illegal hospital that only attended criminals. In this line of field they had to have personal doctors. Thankfully, Ed would get the help he needed without the consequences of actually being admitted to a legit hospital. The platinum blonde directed Eddward and as they sped off into the darkness of the night.

Eddward pressed his lips in anguish wondering how the hell had this night turned out so terrible for them. He squeezed the handle of the driving wheel angered all over again that he had been so naive to think an attack wouldn't happen. Eddward scratched at his left arm as his anxiety began to rise. He sped off as fast as he could on the highway trying to get his friend to the help he needed. It didn't matter how much or what was the price so long as Ed recovered back to normal.

...

Thank you so much for reading and having the patience to wait for my turtle ass omg again so sorry it took me an entire year! it's unbelievable lel

Again stay safe and let's hope this whole pandemic doesn't last too long...

Please leave a review on your thoughts/ feelings/ predictions, I enjoy reading them very much & look forward to the next update! Let's hope it won't be in another year...

If you can't get enough of All We Are or maybe it's be a hell of a long time since i last updated and you need more content NOW head on over to my instagram (Arielagam)! I post a lot of sketches and what not of our favorite pumpkin and grumpy shark 3

Hope you have a lovely Day/Night xoxo

ps. might edit this section another time, it got the least editing :P The 2 chapter combined were a total of freaking 110 pages...wow