Ellie Holland's Story

Ellie stared at Sam in slight disbelief. Threatening much? What does he want anyway? Is he going to blackmail me now? Tell the school about my physical problems or my cheating. She felt the scene around her pan out slowly, she felt dizzy again and furious. Who does Sam think he is to make such a statement? Such an accusation? He doesn't know what I've been going through or how this investigation has effected my whole well being. Is he accusing me of killing the guy at the party? Was this what he would use against me?

Ellie's mind was racing with nonsense. Surely none of her thoughts were even remotely accurate but she felt targeted. She felt tired, angry and Sam was the perfect individual to lash out at. All his lies on why he can't hang out. Maybe he did it. He has a motive, kind of. His parents would surely disown him if they knew he was in a relationship

"Some friend you are Sam" she said finally in a harsh and irritated tone. "You know you've been avoiding me since before the party. Kind of seems suspicious. What did someone find out your little secret? Who are you to judge anyways? What I do with my education and my body is none of your business. You know I must say I'm surprised it's Alby, I mean I know Ty isn't gay but you have been spending a lot your time with. Or so it would seem. And what kind of best friend would accuse me of cheating on a test? If you plan on blackmailing me just know I will make your life a living hell. So bring it."

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Her reaction was... not what he was expecting. She seemed to take complete offense and instantly went on the defensive. He was fully prepared to explain what he meant calmly and coolly- and then she mentioned Alby. He somehow managed to keep a straight face, but his stomach simultaneously dropped and twisted. She knew. How the fuck did she know?

"Listen, Ellie, I don't have a fucking clue what you're on about. Me and Alby are friends- that's all we have ever been, and all we're ever going to be." Lies. "I haven't been spending time with you because I've had three athletics meets in the past three weeks, and I've been training like crazy." Lies. Well, sort of. "I'm not trying to blackmail you, I'm trying to talk you into getting help. You're like a fucking stick. How long is it going to be until you burn yourself out? What happens if you pass out or something in the pool? You're hurting nobody but yourself, Ellie. And even though I've been busy, you're still my friend. I'm not going to let you do that to yourself. So you can threaten to make my life hell, but here's the deal. You talk to somebody about whatever shit is going on in your life, or I do. I'm not standing by and letting you do this to yourself," he said.

How the hell did she know? Had she seen them at the party? It couldn't have been any time since- they'd been so careful. Even at the party, they'd been careful. But they'd also been drinking, among other things, and it was entirely possible that they'd made some mistake. And it was terrifying. Because how long would it be until she let it slip to someone, and then his parents ended up hearing? What if somebody else had seen them? He felt entirely numb, and he hated it.

Ellie stared at her hands as Sam rambled on. She couldn't believe his threatening and insulting words. She could hear the slight panic in his voice however and the curiosity as to how she knew. It's as if everything he said confirmed a hundred things about their relationship. They weren't friends anymore. That was clear. She'd been lying to him and vice versa, two people who had known each other for so long would never do that. Then again, someone had been found dead...maybe the reason behind it all was because of the party. But that wasn't true. They'd been fading out of each others lives for months now. Every big exam taken Ellie had cheated on this year, she stole test answers and lied numerous times on her studying techniques when asked. She was the reason for their distance, it must have started with her, after all she's the fucked up one.

But blaming herself was not an option, if Sam wanted to play it this way then fine. "letting you do this to yourself..." Sam's words faded, her hands became sweaty, she was feeling anxious. Would he really tell everyone about her problem? Would he go so far as ruining her whole future? "You're not going to tell a single soul about me" she said flatly. "And here is why" she pulled out her cell phone and opened the picture of Sam and Alby kissing, she grinned at it before showing Sam the screen. "I have several, one push of a button and everyone will know. Watch yourself Sam this is a game you will lose and I don't want to see you get hurt. You deserve happiness but if you plan on ruining my life then I'll return the favor. As for our so called friendship it is dismissed. You've dug your grave with threats, secrets and lies. Now if you'll excuse me, I'd like to go home and forget this ever happened."

She got to her feet and brushed her dress, turning on her heel as she did so. With a small glance over her shoulder before heading off she said "Ooh and Sam, nice catch with Alby but fuck you for being a self centered jackass."

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She had evidence. She knew. Sam suddenly felt like he couldn't breathe. He couldn't say anything as she walked away. He didn't know if he was actually breathing or not, because out of nowhere, he was light-headed. He fell onto the bench, burying his face in his hands. Everything was going wrong- he hadn't had half the amount of time he'd wanted or needed with Alby, he'd gotten into an argument with his family, and now he'd lost one of his friends. He'd only wanted to help- and now that had all backfired so, so badly.

Why had she taken photos, though? Had she planned on using them against him anyway? Ellie had been his friend, that didn't seem right- but then again, she hadn't hesitated in threatening to use them against him. The thought of everyone finding out made him feel genuinely sick. His parents would probably kill him if they found out. As if him being in a relationship against their will wasn't bad enough, the fact that he hadn't come straight out and told them would only make things worse.

Rather ironically, the only person Sam wanted at that moment in time was Alby. But at the same time, he couldn't tell him about this. It wasn't fair. He had to deal with this himself.

He still didn't want to go home, though.

Ever since Ellie stormed off on Sam life had been interesting. When she arrived home that night her parents were furious for her running out on the cops, calling it disrespectful and dishonoring her late sister. On top of that grades were sloping down and she had lost 5 pounds she desperately needed to keep. Needless to say she was looking like hell, little sleep and lack of food sure didn't help.

Ellie stepped through the doors of the gala, despite her mental insanity she appeared confident and to those who didn't know her, healthy. She wandered over to the buffet and stared at the chocolate covered strawberries, they looked tempting and her stomach longed for nutrition but her hips protested. Ellie sighed feeling as though she was deflating but quickly recomposed herself when a benefactor approached her "Miss Holland! Pleasure to see you again, I saw your volleyball game last week and must I say you are unstoppable." Ellie smiled and began to play with her loose curls, twirling them as she replied "Mr. Flander it is an honor to see you again this year. Have you donated? It’s for a good cause you know." The man chuckled "Why of course my dear! I'm always here to support the extracurricular especially of this towns star pupils. Have you heard? Rumors are spreading that you are in line for three scholarships from three separate Ivy Leagues! Keep up the good work." Ellie stared at him in a fake flattered fashion, of course she knew about the scholarships but she couldn’t care less, money was never an obstacle.

As the benefactor wandered off Ellie scanned her surroundings. She spotted Scarlet and Beatrice speaking with Sam, the sight of Sam made Ellie sick to her stomach. No good useless trader… she thought bitterly. She felt excluded from her usual world, Scarlet had been avoiding her or so it would seem and she hadn’t made contact with Beatrice since their talk at the café but that was normal. Seeing Scarlet and Sam converse made Ellie hate Scarlet and her thougths raged with fury Doesn’t she know Sam is a good for nothing asshole who will expose your secrets and make your life hell? What is this, is Sam going to tell Scarlet about my health and try to get Scarlet on his side…he would do that…that jerk. Fuck. Huh. Wait second, I should seek out Alby, tell him what I know and threaten exposure. Ooh yeah, that’s a good idea. You better watch your back Sam.

Daggers in her eyes, she felt determined. She stared at the entranceway of the gala awaiting Alby’s arrival.

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The last couple weeks had been increasingly more stressful for Tyler. Cops seemed to linger more often, question upon redundant question was asked and silent whispers filled the air. For some god awful reason the cops had been questioning him about events he didn’t even know about. Calling him a suspect and making his case even worse than it actually was. This made Tyler nervous, the cops clearly wanted him locked up but luck was on his side for his attorneys were the best in the country and were determined to clear his record.

No matter, Ty felt good today, well as good as he could. The gala had been something to look forward too and with the help of his parent’s money he hoped it would go by smoothly and people would drop the rumors.

Tyler wandered into the gala and sought out a waiter carrying filled champagne flutes on a tray. He grabbed a glass and pounded it back, he needed something to loosen him up. He cringed at the glass when he realized it was non-alcoholic ”Fuckers”he muttered. At that moment he felt curious eyes examining him, call it paranoia but for once it was in the right place. He glanced around and noticed a young woman, possibly in her early twenties, staring at him. Tyler lifted a brow and was ready to run off when she approached him ”Tyler Kingsley, correct?” Ty stared at her blankly unsure if he should respond honestly or at all. He gave a small awkward nod ”Ooh how delightful” she chimed and grabbed his hand to shake it ”Andrea Palmer, I’m a reporter and a little birdie informed me of your case, although only half of it is public I must say I think you’re innocent and the system is corrupt. May I ask you a few questions?” Tyler shrugged in response, he didn’t care for the media but if a reporter believed his innocence then he ought to give her some answers. “Is it true that you are the prime suspect for the killing of about a month ago?” Tyler rolled his eyes “Yes, because of my history they think I’d be capable of such an act. What they don’t believe is that I don’t even know the individual who was murdered. To be honest I have a prime suspect of my own.” The woman looked intrigued “Do tell.” Tyler glanced around and spotted Sam, something about Sam lately made him feel uneasy. He lingered too often and asked too many questions. He didn’t seem to have much or any knowledge of Tyler’s past but he sure was a curious one. Something about Sam seemed to say I had a motive, and after Tyler’s encounter with Ellie a couple days ago he believed it. Ellie had approached him about Sam saying he was not to be trusted and the guy had plenty of skeletons in his closet. Ellie had no reason to lie did she? “I’ve said more than enough already, but yes I’m innocent. I may have been involved in some reckless behaviours but my hands are clean in terms of murder.” As he spoke his eyes were locked on Sam and the reporter didn’t fail to notice so she gave Tyler a small nod and wandered off.

Tyler kept his focus on Sam as he leaned back against a wall and pondered the last month or so. He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a flask filled with whiskey. He took a small swig and shoved it back into his pocket, he needed to get drunk as tonight would be like every other.

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Sam hadn't been alone for long when Scarlet appeared. He resisted the temptation to roll his eyes at her comment. He didn't know if she was joking or not. Knowing her, she probably wasn't. He was committing a mortal sin just by being attracted to guys- all the lying and so on just got him a place on the VIP list. "You know me, Scarlet, that's all I'm ever doing," he replied jokingly. His phone buzzed with a text, but he ignored it. He mightn't have been Scarlet's best friend, but he also wasn't going to be plain rude to her either. "You look nice," he said.

And then Beatrice appeared, already talking at him. He laughed and held up his hands. "Somebody's eager. Yeah, he was interested in some of the art- I think it could have been one of your pieces, actually." Behind the two girls, he spotted Ellie. They hadn't spoken since their fight, and he didn't want to. Not with how quickly she'd turned on him. He hadn't told Alby what had happened. Their time together was short enough, and he didn't want to spoil any of that. He turned his attention back to those in front of him.

"Anyway, how are you two lovely girls? Scarlet, excellent work on the decoration- I had training this afternoon, so couldn't make it to help out, I'm afraid," he said apologetically. For once, training wasn't a cover for being at Alby's. With the tournaments starting to loom, their coach wanted them training as much as possible. And while that did cut in on his time with Alby, it was better than being at home.

He didn't miss Ty's stare, even as he spoke to the woman. Sam got the impression that Ty knew something he wasn't supposed to, and that made Sam uneasy. Everything was making Sam uneasy these days. Every time a text came in, he was afraid that it was someone asking him about him and Alby. Every time he saw his parents, he was waiting for them to demand the truth from him. Every time a police officer walked past, he was waiting for them to stop him and either arrest him or start into the questioning. Things like this made him glad for the extra training, glad for the extra time spent running.

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Declan was completely and utterly miserable at this event. If it wasn't a requirement for the team to be here, especially Declan, he wouldn't have bothered showing up. Of course Declan was forced to come thanks to being the star quarterback and his father showed up as well which would definitely make this night one to remember. Declan had to confiscate his flask but his father was still obviously tipsy from drinking before they came and an utter embarrassment for him as he bragged about his soon with a slurred speech and tripped around the room. His father didn't even need to show up considering the event was just an art fundraiser.

Declan eventually ditched his father and went on to do what was expected of him. He went around the room doing his best to sell some of the art. Most of them simply wanted to talk about his sports career and scholarships which Declan found a bit annoying. He rather hated having to talk about himself all the time like he was some perfect super star. Declan was anything but perfect.

Eventually he grew tired and left the parents he was speaking with. He scanned the room of students hoping there was at least someone here he could tolerate and make it through the night with before his father made a huge mess of things. Ellie was the first laid eyes on but she was already leaving. Next was Tyler. He locked eyes with him for only a moment before moving on. Declan hadn't seen him since that day at the coffee shop when he bought him a coffee after they confused their orders. Declan obviously found him attractive but he knew better when it came to crushing on straight men and keeping his sexuality a secret.

Declan found a small group of three clustered together and Declan instantly recognized each of them. Scarlet was among them and the only reason he even made his way over their after grabbing two glasses of champagne in order to uphold his reputation. He stepped into the group with his typical heart melting smile. "Good evening, ladies..." He handed a glass to Beatrice and Scarlet before acknowledging Sam Hawkins with a nod. "Sam." His attention went back to Scarlet as he glanced down at her. "You look breathe taking as always, Scarlet."

The last two weeks Alby had spent either drunk or high, which was rare for him outside of a party. He liked the occasional beer with dinner, or a smoke on the balcony, but it was nothing like this. He was unraveling. The pressure of his lies was dragging him down, and he felt like his secrets were written across his forehead.

His life was coming apart.

The cops were watching him out of the corners of their eyes, Scarlet seemed to be everywhere he looked, he was seriously beginning to worry about Bea, and things with him and Sam had been...off, lately. Not bad, just...different. He figured it was all in his head, his latest secret, sitting heavily in his gut. He needed to tell someone. He tried telling Bea, more than once, but then he'd remember how much she hated Scarlet and he'd whimp out.

Standing in front of the mirror in his apartment, he thought he looked sick. His eyes were a little sunken in, his skin was too pale, and he was pretty sure he was sweating. With a sigh he wiped his forehead and then pressed it against the cool glass. He couldn't even remember the last time he'd eaten.

A text from Bea came in claiming she was going to be late, and Alby tried not to laugh because so was he. Finally he picked himself up and finished dressing. Slacks, a lilac button down which he actually tucked in, a nice jacket to go on over it. He usually liked these galas - he could be anyone he wanted for the night. Prim and proper and the kind of kid his father would have actually claimed.

The thought made his stomach twist and Alby actually almost threw up. Which would have been interesting, since he was pretty sure there was nothing to throw up. He sighed, tried to fix his hair, and then finally left the apartment. By the time he reached his destination, most people were already there.

He ran his hands through his hair and glanced around the room as soon as he entered. Of course, he saw Sam first, surrounded by a group. If it had just been Bea, he would have happily made his way over. But it wasn't. Alby's throat closed as he realized Scarlet was over there, and for a moment he panicked, but then he realized that she had no idea he was dating Sam, there would be no reason for her to spill their secret, so he relaxed. Declan Cain was over there too, and Alby was not a fan of him, so instead of trying to steal a few moments small-talk with his boyfriend, he just avoided the area altogether. At least until he caught Ellie's gaze, which wasn't exactly friendly. Fantastic.

Ellie grabbed a glass of the non-alcoholic champagne and sipped it as investors and interested parties created a revolving door of conversations with her. She greeted each individual politely and encouraged donations, as Captain of the Volleyball team it was her duty to ensure the school had a good reputation. Some encounters however were not as expect, instead of the usual dull conversations of the year previous many asked intrusive questions in relation to the boys death and the investigation. These questions consisted of: Did you know him? Where were you that night? How has the investigation impacted you? Someone told me you're a prime suspect, is this true? Have Ivy leagues revoked their offer since you're being accused as a killer?

Although uncomfortable, Ellie kept a bright smile on her face and did not break her composure. Her parents always taught her to be polite, bullshit if you have to and never give out personal information unless a prince is involved and wants to marry you.

Through the dull minutes that passed Ellie finally spotted Alby the moment he wandered into the gala. She gave him a moment to inspect his surroundings before excusing herself from the benefactors and approaching him as they locked eyes. With a fake smile plastered on her face she greeted "Hi Alby, it's lovely to see you again. Don't worry I'm not going ask you to get me a coffee" Her poor joke made for an awkward start, she giggled uncomfortably and then gestured to her side "Shall we? There's a few things I think you and I desperately need to discuss. For the sake of your well-being andSam's I'm sure you'll have no problem hearing me out."

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Leaning back on a wall observing his surroundings, Tyler was slowly getting drunk. His tipsy attitude made for a huge grin on his face and those passing by made awkward eye contact before fluttering off in a sea of whispers. He examined the group surrounding Sam consisting of B, Scarlet and Declan and debated joining the conversation. The thought of interacting with his peers made him oddly nervous and uncomfortable which called for another swig of whiskey. He reached inside his coat pocket to pull out his flask again when he felt something he'd forgotten about, a small plastic bag. He peered inside and chuckled, inside the bag were a few leaves of Salvia. Salvia being a powerful semi legal hallucinogen was on of Tyler's favorite. On the drug, perception of realty and the universe were emphasized greatly and although blacking out and mild memory loss was common, he didn't care. Tyler stared it briefly pondering the idea of getting drugged at such an event, of course life and interactions would be easier which made for a quick and stupid decision.

He paced over to the men's washroom, it was empty at the moment but he decided to get into a stall regardless. He pulled out the plastic bag and opened his bottle, he crushed a couple Salvia leaves and put them in his flask. He took a large swig, large enough to basically empty the damn thing and wheezed at the burn in his throat. He placed the flask back inside his jacket pocket and flushed the toilet as a cover in case anyone had walked into the bathroom. He recomposed himself as best as he could, the effects were already settling in and it didn't help that he was already tipsy. He made his way over to one of the sinks and began washing his hands and the water pouring from the drain was tripping him out. He played with it, splashing and analyzing, whilst mumbling repeatedly "What does it mean?"

"I party all night, I laugh till I cry,"

Laugh Till I Cry | The Front Bottoms || Kids Just Wanna Dance | Emily's Army || Drown | Elizabeth Grace

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Beatrice's eyes went slightly wide with disbelief when Sam suggested it could have been one of her pieces the man was enquiring about and showing an interest in and her heart kind of fluttered with pride and passion for a brief moment. She hadn't sold much since the painting at the Craft store went, she'd sold two canvases but they came in a set and only just covered the cost of making them, which brought her the paints she needed to do all the work for the fundraiser. Although many people had a negative opinion on Beatrice's work ethic and general personality, no one could say she hadn't given her display at the fundraiser her all- she'd used only the finest paints and canvases and the images themselves were exquisite. She was arguably one of the best artists in their town and her style was so unique but so adaptable too, she covered everything from portraits, landscapes to abstract and to more cultured styles like experimentation with aborigine influences. She really put herself out there but the work she'd produced for the fundraiser today was oil paintings and sketches inspired the human form- there were many of hair and eyes, apparently they were her speciality or preference to paint but there was a beautiful piece of half a women's figure, emphasising her curves and the collar bones, each piece was unique and meaningful as if each paint stroke spoke a word Beatrice failed to ever vocalise.

"You're kidding me right?" For a moment she sounded genuinely ecstatic but she was ashamed of herself for showing such a childish amount of glee over something as silly as a painting. She didn't expect anybody else to understand but to her, it was one of the best feelings out there- falling second only to being high. "Tired but coping thanks Sam, what about yourself?" She asked trying to keep her language as filtered as possible considering the importance of conduct at such an event like this.

As Declan joined the group she smiled politely, she didn't really know the guy but Beatrice had never had a problem with expressing herself or communication, so talking to a slight stranger didn't strike her as a challenge nor a problem. "Evening Declan, thank you," She replied whilst accepting the drink with a polite smile but she casted a glance around the room to see if Alby was present to save her from the pursuing danger of small talk.

She was turning her head around, seeking out her most highly regarded friend but when she noticed him he was seemingly being hunted by Ellie and Beatrice thought better than to intervene after seeing the looks she was throwing around at people but even Ellie had to admit, her dress was awfully flattering. She grit her teeth at the thought- she was still furious Ellie wouldn't tell her the truth about the party. She was almost certain they'd hooked up and it certainly explain why Ellie was avoiding her but why? It's not like she was going to be a victim of homophobia because Beatrice got through okay as did Alby- sure Bea had trouble in the past but not for a year or so. So it wasn't that, was it a pride problem? Was she ashamed to be associated with Beatrice?

She figured it'd be something like that from the start but she still found herself feeling kind of offended but then again, she couldn't blame her. Beatrice was some sort of Greek tragic hero- all good intentions, loving and fair but doomed to make the wrong decision, again and again and again.

Her skin of itched and she felt like her eyes were genuinely sinking but she couldn't let on to how terrible she felt. She couldn't be questioned about her state because she'd have to lie or come with some kind of excuse, she couldn't exactly explain she shot up twice and drank a bottle of whiskey- that'd ruin her for the rest of her life. She'd have to leave town and everything to ever stand a chance of living such a thing down again.

She sighed and returned her attention to the conversation, a false smile being dragged across her lips as she pulled her sleeve over her forearm to veil the tracks in her forearm from any prying eyes.

Alby tried not to outwardly wince as Ellie made a straight line right for him. He didn't like that smile, that smile always meant trouble, and he really didn't have the energy to deal with it today. She tried opening with a joke, even if it did fall flat, and his answering chuckle was just as uncomfortable sounding as her giggle. "Ellie," he greeted. "You look really nice." She did - her dress was spectacular - if a bit thin. He considered telling her that, but wasn't sure if it would be a compliment or not. Girls were complicated.

As she made a general gesture, Alby resisted the urge to awkwardly scratch at the back of his neck. He was really wishing he'd thought to sneak some alcohol in, but he never had been very good at thinking ahead. When she spoke her piece though, Alby's eyebrows jumped up under his hair. It was the way she'd said Sam's name...

His gaze unintentionally slipped towards Sam and his group, and yet again he found himself panicking. Had Sam told her about them. They were close, right? But...if he would have, Alby liked to think he'd at least mention it to him first. If they were telling people, Alby would want to tell Bea...

But no, surely not.

"Uh, okay," he answered finally, and stepped up next to her. "So El, what's up then?"

Ellie carefully observed Alby as she spoke and noticed his quick glance towards Sam. Her lips curled into a smile, she wanted to shout their secret and run off into the sunset. She loved this, she loved seeing him sweat and by the look on Sam's face he knew what was about to happen.

Ellie tugged on Alby's arm and dragged him behind a pillar so Sam couldn't see them. She smiled awkwardly at Alby trying to collect her thoughts and figure out what she wanted to say. She could feel the energy and the awkwardness between them. In a mildly sarcastic tone she said "You and I never really got the chance to get to know each other. Isn't that sad? I mean considering you and Sam are so close I thought maybe you and I could build a fun little relationship." She didn't break her focus, staring into his eyes like staring into his soul, trying to make him as uncomfortable as possible she reached into her purse and pulled out her cellphone.

"One thing about me dear old Al is that I hate secrets and I hate threats. But what does that have to do with you? I mean it's not like you have any secrets right?" She unlocked her phone and swiped to the picture, she turned the screen towards Alby and smiled devilishly. "I have plenty of copies, you see Sam is out to destroy my future, if done so I will return the favor and make sure your love gets shot to hell. I'm sure he told you of my condition that little worm is untrustworthy. That being said, tell your boyfriend to back off or else I'll blast this to everyone at school, homophobic scouts that will never give him a scholarship and of course his parents. Are we clear? Good. Toodlez"

She shoved her phone back into her purse, flipped her hair and walked towards the direction of the bathroom. She glanced over at Sam's little group and shrugged innocently.

At that moment her mind turned to Beatrice, she had been so focused on her and Sam she had completely forgotten. She felt an awkward shiver go down her spine as her piercing eyes seemed to examine her face. Ellie turned her gaze and wandered into the bathroom. She set her purse on the counter and stared at her reflection in the mirror, visions of that night began dancing in her brain. It's like her mind was mocking her, mocking her crush, mocking her actions and mocking her appearance.

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The bathroom surrounding Tyler became like a fun house. The wall's seemed slanted, the ceiling appeared to be pulsing and the water pouring from the tap sounded like it was singing. Tyler glanced down at his feet, the floor beneath created wave like bumps, making it difficult for him to stay balanced. Tyler dropped on all fours and began crawling, smacking the floor to make the waves stop. He fell on his back and stared at the popcorn ceiling in a daze.

The ceiling transformed into a starry night with shooting stars and a dim lit moon. Tyler reached up with his left hand as if trying to catch one of the stars. His focused was broken when the voices from the gala chimed in. He glanced over at the bathroom door which through his eyes looked like castle doors. Tyler felt as though his body was being elevated as he got to his feet. His head was spinning and his surroundings were confusing but he felt happy and like he was in a storybook.

Tyler opened the bathroom door and peeked outside. The gala looked like a castle, everyone appeared to be dressed in medieval costumes, paintings on the wall were animated like those in Harry Potter, the curtains framing the windows appeared to be dancing, the music sounded classical and the room was in pure gold.

Tyler walked in trying to be as casual as possible. In his eyes he was dressed like a Prince and this gave him the idea that he needed to find a princess. He turned a full 360 and began singing love songs completely off tune. Animals from the paintings such as birds seemed to be flying out and landing on his shoulder singing along. Tyler began floating around the gala, he bowed at every woman he passed and between his song shifts he would exclaim "Isn't it a lovely day!

Ellie seemed a little awkward, which was odd. Lost in her own thoughts for a moment, which made Alby slightly nervous. He had half the mind to look behind him, see what Sam was doing, but he didn't want to risk it. Whatever she was on about, he was sure he wasn't going to like it, and he didn't want to give her anymore to work with.

He felt his eyebrows raise the longer she stared at him. He knew exactly what she was trying to do. The church lady at the shelter did it every time he made some kind of soul-damning comment. Trying to make him uncomfortable, shifty. It was working, a little bit. Mostly because Alby was sure she wouldn't be scared off by the blackness of his soul even if she managed to see it.

The picture surprised him enough he was pretty sure his eyebrows disappeared up under his hair this time. For one thing, his apartment was obviously recognizable, but there was also no way to say that the boys in the image were anyone other than him and Sam. Alby's hair stood out too much, and Sam's stupid jawline...

He was so focused on the photo he didn't even manage to get a word in edgewise. He didn't even realize Sam and Ellie were having problems, much less future-destroying problems. He wanted to tell her to shove it, except she played the game right...Alby had a reputation, but nothing compared to Sam's. Sam's reputation would get him places in life...school, career. Good things. Ellie was gone in a flip of hair and he leaned back against the pillar for a moment while he thought.

Eventually, Alby pulled his phone out and sent her a text: I don't know anything about you or a "condition", El. Despite how fascinating you think you are, you really aren't the kind of thing WE talk about when we're alone. I'll take care of whatever it is you're worried about.

He took a breath to calm himself down, and then organized his secrets. Keep himself in line. Keep the Scarlet Issue handled. Let Sam know that Ellie was crazy as hell. He nodded and then finally stepped back out into the gala. He found the group Sam had been in earlier easily, even saw Tyler spinning around...that kid was on something. But locating Sam himself was a little difficult this time.

He finally found him surrounded by older men in suits. Probably important, but so was this, so Alby steeled his nerves and headed over there anyway. "Gentlemen, mind if I steal Mr. Hawkins? Our art professor is looking for him. Things to do and whatnot." Although his tone stayed professional and kind, he hoped Sam realized the message for what it was: I need to talk to you. Right the fuck now.

"I party all night, I laugh till I cry,"

Laugh Till I Cry | The Front Bottoms || Kids Just Wanna Dance | Emily's Army || Drown | Elizabeth Grace

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Beatrice was seriously struggling to protect her reputation. She looked like hell, she was underdressed, hungover- if not still intoxicated and at the same time desperately lusting after a specific substance. Her mouth felt dry and by now her excitement over the interest in her paintings had vaporised because of the cruel flashes of anxiety that kept overwhelming her. However none of this made a person as observant, curious and suspicious as Beatrice blind to Ellie's games and schemes. She'd seen her address Alby in a manner that could only be described as hostile and it had presently left her feeling concerned for her friend but also for her own sake- had Ellie got something on her? Was she spreading it? Because Alby would be the place to start, divide and conquer- who better to divide Bea from than her best friend?

She pulled her sleeve over her fist and balled her hands up tightly so there was no risk of exposing the marks on her arms and she looked putting on the smile of an eccentric artist.

"Excuse me Miss? Miss Candor is that correct?" The voice was an official one and when Beatrice turned around she recognised the man to be one associated with school investments and she believed he might work with the papers but she was too out of it to be sure. She kindly smiled but it came off as a slightly awkward and nodded.

"Indeed, Miss Beatrice Candor, could I help you?" She asked politely, doing her best to keep calm although the panic arising in her was almost enough to make her sweat.

"You're the artist of the 'Human Form Project' if I'm right, which I am and I have to say despite my better judgement I'm curious about your work. Your reputation precedes you Miss Candor, such a shame it wasn't more positive but to be fair, your reputation in art is far more impressive than your personality," Beatrice's eyebrow arched in immediate offence and she looked slightly defensive, crossing her arms and stepping back from him.

"My reputation?" She exclaimed quietly.

"You know exactly what I'm talking about. I have a son you're age and he only knew you because you've slept with his friend but I don't care about that. I'm interested in your art work- I brought a piece from the craft store last week and I wanted to know if there are any additional pieces to the set, I'll pay over it's value but I have a friend who's very interested in reviewing your projects," By this point, her jaw had dropped and eyes narrowed. This man may be someone of official class and what he said probably true but it was just so rude and distasteful that Beatrice couldn't even comprehend the idea of selling him any of her work.

"Fuck you, if you respected me as an artist you'd show a bit more common courtesy whilst discussing business. Your client can forget possessing anymore of my work- I will not sell to you, I wouldn't sell you my paintings if I was begging on the streets after what you've just said," She spat back sourly but in fairness, she kept her scene subtle by aggressively whispering rather than kicking off entirely but somewhere in the middle of their exchange, she'd noticed Ellie slip off to the bathrooms in a manner that struck Beatrice was being shady and she realised she couldn't ignore the girl anymore- they'd done something and Ellie was playing some kind of game, she needed to put an end to it somehow. "Now, if you'll excuse me. I'm trying to raise money for my school because despite my 'reputation' I'm an incredibly devoted and hard working student, so good evening to you- I hope a bird shits on you on your way out," With that Beatrice abandoned the scene to seek out Ellie and get to the bottom of whatever happened at the party but more than that what Ellie was trying to make happen now.

In the bathroom, Beatrice walked to the sinks and found Ellie checking her reflection and she turned her gaze to her sharply.

"Enjoying the Gala Ellie?" She asked casually, leaning into the mirror to reapply coffee coloured lipstick carefully to her lips in a shade that suited her far too well.

Ellie's mind began to race with negativity. She looked frail and broken. She could see the exhaustion in her eyes and sense the lack of nutrition in her body. Her phone vibrated announcing an incoming text from Alby but Ellie ignored it. She turned on the tap and placed her hands beneath the flowing water creating a small pool in her cupped hands. She splashes the cool liquid onto her face and took small breaths in effort to calm herself down.

She turned off the tap and watched her reflection as the beads of water dripped down her face. She wanted to yell, she felt as though she was losing her mind. In that moment thoughts of the last two weeks flooded in. The cops, her parents and then that night. Not only had a boy died but she did something with someone she mildly repulsed. Mind you it wasn't all bad, she did enjoy her one night stand but felt guilty by it.

She had been avoiding Beatrice for numerous reasons but of course the biggest one was the secrets of that night. Ellie lied, she lied to everybody and she could feel these lies were about to catch up to her.

Ellie pulled out a small cloth from her bag and tapped her face dry. She took out some neutral colored lipstick and began applying it when Beatrice walked in. She gazed at her briefly before resuming focus on applying her makeup. "Hi Beatrice" she greeted flatly. "Yes I'm enjoying the gala, it's as lovely as last years. A little under dressed aren't we" she noted glancing at Bea's reflection in the mirror.

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Tyler had finally stopped singing when he heard a small hush from the crowd. He ignored the prying eyes and wandered over to the buffet table which looked like a grand feast. "Let us dine" he shouted. People at the gala began to whisper but Tyler didn't care to notice.

He grabbed some fruit and began dipping it in the chocolate fountain, for a moment he could see reality but it quickly shifted back to his superficial world. The chocolate flowing down the fountain intrigued Tyler as it appeared to be a substance he had never seen before. He stuck his hand into the chocolate and mumbled "What is the purpose of such a liquid?"

Suddenly, the chocolate began to cover Tyler's arm. To him it seemed like the liquid was crawling on him, attacking him but in reality he was just leaning more and more into it. He stared at it with wide eyes ready to scream until someone tapped on his shoulder. Tyler glanced back to see his mother with a concern look on her face "Tyler, what are you doing?"

Tyler glanced back at the fountain and then back at his mom "Mom. I think it wants to eat me" he whispered. "Hunny" she said calmly "Go to the bathroom and wash up, I'll get you a new coat jacket. Now, stop making a fool of yourself."
Tyler absentmindedly nodded and made his way back to the bathroom trying to shake off the melted chocolate.

"I party all night, I laugh till I cry,"

Laugh Till I Cry | The Front Bottoms || Kids Just Wanna Dance | Emily's Army || Drown | Elizabeth Grace

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Beatrice looked at her with a very mysterious expression and shrugged her shoulders sheepishly when the topic of her dress of choice came up, Beatrice wasn't much of a formal wear person regardless on her state but today really wasn't her day to care as a one off- she felt delirious, dizzy, faint, anxious, desperate and weak all at the same time and Ellie added to her anger all the while with games and lies wasn't helping.

"Perhaps but fashion was the last thing on my mind this morning if I'm being honest with you Ellie," Beatrice responded calmly, she watched Ellie apply her lipstick and it hit her like a trigger and Beatrice realised she recognised the colour, if she hadn't had enough reasons to think she'd seen Ellie at the party- recognising that lipstick so clearly would have had her convinced alone.

Ellie had been playing games so it all gave Bea an idea and she smiled to herself in the mirror for a moment before pretending to check on her skin and examine her make-up in the mirror. "So how have you been? Y'know with the investigation and all. It's been really rough at the minute, the police are being proper weird with me- just because I can't tell them where I was, apparently in bed with some girl doesn't count for much," She sighed running a hand through her curls and adjusting them to sit more distinctively. "They'll probably call me back because of it but I don't know what I'm supposed to do, don't remember shit but this lip stick colour and a dress, don't suppose you know who was wearing a blue dress at that party do you? Blue dress, nude lipstick," She recalled with a small sigh, she deliberately made eye contact with Ellie through the mirror her gaze challenging and forceful.

Beatrice knew but Ellie's reaction now would prove everything to Bea so she just patiently waited for it all to fall into place, then she'd ask about Alby and why Ellie was bothering him so much.

Ellie listened to Bea closely as she spoke. She could hear her heart pound louder and louder as she brought up mention of the party. Her maneuvers began to slow down without her realizing it and then Bea said it. She brought up the dress and Ellie's go to nude lip stick and the girl...the ooh so mysterious girl she slept with that night. Ellie dropped her gaze from her own reflection and began examining her lipstick cautiously. It was the same one she wore that night, she knew exactly what blue dress Bea was talking about too, in fact she remembered almost everything that had happened. But why was Bea prying so much? Why did it matter?

Ellie placed the cap back on her lipstick and put it gently in her clutch. She fixed her already perfect hair before turning away from the mirror and locking eyes with the girl she claimed to despise. "Honestly Bea I think you need to just drop it. The investigation is exhausting but clearly you have nothing to hide. Trust me you'd remember it if you murdered someone. It doesn't matter how drunk or fucked up you are, murder is murder and that will haunt you until the end unless you're actually a psychopath which in reality that wouldn't surprise me. Look just drop the subject and don't speak until speak to. The more you bring this whole thing up the more suspicious you seem and frankly you're making me uncomfortable."

She glanced over at the mirror one more time to check herself out before walking over to the door. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'd like to go enjoy the party." She wrapped her hand around the bathroom knob and pulled but the door wouldn't budge. She tugged on it again and squirmed a little...it was locked. Ellie took a couple steps back and glanced over at Bea awkwardly "The fuck? Did you do this?" she snapped.

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Tyler's second trip to the bathroom was brief. His dad showed up with a fresh new shirt and jacket and told Tyler to clean up his act with a threat to deport him if he didn't do so. The moment his dad stormed out, Tyler's fairy tale world seemed to grow dark. The sinks in the bathroom began to look as though they were melting. Three different versions of himself stood in the mirrors laughing and muttering dark thoughts. The room was spinning and everything felt wobbly.

Tyler fell against the bathroom door and struggled opening it because he couldn't grab hold of the knob. It looked as though the knob was dancing on the door and dodging his grasp.

When he finally got out, the once beautiful and luxurious gala had turned into a fun house. The once breathtaking gold castle he saw was now an Alice in wonderland themed room with people dressed in all sorts of get ups. Some were fun but some were downright creepy.

He held up his guard as he wandered cautiously to the center of the gala where the grand chandelier hung. It was the only thing that had remained beautiful and it's sparkly diamonds called Tyler near. When he stood beneath it he began to whisper wishes for his return to a better world but at that moment the beautiful master piece began to melt with lava dripping from the light bulbs. Tyler began to scream and started running in a circle until he slammed into Alby, tackling him to the ground. Tyler propped up on his elbow's, his face only inches from Alby "Sorry man" he said before bouncing back to his feet. He could see realty for a brief moment, everyone in the room was staring at him. Tyler ignored their stares and refocused on helping Alby up. He stretched out his hand but quickly retracted it when Alby transformed into a demon like vampire, threatening to suck out his soul.

Tyler stumbled back a few steps and began running around frantically. Everyone was demonized, everyone was trying to kill him. The walls were slanted, some appeared to be breathing and pictures were mocking him. He wandered over to a nearby window to get some fresh air when a curtain wrapped itself around Tyler and began to choke him. In actuality it was him who wrapped himself in the curtain and people from the gala were trying to set him free. One cop was even trying to pull Tyler out and calm him down but once Tyler broke free he emerged into a sprint. Not seeing where was going, everything was dark. Suddenly he ran into someone again and fell on his back. He shook his head to regain full consciousness and glanced up at the beast before him. Tentacles grew from his legs, it's skin was green and it's eyes onyx. He could feel one of the tentacles wrapping itself around his neck. Tyler bit it's grasp and got back to his feet and wrapped his hand around the beast' neck ready to kill him.

[b]OOC. Hi everyone sorry for my lack of posts, just had three midterms in one day last week so I was exhausted. But now I'm on reading break so I'll be posting much more!!

PS. Happy Valentines Day everyone. May you be showered with chocolates and flowers or whatever else you're into. :)

"I party all night, I laugh till I cry,"

Laugh Till I Cry | The Front Bottoms || Kids Just Wanna Dance | Emily's Army || Drown | Elizabeth Grace

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Beatrice glared at her a little bit, not missing the way Ellie seemed to squirm with every painful detail Beatrice recounted in her brief interrogation. "Don't you get it Ellie? I don't remember anything, anything! That girl could have had an STI or something and I don't have a fucking clue. What if I gave her whatever pills I took that night? What if she gave me something and it's why I don't remember? What if I was spiked? Anything could have happened Ellie so don't bitch at me for wanting to know what happened. For fuck sakes like, there could be a video of me on Porn Hub for all I know because I don't have a clue what happened and of course you'd have no idea what fear is like or letting people down or feeling like shit is like because you're so bloody perfect, you're Ellie- even I can't bloody hate you and I more or less hate everyone but don't stand here and tell me to let it go," She snapped, that hot tempered and sour streak shining through and her lip curling a little as she tried to calm herself. "Why would you be uncomfortable? It's just sex or is it the lesbian part? You homophobic?" She mocked bitterly, not turning around to look at her again as Ellie went to leave. She didn't care anymore, Ellie's naivety was so sickeningly annoying she'd be glad to be left alone.

Bea huffed dramatically when Ellie started getting whiney again and she looked at her with a cocked hip and arched brow. "The door? Is it broken? Of course I didn't touch it- and if I had, I'd be on the other side. Why I'd lock myself in a room with you? Like I told you last time we spoke, you're completely insufferable even when you're not talking," She sighed, apparently not as freaked out by the situation as Ellie was.

"Are we genuinely locked in? Because if we are I'll call Alby to try and help us out but I'm not going to waste his time if you're just attention seeking or just in general being a dick," She huffed, brushing past Ellie carelessly to test the door herself, rattling the door with a heavy hand but like Ellie to no prevail.

She hissed a curse and kicked the door in agitation.

Of all the people she could be stuck with, she was with a lying cow like Ellie. She knew exactly what happened that night and for all she knew, Beatrice was completely in the blue and in terror for what she'd done that night and she wouldn't put her out of her misery for what Bea presumed was for the sake of her reputation.

She immediately went to her phone but was immediately met with two problems;

No data.
No service.

"No...no fucking way, you have to be kidding me. She whispered to herself, inwardly groaning as she leaned against the sinks with her head in her hands. "For Christ's sake," She moaned, slamming her phone on the floor aggressively.

"Oh ya no go ahead try the door, not like I can't open things or whatever" Ellie snapped bitterly as Bea shoved passed her. "Fucking perfect just perfect" she exploded as she checked her phone for a signal as well, it was like being trapped in the middle of nowhere.

Ellie began to pace furiously before launching her clutch at the bathroom door, missing Bea's head by literally a hair. She wanted to scream, all the lies, the lack of food and of course the stress was becoming too much. Her face was turning red in uncontrollable anger when finally she exploded into a rant "Of course I'm not homophobic, everyone and their brother knows I'm bisexual. My best friend well former best friend is gay for godsakes!! Sure I'm close with a religious nut but it's not like I share her values in the slightest. Maybe I don't want to admit to what happened because I know too much. Because the cops are starting to realize my sister who died a couple years back didn't die by accident. And how would that look? Town reveals Andy Holland was murdered?!? How will that make me look? Of course I don't fucking know what actually happened!! I wasn't even there. I lied. I lied because I was off doing blow with Tyler!! TYLER!!! Fuck. And maybe I don't want to admit to sleeping with you because it's you!! And you and I hate each other, you're so tragic and life's soooo hard for you and blah blah blah. And maybe I also don't want to admit to sleeping with you because I after I did, you disappeared and then suddenly someone turned up dead. I don't have a fucking clue where you went. I started to panic. I wanted to find you but then I was escorted home by the cops and next thing I know I'm being interrogated. Suddenly my bank account get's filled with $10,000 with a subject line that says Keep up the lies E, everything's coming together. Next thing I know cops show up again and start asking me about my sister after the case has been closed for two years and then they bring up that night again then my sister and then again that night. Then just yesterday another cop shows up and asks me about you. I lied again, they said your story didn't match up with mine. Said it looked suspicious. I'm being watched constantly and now I just urg. I don't even know what the fucking truth is anymore.
All I know is that for some fucked reason I started developing some serious feelings for you but then I realized you could be the murderer and now I'm stuck in this fucking bathroom either about to die or about to...

She broke off with a sigh and began staring at her hands, they were shaking uncontrollably but her rant made her feel like 200 tons of weight had just been lifted.