Angel Falls, Montana

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Bristol had been in her studio all morning, with her dog,Mazy, at her feet like always. Finishing up a painting she’d been working on since her sister had moved in, it was a gift for her. Although she wasn’t entirely sure that she’d even accept it, because she’d barely spoken to her since she’d gotten there, she’d spent most days locked in her bedroom. Bristol had tried on several occasions to get through to her sister, but it didn’t seem like anything was working. Her arms were covered in pain splatter and hair was thrown up in a messy bun. She had gotten completely lost in her work, like she always did.

She heard a car door shut outside, pulling her from her concentrated brush strokes. Her face lit up as she looked out her studio window that faced the driveway seeing James and Lydia. Lydia’s little laugh was unmistakable and bright. It had gotten Bristol through some of her toughest days without Ian. Bristol, followed by Mazy slipped out of her studio and made her way to the front door to greet them. James had taken Lydia to her ballet lesson and they they’d gone out to get groceries for Ian’s welcome home party.

Bristol was trying her best to contain her excitement, but she was growing impatient. Ian wasn’t arriving until this evening and she’d waited for years for him to come home, waiting an extra few hours felt agonizing. Not to mention she was worried about him, he was being set home, not because he was done serving, but because he’d gotten captured and it was no longer safe for him to be over there.

“Mommy!” Lydia’s voice pulled her from her thoughts and she knelt down as the little girl ran up to her wrapping her arms around Bristol’s neck hugging her.

“Hey baby girl.” Bristol smiled pulling away, but not before kissing her daughter’s cheek. “Were you a good girl for uncle James?” she said and Lydia giggled happily nodding her head.

“Lydi-bug was perfect like always.” James smiled a smile that reminded her way too much of Ian’s as she stood up and hugged him, kissing his cheek, grateful for his help. “Still no Daisy?” James asked. Bristol let out a sigh and shook her head.

“She hates me.” Bristol sighed as she rubbed the back of her neck, watching Lydia play with Mazy. “I just don’t know what to do James.” She said keeping her voice soft. “I think I love her too much.” Her words earned a laugh from James and she knit her eyes brows, looking at him confused.

“You love everyone to much.” He smirked and Bristol rolled her eyes. “Just let her settle Bri, she’s been her a week. She’ll come around.” He said reassuring her as he lead forward kissing her forehead. He walked past her picking Lydia up from behind and placing her onto his shoulders and Bristol smiled at her daughters giggle. “Go shower and get ready. Lydi and I will bring in groceries and start setting up right bug?” he said looking up at her.

“Yep, yep! Will do it all for daddy.” She said happily

“Go.” James said holding her eyes. “Come on Mazy-boo.” He said heading back out to the car and Mazy followed after him.

Bristol headed back to her studio, to put the finishing touches on the painting. In less than two hours, there house was going to be full with half of the town, to welcome home Ian and in all honesty Bristol was more than a little nervous. Once she was finished she crossed the house, to her sister’s room, setting the painting by the door, before giving a light knock.

“Sis.” Bristol’s voice was soft, but loud enough to hear through the door. “I’d really love for you to get dressed up and come out to the party, I think you’d have a lot of fun.” She said calmly as she played with her necklace out of habit. “There’s going to be a few kids from your school, I’d give you a jump start on making friends.” She said trying to come up with any reason that might make her sister want to come out of her room, but she wasn’t going to push her. “I made you something.” she finally said, letting her sister have privacy and not opening the door, simply speaking through the door hoping Daisy was listening. “You can hang it up or use it as a cup holder it’s up to you.” She sighed waiting by the door hoping maybe her sister would open it, but she didn’t.

Bristol, turned and head up the stairs and into her and Ian’s room to get ready for the party, knowing she had a reputation to up hold and she’d have to look the part of the perfect house wife, like everyone thought she was.

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Justin’s lifted, black Chevy truck was parked by the side of the lake. He was only three weeks into school, yet he wasn’t ready to let Summer go yet. Country music blared from the speakers of his truck. Some of his friends, were tossing around a football, while the girls where sunbathing in their bikini’s on the sand. Justin sat on the tailgate of his truck as he pressed a cigarette to his lips, inhaling deeply, blowing the smoke out of the corner of his mouth. He was enjoying the sun and the fresh air, taking in the moment.

Football season was right around the corner and he was dreading it, he’d spent most his summer practicing and he was already sick of it, not that he’d admit that. Justin wanted a change, something big. He loved his small town, but every now and then a change was good. He took another drag off his cigarette as he listened to the music and his eyes feel on his longtime girlfriend Tiffany as she walked towards him, in her cut off shorts and bikini top. He smirked as she paused in front of him looking up at him.

“Why are you being so anti-social?” she crossed her arms in front of her. Justin smirked as he hopped down, stepping forward and wrapping an arm around her waist, pulling her close. “That’s disgusting Just.” She rolled her eyes, ripping the cigarette from his lips and stomping it out. He rolled his eyes and he lend into kiss her, but she put her hand over his mouth. “I don’t think so babe, I’m not bing on kissing ash trays.”

“If you’re not going to kiss him, I will.” One of Tiffany’s friend’s called out and Tiffany scoffed, pushing herself off Justin and turning to her friend.

“Oh sweetie, your too much of a skank.” Tiffany bitched to her friend and Justin sighed running his fingers through his hair. “Right Justy?” she said turning to him.


“I don’t know, Heathers kind of hot.” He shrugged, playing the smartass role perfectly. “If you into trashy blondes.” He said feeling like shit the second the words left his lips, but not showing how bad he felt, simply smirking as Heather walked away leaving him and Tiffany alone again.

Justin lit another cigarette, to which Tiffany rolled her eyes and started bitching him out for it, but luckily Justin’s cell phone went off in his pocket, giving him an excuse to slip away from her, but he wasn’t sure if it was much better because it was him father who was calling, he answered the phone, walking a bit away from his friends and truck.

“Justin where the hell are you?” his father spat into the phone and Justin opened his mouth to answer but his father cut him off. “Wasting your time at the lake again, with your friends.” He said answering his own question. “Get your ass home, Ian McNabb’s party is less than two hours away and were all expected there.” He explained as if Justin wasn’t dating Ian’s cousin. Justin was going to have to go either way.

“I know dad.” He said calmly. “I’m heading home now.” He said into the phone, before the line went down and he sighed rubbing the back of his neck. He headed back to his truck. “Tiff.” He called to his girlfriend and she glanced to him “Time to go babe.” He smirked and she matched his smirk. “See you later bitches.” He did a two finger salute to his friends as he climbed into the front seat of his truck and Tiffany slide in next to him.

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Daisy pulled her cello up to her, positioned her hand on her bow, and closed her eyes. She knew most of her music by heart, and didn't need to look at any sheet music. She slid her bow across the strings, and her fingers flew from one position to the next as a warm sound filled the room. Bach's cello suite. She had memorized it years ago, and going back to it now was like seeing an old friend.

Sherlock sat on her foot and leaned against her leg, quietly. It almost seemed like he knew that when she played she really appreciated quiet. Daisy had found him, mutilated and barely alive in an alley when he was no more than four months old. It broke her heart that anyone could do anything so absolutely horrible to such a beautiful little kitten. She took him to a vet, and saved his life. It was almost like he knew that without her he would be dead, and was grateful to her. He really was cute, too. He only had one eye, but Daisy always thought it looked like he was winking. He had thick, silky white fur with orange spots. He was quite small compared to most cats, and you would think only having three legs would slow him down but it definitely does not.

When Daisy heard someone coming down the hall, she quickly stopped playing and listened. Just by the sound of the footsteps, she could tell it was her sister. She put down her bow, but made no move to get up. “Sis.”
Her voice was soft, but cut Daisy like a knife. Sis?! You left me! You don't care about me!! She hadn't spoken to her sister about her leaving. It hurt too bad. She didn't even ask her why she hadn't come to see her when she was in the hospital, dying. The doctors had been convinced she was going to die after the accident and her father had told her that he called Bristol and told her, but she didn't even bother calling. she could've died, and her own sister wouldn't have cared!!

Her jaw clenched, she looked down at the floor as her sister continued to speak. “I’d really love for you to get dressed up and come out to the party, I think you’d have a lot of fun.” Yeah, right. 'Fun'.
“There’s going to be a few kids from your school, I’d give you a jump start on making friends.” Daisy tensed. She used to be so good at making friends, but now she was awkward and always ended up saying the wrong thing.

“I made you something.” Although Daisy never would've showed it, she couldn't help but soften slightly at her sister's words. She had actually taken the time to make her something? Nobody had done that in a long time. “You can hang it up or use it as a cup holder it’s up to you.” Her sister told her through the door, and part of Daisy wanted to open the door and run into her big sister's arms, but the majority of her knew that it wouldn't go how she wanted. Bristol didn't love her. She couldn't love her.

When she heard her sister leave, she quietly peeked out into the hall. She spotted the painting, and pulled it into her room. When she really looked at it, she felt a tear slip down from her soft blue eyes. Had Bristol really made this for her? The paint was freshly dried, so she knew her sister must have made it. It just made her want to cry more. It looked like there was so much love in this painting, but Daisy couldn't feel more alone. Part of her felt like her sister really did love her now and was trying to make up for what she had done, but it had been so long since anyone really cared about Daisy. She just couldn't believe that anyone cared anymore. But... this gave her hope. It made her feel that at least someone was thinking about her.

She pulled out two thumbtacks from her drawer, stood up on her bed, and pushed them into the wall. Glancing at the painting once more, she silently hung it up above her bed. A forlorn smile found it's way to her lips at she gazed at it, and Sherlock meowed at her feet. She grinned and looked down, scooping the little cat up into her arms. She was about to return to practicing when a she heard the pattering of little feet coming down the hall. Lydia.

The little girl knocked on her door, which promptly flew open. Daisy put down Sherlock, and threw her arms around her niece. "Hey there beautiful!!" Daisy hugged her tightly, and planted a kiss in her forehead before slowly letting her go. "Hi auntie!! You're coming to the party, right?" The little girl beamed at her, and Daisy gave her a half smile in return. "I don't know, lovie..." She answered, and Lydia frowned. "But you have to come! You're going to meet my daddy! Pleeeeeeease?" She pushed out her bottom lip and pouted at her aunt, who almost immediately gave in. "Okay, but only for you." She replied, giving the little girl another kiss. "Yay!!" She happily clapped her hands together, and skipped off. Daisy couldn't help but laugh lightly as she watched her go.

With a heavy sigh, she went to her closet to find something to change in to. She tugged on a simple dress and blue jacket. She knew it was warm, but was very self conscious about the ugly scars that covered her right arm. You could still see a suspicious amount of scars covering the part of her arm that was showing, but it wasn't nearly as bad as it would be if she took off the jacket. She pinned back part of her hair with a little white bow, and draped her blonde curls over her shoulder. Scooping up Sherlock, she quietly made her way out of her room.

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Ian was the first to board the plane. As he was boarding, many people had seen his uniform and shook his hand, thanking him for serving their country. They looked at him like he was a hero. But he wasn't. He was a fraud. He wasn't even going home because he was done serving- no, he was too broken. He was going to get somebody killed. Somebody else killed.

Even though it wasn't his fault that all of those good men had died, he blamed himself. Why had he survived? He wasn't any better than those men. He had watched them die, and was forced to leave them when he was rescued. Every time he closed his eyes, he could see them being tortured. Starved. He could hear their screams. They had families too. Their families would never get to see them again.

When other people started boarding, he was pulled out of his thoughts. He had flown to New York first, and was now on his was to Montana. The airport was only about a fifteen minute drive to his home. He would take a cab- his wife was hosting a coming home party.

A fat man dressed in an expensive suit sat down next to Ian. He was staring down at his smart phone, not caring about anything else going on around him. His eyes were cold and beady. He looked like the kind of person that would drown live puppies just to get them out of the way so he could build a new resort. Or better yet, hire someone else to do it. God forbid he might have to actually stand up and move around. Ian immediately didn't like him.

He kept his mouth shut, and looked out the window as the plane started to take off. He grabbed onto the armrests, his nails digging in as the plane precariously shook. but nobody else was bothered. To them, it was perfectly normal. To him, it was like experiencing another bomb going off. He squeezed his eyes shut, forcing that memory away. He couldn't have a flashback right now. He couldn't have another episode.

The plane steadied out, and Ian started to relax. He rested his forehead on the window, and looked down at his picture of Bristol and Lydia. It was slightly torn and a little ragged looking now, but it was the only thing that kept him going when he thought he was going to die. He had to keep fighting. For them. He didn't know what he would've done if he didn't have seeing them to look forward to. When you're in the battlefield, you need an anchor to keep you from losing it. They were his anchor. But what if they didn't like the new him? Hell, he didn't even like the new him. He was short tempered, lonely, and didn't really like people. He had lost all of his charm and charisma. Part of him really hoped that maybe his wife and little girl could find the last little shadows of his old self and pull it out of him.

He must've fallen asleep. A loud, shrill noise followed by a loud thud right next to him tore him out of his dream. Without thinking, he shoved the person closest to him up against the seats in front of them. He was breathing fast, and his eyes were wide and terrified. When he realized what he was doing, he looked down at the fat man who was now swearing at him and sweating. Ian pulled away, grabbed his bags, and stormed off the plane. He had slept through the flight, and was now finally home.

He pulled his only baggage, his duffle bag, over his shoulder and looked for the cab that his wife had hired. He was holding up his name in a sign, with an unenthusiastic look on his face. Ian made his way over to the man, and followed him to his cab. He climbed in, and his stomach tighten as he drove to his home. He couldn't stop thinking- what if the saw how broken he was, and didn't want him anymore?

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Once Bristol was finished with her shower she dig her hair, letting it hang in long loose curls and then did her make-up before finally slipping into one of her favorite dresses, she looked incredible there was no mistaking that. Down stairs she could hear James talking to Lydia and she heard another voice that sounded like James and Ian’ mother, which meant everyone was starting to show up. She sighed as she looked over herself one more time, before slipping on her heels and heading down stairs.

“Mommy you look pretty!” Lydia said happily as she sat on one of the chairs, helping James, set out the food and drinks.

“She’s right, you look beautiful darling.” James and Ian’s mother smiled walking over to Bristol and hugging her, which took Bristol by surprise consider their parents had never been very fond of her, because she wasn’t a blue blood like them.

“Thanks.” She whispered hugging her back, trying to keep from crying and messing up her make-up. It had been an emotional roller coaster and getting to see Ian again was bringing out the more sensitive side of her. “Come on bug, let’s go get dressed.” She said walking over to Lydia and picking her up and setting her on the ground, Lydia held her mother’s hand as the two of them headed to Lydia’s room.

Lydia talked her Bristol’s ear off about everything from her ballet classes to getting to meet her daddy for the first time. She was so full of life, Bristol felt so blessed. dressing the little girl up adorably before they head back into the kitchen to finish setting up as people started showing up. She still hadn’t seen her sister, but she didn’t want to bother her, she just hoped that she’d come out for the party eventually.

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Justin had dropped off Tiffany at home before heading home. When he’d gotten their him and his father had gotten into it pretty bad, eventually ending in his father, mother and sister heading to Ian McNabb’s party without him. He was so fed up of his father and his ridiculous expectations for him. Not to mention, Tiffany’s expectations for he, he was constantly stuck pleasing everyone but himself and it was tiring.

He’d gone to his backyard and sat there for a long time on the porch swing, smoking his way through a whole pack of cigarettes, debating on whether or not he actually wanted to go to this stupid party. Sure he knew Ian, he’d grown up around the McNabb and Silvers family. He’d even helped Bristol and James out with some yard work a few times over the past few years, but going would just mean he was giving into both his father and Tiffany again. He stomped out his last cigarette, before reluctantly heading inside to shower.

After showering, he slipped into a pair of nice jeans and a button up shirt already knowing he’d get shit from his father, for not showing up in a tux. Eventually he head out to his truck and started off towards Bristol and Ian’s house. By the time he’d gotten their sky was dark and everyone else was there. He’d sat in his truck for a while watching everyone socialize through the kitchen window, until Tiffany spotted him and made her way out to his truck. He hopped down and she immediately pressed her lips against his like he was the one who’d been away for the past four years and he half-heartedly kissed her back.

“We were starting to think you weren’t going to show.” She smirked as she pulled away. “Come on, Lydia’s asking about you.” Sshe smiled lacing her fingers with his as she pulled him behind her into the party.

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Daisy held Sherlock close against her, as she shyly peeked around the corner, to see the party going on downstairs. There was a fairly large amount of people there, and as usual that made her nervous. She wasn't great at making small talk, or being charming like her sister. If it hadn't been for Lydia, she probably would've just stayed in her room. She knew her sister had told people about her, so no doubt there would be people that wanted to meet her. But she felt they would be sadly disappointed when they did.

With a heavy sigh, she stepped out onto the stairs and stood there for a moment. She knew she was in view of everyone, which made her uncomfortable, but at least she had a bit of distance between her and them. She carefully surveyed what she was walking in to- a couple people looked over at her but luckily she didn't have a lot of attention.

Her ice blue eyes paused over a pair that looked about her age. They probably would be at her school when she started. One of them, the male, looked over at her and probably caught her staring. She shyly blushed she her eyes flicked towards the ground, before slowly going back up to meet his. He was so attractive. He had the most breathtaking eyes, and a heartbreaking smile that gave her butterflies. She couldn't help but offer him a shy smile.

Daisy quietly put down her cat, who hopped off back to her bedroom. She slowly made her way down the stairs, shyly glancing at the male again, before finding Lydia. The little girl ran over to her aunt, who scooped her up with a bright smile and a bubble of laughter. "Alright beautiful, I'm here. Happy?" She asked, grinning. The little girl happily nodded and hugged her tight. Daisy's light eyes flicked up towards the girl's mother. She wasn't going to vocally thank her sister, but just by being there is was her way of saying thank you. She flinched and looked away, remembering that Bristol probably didn't even care. If she cared about Daisy, she would've been there.

She put down her niece, and turned away. She bit her lip, looking around at the unfamiliar faces. To say she was uncomfortable would be a bit of an understatement. She didn't know anyone here, and many of them looked down at her, or practically curled their lips at her. She didn't feel welcome. She went out the back door, and sat down on the porch. She rested her head in the palm of her hand, and sighed. The past month hadn't exactly been easy on her.

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Ian slung his duffle bag's strap over her shoulder, and stepped out of the cab. He looked over at his house, hesitant to walk in. He almost wanted to leave things as they were- to let his family keep the image of that perfect husband in their head. He had no desire to walk into a big party. Couldn't she have just let it be them? Why did Bristol have to throw this big party?

Nonetheless, he was still so excited to see them. To meet his daughter for the first time. Taking in a deep breath, he pasted on a bright smile and entered his home. Immediate cheering erupted. He jerked back, his eyes wide and wild for a moment. He hated loud, sudden noises. Luckily, people just assumed that he was surprised to see everyone.

His eyes then fell to his wife and daughter. He almost wanted to weep at the sight of them. He threw his arms around Bristol first, holding her as tight as he could without hurting her. "I'll never leave you again." He whispered, resting his cheek on her head after planting a kiss on her hair. He held her close to his heart, never wanting to leave that embrace. He wanted his wife to know just how much he loved her, before she saw how broken he was. He loved her so much, his heart just about felt like it was about to burst.

Reluctantly, he released her but only to give her a passionate kiss. "I love you." He murmured, resting his forehead on hers for a moment, smiling at her, before pulling away. He turned to Lydia, and his heart just about stopped beating. His eyes watered. She looked like a perfect split between his and his wife, and he already loved her so much. He scooped up the girl. "You are so much more beautiful in person." He told her, hugging her tight. It was heartbreakingly beautiful, meeting her for the first time. He welcomed his wife into the embrace, holding the two as close as he could. "I love you two. So much. Never forget that." He told them, burying his face in their hair.

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Everyone burst into cheers and she instantly felt butterflies in her stomach. She’d been waiting for what felt like forever to see him again. Lydia held her hand, hiding behind her a little. Her eyes locked with Ian as he made his way across the room and straight to her and Lydia like they were the only two people in the room. There was no point in fighting back her tears, because she was overwhelmed.

She’d spent countless sleepless nights afraid he wouldn’t come home. She’d spent days hoping and praying she’d get the call that he was coming home and now that he was there. Aside from Lydia and Daisy, she’d never loved anyone as much as she loved him. He was the only reason she hadn’t completely destroyed herself. He wrapped his arms around her tightly and she smiled as she held his eyes and the room was suddenly quite, except for the others who were just as emotional as her.

"I'll never leave you again." He whispered kissing the top of her head and she never wanted him to let her go. He released her, pressing his lips to hers and kissing her passionately. She kissed him back just as deeply as he kissed her. It didn’t matter that there was a room full of people, he always made her feel like she was the only person standing in the room. "I love you." he breathed resting his forehead against hers.

He pulled away and turned to Lydia and Bristol had tears running down her cheeks as he turned to Lydia. It was there first time meeting and it was literally the most beautiful thing she’d ever seen. He scooped her up and Bristol watched them as he spoke to his daughter, letting them have their moment. After a moment Ian gestured for her to join them welcoming her into his embrace and she rested her head on his chest as he wrapped his arm around her.

"I love you two. So much. Never forget that." He told them.

“We love you too.” Bristol whispered looking up to him and pressing her lips to his again. She felt a huge weight lifted off her shoulders no that he was home.

After they’d spent a moment longer together, James came up patting his brother on the back and Bristol took Lydia into her arms as James hugged his brother, followed by their mother. Ian had, had a bigger impact on more lives than anyone had thought, he was a hero and Bristol wasn’t sure he actually knew that. The party had started to slow down and it was only really Ian’s family left all of them sitting around talking amongst themselves. Bristol had put Lydia to bed and changed into something a little more comfortable, before coming back down stairs and pouring herself and Ian a glace of wine. She set the glass down in front of him, kissing his cheek, before walking around the table and sitting in the chair across form him.

“You alright babe?” she asked she could already tell there was something off about him and she’d already started worrying, but she kept it to herself. She took a sip of her wine. “I’m glad your home.” She said softly changing the subject and offering him a small smile as they sat alone at the kitchen table.

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Justin was already sick of pretending to love his life and wear a smile that to everyone else seemed genuine. His girlfriend and her high expectations for keeping them looking like the perfect couple was exhausting. Despite the fact that Justin had everything handed to him his entire life, he was humble and really very simple. His goals in life were much simpler than any other seventeen year old.

He didn’t care about money, he just wanted to be able to support his family, live comfortably and spend the rest of his life in Angel Falls. Most of his friends couldn’t wait to get out, but he loved it there. Justin had always had the heart of a small town guy, big cities and expensive material things were never what he wanted.

“Justin, baby?” Tiffany’s voice pulled him from his thoughts. He flicked his blue eyes to her deep blue eyes and gave her a soft smile. “You okay?” she asked seeming worried. “You been really distant lately, you better straighten yourself out, our first football game is this weekend, we can’t have our star distracted.” She said leaning in and kissing him and he half-heartedly kissed her back.

“I’m fine, I just need some air.” He shrugged standing up and kissing her forehead before heading towards the back door and slipping out into the warm late summer night air. He lend against one of the pillars, pulling out a cigarette and lighting it.

He really needed a drink and he honestly wished he was at the lake, because he’d rather be anywhere but at a party with people who only saw him as the football celebrity of Angel Falls. He just wanted to be Justin, himself for once in his damn life. He blew out a cloud of smoke realizing he wasn’t alone out there and he glanced to the girl sitting out the bench who looked just about as miserable and out of place as he felt. Immediately the genuine side that people rarely saw kicked in and it was because they were alone.

“Someone force you to come here too?” he asked walking over and sitting down on the bench next to her. “Justin.” He introduced himself. “And you must be Bristol’s sister?” he said leaning back and taking a final drag from his cigarette before flicking it away. “Daisy, right?” he asked having heard his mother talk about her with his sister.

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Daisy heard the back door open, and looked over to see a boy with a beautiful mess of brown curls and big blue eyes pulling out a pack of cigarettes and lighting one by her. Oh, dear. He was so amazingly attractive and she immediately looked down, hoping he wouldn't notice her. She wasn't really good at talking to people. She'd end up making a fool of herself somehow. If he even bothered to take note of her.

“Someone force you to come here too?” He asked in a low, yet soothing rumble of a voice as he made his way over to her. His voice was so rich and smooth- like honey. Was he talking to her? Not only that, but how was she supposed to hold herself together and not get really weird? Talk about pressure. He sat next to her, and she felt her heart beating hard against her chest. She shyly nodded at him, her eyes nervously flicking from her lap up into his beautiful blue eyes.

“Justin.” He introduced himself and she shyly smiled up at him. “And you must be Bristol’s sister? Daisy, right?” He asked, and she felt her cheeks turn pink. Embarrassed of her blushing cheeks, she quickly looked away until she felt she had it under control. "Y-yeah." She gave him another shy smile, feeling herself warm up to him. Maybe it was that warm honey voice, or those heartbreakingly beautiful eyes but either way she melted under his gaze.

"I'm surprised you've heard of me. I'm not very exciting." She chuckled, tucking a strand of her golden blonde hair behind her ear and smiling in spite of herself. "And to add to your earlier question- yes, I was forced to come here. Lydia practically dragged me from my room. But honestly I would love to get out of here. I don't know a single person, and I can only imagine what they think of me. Some awkward little orphan, intruding on their beautiful town." She looked up at him and blushed a little. "Sorry. Probably too much information.

She smoothed out her skirt, and watched him quietly for a minute. He was being so nice to her, and he had the most handsome face, not to mention his perfect body. Feeling herself get a little nervous by her close proximity to this human that had to be an angel or something, she just couldn't stop herself from blurting something completely embarassing. "You're so pretty..." she murmured, and a second later her eyes went very wide and her cheeks turned pink. "O-oh dear!" She attempted to cover her blushing cheeks with her hands, and looked down embrassedly. "I-I didn't mean pretty!!!" She stuttered, mortified and her own awkwardness. "I mean h-handsome! Oh dear, I should really just stop talking!!!" She shook her head, so horribly mortified at herself. He probably was really weireded out and was never going to talk to her again.
I really need to learn some social skills.

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Ian felt his stomach clench as more are more people came up to him, praising and congratulating him. Treating him like he was some hero or something. But i'm not. He thought to himself. A hero wouldn't have let his comrades die like that. They always should have come first, and he let them down. All of these people that cared about him now, he was probably going to let them down, too. He was a grenade. Just waiting to go off at any moment.

He was distant, and he was sure people were picking up on it. He hoped they just chalked it up to anxiety about being home for the first time in four years. He didn't want to that perfect image they had of him quite yet. Maybe it was pride, but he wanted to live that lie just for a little longer. He knew they were going to see how messed up he really was, and he was dreading it. He really did wish things were different. For his wife, and sweet daughter.

“You alright babe?” He looked up, realizing his wife was speaking to him. Asking if he was alright. Oh, god. She had already noticed there was something wrong. It was all downhill from here. This was just the tip of the iceberg. He had had his beautiful moment with her and it was amazing, but he didn't deserve it anyways. They had families too. Wives. Kids. They would never have that beautiful moment. He was supposed to die with them. He was never supposed to meet his beautiful daughter, or see his perfect wife again.

Before he could respond to Bristol, she quickly changed the subject. Good. He probably would've snapped at her and he really didn't want to. He wanted to live this dream just a little bit longer. “I’m glad your home.” She softly stated, and he gave her a tight smile. "I'm so glad I got to see you again, and I got to meet out beautiful daughter. You two were the only things that kept me going." She answered honestly. If he didn't have them, he probably would've died long before the situation that had him dismissed in the end.

"Any other monumental things I should know?" He asked, smiling at her gently. He took her hand into his and held it tight. It was selfish of him to enjoy this moment, but he felt like her needed to soak her up while he still could. Experience and much of this wonderful life as he could, before it was all gone. Because soon enough it would all be taken away- that much he was sure of. He looked up to his beautiful wife's stunning blue eyes. She deserved better. She was the best women he had ever met.

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Bristol had always been able to pick up on people’s emotions fairly easily; she was an artist, which made her extremely open minded. She hated that since he’d avoided eye contact for the most part. What she had seen in his eyes though was pain and sadness and it killed her, because even though she’d yet to admit it to herself, she knew he was changed. She could feel it, she’d always had a deep connection with him and his energy was off.

"I'm so glad I got to see you again, and I got to meet out beautiful daughter. You two were the only things that kept me going." she smiled softly as she listened to him. "Any other monumental things I should know?" he asked as he took his hand in hers and she sighed as his eyes for the first time since he’d been home really held her eyes.

She thought for a long moment. A lot had happened over the past four years, but all the same, nothing huge had really happened. Aside Lydia and her sister showing up on her door step, he hadn’t really missed much.

“Well, you remembered me telling you about my little sister?” she sighed. “She’d living with us, she had nowhere else to go.” She explained and she knew he’d understand, because they both had big hearts and that was probably why they’d fallen for each other to begin with they were both generally good people. “She’s hates me though.” Bristol closed her eyes, to keep from crying, before letting out a breath. “You should get some rest babe.” She said holding his eyes.

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"I'm surprised you've heard of me. I'm not very exciting. And to add to your earlier question- yes, I was forced to come here. Lydia practically dragged me from my room. But honestly I would love to get out of here. I don't know a single person, and I can only imagine what they think of me. Some awkward little orphan, intruding on their beautiful town." she explained and he couldn’t help but give his signature crooked smirk, because he was used to girls getting nervous around him. [/b]"Sorry. Probably too much information.[/b]

He laughed, because she was refreshing and he found her nervous awkwardness cute. He wasn’t used to someone like her, she was the completely opposite of all the snobby girls he hung out with not to mention his bitch of a girlfriend Tiffany, who’d probably eat her alive. He made a mental note to warn her about his girlfriend and he band of loyal followers.


"You're so pretty..." she murmured and he raised a brow. "O-oh dear! I-I didn't mean pretty!!! I mean h-handsome! Oh dear, I should really just stop talking!!!" she said quickly trying to recover from her comment and she was obviously embarrassed, but Justin didn’t seem to mind, he played it off coolly, as he took another drag from his cigarette.

“I’ve never gotten pretty before, that’s a new on.” He chuckled blowing a cloud of smoke out in front of him. “You’re prettier though.” He said completely calm a collected. “I hear about everyone, my mom’s the head of the City council here.” He shrugged, going back to her comment from earlier. “You’ll be hearing a lot about the O’Brian family.” He rolled his eyes. “And the silvers and of course the McNabbs.” He sighed. “You lucky though, your sister’s a pretty incredible person, shit, I used to come to her for everything. You should give her a chance, she’s not as stuck up as everyone thinks.” Justin said glancing to Daisy.

When Bristol was pregnant with Lydia, Justin used to come over all the time and help her around the house. At first he’d hated it, because his mother had forced him to do it, then when he’d gotten to know Bristol, he’d started loving it. She was always willing to talk to him like he was normal and her house became sort of an escape from his shitty home life. She was incredible to talk to and she was an even better listener.

“You’re very fortunate to have someone who loves you like she does.” He said honestly.

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Daisy was still blushing darkly as she looked up when she heard Justin speak in response to her. “I’ve never gotten pretty before, that’s a new on.” He chuckled, and the edges of her lips curled into a shy smile. "Sorry about that." She told him apologetically, nervously tugging on a strand of her golden curls. “You’re prettier though.” He told her coolly, and she quickly covered her blushing cheeks with her hands. "Oh dear! N-no I'm not... t-thank you..." She wasn't sure how to respond- she was still trying to fully process it. He thought she was pretty?

“I hear about everyone, my mom’s the head of the City council here.” He told her, referencing to what he had told her earlier. Vaguely, she wondered what he had heard about her. It probably wasn't very good- they didn't seem so accepting of new people her in this small town. “You’ll be hearing a lot about the O’Brian family.” He rolled his eyes, clearly not proud of his name. She figured he probably wasn't very close with his family, or he just hated the way everyone thought of them. "You don't like the popularity as much as everyone thinks?" She guessed, gazing at him with her bright blue eyes.

“You're lucky though, your sister’s a pretty incredible person, shit, I used to come to her for everything. You should give her a chance, she’s not as stuck up as everyone thinks.” He glanced at her, and this time her gaze fell down to her lap. She felt like an intruder, coming here after her sister had made this nice new life for herself. She didn't need her. That was obvious.

“You’re very fortunate to have someone who loves you like she does.” He told her, and she visibly flinched. Did Bristol really love her? Doubtful. "I wouldn't say that." She whispered to him, unsure of how much to say. The truth (or at least what she thought was the truth) weighed heavily on her chest, making it hard to breathe. Her eyes remained steadily on her hands, that were folded in her lap. "My father kicked her out when she was still so young. We were inseparable, but after she left... she never tried to contact me. I kept waiting and waiting for her to come back for me... but she didn't. She never called, never wrote. Nothing. A few years later, I got into a bad car accident. I was really badly injured, and the doctors didn't think I was going to make it. All I wanted was to see my sister. My father called and called but... she never even bothered to pick up. He left her message after message, telling her that she needed to come say goodbye in case I didn't make it... she never showed up, never even called back. She abandoned me."

Daisy looked up at Justin with watery eyes, her lip quivering. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have told you all of that. You probably don't even care." She looked down again, biting down hard on her bottom lip.

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“Well, you remembered me telling you about my little sister?” Ian nodded, leaning back in his chair. “She’d living with us, she had nowhere else to go.” His wife told him, and he felt his heart rate speed up. Another person to take care of? He couldn't even protect his brothers, who were well-trained soldiers. He couldn't take care of all of these people!! It was too much. It was all too much.

He stood up quickly, knocking the chair over behind him. he turned away from his wife, and began to pace. He couldn't do it. He just couldn't. How was he supposed to take care of all of these people. He roughly ran a hand through his hair, and his breathing sped up. All he could see were the young faces of those dead soldiers. If something happened, he couldn't protect Bristol, Lydia, and some other girl. He barely protect himself! Why did I even survive? What makes me worthy?

It was like the wind had been knocked out of him. He just kept gasping for breath, his hands in tight fists. He had to calm down. Oh god, Bristol couldn't see him like this. She couldn't see how messed up he really was. Not this soon, he just wanted a little more time with her. A little more time to pretend that nothing at all had changed.

Without making eye contact, he quietly picked the chair back up and stormed back up to his room. He shut the door behind him, and pressed his back against it. Ian squeezed his rich ocean coloured eyes closed, and slid to the ground. His hands were balled into fists. It was all ruined already.

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Bristol could tell simply by the look in his eyes when she’d first seen him that he was changed. That same glow about him, that look in his eyes it was all gone and she tired her best to ignore it. She knew what had happened to him, maybe not the details. She knew he’d gotten kidnapped and she also knew that everyone but him had died and she couldn’t imagine what he was going through.

He stood up quickly and she sighed knowing she should have waited to tell him, it was too soon. She could have simply said her sister was staying a while and that might have eased him into the idea a little better. She winced as the chair crashed to the floor and she stood up, wanting to reach out for him, but she he slipped out of the room too quickly. She watched James narrow his eyes, before coming into the kitchen and placing a hand on her shoulder.

“Bri, is everything okay?” he said seeming concerned. Bristol through her hands up, shaking her head and giving a shrug.

“Hell if I know.” She sighed running her fingers through her long hair. “He just freaked out when I told him about Daisy.” She said honestly, Delaney appeared next to her pulling her into a hug having seen and heard everything that had happened.

“Breezy, Why don’t I take Dais and Lydi home with me too night and give you and Ian a night alone, I think you could use it.” She smiled pulling away and Bristol just nodded not sure what else to do.

Bristol made her way up the stairs, knocking lightly on the door, There was no answer and so she didn’t barge in, just rested her head against the door and took a deep breath in before letting it out, trying to find the words to say, but she wasn’t entirely sure what to say.

“I’m sorry.” She breathed “She has to stay Ian. She has nowhere else to go.” She explained through the door and she felt her heart breaking, because if Ian asked her to pick, she’d have to leave him, because she’d pick her sister. “Baby, you gotta talk to me, I can’t help you if you won’t talk to me.” She breathed.

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"I wouldn't say that." she whispered and the put his full attention on her. "My father kicked her out when she was still so young. We were inseparable, but after she left... she never tried to contact me. I kept waiting and waiting for her to come back for me... but she didn't. She never called, never wrote. Nothing. A few years later, I got into a bad car accident. I was really badly injured, and the doctors didn't think I was going to make it. All I wanted was to see my sister. My father called and called but... she never even bothered to pick up. He left her message after message, telling her that she needed to come say goodbye in case I didn't make it... she never showed up, never even called back. She abandoned me." she explained and he could tell that it killed her he could hear it in her voice. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have told you all of that. You probably don't even care."

He sighed letting silence fall between them for a long moment. She was wrong, he actually really cared and that’s what people didn’t care to learn about him. He cared about everyone else more then he cared about himself and he hated that she was in so much pain. He’d just meet her but that didn’t matter, no one deserved to feel the way she did, because he’d felt like that a million and one times and he wouldn’t wish that feeling on his worst enemy.

“Your wrong Daisy.” He said simply. “I do care, I’m not some ass hole like everyone thinks.” He shrugged. “I know how you feel and it’s shitty and no one, especially not someone as amazing as you should feel the way you do right now.” He said honestly.

When you got Justin alone and you really talked to him, he was an amazing person inside and out. He admired Bristol a lot, because she was the only one who ever really bothered to get to know him and didn’t judge him. He lit himself another cigarette, pressing it to his lips and taking a long inhale, blowing out a cloud of smoke.

“Listen, I think you should really talk to her. It’s not my business, but there is a lot your father obviously didn’t tell you and you deserve the truth and Bri will give it to you.” He smiled taking another drag off his cigarette as he glanced to her.

“Justy, let’s go.” Tiffany said sticking her head out the door, interrupting their conversation. “And would you put that damn cancer stick out, Jesus you’ll be dead before the end of the year.” She spat harshly. “Devon’s having a party and I don’t want to be late, I’ll be out in the truck.” She explained, as if Daisy wasn’t even there and Justin simply waved to her letting her know he was coming to her which earned him a irritated scoff before she slammed the door.

“I gotta go.” He sighed, putting the cigarette out as he stood up. “I’ll see you at school.” He said flashing her a charming smile as he headed for the door, turning back to her once more. “Oh, and you should really smile more, sad is not a good look on you babe.” He smirked before disappearing inside.

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Daisy laid in bed that night, with her cat curled up on her chest. She thought about the boy she had met, and her heart pounded in response to the mental image of his face. He was so kind to her, even though she was basically a train wreck in front of him and most people would've been unnerved by her. Her one-eyed little kitty nuzzled her and purred soothingly as she slowly drifted off to sleep.

Daisy awoke to the sound of her cat alarm clock mewing loudly at her. Sherlock grumbled, before stretching out on her stomache. She sighed heavily and turned off her clock. She certainly was not looking forward to her first day at this new school. First day of her senior year, she should be psyched. But she definetly was not. She thought of the handsome boy she had met last year, and she softened slightly. He had been so kind, and she found herself being very attracted to him. But that girl who kept calling him Justy was probably his girlfriend. Sighing even heavier, she slowly hopped out of bed.

She dressed herself in a long sleeved, white lacy top that was beautiful and conservative paired with jeans, white flats and a pearl bracelet. She tied back her golden curls with a white silk ribbon and glanced at herself in the mirror. She looked. . . innocent. Fine. She scooped up Sherlock and started downstairs, where she was met by a sleepy Lydia. She grinned at her, and threw her arms around her legs. "You look beautiful, Auntie!" The little girl happily told her, and Daisy gave her a loving kiss on the cheek. "Not as beautiful as you, my little love!"

After feeding her cat, she brushed the little girl's curls and completely ignored her sister. Her brother in law came downstairs, and Lydia threw her arms around him. "Daddy!" She screeched. "Good morning, baby!" He kissed her forehead, and scooped her up, setting her on his shoulders and making her giggle in delight. Ian looked down at Daisy. She smiled gently, and shook her hand. She smiled shyly at him. You're just as beautiful as your sister. You are welcome to stay as long as you like." He told her warmly, and she grinned. "Thank you so much."

"I'll be in the car" she called to her sister, and headed outside with a warm smile and a wave at Ian and Lydia. She held her bag to her chest as she sat quietly in the car, waiting for her sister to drive her to school. She was not looking forward to this experience. Hopefully they had a good orchestra.

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Ian sat in his floor, hyperventilating loudly. Tears stung his eyes. He laid on the floor for hours, until he could breathe normally again. He hated these episodes. Where he relived the whole experience. Eventually, he was able to see normally again and he stood up. He slowly walked to the door, and let his wife in. "I'm sorry." He murmured quietly. "I'm sorry." He said again, his voice breaking. "I love you." He said sadly, looking down at her and touching her cheek. He kissed her gently.

He quietly turned away, opened a pill bottle and downed a few pills. Without them, he had horrid night terrors in which he woke up screaming. He didn't want to traumatise his child and wife. He laid in bed, turned away from his wife and without another word.

In the morning, he was a different man. He awoke his wife with a gentle kiss. "Morning, my love." He snuggled her for a minute, before stretching and yawning. "I can hear the kids stirring. I think its about time we get up." He grinned at her, and kissed her again.

He stood up, and rummaged through the drawers. He smiled warmly. "You left my stuff here?" He pulled out a blue dress shirt and jeans. He dressed in front if his wife, flashing gruesome scars. "Come on, lazy." He laghed, kissing her once more.

Ian went downstairs, to see his sister-in-law and his daughter. His heart swelled. This was his family. His daughter raced towards him, and he grinned as he scooped her up and placed her on his shoulders. He smiled down at Daisy. "You're just as beautiful as your sister. You are welcome to stay as long as you like."

"Thank you." she mumurred, and hurried off. He looked over his shoulder at his wife, and sighed. "I love you guys. You wouldn't believe how much I missed you."

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That night had been less then successful and although she knew it wasn't her fault, she felt like she couldn't help him and it made her feel like shit. However, sleeping next to him that night had been incredible. Lydia was usually the one filling her bed next to her and every once in a while it was her best friend Delaney. She'd slept better then she'd slept in years. He woke her with a soft kiss the next morning and she didn't want to wake up. Usually she was the first awake tending to Lydia, because being a single mom was always bus work. When he was cuddling with her though it made her want to lay there with him forever.

He stood up and rummaged through his drawers like he used to and she missed being half asleep and hearing that noise it made her smile to have him back. "You left my stuff here?" he said as he started to change and Bristol sat up wondering why he thought she wouldn't keep his stuff. Her eyes roamed the scars on his body as she yawned and she sighed, knowing there was stuff he'd gone through that he'd never tell her. [b]"Come on, lazy."[/b he chuckled before kissing her once more and she stretched before getting up.

She quickly showered knowing she would have to drive Daisy to school, before she changed in to her outfit and braided her hair up into a messy bun. Finally she did her make-up and she was so used to being quick that even with the little amount of time she had she still looked beautiful.

She made her way down stairs to where everyone else was. Lydia was on Ian's shoulders as Ian complimented her Daisy, however Daisy still seemed like at any moment Bristol was going to betray her and it was frustrating. Daisy disappeared to the car before Bristol could make sure she had breakfast. Bri grabbed Lydia off Ian's shoulders.

"Alright boo, time to eat." she said with a soft smile like Ian wasn't there, because she was so used to doing everything herself, that it didn't even occur to her to ask her husband for help. he poured her a bowl of cereal and set it in front of her with a glass of orange juice. "Your going to stay with daddy while I go drop auntie off at school." she said walking around and kissing Lydia on the cheek. "Uncle will be here in a bit to get you for dance okay?" Lydia nodded happily putting a spoon full of cereal in her mouth. Bristol glanced back up to Ian. "Will you be okay babe?" she asked nervous o leave Lydia alone with his, not because she didn't trust him, but because it would be his first time ever alone with their daughter.

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Justin hadn't gone straight home last night, him and Tiffany had drove out to the lake and laid in the back of his truck, making had quickly turned into sex. The two of them hadn't gotten home until four in the morning, despite the fact it was the first day of their senior years. Justin had gotten about an hour of sleep before his dad was banging on his door ordering him to get up. It was the same thing every morning and no matter how exhausted he was he had to pull himself out of bed. He dressed in his work out cloths. In the kitchen his mom was waiting with his protein shake it was no use fighting his father. He downed it quickly before he was out the door and jogging a mile.

When he got back home he showered and changed into his clothes complete with his letterman's jacket. He avoid his father as much as humanly possible. His sister followed him out to his truck and climbed into the passenger side his car. His engine roared to life and country music blasted from his speakers.

He dropped his sister off at the middle school before he finally got to school and parked his truck in the senior parking lot. Half the football team waiting for him and he smirked, turning on the jerk football player as he hopped down from his truck. Before he managed to greet his friends though he was cut off by Tiffany pressing her lips to his, particularly happy due to the night they'd spent together.

He was ready to be back at school it kept him bust and away from his dad for the most part. Tiffany pulled away talking with her girlfriends and he was carrying on meaningless conversation with his friends before he glanced up to see Bristol's car pull into the parking lot with that familiar blonde he'd met last night and he smirked, she was beautiful and she was everything Tiffany wasn't. He hated that he was stuck with Tiffany.

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"Will you be okay babe?" Daisy paused in the doorway as she heard her sister say this to Ian. She glanced over her shoulder at him. He paused, then grinned and nodded. "Of course! I could use a little bonding time with my little girl." He kissed her forehead, and her heart swelled a little bit. She felt for the guy, this was his first time even being with his baby. The poor guy had missed so much. This was his first opportunity to even be alone with her.

She turned away, and hopped into Bristol's car. She really needed a car of her own. Daisy sighed, and stared out the window as Bristol got in and drove her to school. She didn't respond to anything that the woman said. She wouldn't admit it, but she was anxious about her first day. She was so shy and introverted, this was sure to be hell for her. She had never been put in a position where she had to make all new friends before. Ugh, this all sucks.

When they got there, Daisy looked warily out the window before throwing her bag over her shoulder and jumping out of the car. "Bye." She muttered nonchalantly, although even that was nice. Usually she wouldn't say anything to her sister. Admittedly, she did feel a little bad for her. But there was still so much hurt between the two of them. She was the reason Daisy had severe trust issues. Not to mention abandonment issues.
Hooking her thumbs under the straps of her bag, she started across the parking lot and to the entrance of the huge school. Coming from a preppy private school, this was a lot for her. This place was huge and full of. . . well, unsavory looking people. The whole place looked pretty dirty. Great. She was probably going to get herpes or something from the water fountains.

Her crystal blue eyes swept across the parking lot, and she caught sight of him. Justin. She felt a small blush creep into her cheeks, but she tried her best to ignore it. He glanced her way, and she shyly smiled and waved to him. The doors were still shut, that he bell hadn't rung yet to the kids congregated in front of the school. She tugged out her school schedule, and looked over it. Open study, AP Bio, Honors Trig, AP Writing, Poetry, Advanced Orchestra, AP Psychology, Health. Great. Hopefully she would at least find a few people to hang out with. Maybe.

As it got closer to the time when they would be let in, the students gathered at the doors, rushing by her in an undisciplined swarm. She looked around desperately for a friendly face, and ended up just staying back with her head down. God, this was going to be a long year. Daisy couldn't wait to be eighteen.

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"Will you be okay babe?" Bristol asked Ian, and he paused for a moment. Could he handle this? He had never really looked after any kid, let alone his own. He looked down at the beautiful girl with her mother's eyes and his smile. He grinned back at her. "Of course! I could use a little bonding time with my little girl." He scooped her up, cradling her like an infant. She giggled and he laughed back at her.

Grinning wildly, he looked up. Daisy was gone already, but his beautiful wife stood there still. "I love you so much, Bristol. I can't believe we made this beautiful girl." He kissed the two of them, and hugged his wife with one arm. "See ya, babe!" He called as she left. "So baby, what do you want to do?" "I'm not a baby!" She answered stubbornly, and he laughed. "Alright, what do you want to do, princess?" He asked, correcting himself. She grinned. "Let's play outside!" She cried excitedly. "Alright, but that means we have to get dressed first."

He took her upstairs, and looked around a little hopelessly at the stacks of pink. He found a pink sundress she liked, and braided her hair back, tying it back with a bow. He grinned at his handiwork. He was pretty proud of himself, he had no idea he could do this. "Look at how pretty you are, princess!" They grinned at each other, and she gave him a kiss. "I love you, Daddy." She murmured, and he hugged her. "I love you too, baby." He held her close for a few minutes, before finally releasing her and walking her downstairs.

Lydia hurried outside in front of him, careful not to go too far. She sat in the grass and grinned at him. The morning was beautiful. It was warm, and a sweet breeze ruffled his hair. He could smell flowers, and his daughter must've too. She got up and picked two pink flowers, tucking one behind her ear and tucking another behind her father's. He smiled. This was his dream life.

"Hey there!" A nosy neighbor waved from the next yard, startling him. He instinctively grabbed his daughter and held her to his chest, looking wildly at the neighbor as if they were a threat. His heart pounded. "Daddy?! It's just Neighbor Mary!" His breathing slowly calmed down, and after a moment he released the little girl. She looked at him, confused. The neighbor looked a little frightened. Great.

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Bristol was slightly stressed to say the least. She knew there were things, tramas that Ian refused to tell her about and leaving Lydia alone with him honestly scared the shit out of her. The only time Lydia was ever not by her side was when Ian's younger brother James came and took her to her dance class so Bristol could have an hour break three times a week. Other then that Bristol always had Lydia attached to her hip.

"Of course! I could use a little bonding time with my little girl." he scooped her up and a small smile came to Bri's lips. "I love you so much, Bristol. I can't believe we made this beautiful girl." she smiled softly as he kissed her forehead. Having him back was going to take so getting used to. She'd been completely alone for the past for years when it came to figuring out how to balance being a mom and being an adult and the responsibilities that came with both.

"I love you too." she breathed. "No sugar before lunch and no TV until after ballet." she called as she slipped out the door and quickly go into the car. She apologized the her sister, before they were pulling out of the drive way. She tried to carry on meaningless chatted, but Daisy didn't seem to be listening so she eventually stopped talking.

She pulled up to the school and watched her sister get out. She sighed as she said goodbye and she watched her sister walk into school before she left, only she didn't go straight home. She made her way to Delaney's house. The girl she'd known practically her whole life greeted her with a hug and invited her in. Bristol went straight for the pack of cigarette Delaney always had on her counter as if they were never moved, however the girl just smoked that much.

They talked for a while and Delaney reassured her that she'd eventually have her Ian back it would just take come time and she knew her friend was right. Finally Bristol headed home and by the time she got home, Ian was alone and James had already come to pick up Lydia for her dance class only when she walked inside Ian was nowhere to be found.

"Babe?" she called. Nothing. "Ian?" she tired again hoping he hadn't left

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Justin smiled when she waved at him however he didn't wave back, it wouldn't be socially acceptable and he hated that he was living by everyone else's standards. Tiffany hadn't missed his eyes falling on the blonde and she certainly hadn't missed the way Daisy waved at him and she made sure to kiss him hard reminding him exactly where his place was in their world.

"She's pathetic." Tiffany spat and her faithful followers agreed. He simply rolled his eyes as he wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close as they all headed towards the school. His first period was Open Study with Tiff, her friends and half the football team. He could almost guarantee schedules would be changed by the end of the week, because there was no way the teacher would be able to handle all the preps in one class.

The lot of them all walked into class together, the chain of command being Justin and Tiffany walking in and everyone else followed like they were royalty. They all filled the back of the class and Justin took his seat kicking his feet up on the desk carelessly. His genuine good guy personality that he'd had last night with Daisy was completely gone. This was the Justin everyone expected him to be, the pretentious jerk that broke all the girls hearts.

"O'Brain." he glanced up to see the teacher he knew as Mr. Beck a friend of his father's staring down at him and he smirked up at him cockily. "Feet off the desk." He could hear his teammates snickers as he dropped his feet to the floor only as soon as Mr. Beck turned his back to him his feet were back up on the desk.

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