"Chapter 12" ✔️

Ashley Dale's Family ☝☝☝😍😍

Another Chapter for my bunnies and this is also dedicated to an awesome person. She's an Awesomeness Royalty she deserved this dedication more than ever. Thank you for being such a sweetheart natqhizzti. Muahh

Anyways, I hope you all will like this chapter. Enjoy and read on my bunnies ^_^ 😘

Ashley's POV

Isn't it annoying when you're trying to focus on the class but for some reason, you always get distracted? I've been telling myself to write down notes so I have something to study on later at home for the incoming test but my brain somehow stops me from doing so. It's irritating.

My thoughts has been a jumbled mess since I left home for school and since then, I was always distracted. I just hope I don't get myself in trouble for being out of focus.

Thank goodness, we're now halfway done with the last period before lunch time.

I was so distracted it felt like eternity sitting in a classroom with a bunch of students fake listening to the teacher as they went on with the lesson.

I was grateful not even one single teacher called me out for being absentminded. Because of someone did, then I'm surely screwed.

Well, it's hard to focus when all I can think of was Mat and Jessy, as well as the wolf pups. I know it sounds weird to be thinking about them but for some reason, I just had this feeling. A feeling I can't seem to exactly pinpoint. It's like I feel safe with them. I somehow feel at home, which if I'm being honest, I should be creeped out considering the fact that I barely know the couple. But then again, maybe it's just the way how they treated me, I guess. They welcomed me even though I was a complete stranger who kind of trespassed in their property.

I sighed, which gained Besty's attention.

"You okay?" She asked in a hushed tone.

I turned to her and nodded.

"Yeah. Just a little tired is all." I said.

She hummed. "Are you thinking about Jacob?"

I glanced at her and there I remembered.

Jacob has been acting out lately, which is weird.

When I didn't utter a reply to Besty, she just hummed seemingly knowing the answer to her question already. And with that, she turned her attention back to the class and continued taking down notes.

While as for me, I continued being the distracted little smurf that I am.

I sighed lowly as to not gain anyone's attention.

These past few days he's been really quiet and that bothers me. He's never a quiet person. He's always jolly and full of energy. Even my friends noticed his change of mood. Usually he would play around with my them during break time but these past few days, it suddenly stopped. Though I'm kind of thankful even with his sudden change of mood, he never distance himself to us. He still joins our group all the time. It's just that, he suddenly went quiet. We do talk but that was even hardly a conversation. I guess there's something bugging his mind.

I don't want to be nosy so I let him be on his thoughts. It was kind of different though. Seeing Jacob's quiet side was different. We were used to him goofing around with my friends, specially Joseph and Breinard. But now, he no longer does that. He still go along with some jokes but that was it, he hardly even makes jokes and laugh anymore.

As a friend, I was starting to worry about him. And I know Besty, Lea, and the guys feels the same thing too.

I don't know what's on his mind. And I didn't want to ask because I respect his privacy, so I just gave him the space that he need. Maybe he just need some time to think, or maybe he's just preparing himself to tell me. Either way, I'm still worried about him.

I want to atleast give him a little helping hand. But seeing as I don't even have any idea what's running in his head caused me to lose the ability to help him.

I care for him. And as much as possible, I want him to tell me if he had some problems because I'm his friend.

That's what friends are for, right?

Although I'm still kind of upset about the drama they did with Connor back at the lake, I know he is my friend. So what ever this maybe that's troubling his mind, I hope he'll tell me. And hopefully soon.

But anyways, changing the subject, Besty told me that Connor have decided to stay here a little longer. Instead of having to stay here for only two weeks and four days, he decided to extend it to a month. The reason why he stayed? Well, he didn't mention as what Besty told me.

I suspect something was up between the two of them. I may not be sure of it yet, but I feel like something was up. And me being curious, I want to know what it was.

*Ring*

Oh finally!

After the bell went off, me along with my friends and also my classmates started packing our things up before we made our way out of the classroom. Adjusting my bag on my shoulder, I turned to my friends. They were still busy putting their stuff away inside their bags. I waited as I stood near the exit while playing with my back pack strap. Once they finished, we walked towards our usual spot outside the cafeteria.

When we get there, we saw Jacob already sitting with a tray in front of him.

I smiled.

He still buys me food even when he's been acting weird lately. And honestly, his gesture always makes me blush.

"Oh how sweet. He's already there waiting for you." Lea commented causing for the blush to go a deeper shade of red.

We walked towards Jacob and I sat next to him with Besty sitting next to me on my left. Basically the same position as before, like usual. I'm in the middle of Besty and Jacob while in front of us are Lea, Joseph and Breinard. We started eating our lunch with a casual conversation here and there, except Jacob wasn't eating anything. And as usual, he's being quiet.

So trying my luck, I decided to talk to him about it, just incase he opens up.

"Where's your food?" I asked once noticing he doesn't have his own tray.

He just shrugged.

"I'm not hungry." He spoke lowly.

"But you still have to eat, at least a little." I said as I pushed the tray of food towards him. "Here, eat something. I'm not that hungry anyway, so might as well just share the food with you."

He shook his head without looking at me in the eyes. "I'm not hungry Ash. Don't worry about me." He said before we went back to his thoughts again.

I frowned. There is definitely wrong with him.

With a sigh, I decided to just break the ice and ask him the question.

"What's bothering you Jacob? You've been quiet lately, it's worrying me." I told him with a gentle voice.

"It's nothing Ash." He said blankly.

My frown deepened and I held his arm, he visibly tensed with just my touch but I didn't let go.

"I know it's not nothing when you've been acting different since last week." I told him in a low voice so it's only him can hear. Besty and my friends were still busy talking about something I'm not even listening to.

"I'm just thinking about something, that's all." He said blandly while staring on the table.

"You know you can tell me anything Jacob. If it's bothering you then I'm here to listen. And if there's something I can do, then I'll gladly help." I told him genuinely.

He looked at me in the eyes and I can see nothing in them. Not even a single emotion. I feel like he's been locking it up inside him, which made me worry even more.

I wonder what's bothering him?

"Anything? Even if it might anger you?" He told me and suddenly, fear flooded his eyes.

I don't know what he's talking about so I decided to keep my eyes trained on him. If he needed a friend to lean on then I can be the one.

"Anything Jacob." I told him in all honesty.

How serious could this be for him to be this nervous?

But like what I have said, I want to ease some of his worries. So as much as possible, I'll be there for him. I'll be all ears and a shoulder for him to lean on.

Jacob was silent for a second, thinking about it.

"What ever it is that's bugging your mind, I'm always here to listen. And I promise, I will do my best to help." I reassured him when I saw fear slowly became visible on his features.

This got to be very serious if it made Jacob this scared.

Maybe it had something to do with his family? Or maybe about school? Though I doubt it's about school. Or maybe it's Relationship problem? But then again, I realize he's trying to pursue me. So I also highly doubt about it. Well, that is if he's now interested with someone else then surely, he had to tell me.

"Okay then." He said with a sigh. "Meet me in my car after school." He told me and I nod my head at him with a smile.

Slowly but surely, he's starting to open up to me, which I'm very glad.

"Great, I'll be there." I replied while I picked up my spoon and fork before handing it to him. "But for now, I want you to eat. Because if you didn't, you'll go hungry during classes."I told him sternly. "And no buts!" I quickly added when he tried to open his mouth to protest.

He sighed before complying. "At least share the food with me." He spoke in which I didn't protest about.

And we shared the food that he bought and ate in a comfortable silence, while the other four friends of mine kept talking lord knows what.

After lunch, we all trashed our trays to the garbage bin before we made our way towards our classes. And as for Jacob, he's still not going to stop with his efforts. He still dropped me off to my class before he casually went towards his.

Even with him being silent and all, he's still being the sweet Jacob I met. And I'm more than thankful because even with the thought that kept bugging him for days now, he didn't let it change him completely.

Once Jacob went to his own class, I walked towards my usual seat and prepared for the dreaded few more hours of teachers rambling lessons.

I sat there with my chin resting on my palm. Then my thoughts instantly went to Jacob and what might be bothering him. If it's something that he can't just tell anyone then sure enough, it has to be serious and personal.

No matter how hard I tried to think of something that might cause Jacob to be this distressed, I still can't come up with anything. Maybe because one of the reason is that, I barely knew him and most of the things I know about him are basic ones.

I didn't even notice that I was so lost in my own thoughts the whole class hours, and I was thankful that the teachers didn't notice me spacing out.

Well, except one.

It was the second to the last subject for the day when Ms. Fuentes called my name, snapping me out of my thoughts. Sitting up straight, I quickly composed myself.

I don't want to get scolded now, do I?

"I have a question for you Mr. Valdez, since your classmate Chris here wasn't able to answer it because he was too busy typing away on his phone. So I want you to tell him the correct one instead, is that okay?" Ms. Fuentes, a nice teacher, asked me and I nodded my head in reply. Well It's not like I have any other choice though.

"Can you tell me what is the full definition of Physics again? Because Chris here seems to have forgotten about it even though we've been having this lesson for some time now." She asked nicely. I know she doesn't intend on humiliating Chris, she just want to make him remember what the lesson was.

I nodded my head before standing up and looked at Chris who's giving me a small smile. "Chris, Physics is a science that deals with matter and energy and the way they act on each other in heat, light, electricity, and sound. Or in a shorter definition, in order for you to remember it next time, Physics is a science that deals with matter and energy and their interactions." I said without breaking eye contact with Chris. He smiled widely and winked at me. I also smiled back in response to him before I sat back on my seat.

"That is correct, thank you for that answer Mr. Valdez." Ms. Fuentes said with a smile.

After that, the class went on without a hiccup and I was back into my thoughts again.

After the last subject, I gathered all my notes into my back pack and slid it up my shoulders. Once I was sure I have all my stuff, I waited for my friends to finish before walking out of the room. When they were also done, the five of us went to the crowded hallway swarmed with students that are eager to go home. I managed to bump into 3 guy's backs and all I did was apologize to them.

I know my all so supportive best friend pushed me on purpose, because she knows that the three guys that I bumped into are all in the soccer team, which means they are muscled and 'hunkies yummies', Besty's words not mine.

My witch of a best friend just laughed whenever I stutter an apology to the three muscled guys. They said it was nothing so I'm good. Though I doubt they were totally fine with it from the way they look at me. I'm guessing they're still bothered that I'm the reason why their friend Jeremy got kicked out of the team because of the rumor. And even though I had nothing to do with it, I still feel guilty for some reason. If it weren't for me, Jeremy won't be in this situation right now.

But then again, I also know in myself that it's not my fault. I was also being dragged into that mess just because of one stupid picture. I mean, is it really that big of a deal? Jeremy and I were clearly just talking like normal human would. And now, all these people think there is something going on between us? How stupid can people get? Just because I was blushing, they have to make a whole story that Jeremy and I are dating. That him and I are in a secret relationship.

That right there is not okay. All because of that stupid rumor, Jeremy and I lost a lot. He lost his girlfriend for 2 years, he lost his sports career and his reputation. And lastly, he lost his friends just for thinking he was gay even though clearly, he's not. I can see he was so madly in love with his girlfriend and I bet anyone who looks at them would say the same thing. Even with me having a huge crush on him, I still respect that he's already in a relationship.

"Hey, are you okay Ash?" Besty took me out of my thoughts as she snapped her fingers in front of me.

I blinked before I nodded.

"Yeah I'm fine."

She slightly frowned at me as we continued walking.

"What's on your mind Besty? Is it Jacob again?" She asked.

I turned to her. "Just the rumors and how it caused Jeremy to lose a lot that he worked hard for."

"Oh." She mumbled. "I'm deeply sorry this happened to you Besty." She said before she went silent for a moment. She placed her pointer finger on her chin as she started thinking.

"You know what? I have a thought." She spoke, gaining my attention.

"What?"

"Do you think that's the reason why this rumor erupted?" She asked curiously.

Now it's my turn to frown.

"What do you mean?"

"Don't you get it? People are jealous of him because of how well known and well respected he is in this school. That's why someone decided to do something as worse as spreading a rumor just to destroy him." She implied.

"Then why am I in this mess if their intention is to destroy Jeremy?"

She looked at me with a 'duh' look on her face.

"Well to use you as a leverage obviously."

My frown instantly deepened.

"So you're saying that the rumor was just their way to destroy Jeremy?"

She nodded.

"And in the process, they also dragged you because they think they can. Now look what their selfishness caused you and him. They made you look like a totally bad person in front of everyone by making them think it's you who caused for Jeremy to lose a lot."

I looked down feeling sorry for Jeremy.

"You were just a tool in this process Besty. They didn't care if they ruined you as they watch Jeremy crumble to the ground. They didn't even put a care that they manage to ruin a blossoming relationship between Jeremy and his girlfriend. That's because whoever did this, are just too selfish for words to describe."

I turned to her. "How can people do such thing though?"

She sighed as she placed her arms on my waist and resting her head on my shoulder.

"Because people are selfish, greedy, ungrateful, and just total assholes." She replied. "But don't let this rumor get to you, okay? Remember, all your friends are here for you, specially me. We'll fix this sooner or later, I promise."

I smiled after realizing I have the best support group ever.

"Thanks Besty. You're the best."

She scoffed going back to her usual self.

"Of course I am. Duh." She said as she playfully flipped her hair towards me. Making some strands to smack my face and end up some on my mouth.

This woman is too much for my health.

I rolled my eyes. "Don't take it seriously cause most of the time, you're just a mean witch."

And with that, she sent me a glare.

"I'm not a witch. That's just too much."

"Sorry not sorry."

She huffed as she folded her arms on her chest.

"Be thankful I love you." She said with a pout.

"Aw, I love you too Besty. But still, you're a mean witch to me." I joked which she replied with a hard punch on my shoulder.

I think she just cracked a bone.

I forgot to remind myself that she can punch way harder than guys.

Geez, this woman is a hoodlum.

"Why are you so violent?" I asked as I rubbed my aching arm.

She shrugged. "I can be nice too, you know."

"Right. Bruising someone's arm is nice. That's cool." I stated sarcastically.

"But you love me so...." She said casually.

I nodded. "I do before, but now I don't."

And I just earned another punch.

My poor muscleless arm. I cry.

"What did you say?" She asked while wearing an evil look.

"I said I love you too."

She cooed before engulfing me into a hug. "Aw I love you too Besty."

Why did I befriend a psycho in the first place again?

**** **** ****

Once we were out into the school's parking lot, I immediately saw Jacob's car.

I turned to my best friend.

"Uhm Besty, I can't go home with you today. Jacob said he's going to tell me what's bothering him these past couple of days. So just in case there is something I could help, then I have to be there for him to help." I told Besty and her eyes instantly widened.

"Really? He finally agreed to open up on to you?" She asked in shock. "That's great."

I nodded. "Yup, it is."

"But why can't I go with you though?"

"I guess the matter is just too personal for him Besty. So if telling me, and only me is what he wants then we have to respect it. And who knows maybe soon he'll be comfortable enough to tell you too." I stated honestly.

She nodded. "True, you're the only one he trust the most between the five us. But yeah, if there is anything I can do to help then just remember I'm a call away." She said with a beaming smile.

"Sure thing Besty." I told her before giving her a hug. "So I gotta go. See you later."

She nodded as we both waved at each other. I gave my three other friends a wave before walking towards Jacob's car.

Once I was close enough, I knocked on his window. After noticing me, he rolled down the window on the passenger's side.

"You ready?" He said with a nervous smile.

My face instantly frowned at his obvious nervousness but decided to just shrug it off and give him a nod and a smile.

"Yep, you?" I asked back while hopping in the passenger's seat.

"Yeah, I guess." He said as he gripped the steering wheel.

This should be interesting. I thought.

"Oh, before I forgot, first, I have to call my father so he won't get worried if I came home a little late." I told Jacob and he nodded his head at me with his eyes glued on the steering wheel.

I fetched my phone from my pocket before I unlocked it. I pressed number one on my dialer and Papa's number popped out.

He's number one on the speed dial just in case.

I sat there quietly as I waited for Papa to pick it up.

After three rings, Papa finally answered the phone.

"Hey Son, you called. Is there something wrong? Are you on your way home? Tell me." Papa said worriedly over the phone.

I rolled my eyes at my over-protective father.

He worries for no reason all the damn time.

Geez. It's not like I'm a freaking teenage girl for him to be this strict. But I still love him for it and it's not going to change.

"Papa I'm fine, I just called to tell you that I'll be home a little late tonight." I said.

There was a pause on the other line before he answered back.

"Oh? And what would be the reason you'll be home late?"

I bit my bottom lip.

"It's very important, Papa. But I will be with Jacob so you don't have anything to worry about." I told Papa on the phone.

I heard silence before he cleared his throat. It makes me nervous everytime he does that, I don't know why.

"Okay, but your curfew is still 10, Ashley Dale. I don't want you home later than that. Am I understood?" Papa ordered sternly.

Papa can be very scary when he wanted to.

"Crystal Clear. I'll probably be home by 7 or 8, and no later than that." I said while looking at the clock on the dashboard. It's already 4:05 in the afternoon, so Jacob and I have plenty of time to spend talking.

"Okay good, I will expect you to be here by 8 then. But if you come home later than that, I would expect an explanation, Understood?" Papa ordered again and I nodded even though he can't see me through the phone.

"Clear as day Papa." I said while taking a glance at Jacob who's still finding the steering wheel very interesting that his eyes won't leave it.

"Good. Now is there anything else you wanted to tell me?" Papa asked in a gentle way this time.

"No Papa. That would be all." I said while looking out the window on my side.

"Very well, be careful and no funny business of any sort Ashley Dale okay? I wouldn't know if there are girls with you right now." Papa said in a teasing manner.

If you only knew Papa. I thought to myself.

"Not happening!" I exclaimed trying to act shocked at what he said.

Papa chuckled deeply and I forced myself to chuckle along with him.

"I'm just saying. I'm way too young to be a grandpa." He joked in which I nearly gagged.

What the heck!.

I chuckled nervously once again.

"And I also think I'm way too young to be a parent." I spoke.

Papa laughed on the other side.

"I'm glad you think so." He said. "Okay, I'll hang up now, since I still have other things to do. Be careful and I love you." Papa said and I smiled after he said He loves me.

"Okay, Papa. I Love you too and take care." I replied to him before I let him hang up the call.

After that, I turned to Jacob who was now watching me and not the steering wheel anymore. I nodded my head, telling him that I'm all set. He gave me a small smile and told me to buckle up. I did as what I was told before he started up the car's ignition. Then he drove out of the school's parking lot and into the highway heading to where ever he's taking me.

After 15 minutes of driving, we were still on the road and I was growing curious as to where he's planning to have this talk with me. But I didn't want to bother him since I saw he's once again lost in his train of thoughts. So I sat still on my seat and restrained myself from asking.

As another long, silent 5 minutes passed, I decided to just ask him anyway.

I turned to him on my seat. "Where are we going Jacob? We've been driving for 20 minutes now" I asked nicely.

He took a nervous glance towards me with a small smile on his face before he focused back on the road.

"You'll see after another 15 minutes of drive, Ash." He said without giving me another glance.

He then reached for my hand that was placed on my lap and held it tight. But not too tight that it hurts, just enough. (AN: That's what he said.)

"Is it really that serious that we have to drive this far out of town?" I asked while looking out of my window.

"Yes." He said in a hushed voice. Then he pulled my hand towards his lips and gave it a soft kiss so gentle I almost melted.

And the usual abnormality of my face made it's appearance. I blushed a bright shade of red.

"Okay then." I said trying to divert my face somewhere else so Jacob won't see my extremely blushing face.

Then silence took over once more as I let Jacob take my hand in his. Even though he would constantly give it a kiss, I still didn't mind. In result, the blush on my face decided not to leave the whole drive up to where Jacob was taking me.

I wonder what is up with him? Earlier he's being quiet, but now he's being touchy. Though I'm not complaining or anything, it's just that, it's weird.

Does he have mood swings or man periods?

I turned the radio up to fill the silence. Then a familiar music came on and I can't help but sing along with it.

When tomorrow comes I'll be on my own,

Feeling frightened of the things that I don't know,

When tomorrow comes,

Tomorrow comes,

Tomorrow comes.

And though the road is long,

I looked up to the sky,

And in the dark I found I stop that I won't fly,

And I sing along,

I sing along,

Then I sing along.

I got all I need when I got you and I,

I look around me and see a sweet life,

I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight,

You're getting me, getting me through the night.

Can't stop my heart when you're shining in my eyes,

Can't lie, it's a sweet life,

I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight,

You're getting me, getting me through the night.

Cause you're my flashlight,

You're my flashlight,

You're my flashlight.

Oh.

I sang along as Jacob casually glanced my way. Sometimes we would squeeze my hand and kiss it a bit longer making all these damn critters to swarm my tummy. I blushed as usual and gave him a shy smile before I closed my eyes. I leaned my head on my seat's head rest and listened to the song as it continued.

I see the shadows long beneath the mountain top,

I'm not afraid when the rain won't stop,

Cause you light the way,

You light the way,

You light the way,

I got all I need when I got you and I,

I look around me and see a sweet life,

I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight,

You're getting me, gettin me through the night.

Can't stop my heart when you're shining in my eyes,

Can't lie, it's a sweet life,

I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight.

You're getting me, getting me through the night.

I was woken up by a gentle voice and I slowly opened my eyes.

"You fell asleep baby." He said.

"Oh sorry"

He smiled at me, which was a shocker, since I haven't seen him do it for a few days now.

"Don't apologize." He said. " And besides, I love seeing you looking so peaceful that's why I decided not to wake you up."

I returned a smile to him with a slight blush on my cheeks.

"Thanks Jacob."

"You're welcome." He said as he stared at me.

Feeling a bit embarrassed by his gaze, I looked away.

"Where are we?" I asked upon realizing that he have stopped.

"See for yourself." He said with a small smile.

I looked out into my window, then out the windshield and saw we're at the lake.

I turned to him with a questioning look on my face.

"I figured this is the perfect place to talk." He spoke.

I guess that makes sense.

After Jacob stepped out, I hopped out of the car as well. I walked towards him who was standing on the shoreline. I stopped next to him and looked up to see him staring at the lake. I sighed before turning my attention towards the lake and let silence engulf the both of us once again.

When he didn't utter a word, I decided maybe I should be the one to open the subject.

Taking a deep breath, I turned to Jacob. We're already here so might as well start talking about the important matter, so we can go home early.

I opened my mouth to speak but he beat me to it.

"Can we enjoy the sunset for a while? Then after that, I will tell you." He said without taking his eyes away from the lake.

I closed my mouth shut because I know I looked like a fish out of the water when I had my mouth open.

"Oh uhm, sure." I said before I turned back to the lake.

Might as well admire it's beauty while we're still here.

Sighing deeply, I looked around. The lake was magnificent and simply breath taking. The water was shimmering as the setting sun cast it's light on it. Making the water looked gold and a beautiful reddish color. Birds were flying freely above us as they prepared to rest for the day. The trees behind us are their homes and I was thankful that the local government of this town decided to keep it untouched. This place deserved to be as it is right now. And every animal that resides in it, deserves to call this place their forever home.

I smiled to myself. This place just feels perfect and very relaxing as well as stress relieving for me. And even if Jacob doesn't admit it out loud, I know it's the same for him.

"This place is so beautiful." I breathed out as Jacob looked down at me briefly before turning back to the lake.

He sighed. "It is."

He then walked towards a log that has been washed into shore and sat on it. I stared at his back for a moment before I decided to sit next to him.

I rested my head on his shoulder as we both trained our eyes to the beautiful view in front of us. We were both silent, not uttering a single word. We just sat there admiring Mother nature's glorious beauty and how relaxing it was being around her.

Jacob took a deep breath after a couple minutes of silence, signalling me to sit up straighter and prepare myself to listen to whatever he has to say. He turned his head to me and I turned my attention to him. He stared at me with doe eyes, making me melt on the inside. They looked so pretty as the sun's rays shone down on his beautiful orbs. His dark brown eyes staring at me intently which made me feel like he's looking straight into my soul. His eyes made me feel naked and vulnerable.

Slowly, Jacob took my hand in his and squeezed it gently.

There's something wrong with him today, I can feel it in my guts. But I don't know what it was. I just want him to tell me already so I won't be this confused and feeling lost.

Jacob continued staring at me and I can't help but feel a slight unease under his gaze. My heart started beating faster than normal, and my lungs started demanding for more air. My gut was telling me that something big was coming and that I should prepare myself for whatever it might be.

He still didn't utter a word and I finally felt restless and nervous. He started to rub his thumb on my hand in circles that was suppose to make me relax. But instead, I felt the opposite, I felt even more restless that my heart started beating in an erratic pace.

God, If he still keep staring at me for another minute, I'm going to snap.

Damn it, why does he have to complicate things when he can just tell me what it is right away.

Why being suspenseful?

"I love you Ash." He blurted out of the blue.

For a second, I thought I didn't catch what he just said. But once those words registered in my brain, I didn't know what to react.

"What?" I asked wide eyed.

He suddenly felt self conscious as he averted his gaze from me.

"I uh, I said.... I said I-I love y-you." He stated once more as he scratched the back of his neck nervously.

I frowned.

Why do I feel like he's not telling me all of it. That he's leaving something behind other than the words he just spoke?

"Ash? Are you okay?" Jacob said worriedly when I didn't say anything.

I looked at him with confusion.

"Uhm, I guess?" I replied sounding unsure.

In all honesty, It kind of made me feel light headed with his confession. I feel like my brain was magically being snatched out of my head and used it as a freaking soccer ball.

Whoever took my brain out, please do put it back since that peace of organ is very important to me. Although the hard reality says that most people were born without it, I can say I was one of the lucky babies to have it. So I would appreciate it if you put it back in my head. Thank you!

Now I really do feel dumb.

"You don't sound okay." Jacob said as he held my hands firmly into his warm once.

"I'm just.......just a little shocked is all." I responded back trying to sound casual.

He nodded his head.

"Okay." After that, he let out a sigh.

I looked down into our hands and frowned.

"Do you mean it though?" I asked voicing my thoughts out without even realizing it.

"Yeah." He said while looking at me through his lashes.

I didn't respond. Just stared into his eyes as I searched for signs that he didn't mean what he said. But the longer I tried, the harder it gets to read his eyes and figure out what he was thinking about.

I looked away from his gaze before looking back down into our intertwined hands.

"But....how?" I asked only above a whisper.

He sighed deeply as he gave our hands a gentle squeeze.

"Well, I don't really know." He said still shy with a light blush on his cheeks.

Then I thought about it.

How can he love me when we only went on a date once? How can he say he love me when he barely know me? And lastly, how can he be so sure that what he felt was love and not something else close to it?

Things can be very confusing when it comes to this sort of feelings, and people tend to misunderstood Love from Infatuation. And the problem is that, infatuation is a powerful feeling that can make you think that you're in love, even though you're not.

In my own perspective, Infatuation is a short-lived passion for someone. And with just the word 'short' we all know what it means already that even a 4 year old kid will understand. So to speak, Infatuation doesn't last. Whereas love, it is a deep feeling of affection for someone that can even last a lifetime. People even thinks that love last forever. And I guess some couples who went the test of time can testify that.

"Why me?" I asked out of the blue. Maybe if I can hear some of the reasons why he said he loves me, then that may justify his claims. Maybe I'll believe him.

Jacob looked at me intently. "I don't know either. But I know what my heart wants, and It wants you." He said with sincerity.

God damn it.

As much as how I tried to accept his sincerity, I can't help but be bothered that his answer didn't make any sense at all.

For sure, your heart knows what it wants. But obviously, your brain must also agree about what your heart says. And clearly, you will have a reason why you fell in love. Even the smallest bit.

You don't just fall in love for someone without any reasons.

Unless, his brain doesn't agree with what his heart says. He's conflicted. He's confused.

So that just gave me the idea that maybe there's something else that is bothering him. And he chose not to tell me.

Then all of a sudden, the question that have been hanging in my brain for a whole week finally came into my thoughts.

And there's no way I'm not asking him that.

Sighing, I gathered my thoughts and open my mouth to voice it out.

"Why did you act differently the past week Jacob?" I asked straight to the point.

He visibly tensed at my question which led me to continue.

"It can't be because you've been thinking about this, that you love me. I know something is up Jacob, and I want you to tell me." I said not looking away from his face.

At that moment, his body language somewhat gave me hints that there was definitely something in his mind. And now his eyes won't look at me. He can't even look at one object and stay there for a second before his eyes started roaming around.

Clearly, he's thinking of something to change the subject if that's what he wants.

But I'm not letting him get away when clearly I have him cornered this time.

"Jacob?" I pushed, but he didn't budge.

I sighed. "I just want you to be honest with me Jacob. It may anger me but there is nothing I could do if ever that happens." I said softly.

He remained silent.

He slowly looked up at me with sad eyes.

As his brown orbs connected with mine, sadness started to creep it's way up into me.

"It's okay Jacob, I'm here to listen." I assured him with a gentle squeeze on his hands.

He took a deep breath and looked at the sunset beside us. "I feel threatened that you'll be taken away from me this fast." He started without looking away from the setting sun.

With what he said, I got confused. But I figured he still have a lot more to say, so I waited for him to continue.

"I was scared. The reason why I was desperate for us to be official so I'll have the power to be protective over you. So I will have the right to tell Connor to leave you alone because you're mine." He shook his head as he looked down into our hands. "I just don't want to lose you. I'm scared. I can't afford losing you when I finally have you in my grasp. And I can't afford letting Connor win you over." He said and I knitted my brows together in confusion.

"What are you talking about Jacob?" I said, voicing out my thoughts.

"I don't want Connor to win against me." He said a bit louder and clearer.

Still not satisfied with what he said, I grew even more confused that I already am.

"I won't let Connor win because you are mine." He said while holding both my shoulders, catching me off guard for a moment.

"Are you saying that you and Connor are still having a stupid rivalry because of me? Is that it?" I asked as realization hit me like an 18-wheeler truck.

"I won't let him." He said as he stood up. "I'm not the coward like before. Now that you're here with me, I will fight for you because you are mine." He said with his voice sounding so determined that goosebumps invaded my body.

I stood up as well.

"I thought this was done and over with? Why are you bringing this up again?" I asked as I stood next to him.

He didn't reply. He just stood there as he stared in the distance.

"Jacob answer me."

He turned his gaze to me. "Because I know this competition isn't done yet. He's still after you and he will pursue you."

I wasn't able to reply to that.

"He's obviously into you Ash. I'm not stupid not to notice." He spat.

He placed a hand on my shoulder but I quickly swatted it away. "So I'm right then. This is still about that stupid fight." I spoke. "Just so you know, I'm not a freaking toy for the two of you to fight over like a goddamn kids. And I'm not just a simple trophy you two can compete just to see who is better than the other. I'm a freaking human being with feelings, Jacob. And the both of you didn't realize that this stupid competition made feel so little about myself." I ranted out my frustrations as my eyes began to water. "If this is what it's all about, then might as well end it. You and Connor won't be fighting if it weren't for me. I'd rather stay alone than deal with all this crap and drama."

His eyes widen at my words.

His hold on my shoulder tightened as he stared at me with pleading eyes.

"No Ash. Please don't do this. I'll go nuts if I don't have you next to me. Please. You're the only one who's keeping me sane. Please reconsider. Give me a chance." He pleaded helplessly as his eyes started to moisten with tears.

I stood there a bit shocked at his sudden outburst.

I shook my head. "It all started when I opened myself to this dating scene. So if the only solution is to close myself back up then I'll do it in a heartbeat."

"Please Ash. I need you." He begged as the first tear rolled down his cheek.

"No you don't. For sure you will survive after this. Find a nice person to date and maybe, possibly, be your partner for a long time. But for now Jacob, my heart isn't ready for all this. I wasn't even sure if I was ready all this time until I came to realize that I only caused chaos when I opened myself up. So maybe focusing on myself more is the best way to go."

He shook his head. "No. I won't survive without you Ash. Please. At least give me a chance to prove myself. I promise I'll be better. I'll do better for you. For us. I promise you that." He said as he held my hand in desperation.

I looked down into our hands and voiced out the thought that I know will hurt him. "This is for the best Jacob."

With that, he was no longer able to hold his emotions as his sobs erupted and tears continuously streamed down his cheeks.

"No." He whispered as he shook his head again.

I squeezed his hand. "You'll get over me soon. I know it."

"No." He whispered lowly once again.

"Who knows you'll find a much better guy than me. And then you two will be together for a long time until you both decided to settle down. The future for both you and Connor are bright, Jacob. Don't lose hope when your life is only starting." I told him as I cupped his cheeks into my hands.

"It's only you who I badly need Ash. No one else." He stated tearfully.

I gave him a small smile. "You'll find someone better than me Jacob. I'm sure of it."

After that, I pulled my hand away from his cheek as I took a step back.

"Let's go home Jacob." I told him as I made my way towards his car.

But I was instantly stopped in my tracks as his large hand took hold of my arm.

"No. We can't leave yet." He said. His eyes red from crying.

I furrowed my brows at him. "We have to go Jacob."

He shook his head stubbornly. "No. You can't go anywhere."

I sighed.

"Jacob this is for the best." I told him convincingly. "We're both young and we have a bright future ahead of us. This is clearly not the end."

He shook his head once more.

"We're still friends even after all these, Jacob. Nothing will change that." I tried to console him, but he wasn't having it still.

His eyes landed on mine as he stared at me intensely.

I stared back at him and took his hand on mine.

"Let's go home." I said as I slowly pulled him towards his car.

Halfway there, he suddenly stopped in his tracks, halting me with him.

"No." He said, void of any emotions. "We can't leave yet."

I turned back to him with frustrated look on my face.

"Jacob, please." I pleaded as I tried to pull him to his car.

He didn't budge. Instead, he stood there with his cheeks stained with tears as he kept his intense gaze on me.

"No." He said blankly with his eyes empty of any emotion.

I was about to protest again when he suddenly yanked me towards him. Which caused me to crash into his chest.

"Jacob what are you......."

"You're mine Ash. You're mine and no one else." He said possessively.

But what he did next honestly took me offguard.

He slammed his lips to mine and I wasn't able to react right away. I froze as I tried to comprehend what was going on. I tried to get my brain back to a working organ but at that moment, I felt like I was brain dead for some reason. I didn't know what to do nor what to react. It was like, Jacob had complete control over me. And it gave him the idea that I was totally fine with him kissing me.

He pulled me closer to his body as my whole being was still paralyzed. I felt disabled for a moment until I finally realized what he was doing. I pushed him away with all my strength as I took in a huge amount of breath.

"Why.... Why did you do that?" I breathed out with wide eyes.

"He can't have you. You're mine Ash, and only mine." He growled as he pulled me by my waist.

I tried to squirm away from his grasp but he was too strong compared to me. So when he had me trapped once again, he started attacking my neck. I shivered uncontrollably as his tongue connected with my skin. Thinking that I was into him molesting my neck, he started sucking and licking on my flesh with a vengeance. I tried my best to push him away but he's hold on me was just too tight.

"J-Jacob stop. You're s-scaring me. Please s-stop." I begged as I tried to loosen his hold on me.

He didn't listen. Instead, he continue ravishing my neck without mercy. And all I was able to do was whimper because I couldn't fight for myself. Specially with his size.

Out of nowhere, he suddenly pushed me forcefully to the ground and I landed painfully with a thud. Then, even before I could scurry away, he quickly hovered on top of me. Trapping me in place once again.

"No one can have you except me." He spoke using a voice I wasn't even familiar.

"Don't. Please." I begged as tears started to form in my eyes.

Not even bothering with my tearful pleas, he started kissing, licking, and nipping my neck, and earlobe forcefully. At that moment, I felt terrified.

I no longer recognize the person doing such things to me. I know it's not the Jacob I met. He's not the Jacob that I know. This is not the Jacob that was sweet, caring, thoughtful and kind that I grew used to. The Jacob that I knew won't do this to me. He won't force himself to me. He won't try to force himself to me. He won't, not even a single thought, he would have tried to do this act towards me.

This is a completely different person, not Jacob.

Helplessly, I tried pushing him off of me once again. I used all my strength but he would just growl and pin me down even more. He would just tighten his grip on my hands just to keep me still. And sometimes he would put all his weight on me so I won't be able to move.

I was terrified.

Why is he doing this to me?

When I managed to get my right arm free from his hold, I tried and didn't stop pushing him off of me. But without even a struggle, he took my hand up and pinned it above my head with ease and went back to sucking my neck. Right there, all I can do, and was able to do, was cry and pray that he won't go as far as what I'm afraid he'll go.

Please, I hope he won't go as far as taking my purity away from me.

Please, make him stop.

I sobbed, whimpered, and squirmed under his hold as he continues to violate me.

"Please Jacob. Stop." I begged once again.

He tightened his grip on my hands before he growled a reply.

"No."

When I felt him grind his shaft into me, it was when my cries became even more louder. More terror filled cries. And more helpless the longer he does what he was doing to me.

He continued to grind his erection on me as I continued to cry my eyes off in pure helplessness.

Here in this place, he can do anything he wanted to do to me without anyone knowing. He can rape me and then kill me after he's done. And no one will know.

Then he held both of my wrist with only one of his strong hands above my head. Then his other hand went to my crotch area and started to palm me. I whimpered feeling utterly vulnerable. He suddenly took my member into his hands before he started stroking me against my will. I cried harder knowing that no matter how hard I tried to push him away, there was still no use.

Then he unzipped my pants and unbuttoned them with only one hand. He then slowly pulled my pants down which instantly caused me to panic even more. I thrashed my body and tried to kick my knees that were on each side of him, but he made his body heavier pinning me down even more. He succeeded to strip my jeans and underwear half way below my hips. Then he grinded his hardening erection on me making me whimper a lot louder.

"Please J-Jacob. S-Stop." I cried helplessly again but it was like he never heard me.

He stopped stroking my genitals forcefully as he began to unbuckle his belt and unbutton his jeans before he pulled it down. He went back to stroking me and I continue to sob. Then he went back on grinding his hard erection into mine, making me whimper in fright under him.

"You're mine Ash and no one else." He said hungrily while continuing his assult on my defenseless body.

"Don't d-do this Jacob. P-Please." I begged again but it was no use. My words fell on deaf ears as he continued his forceful ministrations on me. I feel like not even one single word of my pleas was heard.

"I love you Ash." He said while he licked my neck all the way up to my jaw.

"Y-You don't l-love me if y-you hurt m-me." I said in between my cries of agony.

He sucked on my neck even harder and all I can do was close my eyes tight with tears continuously falling.

"Don't worry Baby, it won't hurt. I promise. I will make sure you'll enjoy it." He said huskily in an attempt to seduce me. But at that situation, that's far from happening. Instead, I grew even more scared than I already am.

I was loosing hope but I didn't want to give up.

I tried to wiggle my body to loosen his hold onto my hands but to no avail.

He continued molesting me and my pain grew endless. His hands that was once stroking my member, glided down towards my untouched entrance. I mewled in pure agony and distress but Jacob didn't even care. He started drawing cirles on my entrance before he made a move and enter one finger forcefully making me scream in pain. He entered another one and began scissoring me. My cries of pain was unbearable. But again, he didn't care.

Suddenly, he entered a third finger which made me scream my lungs out as pain engulfed the lower region of my body.

Please make all of this stop.

We're here in the lake with Jacob on top of me, molesting me, and it's starting to get dark. I'm scared for what Jacob might do to me after he's done, I'm scared for my life. Is he going to kill me? Or molest me multiple times? Will I ever see my family and friends again after this? And will I still be alive?

When Jacob entered a fourth finger inside me, I feel like I was going to be torn in half. I gathered all strength I have left and shouted my pain as loud as I can. Then Jacob removed his hand on my entrance and covered my mouth to shut me up. By that time, I know I won't be able to shout again since his hold on my mouth was securely tight, I can't even manage to open it so I can bite him. This time I know all my resolve of not being raped were thrown out to nowhere. After this, I will feel dirty about myself my entire life. All I would feel is pain and emptiness, that I just want to die.

Just die. So I won't feel the pain again.

All my will to live crumbled to nothingness when I felt Jacob's erection pushing it's way inside my entrance. And all I did was close my eyes and wish that all of this will end soon.

When he was fully inside me, he started to push back and forth painfully fast, while biting and sucking on my neck at the same time.

I laid there ready to give up and gave my life to God, if ever there was even a God.

My cries were muffled due to Jacob's hands covering my mouth. I felt complete hopelessness that all I did was close my eyes as I let my tears of pain fall freely into my cheeks then to the ground.

Jacob moaned as he continued thrusting into me with so much force I feel like I was going to pass out.

I was about to give up completely, knowing there's no point of fighting for myself, with Jacob having the upper hand.

But I guess fate has other plans for me.

"If you don't stop this instant, I will shoot this bullet right through your head." A voice suddenly spoke out of nowhere.

Jacob instantly halted with his forceful ministrations as he looked up to see who it was.

"Now, I want you to free him." The voice that seemed familiar, spoke once again.

And with that, Jacob slowly removed his hand from my mouth. He took himself out of me and slowly crawled back.

"Crawl farther!" The guy with a familiar voice, yelled loudly.

When Jacob was far enough, the guy suddenly appeared next to me. And there I realized it was Matthias.

With my continuous sobs, he looked down at me before he turned to Jacob with deadly gaze.

"You're safe now, honey." Jessy said as she knelt next to me, and helped me cover myself up.

"You f*cker." Matthias said lowly through gritted teeth towards Jacob. "I swear to God, I will kill you."

As Matthias continued to walk towards Jacob, he pointed his hand gun to Jacob's head.

"Rapist." He said lowly.

"I-I didn't mean to do it." Jacob spoke fearfully.

He scoffed. "Didn't mean it? Really?" Mat asked mockingly. "Cut the bullsh*t or I will pull this trigger."

"I swear it wasn't what you think it is." Jacob reasoned out.

"Liar!" I cried out in which gained both their attention. "I told you to stop but you didn't. You forced yourself on me." I sobbed as I looked at Jacob in pure disgust.

"I-I'm sorry." He said apologetically.

"Sorry? You're Sorry?" I yelled as my tears kept falling freely from my eyes. "You didn't care when I was utterly terrified while you raped me. You didn't even listen to any of my pleas and now you're saying sorry?"

Jessy took me into her arms as I continued crying.

"You don't know how hopeless you made me feel as you took me against my will, Jacob. You don't know how it felt."

Mat growled loudly towards Jacob. "People like you doesn't deserve to live."

And with that, gun shot echoed all throughout the area followed by Jacob's pain filled cry.

"Be thankful I only shot you on the thigh. God knows how I badly want to shoot you on the head." Mat said angrily.

As Jacob fell on his back as he held his bleeding thigh, Mat came over to me and knelt. He checked if I was badly hurt before he turned to Jacob for the second time.

"Leave. Before I change my mind and kill you instead." He spoke in which Jacob hurriedly got up limply and went towards his car.

Once he got inside, he quickly maneuvered it out and left.

When Jacob was no longer in sight, Mat picked me up into his arms bridal style.

"We have to take you to our house Ash, just to make sure you're completely fine." Jessy said as she trailed behind her husband.

I wasn't able to answer her as I was still in shock. So I just let them take me instead.

Once we were in their house, Mat carefully placed me on the couch as Jessy went to go get their first aid kits.

"Are you okay?" Mat asked as wiped a tear from my cheek.

I shook my head at him, not meeting his gaze.

"What happened Ash? Who was that guy and why were you two in the lake this time of day?" He questioned in concern in which I have no energy of answering.

"Hon, it's not the right time to ask questions." Jessy said after she got back from the kitchen. "He's still in shock."

Jessy sat down with the First Aid kit in hand and began checking me for any wounds and bruises.

"Oh my god." She breathed out as she kept looking at my wrist.

"What he did to you was never forgivable." She said as she stared at the bruises circling my wrist from how Jacob tightly held me in place. "I'm so sorry honey."

I didn't utter a single word. I just sat there feeling lifeless.

**** **** ****

After Jessy tended my bruises, she went back to the kitchen to go make me something to eat. Even when I declined that I didn't feel like eating, she still insisted, so I just kept my mouth shut and let her do what she wants.

Mat stayed with me in the living room the whole time. Not even a minute he left my side.

"How are you feeling bud?" He asked as he remained seated on the other couch.

I turned to him with an empty look on my face.

"Dirty." I mumbled lowly.

And with that, he stood up from his seat and sat next to me.

"Please don't." He spoke with sadness in his eyes. "You're not dirty, and you will never be."

I looked down into my lap, feeling ashamed of myself.

"I was raped." I said barely above a whisper as tears began to form once again. "And that makes me feel so dirty."

One by one, tears started falling from my eyes as they cascade down my cheeks and fell into my lap.

I let out a sob in which Mat immediately took me into his lap and started rubbing circles on my back to give me comfort.

"I'm so sorry, Ash. I really am." He said. "I wish I could take back everything that happened just so you won't feel this way, but I can't."

I continued to cry in his arms as he also kept giving me the comfort that I need.

After what happened to me at the lake, I finally feel safe in Matthias' arms. And I was thankful he could give me the assurance that Jacob will no longer terrorize me again.

He was able to make me feel less ashamed of myself after what Jacob did to me.

"Keep this in mind Ash. I will protect you. Even when I'm not there, I will protect you." He said.

As my cries slowly died down, Jessy came back into the room with a glass of water in her hand.

"Have some water, hon." She said as she handed me the glass full of water.

I slowly drank some until my thirst was finally gone.

I gave Jessy the glass back when my phone suddenly beeped. I took it out from my pocket and checked what it was.

There I saw a message from Papa.

"I have dinner prepared Ash. I expect you to be back in an hour." The message said in which I internally let out a cry.

I looked at the time on top left corner of my phone and saw it was already 7 in the evening. I promised to be back at 8 so I have to get going.

But then I realized I don't know how.

"What's wrong Ash?" Mat questioned as he placed a hand on my shoulder.

I looked at him. "It's my Dad. I promised to be home by 8 but I'm still here." I stated in obvious worry.

Mat looked at his wife then turned back to me.

"We can take you home." He said.

I blinked before I gave him a small grateful smile.

"Really?"

The both nodded.

"Of course. Just give me the address and we'll drive you home." Mat stated.

After hearing the great news, I quickly sent Papa a message saying I'm on my way. After that, I gave Mat my address and he quickly typed it on his phone. Once everything was settled, we all went to their car and drove out into the unfamiliar road.

The drive to my house was surprisingly fast. Mainly because most of the time my mind was somewhere else. As much as possible, I tried to kick out the negative thoughts and focused on all the positive things Jessy and Mat told me. But it wasn't easy. My mind would always find a way for me to redirect my thoughts to the events that happened in the lake with me and Jacob. It was depressing but I told myself to get through it. And I will surely try. Though it's going to be hard. That's already a given situation. But that doesn't mean I'm not gonna try at all.

Jessy and Mat believes that I can get through it, so I also have to believe in myself that I can.

After I stepped out of their car, I sent the both of them my sincerest thanks in which they gladly accept.

"If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to call, okay?" Jessy said as she cupped my cheeks.

I nodded my head at her.

"You have both our numbers, so if ever something came up, give us a call. Don't ever hesitate." Mat told me and I gave him a small smile.

"Thank you." I mumbled.

They smiled at me genuinely. "You're welcome." Jessy answered for the both of them.

I looked behind me and saw flickering in the window, telling me that someone must be in the living room watching TV.

"I have to go. Thank you again for saving me and for everything." I looked down. "I feel like saying thank you isn't enough to repay all that you did."

Mat shook his head.

"Having you safe is enough for us." He said.

And with that I smiled.

"We just want you to put in mind that, what ever happened today is all in the past. And it's in your hands if you live in it or move forward." Jessy stated.

I nodded. "I will try."

She pursed her lips into a smile. "That's good. Everything has a start, and you start with small steps. But if ever you struggle, don't forget we're here to help you out."

I nodded again.

"I will."

Jessy then gave my forehead a kiss before they left. And once I was inside the house, I told myself to be stronger. Because with what happened to me, I will need all the strength to face my struggles and fears.

I just have to do it one step at a time.

**** **** **** **** **** ****

Author's blabbering again: (be warned for gibberish) ^_^

Okay so that was intense, wasn't it?

So our baby Ash was raped and by Jacob who we all thought was a nice guy. That's why don't be decieved by looks my dearest bunnies because that will bring you serious trouble. Listen to the experienced. Not me though.

Anywhore, The rape scene was a bit hard to write since I don't know what it was like.

Well duh, I wouldn't wish to get raped just so I can write a good scene, you know. But if having Jacob as my rapist? Lemme think about it? Joke!!!!!

Oh lord, I did not just say that.

Gosh, I am such a slut for a virgin, don't you think?

Okay so back to being serious. I hope this chapter quenched your thirst for a chapter and I hope it was a good one for all of you. I didn't just write 11.6k words for nothing ya know.

Y'all know the drill.

Vote/comment/share and be a fan. If you want to be one of us then you are welcome to join my slutty purple bunny fam. Hahahaha seriously though.

Okay gibberish. So I'll stop, I just saw someone unfollowed me so yeah. *zips mouth*

So that's it bunnies.

VOTE/COMMENT/SHARE and be a Fan.

Thank yow!

PurpleBunnyBear isssss outttt.....

Byeee!........

P.S. I am still a very inexperienced human being when it comes to relationship and sexual things but with the way I think. I guess most of you doubt it. 😂

Ok byeeee 2.0.......