secrets Blog and Journals

"i love you and i'm very proud of the person you're becoming".

god.

every time i want to tell you

the things i've wanted to say for years,

you always make me feel as though i can't,

because i'd let you down.

and i know you've been through enough,

with one daughter.

and i don't want to hurt you by telling you the truth.

because you're a good mom,

and i know you try.

it's not your fault,

and i don't want you to blame yourself.

i just keep waiting and waiting for the opportunity to say that something is wrong,

and i don't know if there will be one any time soon.

so i'll just keep to myself,

i'll continue hiding,

because you don't deserve to hear this,

and i don't want to be a burden.

xox,

-lindsey.

Actually I suppose I more run on....

But anyways, that is wat this is.... Let me kno wat u think.

I listen in secret to the words you spill, praying the stars rally for you.  Awkward texts cuz i cant forget the way you make me feel.  We're losing friends and falling fast, nothing can ever be the same.  Signature moves and bragging rights growing up and growing older than our hearts can take.  Dreaming up wat should've been while nothing feels more at home than you.  Too many words for feelings I shouldn't kno.  No escape from this pen and the way it runs. 

[Hayley]

Three nights ago, the night when we almost all got caught, due to everyone's secrets. Secrets really do cause a lot of problems. Especially our kinds. We all have one. I cheated on my boyfriend. With two guys. Brendon killed someone. Ryan Ross isn't dead. Josh slept with Victoria. Alex witnessed Victoria's death. Gabe knew what happened that night. The list really could go on.

Gabe, Alex and I are really tight after what happened- and it's only been three days. A lot can happen in three days. Brendon didn't die, but was in the hospital. He was caught for the death of Victoria, and would be going to jail soon. Probably right after he was done healing- and the reason for justice was to Gabe. He was the one who ratted Brendon out, along with Alex, since they both witnessed it. And you know who else came forward? Ryan. Pretty funny. Brendon got so screwed in the end. And for Gabe being the one shooting Brendon? Gabe wouldn't let himself get caught. He was a smart kid. I had gotten a chance to talk to Josh, and evidently Brendon knocked him out in the event that Josh would come looking for me.

Josh and I both agreed we didn't want to get back together, and that he was interested in a new girl. And that girl? Cassadee.  personally thought it was strange, but it didn't matter. I would always love Josh, but as my best friend.

THREE NIGHTS AGO

I woke up, whilst still in the "forest", but with my head on the grass. I opened my eyelids to see the subdued gentle sun rising at around 5am. Gabe was out like a light, but Alex was awake, looking out towards the community lake- not facing me. I quietly got up and sat next Alex. He didn't budge. He kept his focus to where it was before.

"A lot can happen in one night." I whispered.

"Sure can. A lot of people can get fucked up in one night." Alex softly laughed, pointing to the bruises on his face and the cut on my leg.

"I have to ask you something." I began, not knowing exactly how to order my words.

"Yeah, anything." Alex turned to me, focusing on my eyes.

"Why did you fight Brendon like that? I'm the reason you're even injured in the first place. I know you didn't want Brendon to find me, but why let yourself get hurt like that...and why start it to begin with?" After I spit that out, it sounded as if I picked a poor way to order my words.

"Hayley. I don't know why. I probably could've just done something else about it...but I was willing to let myself get hurt for you. If I hadn't started that whole fight, Brendon could've found you. And taken you, like he planned. Then it'd be too late for me to do anything about it. And to be honest, I was really afraid he'd take you. And...I didn't want him to... not only because it's dangerous, but...I don't know. I really really care about you." Alex explained slowly. I melted again. He really really cares about me? Like how?

"You were willing to get injured...because, you really care about me? I'm confused..." I murmured. I dropped my gaze to the floor, not understanding anything right now. Maybe last night's alcohol was getting to me.

"I know it's only been a week...but this whole Brendon thing has made me feel closer to you, and I don't know but- I think I might love you. Sorry if that's too forward, but I've really liked you for about a year now..." Alex didn't drop his gaze. It was still fixed on me.

"No, no, it's not too forward. Because I feel the same way. When I saw you taking punches for me, I didn't think of you as some hot makeout buddy anymore. I felt...different about you, Alex." I blushed. I couldn't help it, but it was true. My view on Alex changed last night. He was there when I needed him, and he was looking out for me. And now I know why he was so consistent with it.

"We should try this out. I want to be with you more, Hayley." Alex suggested. I think he was implying that we should spend more time together, to see if he really did love me. I didn't know this- but I was exactly right.

"I'd really like that. And, I heard what you told Gabe. That in the end- it'd be you and me. I'm glad Brendon's plan got fucked up." I lightly laughed, and before Alex could say anything, he just smiled and I kissed him right there. It wasn't as vigorous as our drunk makeout, but it was just as heated. Our lips moved together and our tongues parted them. I fell back onto the grass, just kissing Alex, which was all I wanted to do.

"Now Hayley- that's who you should be making out with." Gabe weakly laughed. I didn't know he was up. Must've woken him up with our talking. Alex and I broke apart and laughed. Me, Gabe and Alex all sat there, focusing on the sun rising.

THREE DAYS LATER

Today, Me, Gabe, and Alex decided to go down to the beach today. Not for swimming or anything, but just to chill out there. We were sitting up on a bench on the sidewalk, which was about thirty steps away from the sand. I was sitting next to Alex, and Alex next to Gabe. My head was on Alex's shoulder as we all just sat there and talked, this time, while watching the sunset. We were all laughing, and having a great time, when I saw the strangest thing.

Brendon, walking down the sidewalk. It literally was him, and he was supposed to be in jail. I hissed at Gabe and Alex, and their jaws dropped when they saw Brendon, fully healed, coming our way. Brendon passed right by us, and smirked. He didn't say anything. He wasn't coming towards us, but a girl. A girl was waiting about halfway down the sidewalk for him. She was just close enough for me to recognize her.

What the fuck? How is that possible?! I wasn't the only one who noticed it. Gabe and Alex knew damn well who the girl was.

"HOLY FUCK! What the hell? Are you guys fucking seeing this?" Gabe's eyes widened towards me and Alex, and looked back to the girl.

Victoria.

No kidding.

"That's motherfucking Victoria." Alex flatly said.

"How in the hell-?" I trailed off. Victoria shot her gaze over to Gabe, and winked. She flirtily waved at him, and nodded her head at me. Brendon reached her, and she batted her eyelashes at him, and Brendon leaned in and heavily made out with Victoria. I could see how pissed Gabe was, even though he had no idea what the hell was going on.

Brendon then hooked arms with Victoria, and they both whipped their heads around. Brendon smirking, and Victoria winking. They then dissapeared from out view.

"I can't believe I just fucking saw that. Victoria is dead...there's no way. I saw her die. Something's up." Alex murmured.

"Looks like we've  got a new pair of partners in crime." Gabe mumbled.

"Everyone's got a secret." I whispered. I still couldn't believe what I saw.

This wasn't the end. Victoria was dead. Brendon was supposed to be in jail. What would happen next? A killing massacre? Looks like everyone's secrets are yet to unfold, or they're untold.

Everything happens for a reason.

Ahh, that's the end of Secrets Untold & Unfold. :( The idea for THIS story came to me one night when I was awake around 3am. I was so stoked about it, and could'nt wait to get it out there. 

Okay, So I know that may have been a bit confusing. I decided to add that last minute, as a another twist. I'm thinking of continuing the story from this point in a new series, but haven't thought 100% about it yet. I have pretty much a good idea of what i'd do, but I would really need to mentally plan it and get it ready. And if I decide to do that, I will make sure and explain the whole "Victoria coming back thing." There is no explanation behind it right now, I just threw it in. But I can make something up :) And if I don't decide to, your minds can just wonder what could've happened. ;) Meanwhile, I already have an idea for a oneshot, and one night the idea just came to me while I fell asleep on the floor in the dark. Weird, huh? Expect my first oneshot to come soon! :D

Anyways thanks for reading this series, it was my first, and there's no way it would be perfect. I'm hoping I will improve at writing with each new piece I do. Thanks for the comments and buzzes, and my future goal is to get more readers, so if you know someone whos looking for a story, I would appreciate the help to promote me. But know, I will MOST DEFINITELY do the same for you! :) But yeah, thanks SO much for giving this series a chance. :))

More work to come!

<3 Ashley

Silence. Silence. Silence is where Hayley's mind went to. Only for that silence to be interrupted.

"Hayley! Come on, what are you doing, we've seriously gotta get out of here! I have no idea what the hell Brendon's planning on doing. Better be safe than sorry!" Alex looked into Hayley's eyes seriously. Hayley couldn't comprehend it all. So she traveled to her quiet place. Her, Alex and a passed out Gabe were still in the bathroom, isolated.

"What about Gabe?" Hayley asked.

"Don't worry, we'll get him. We just really need to find a window or something to get out first, then bring Gabe." Alex decided.

"Okay, I locked the guest room door, so let's go through this one." Hayley pointed at the extra door in the bathroom that led to the next room, which seemed to be a fitness room that connected to the same bathroom. Luckily for Hayley, Alex and Gabe, there was a balcony. Not just a window, but a balcony.

"Look, a balcony! I didn't notice this when I walked in. The lights were off...but whatever, anyways, this should  be way easier access to getting out!" Alex walked onto the balcony and looked down. It was one story down into what seemed like Cassadee's backyard.

Unfortunately for Hayley and Alex, they were running out of time. Brendon never went to get help, but to make it seem like he did. Alex had kind of already figured out it'd be such an easy night to take advantage of Hayley, since Brendon thought she'd be totally drunk. But she wasn't. She was gaining sobriety more every minute.

"Come on, now that we've found a way out, let's get Gabe and get out of here!" Hayley started walking towards the bathroom door, and ran into a problem.

"Sounds good." Alex replied from out on the balcony.

"Uh, we have a problem Alex!!!" Hayley panicked. "The door is locked!!!"

"What? How could the door be..." Alex paused. "Either Gabe locked it, or Brendon is on the other side of that door." He whispered.

"It's fine, let's just sneak out the main door..." Hayley proposed.

Alex went to that door and locked it instead of opening it.

"What are you doing?" Hayley asked.

"Locking the door. We can't go out there, remember, you locked the other door, and it's better if we isolate ourselves in here instead of being out in the open like that with Brendon out there." Alex whispered.

"Okay, okay, but we've seriously gotta get Gabe..." Hayley trailed off.

"Gabe, Gabe? You awake? Open the door!" Alex hissed while gently knocking at the bathroom door.

ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE DOOR *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   * 

Gabe regained conciousness, and he purposely locked the door on Hayley and Alex. He reached up as far as he could, and turned the lock. He knew Brendon would be coming back any second now, so he decided to get revenge with the remaining strength that he had. And how would he do that? Gabe leaned his head back against the shower door, and he heard a creak. He automatically knew it was the main guest room door, that Hayley had locked. Brendon knew how to pick locks- that's something Gabe always remembered about him.

"Hayley?" Brendon whispered. "I just want to get out of here. I have help for Gabe on the way, let's just please get out of here."

Gabe let out a small laugh. He knew he intentionally had no help on the way for him. He'd finish him off, and just like that, he'd be dead like Victoria. And he could hear Brendon's footsteps approaching the bathroom. Next thing he saw was Brendon looking down at him.

"Where are they Gabe? Where'd your little red haired friend go, huh?" Brendon crouched down next to Gabe. Gabe didn't say anything. He just looked at Brendon directly in the face, with hatrid in his eyes.

"I know what you did Brendon. I know it was you." Gabe said softly.

"I know what I did too. And it's all working out, huh?" Brendon smirked. "Killing your slut girlfriend was the best thing I ever did." Gabe lifted his hand to punch Brendon's face, but Brendon had super fast reflexes, and grabbed Gabe's wrist. "Whoa there, Gabe. Don't try that with me. I could kill you now if I wanted." Brendon slapped Gabe extremely hard across the face.

*   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

"Alex! Did you hear that? I just heard a loud slap!" Hayley whispered.

"I heard that. Don't make a sound, I think Brendon's in there, I can hear him talking to Gabe. Hide, Hayley! Hide..." Alex warned.

*   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *  

Gabe was too weak. He couldn't do anything. He started to feel dizzy, and could feel the heat immensely on his cheeks where he'd been slapped. He couldn't fight back, and Brendon knew that. Brendon stood up, and looked down at Gabe. He pulled a gun from his jacket pocket, and pointed it at Gabe. He held it there for a good few seconds and...

He heard someone scream "OW!". He immediately set the gun down on the bathroom counter, and looked towards the conjoined door, where Hayley and Alex were hiding.

*   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

"What happened?" Alex hissed across the room.

"I tripped over this power cord!" Hayley hissed back. She pointed to a power cord that was plugged into the wall for a treadmill. Her leg was bloody, because she had cut it on the edge of the treadmill also.

"Hayley come on, hide! Please...I think he's coming!" Alex whispered from across the room. He didn't want to leave that door's side, but raced over to Hayley to help her hide behind a curtain for the balcony.

*   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

Brendon made his way towards the door. But before he made it in there, he decided to kick Gabe's weak legs, so he couldn't get up. "Feels better when I drugged your alcohol, doesn't it?" Brendon smirked. Gabe had thought right. Brendon was drugging him for the past few weeks.

Brendon unlocked the door, and it flew open. His face turned into a frown when he saw Alex, just standing there in the middle of the room.

"Where is she?" Brendon asked.

"Like I'm going to tell you. For all you know maybe she went home. Or maybe she decided to lose her virginity also." Alex always threw a small joke into bad situations.

"Don't play shitty games, Gaskarth. I know she's in here. I heard her say 'Ow!'." Brendon insisted.

"Well you heard wrong." Alex chuckled. Brendon grabbed Alex's shirt by the collar.

"Look, I'm not here for games. Tell me where the fuck she is, and you don't die." Brendon's face turned evil.

No one could hear it, but Hayley started whimpering quietly and crying from behind the curtain. She could kind of see through it, and see what was going on, since the curtain was a bright color and wasn't very thick.

Instead of Alex telling, he punched Brendon right in the face. Brendon let go of Alex's shirt, and stepped back a few steps, while rubbing his eye where Alex had punched it.

Alex knew he was next. Brendon stepped forward and swung a punch at Alex, anywhere possible, and got him right in the chest. After that, it broke into major fighting. But they couldn't hack it that well though, due to all the fitness equipment in the room. Hayley heard both of the boys yell in pain when one was hit. It made her cry harder to hear Alex's yell, wondering why he would take the pain for her benefit.

They continued fighting and it got worse and worse. Hayley couldn't see it, but Brendon's eye was getting puffy and Alex's lip was bleeding. They began pushing each other against things, and they started getting bruises and cuts. Alex's were bleeding. They both had blood in different places all over after a few minutes.

Brendon threw one last punch at weakened Alex, giving it all he had, and he knocked Alex right to the floor. Hayley's eyes widened when she saw that one. She was next.

"Alex!" Hayley got up, her leg throbbing, and instinctively ran from out of her protective hiding spot. She didn't mean to do that. The sight of Alex losing, and falling made her do it. Hayley could see Alex had his eyes halfway opened, and that he was bleeding. Hayley's eyes teared up and she had non stop streaks going down her face.

"What the fuck Brendon! What's your problem?!" Hayley yelled.

"Nothing Hayley, it's not what it looks like! Come on, please don't do this!" Brendon pleaded. Hayley didn't believe it. She had just seen with her own eyes Brendon knocking Alex out.

"No, Brendon! Stop I don't want to go away with you!" Hayley cried. Brendon took two steps closer to Hayley, and she took two steps back.

"I would never ever hurt you, please, come with me!" Brendon held out his hand, and took two more steps towards her. She took two steps back.

"No! You killed my best friend, got rid of Josh, knocked Alex out, and drugged Gabe! Why would you do that?" Hayley sobbed. She continued taking two steps back, then she stopped. She was at the edge of the balcony. She was at a dead end. She could go no farther. Brendon came closer, and cupped Hayley's chin and pointed it upwards.

"Because I love you Hayley." Brendon told her. Hayley sobbed more and closed her eyes tightly, releasing more tears. Brendon got a firm grip on Hayley's arms. "You're coming with me. Let's get out of here!" Brendon raised his voice a bit, like he was starting to get irritated. He leaned in to kiss Hayley.

"No!" She screamed. "Stop!"

"Hayley! CALM DOWN!" Brendon had a hold of her, and pushed his lips against hers. But she didn't do anything. She just cried more and more. He broke away and said once more. "You're mine. Say goodbye..." he leaned in again to kiss her against her will.

"No! No! Stop it! Stop!" Hayley yelled again. Brendon was trying to kiss her neck, and do all these things. "Stop! Leave me alone! No!"

BOOM!

Brendon falls to the ground.

Hayley looks straight ahead to see Gabe. With a gun. He shot Brendon. In the back.

Hayley looked down at Brendon's paralyzed body and shivered uncontrollably. Brendon reached a hand up and croaked "Help me, Hayley." Hayley sobbed more and more every second. She didn't move. She looked in Gabe's direction. He came closer.

"I had to do it Hayley. I had to. After everything he's done?" Gabe moaned. He stepped back. He was limping. And bleeding more. What did Brendon do?

Brendon was still alive. He had only been shot in the back. If he had no medical attention, he would've died.

Gabe ran over to passed out Alex, and Hayley stood frozen. Her leg was bleeding, her mascara was running, and her eyes were puffy from crying.  Gabe got Alex to get up, and Alex slowly walked over to Hayley.

"I put up a good fight. We've gotta go. Gabe's a criminal." Alex whispered. Hayley hugged Alex while still in shock, that's all she wanted to do.  Gabe helped her and Alex climb over the balcony. They were able to climb down a pole that was holding the balcony up. As much as Hayley's leg hurt, as much as Alex was bruised, and as much as Gabe's head had been bashed, they ran. They ran all the way across the street, into the forest that surrounded the lake in Cassadee's neighborhood. They watched. Five minutes later, the cops raided the place.

Someone must've called due to party noise, or suspicious noises upstairs. Which by that, means yelling and the gunshot. Paramedics arrived, and got Brendon. Everyone escaped in time so no one got caught for drinking.

"Holy shit Gabe! The gun!" Hayley whispered.

"Taken care of. I disposed of the evidence." Gabe smirked.

"Where?" Alex asked.

"In Brendon's hand. So now it looks like he shot himself in the back- I don't know how that would be possible, but whatever. The thing has Brendon's fingerprints all over it. I was careful about leaving mine." Gabe softly explained.

[Hayley]

We sat there. For hours. We watched kids get busted, and Paramedics rescue Brendon. There were a few other kids...Brendon must've beaten them up. Knowing Cassadee she'd get out of it somehow. Her parent's would never know. I don't know where Josh was. But I looked real closely, and saw him coming out on a stretcher. Josh? Brendon had beaten up Josh? No surprise. Josh would probably be his first target. No wonder I didn't see him all night.

I was safe. Gabe was a criminal. And Alex was beaten. Alex had taken that beating for me. And I loved that he did that for me. Did I love him? I don't know. That night we stayed in the forest. It wasn't really a forest, though. It was grass, with a bunch of huge trees, that had a lake and golf course in the middle. It was safe. We roughed it with our bruises and all.

I drifted off, my head against Alex's shoulder. Gabe and Alex were still awake.  I was just enough awake to hear Alex say:

"Gabe. I saw Brendon kill Victoria. Don't ask me why I didn't stop them. I couldn't. I should've though. After I witnessed it, Brendon caught me. Ryan Ross is still alive, too. He's the one who knocked you out. Brendon threatened me, and that's when he told me he basically loved Hayley. I told him that in the end, he'd be fucked, and that it'd be Hayley and me. He didn't believe me. Look at what happened now."

"God, Alex. You and I have seen some strange things in our young lives. Everything happens for a reason." Gabe softly laughed.

When I heard Alex say that, I melted. I melted then drifted off to sleep right there on Alex's shoulder.

Ehh, I think this chapter was crappily written. Either way I needed to describe what happened some way. I have one more chapter of this story, then iI'm done with this. I already have ideas for more stories, and I'm even thinking about continuing this one in a different way, but I don't know what exactly it'd be about. It would be different though...

Hopefully I'll get chapter 12 up by Saturday night or sunday! :)

THAT NIGHT:

[Victoria]

It was the annual High School auction. I always stayed after to help out. I stayed late after it was over to help clean up the gym. It didn't take me as long as I expected, but it was still completely dark outside. I wasn't looking forward to walking home. Hayley probably would've given me a ride, but stupid me insisted on walking. Big mistake on my part, I should've seriously planned this one better.

As soon as I left the high school, I started on my way home. I took some sort of back route. It was faster, but there was one part about the back way I didn't like. There were barely any people around, and to get to the main road, I'd have to pass through an alley. About halfway to where I needed to be, I couldn't take it. I was freezing. I pulled out my phone and sent a text message to Gabe asking him to come pick me up, and that I'd meet him on the main road's sidewalk. Gabe texted back and said that he was already out doing some things, so he'd be there pretty quick.

I had put aside the thoughts of going through the alley, until I got there.I stood at the end of that dark, shadowy alley. At least it wasn't pitch black. Fortunately for me, the moon was full and really bright, so it was easy to see. I stood there like an idiot for 5 minutes, preparing myself. All the time in scary movies, people pass through alleys and there's trouble. It freaked me out bad.

I took a step forward, making my way through, when a familiar face emerged from the shadows. It didn't startle me, especially since I knew who it was. It was Brendon Urie, a boy who was completely in love with Hayley.

"Where you goin' Victoria?" Brendon asked.

"Home. Home is where I'm going." I replied, very annoyed that I had to deal with Brendon right now when all I wanted to do was go home.

"You know we've always had this...talk, about your best friend." Brendon went on. He was always asking me about Hayley, and if 'I'd give him permission to let him go out with her, only if she broke up with Josh.' I had always said I didn't care, then one day, he told me he wanted to 'Take her away' with him. He had told me how in love he's always been with her, and when he said those three words, I freaked out. I started to be extremely cautious around him. I cut him off. Didn't talk to him anymore, and then he became aggravated. I didn't let him anywhere near Hayley, because believe me, he tried to start trouble with her and Josh. He tried talking to her, everything. I didn't tell Hayley any of this, but I just made sure we avoided Brendon at all times.

"Yeah, I know we've had a talk, practically every damn week, and you know how many times i've told you that she's NOT interested?" I wanted none of this. I wanted to go home. Where the hell was Gabe? I bet he was near here...the main road is right on the other side of this alley.

"Well, I don't need your permission anymore. I'm doing things my way this time." Brendon smirked, and I knew that something wasn't right. I just knew it. What I did know, was that I NEEDED to get out of there IMMEDIATELY. I turned the other way to dart out of the alley, but someone else blocked it. I looked as hard as I could, only to see that it was Ryan Ross. 

"Ryan? I thought you were...dead..." I whispered.

"I'm so sorry Victoria." He whispered. I could see a tear coming down his cheek. What did he mean "I'm sorry."? The next thing I knew, Ryan grabbed me, and Brendon came closer. The only thing I could do was hope Gabe was parked on that street, waiting for me. I instinctively called his name for help.

"GABE! GABE! HELP!" I screamed at the top of my lungs. I was being held against my own will, and then, at the end of that alley, I saw Gabe come, and watch in horror at what they were doing to me. Brendon had already stabbed me once or twice, and I just looked there towards Gabe, holding a hand out to him while I was being stabbed kind of like an "I love you" gesture in a weird way. He did the same thing. He was just about to start running to save me, (I don't know why it took him that long) And the last thing I saw was Ryan, knocking Gabe out. Right as he saw Ryan coming at him, he tried to defend himself, but Ryan got to him too quick. The last thing I ever heard Gabe say was "Victoria, I..." and then he was gone. I shouted Gabe's name, and then I knew it. He was knocked out, and I died. I died there on that cold alley ground, and if that was my fate, there was no better way to end it than at least seeing Gabe once more.

THAT NIGHT. Continued

"Fuck, I can't believe I did it!" Brendon laughed and looked down at Victoria's dead body like he had just accopmplished the greatest thing ever. Like he was proud of it.

"You know what Brendon? I hate being a part of your stupid fucking plans! Are you insane? I can't believe you just killed Victoria for a girl that may not even be worth it! Why in the hell would I let you talk me into helping you?! Victoria was a great person, and you just fucked everything up! You made me assist in the killing of one of my friends, and you made me knock out my other friend!" Ryan was angrily shouting at Brendon.

"Whatever Ryan, save it. It's not that big of a deal. We're going to dispose of her body in the dumpster, hide the evidence, and blame it on some other serial killer guy. I have it all planned. And what did Victoria whisper to you down there?" Brendon continued.

"She said she thought I was dead. Everyone thinks I'm dead. I've been living a different life for two or three goddamn years now. I can't even go to our school, because you forced me into hiding for whatever screwed up reason it was of yours. I had to make my parents transfer my school. I'm not going to let you talk me into anything anymore. And I'm also going to come back to our school, tell everyone you killed Victoria, and that you forced me to leave probably just because you thought I'd be a distraction to you and Hayley." Ryan was tired of Brendon's shit. He was always bossing him around and making him do things he didn't want to.

"Whatever Ryan, you're a huge distraction to everything. And I swear that if you tell, I will motherfucking kill you too. And I'll kill you when you don't know it's coming, either. Just like Victoria didn't know. How'd you like that? And You know what?" Brendon kept going.

Ryan knew Brendon wasn't kidding. He knew Brendon was cruel enough to kill him too if he told. "Fuck you, Brendon. That's what. And I guess I won't tell. Have fun disposing the body yourself, I'm out." Ryan was just about to walk away when he heard someone coughing from inside a shadow. Brendon became alert, and reached in and pulled someone out from the dark shadow.

"Alex?!" Ryan looked shocked. "Must be coughing from the dust that gets stirred up out here. I would know, I almost 'blew' Brendon's little 'plan' by giving it away by coughing."

"Yeah, Yeah. What the fuck was that Brendon? Is there anyway to explain it?" Alex asked.

"Alex, what the hell are you even doing here? What did you see?" Brendon replied.

"I saw the whole entire thing. All of it. And I followed you...you were being all weird tonight at the auction, and I had nothing better to do. I shouldn't have come, now I'm scarred for life. And about Hayley? Was this really necessary, man? You could seriously have just talked to her. Or get her drunk. That's easy. At least I was closer to Hayley than you'll ever be Brendon." Alex smirked at Brendon, and Ryan gave Alex a high five.

Listen up, you'll still get your life if you don't say a word. I swear to god I will kill the shit out of you both if you tell. I'm not joking, this is serious. If you want your life, keep it closed. Alright? And no, you don't get it. There's a big plan I have going on here. And no Alex, that's wrong. Put it the other way around. I'll be around Hayley much more now that Victoria's gone, and she probably doesn't even remember a punk badboy like you. You're too simple." Brendon explained.

"Sure. I'll keep your little murder a secret. And that's awesome Brendon, just great. It's on. In the end you'll be fucked, and it will just be Hayley and me. Did you also seriously have to force Ryan to help you with this? He's more scarred for life than I am." Alex looked at Ryan with sympathy, and Ryan was nodding his head, agreeing with what Alex said.

"Whatever, Ryan's a pushover. He does whatever I tell him to." Brendon chuckled in an ominous way.

"Uh, it's not what you think, Alex." Ryan assured him.

"Don't worry about it. Oh, and Ryan, aren't you dead?" Alex just realized that Ryan was here, and not dead like everyone thought he was.

"Long story. Just put it this way- It was Brendon's idea to make me change my life and tell everyone I was dead. Who the hell knows why?" Ryan told Alex.

"Awesome, Brendon. I would have killed you, while you were busy with Victoria, but I just couldn't get myself to do it. I wonder how you did?" Alex tested.

"Whatever, it's all for the same cause. Now why don't you two leave. I've been bitched at enough today." Brendon signaled the hand for Alex and Ryan to leave. And that was it. They left, and Brendon was left to dispose of her, and hide all the evidence of what he'd done.

So this one was short, I just wanted you guys to see what it was like that night. I'm planning on ending this fanfic at Chapter 12, and I will update ASAP! Tomorrow for sure. Sorry this one was short, I didn't want to combine that night with the present day problem :)

 NEXT CHAPTER: Alex, Hayley, and Gabe have to find a way to get out of that house before Brendon gets a chance to find them...

Still sitting on the bathroom floor, was Hayley hugging Gabe. She couldn't believe some sick person would knock him out to the head, and stash him in the bathroom. Brendon had gone to get help, but not obvious help. It needed to stay on the down low, and that would be more possible since the room they were in was an unpopular place for guests.

"I remember everything now." Gabe whined. Gabe laid his head back against the shower door and started to close his eyes gently.

"Gabe? What are you talking about?! What do you remember? You need to tell me!" Hayley demanded. She gently slapped his cheek to keep him from drifting off.

"That- that, that night..." Gabe started.

"Keep going, Gabe..." Hayley pushed.

"I remember what happened when Victoria died," Gabe continued. "I-I-I was driving to get her, and got out of my car to wait for her. She had texted me and told me she was taking a-a-a short c-c-cut through an alley nearby."

"Please Gabe, come on! What happened?" Hayley whispered.

"It was a l-l-long time and she wasn't there. I-I-I could've sworn I heard a girl yell out my name in a panic..." Gabe croaked.

"And?" Hayley was getting frantic.

"I went to see what the fuss was...I looked down the first alley I passed and saw Victoria... get killed. I know who killed her, it wasn't the guy they framed-d-d." Gabe whined. "It was,  It...was...Brendon.  Brendon knocked me out after I said for you to stay away from him out there. He was the one who stashed me here. He knew I could've ruined everything for him. Brendon is the one who killed Victoria!"

Hayley froze. "W-w-w-hat?" Hayley took her arms out from around Gabe in shock. "Brendon killed Victoria."

"I would've motherfucking beat them, but someone knocked me out. I think the past few weeks someone has been drugging the alcohol I was abusing to shake my pain away, so they could numb my memory. And ever since I laid off the drinking for the past week, more has come to me. The alcohol here isn't drugged so it obviously d-d-doesn't have the same effect. And now that i've been knocked out tonight, it's like they knocked away the fog in my brain..." Gabe managed to explain, but very very weakly.

Before Hayley could reply to Gabe, she immediately got up to lock the door so Brendon couldn't come in. When she came out of the bathroom and went to the door, she reached for the doorknob and locked it. She returned to the bathroom to see Gabe had passed out.

"Gabe! Gabe!" Hayley shook Gabe and whispered. Gabe was breathing, but not responding. Hayley sat down next to Gabe and started loudly sobbing. Why was Brendon the reason for Victoria's death? Why had Hayley been so foolish? Why hadn't she believed Alex? Was Hayley next to be murdered? Hayley stopped whining when she heard the creak of a door open. She looked around, and saw that there was a conjoining door to the next room in the bathroom she had missed. Oh no. She closed her eyes tightly, not wanting to know who it was.

"Hayley! Hayley! What's the fuck is going on here? I went looking for you and one girl said she saw you come up here, then I heard crying..." Hayley immediately opened her eyes to the sound of Alex's voice. She looked up at Alex with her eyes full of cried masacara.

"Alex! What's going on is Brendon! He knocked Gabe out, he did everything, he's a murderer!" Hayley cried.

"Watch Your Back Williams."

"Whoa, slow down. What happened here?" Alex kneeled down next to Hayley. He seemed to sober up a bit.

"After I went to get air, I saw Brendon outside and started kissing him again on the front lawn, and Gabe saw us, and he yelled basically that Brendon was trouble. I went upstairs to pee and found Gabe with a bloody head and knocked out up here. Gabe told me he saw Brendon kill Victoria that night, and that he was drugged, and I don't know why Brendon would do such a thing. WHY?!" Hayley shook Alex by his shirt sleeves. She was hysterical.

"Hayley. I know EVERYTHING." Alex looked her straight in the eyes.

"Like what? What do you know, Alex?" Hayley continued crying and gasping for air.

"Last year at the Sophomore party, after me and Brendon got in a fight, we took things outside. ALONE. He told me to stay away from you because YOU were HIS, and that he wouldn't let anyone fuck with that because he was IN LOVE with you. Don't you see Hayley?! Brendon's motherfucking OBSESSED with you!" Alex shook his head at the thought.

"Huh? What does that have to do with anything?!" Hayley asked.

"That night at the high school's auction, Brendon and some random mystery kid, were acting all secretive. I spied on them for the night, and heard them say after the auction they'd "take care of it". You were off hanging out with Victoria or something.After, I followed Brendon and the kid to some alley. I kept my distance and watched. After about fifteen to twenty minutes, I saw someone coming. It was Victoria. Somehow Brendon knew that she'd be going that way home. He stepped out from the shadows of the alley, and I could see that Victoria knew who it was." Alex closed his eyes, and continued "Brendon mentioned something about always having some talk with her about her 'best friend'. Which is you. She seemed annoyed, and when she got the feeling she should get out of there, Brendon grabbed her. She called for Gabe, and Gabe came running to the scene. He obviously heard her while he was waiting for her or something. By the time he got there, Victoria had already been stabbed once or twice. He immediately got knocked out by Brendon's friend, and then they finished Victoria off."

"Hayley- You'd never believe the things I've seen."

"You...saw...this...and...didn't...bother...to...tell...me?" Hayley whimpered.

"Hayley I tried to warn you, but Brendon found me and threatened to literally fucking kill me if I told. He can't do that now. I'm not the only witness anymore. Luckily he let me go. But I have it the worst in a way. I had to watch her die. I don't know why, I should've stopped them, but - I couldn't. I could've saved Victoria." Alex hung his head low. This is really coming back to get him now.

"Alex. You're just a witness, you didn't actually do it. And you could've saved her! But I don't get why Brendon would KILL her!!!" Hayley was still crying.

"Can't you see?! Brendon would always have those small talks with Victoria, about him dating you and stuff like that. I would always see them at my free period talking. And one day I eavesdropped. One time I heard Brendon literally tellher he wanted to 'take you away'. Victoria obviously must've gotten cautious when he said that, and probably cut him off. Like I told you, he's CRAZY in love with you! He's so crazy that he killed your best friend just because she was standing in the way of getting to you! And he knew you would need to depend on someone and there he was! He planned this entire thing! Don't you get it?! He had to do it the hard way, instead of simply talking to you directly!" Alex knew more that Hayley thought. He was known to have the worst secrets on people.

Hayley gasped. "How could I have been so stupid? I'm right where he wants me! It makes sense now! What are we supposed to do?! He's supposed to come back! He was faking everything this whole time, and I believed it!" Hayley burst into more tears. "The reason Josh and I aren't even together anymore is because that was also part of his plan, I bet!"

"You're not stupid, I just pieced it all together right here and it seems scarily accurate. You never know what Brendon's going to do. He's sneaky...we need to get out of here before he comes back! What if hes 'taking you away'?" Alex started panicking, thinking for a way to get out of this place without Brendon seeing or making it too obvious.

"Taking me away? You mean like...kidnap?" Hayley whispered at the word.

"You're partially drunk. It would be so easy to take advantage of you! It makes SO much sense! Come on we've gotta get out of here!" Alex was sure making lots of sense tonight.

Sooo....did you or did you not see that coming.

Brendon's the muderer!!!

Told you there'd be twists. Basically Brendon is crazy obsessed with Hayley, but hides it. Victoria was in his way to getting Hayley, so he killed her. Long story short. Brendon planned the whole thing.

[Hayley]

Ugh, mornings. Well, at least it was Friday morning. That means the party is tonight! I'm really excited, actually. I haven't been able to get out and do something this fun for awhile. Everyone will be there, and it will be awesome.  Today I threw on a Red V-Neck and some black skinnies. My shoes? Ah, who cares. Converse, Vans, whatever. Doesn't matter.

SCHOOL

Walking into school you could tell the Junior mood was different. Everyone seemed happy. And that was because they were all invited to Cassadee's party. It honestly doesn't sound like a big deal, but, oh, it is. Victoria and I loved going to parties together. Especially the sophomore one. And one year ago today, I was still dating Josh innocently before he screwed up, and before I almost did. I made my way to my locker, since today I decided to avoid Gabe's tree, Alex and Brendon. One person I wasn't expecting to see was Josh.

"Hey, Hayley." Josh smiled. He looked happy.

"Hey, Josh. What's up?" I asked nicely. I wanted to keep things good with Josh. I actually would really enjoy if we could be good friends.

"Nothing. So how have you been? I haven't talked to you in well...I don't know. But it seems like awhile. I miss talking to you. Uh, but not in a girlfriend way or anything...more like a friend." Josh laughed.

"It's okay. I've been fine. Kinda here and there with some things but other than that i'm fine. And yeah, me too. I miss talking to you. Like a friend." I agreed. Josh's smile made me smile. I missed that.

"Great. Anyways I was wondering if you wanted a ride to Cassadee's party? We wouldn't go together or anything like that. I know that you don't have your car yet and I wouldn't want you to walk..." Josh offered nicely. He was being really sweet. It made me want to be best friends with him.

"Thanks Josh. That would be awesome; you can pick me up around 9. You don't need to take me home at a certain hour. Like I've said, my parents are out of town for awhile. And the party will probably end up lasting all night..." I went on.

"Okay, great. And that's fine. I don't have a time limit either, so we're good. See you later okay?" Josh smiled again.

"Yep, later." I waved as Josh left.

I was just about to open my locker when another face greeted me. It was Cassadee this time.

"Hey Hayley!" Cassadee greeted me.

"Hey there. How are you?" I asked.

"I'm great! Never been better!" Cassadee smiled. She was really nice. We were really close friends until Victoria died. Then I kinda separated myself from all my girl friends.

"That's good. So hey, is there a theme tonight? You know, like last year your party theme was masquerade..." I stopped.

"Yeah, that's what I came to tell you. We're all dressing Old Hollywood. So kinda dressy. I've got the place unbelieveably decorated! I can't wait!" Cassadee was really giddy.

"Oh awesome, I'll have to plan on that! But I have to go, so I'll see you later?" I asked.

"Yeah, most definitely! See you around." Cassadee smiled and waved.

The rest of school went by fast. I saw Alex and Brendon both hanging around, but didn't really talk to them. I mean, I briefly talked to Brendon but that's it. And i'd talk plenty to Alex tonight, so it was all good. So Cassadee's theme tonight was Old Hollywood, huh? Well, that would be interesting. A few hours after I got home I showered up, and looked through my closet. I had the perfect thing to wear. Never been worn before. It was a dark red above-knee-length pencil dress, with black lace up on the bodice. It fit the theme, and was casual enough. I didn't wear heels. It was my converse for me. I put on dark black eyeliner, and played up the shadow. I wore my hair straight down, like I usually do, but it was somehow different.

It took me longer than I thought. It was already 8:48 by the time I was completely finished.  Seems about right since I messed around when I got home. Josh pulled up. I could tell because his headlights lit the dark sky. I walked out and got in his car. He was dressed Old Hollywood-ish somewhat. He was wearing a vest and a bow tie...

"You look awesome." Josh commented.

"Thanks, you're not so bad yourself." I laughed.

"Ready to go to the party of the year?" He asked me.

"Yeah, for sure." I answered. We stopped along the way and met Gabe at some restaurant. Cassadee always had food, but Josh ad Gabe's dumb 'policy' is not to drink on an empty stomach. So we got some burgers, and it was nearly 10. We decided to leave and made our way to Cassadee's place. As we drove up her driveway, you could hear the music blasting, you could see the lights flashing, and you could see all of her decorations and people dressed up. Next thing I know we're all inside. Josh and Gabe ran off to you know what. The bar. Gabe had to start his contest. People had already been there for a half hour, and not even drunk yet. Gabe just got here, and I could see he was already buzzed. That takes skill?

12AM

Around 12AM the party was still going strong. More and more people showed every second. They weren't ALL juniors. Which is how it usually turns out. Even people from  rival high schools came. Hayley had been encouraged by Gabe to start some drinking. She was tipsy, just like how she was last year. And probably on her way to D-R-U-N-K. Hayley stumbled around talking to people, and couldn't find Alex or Brendon. She walked down the crowded hallways of people, and tripped on a speaker cord. She didn't fall though, Brendon caught her arm. So much for not finding Brendon.

"Getting tipsy?" Brendon asked.

"I already am, can't you see?" Hayley giggled. Hayley started gently slapping Brendon's face.

"Hayley stoppppp..." Brendon laughed. Yeah, Brendon was drunk too. Who wasn't? Brendon started twirling Hayley's hair. Just like how Alex had last year. It reminded her of him. "Too Young" by Phoenix started blasting, and Hayley started pulling on Brendon's tie. It was hard to describe. They were kind of dancing? That resulted in Brendon pushing Hayley up against the wall and kissing the shit out of her. But, not against her will. She kissed back too. Hayley grabbed Brendon's waist, and rotated him to be the one on the wall. It lasted for a good fifteen minutes. Full on makeout. And full on is the perfect way to describe it. Hayley was tangling her hands in Brendon's hair, like she usually does, he was holding her waist, it was vigorous. Powerful, heated. Hayley turned her head and then came the tongues. Soon enough they split, Hayley winked and walked away. Leaving Brendon leaning against that wall, smiling. He knew she'd be back for more.

Hayley made her way and socialized with more people. Then who would have known? She made her way back to the bar where Gabe greeted her. He set her up with a few drinks, and then he was off to makeout with some girl. No kidding, Gabe was beyond wasted. Cassadee's bar was full of everything you could think of.

Around 1:30AM Hayley was still drunk. Josh was nowhere to be found, and neither was Brendon. Or Alex. A compliment Hayley kept hearing was "You look hot." Everyone was dressed up, which made it more fun. Hayley was standing in the middle of the lit up room looking up at the color changing and moving lights. She fixed her gaze back to around the room, and spotted someone sitting in the corner, doing one of those crooked smiles; a blonde kid. Or at least he was mostly blonde. It wasn't just any corner, it was that corner. Hayley made her way over there. Alex smiled. Yeah, he was drunk too.

"Ooh looking very classic tonight Mr. Gaskarthhhhh." Hayley was slurring her words. Alex was wearing a white shirt with a black vest.

"Sure. You too..." Alex laughed. He leaned back into the corner. Alex immediately started twirling Hayley's hair again like he was picking up where he left off. Sure they've already made out in the park, but they both forgot that and started over.

"So is Brendon going to try and pull you away from me? I didn't pull you away from him..." Alex did one of those playful pouts.

"You saw that? How long have you been here? And no. If he does I'll kick his ass." Hayley laughed.

"Yeah, I've been here for awhile, just haven't seen you around. This is a big-ass house. Lots of places to go, but I like this corner. So after a bit I decided to come here, and wait. Wait around." Alex looked up from the floor at Hayley.

"So you wanted to wait around for?" Hayley pushed. She giggled and stepped in closer to Alex.

"I was waiting around for youuu. I knew you'd come around and decided you wanted to make out with a real person unlike Brendon." Alex joked.

"Yeah I guess that's why I ended up here, don't you think?" Hayley teased. Alex stepped in closer to Hayley. Same deal. Foreheads touch, lips meet. Not this time. Instead of that, Hayley got a hold on Alex's hips and pushed him back into his corner. She eased her self against him, and thats when they started making out. Their lips moved in unison. Basically she did everything she did with Brendon, except for two differences. It was with Alex, and it was almost better. Hayley also did some things she didn't do with Brendon. One example, the biting of the lips. It made things more heated with the two.

 Someone yelled out "Yeah Alex 'n Hayley gettin' down 'n diiiirt-aay! Whoo!!" It was Gabe. It didn't interrupt things, it made Hayley and Alex smile while still kissing. So typical of Gabe to shout something like that out. In all the times he's been drunk these past few weeks, he's seemed the most Gabe-like this time while he was drunk. Hayley and Alex hung around together for pretty much the rest of the night. That included more drinking and making out. All the way up until about 2ishAM.

"Mmm, I think I should get some aiiir okay?" Hayley winked and went outside. Not as many people were outside. She went out onto the front lawn and found Brendon sitting there. She sat herself next to him.

"Why the long faaayce?" Hayley giggled. She then did one of those Alex pouts.

"Nothing...I feel sick. Needed aiiir. Just like youuu, I'm assuming." Brendon laughed.

"Yeahh, hah!" Hayley smiled. Aaaaand then it goes back to kissing Brendon. Sitting right there on the front lawn... it was about five minutes into the long kiss, when she heard someone yell again.

 "Whoo! Haylehh's gettin' down 'n dirty with..." (it was Gabe) he paused. "Brendon?! Hayley what the fuck are you doing?! Brendon is TROUUUBLEE!" Gabe's tone sounded sober for that sentence. Like he really knew what he was talking about. 'How was that possible?' Hayley wondered. 'He's hammered!'

"Brendon, what the hell does Gabe mean?" Hayley asked.

"Hayley, I'm not trouble. Let me go deal with him. He's completely wasted!" Brendon sighed and got up. He got Gabe out from the middle of the street and brought him inside the house.

Hayley didn't believe the things people were saying about Brendon. She has known him since freshman year, and she knows that Brendon isn't trouble.

AN HOUR LATER

After being outside with Brendon, and the Gabe incident, Hayley had made her way back inside. She talked to Alex some more.

"Hayleeeeeeeeey!!! You're cuuuuuuuuuuute." Alex playfully said.

"Thanksss. Cute me has to pee okay. Stay here!" Hayley giggled and went upstairs to the bathroom. All the ones downstairs were locked, so she made her way to the one in Cassadee's upstairs guestroom. The one that no one uses. Hayley would know. She's been there before. She opened the door to the room and flicked the light on. She heard noises in the bathroom. She looked around, as a natural instinct, and made her way over to the bathroom. She slowly turned the doorknob, and there, on the bathroom floor moaning, was Gabe. He looked like he was in pain or something. Hayley had guessed he'd been knocked out by someone and stashed here. He had a bit of blood on his head.

Hayley immediately thought of who could have done this. She KNEW it wasn't Brendon.

"Oh my god Gabe!!! Don't worry i'm going to get you help!!!" Hayley frantically whispered.

"Hayley, Hayley, stop!" Gabe weakly moaned. His voice was too weak for Hayley to hear. She raced out into the hall and she saw Brendon.

"Brendon?! What the fuck happened to Gabe? He's sitting on the bathroom floor in pain! Do you have anything to do with this?!" Hayley whisper-hissed. She didn't need everyone to know the situation. She brought Brendon back into the room and showed him Gabe.

"Holy shit, man! What the hell happened to you?!" Brendon was freaking out. "Hang in there, I'll go find help!" 

"Don't ask Cassadee or anyone like that! We don't need everyone here freaking out! Find someone we can trust, okay?!" Hayley whispered. Brendon was off to find help.

"Hayley, Hayley, come here..." Gabe croaked.

"What, what Gabe? We're going to help you. Can you remember what happened?!" Hayley whispered. She took Gabe into a hug by putting her arms around him. Hayley seemed less drunk now that something serious happened. She couldn't really giggle at this.

"I remember everything now." Gabe whined.

GET READY!!! Next chapter has DRAMA! TWISTS! everything!

 :))

[Hayley]

Walking to school the next day, I kept replaying Alex's words. "Watch your back, Williams." What in the hell could that mean? Alex is a joker. I know that there's nothing wrong with Brendon. Maybe Alex doesn't want me with other guys? I don't know. All I do know is that Brendon is fine. Maybe Alex knew something I didn't? Whatever.

As soon as I entered the school grounds, I was greeted by Cassadee.

"Hey Hayley! I just wanted to invite you to a party at my place tomorrow night. No parents! One year ago tomorrow was the famous and awesome Sophomore party of the year! But now, it's the Juniors party!" Cassadee was smiling and giggling. She was obviously excited. Last year she had the party at her parent's mansion, which was actually one of the best nights of my life.

"Thanks C, that sounds awesome. I'm most definitely coming- it was too much fun last year!" As soon as I told her that i'd be coming, her face lit up. I could tell she was really excited.

"Awesome! I'm inviting almost everyone, and if you have any friends that you want to be there, don't hesitate, invite 'em!" Cassadee continued smiling.

"Sure, sure. See you tomorrow!" I smiled back. I hugged Cassadee, she waved, and left.

Wow. The Junior Party. Tomorrow was Friday night...memories will be made tomorrow; that's for sure. When she said she was going to invite everyone- she means everyone. Oh wow. I'm excited though- her parties were always fun.

I caught up with Gabe before school started. Talking to him would be something new. A fresh face, a face I haven't kissed. And I plan on keeping it that way. I don't need to make out with more and more guys than I already have. Let's see Brendon and Alex. Same day? For me that was alot.

"Sup Hayley?" Gabe held out his hand for a high five.

"Gaaaabe. How are you doing?" I high fived him and laughed.

"Good. Talkin' shit. Fucking things up. It's great!" Gabe gave me a thumbs up and started laughing.

"That's typical Gabe!" Being around Gabe always made me laugh.

"So you going to Cassadee's par-tay tomorrow? It's gonna be the SHIT." Gabe would most definitely be the first one drunk. the funny thing was that he knew it too. He's made it a contest at parties to see if anyone could get wasted before him. I admired Gabe's lifestyle. He made his life one big-ass party. It was awesome.

"Yeah for sure! How could I not miss it? Are you going to do your contest thingy tomorrow?" I asked Gabe, and he smiled.

"Hayley- I get the party started. I see who can beat me at getting wasted. None of 'em do. They get wasted, but not before me. So then that's how the party starts. Big method of mine." Gabe's method made sense now. The reason the party gets started is because he gets everyone drunk. It was actually genius. Underage drinking...in his world, that meant nothing.

"Yeah imagine the party without your method!" I added.

"Exactly. It'd suck." Gabe nodded his head in agreement to his "awesome" method.

"Catch you later. I'm going to go talk to a certain blonde." I saw someone waving to me.

"Oh who? I like blondes..." Gabe started looking around frantically.

"Uh I don't know, if HE is a blonde or brunette or whatever. But unless you like men, I can't hook you up." I joked.

"Oh. It's a guy. That's cool. I think I'll go harass someone now." Gabe laughed and walked away.

I made my way over to the figure across the field.

"So, you going to the "Junior" party tomorrow?" Alex asked me.

"Yeah how in the hell would I not go? It's too good to miss." I smiled.

"Yeah one year ago tomorrow..." Alex paused.

"Yeah. I know...two things. The night Josh cheated on me, and the night I almost kissed you. Lots of memories...this party is going to be crazy!" I looked down after that.

"Sorry about the Josh thing. But hey you could've just made out with me anyways if it weren't for effing Brendon being worried that you would've made a mistake while you were dating Josh. Anyways...been staying away from Brendon?" Alex asked, changing the subject.

"Yeah, so it really wouldn't have made a difference. And yeah, I guess. I haven't even seen him around..." I realized that just now, and started looking around just out of curiosity. Usually he'd be lurking around the lawn...

"Good. Because not all of us are saints. Especially Brendon." Was Alex trying to lead me on to something?

"Uh, yeah I know Brendon's not a saint. Neither are you. Or me. Or Gabe. Or Josh. But do you know something about Brendon? Is that why?" I asked, really curious.

"Hayley- you'd never believe things I've seen. Catch you later." Alex did his little wink and trailed off. Why am I always alone at some point? Jeez. I've gotta start walking away from some people. "You'd never believe things I've seen." What the fuuuuck? Okay, I feel like i'm the only person who knows NOTHING around here. Everyone's got a goddamn secret. And not small ones, huge huge huge ones.

HAYLEY'S FREE PERIOD

It was free period now. Brendon's free period, also. Instead of making out with him, I thought I'd go see what the hell was up with him...If I could even find him. I walked down the hallways, and made my way through the school doors. Outside, he was the first person I saw- almost as if he was waiting for me.

"Hey, Brendon." I sighed.

"Aw, why so down?" Brendon looked down at me.

"Uh, I'm fine." I said out of nowhere.

"Good to hear." He smiled. He had a great smile.

"Um, is there, uh, anything you'd want to tell me?" I started.

"Liiiike?" Brendon softly laughed.

"Um, well, I've been told to stay away from you...?" I continued.

"Look, Hayles. I don't know what the fuck Alex is talking about. If he's got a problem with me, he can come and address that." Brendon firmly stated that. I paused- I never mentioned Alex once. How would Brendon know that Alex is the one that's telling me that? Maybe they're enemies? "If I were you, I'd stay away from Alex. He's trouble. Watch your back."

Brendon kissed me on the cheek, flashed his smile once more and left me. Are you kidding me? I really really need to leave someone just standing there. So Alex tells me to stay away from Brendon, and Brendon tells me to stay away from Alex? Crap, this is really confusing.

Alex appeared out of nowhere about five minutes after that encounter. I forgot we had free period together.

"Haaaaayley. You're talking to Brendon, eh?" Alex smiled. he didn't look pissed or anything...

"Yeah, uh, he says if you have a problem with him, you can "address" that to him directly." I stated.

"A problem? I've got problems with everyone, especially that kid. He's got problems with me. After he dropped you off at home after the Sophomore party, he came back to the party. I was drunk, he was drunk, and got really pissed at him because he ruined making out with you. So we kinda got into a fight..." Alex explained. Makes sense. I've been understanding things better now... that's messed up. Brendon makes me come home, but then he comes back? I'm NOT letting anyone take me home. I'll go home when I want.

"That explains alot. What kind of fight?" I asked...

"Physical. Scratches and Bruises. Nothing big. He had like huge bruises on his face, and I had some on my arms. I fucked that kid up. Well, not completely. I got beat too..." Alex still made a small joke out of everything. It was great.

"Wow. Seems like I missed alot of crap that night. Umm, I'll catch you later." I, this time, walked away from Alex. It wasn't such a huge deal, but I finally did it. I smiled as I turned my back. Hell, I'm not watching it either.

Filler-y. It's okay. I promise; next chapter twists, and more SECRETS! Whoo, get excited!

[Hayley]

I woke up the next morning, and had many different feelings all into one. I was happy, and felt like a I had a weight lifted off my shoulders, I was guilty for not telling Josh the truth when he told me the truth, and I was sad because I was basically single- even though Josh said "We're Not Breaking Up." I don't know. Josh probably has a different view on the entire situation. After my morning shower and routine, I walked through my front door and it felt like the air was a whole lot fresher. I slowly walked to school, being kind of nervous to face the awkwardness between me and Josh.

I made it to school finally, and decided to go sit underneath "Gabe's Tree". I have been calling it that recently because that's usually where I can find him...and maybe it wouldn't be so bad to talk to him. I've had enough of Brendon and Josh for now, I needed some new people to talk to for a few days. I saw Gabe entering the school grounds, but today he was headed in a different direction. Not to "his tree". I could tell Gabe had laid off the drinking, because he looked better. It's been like 2 weeks since Victoria's death. I think he's already had all the alcohol in the city. Well, there goes my plan to socialize. I leaned my head back against the tree, and pulled out my phone to toy with it. I heard some rustling in the branches up above and naturally, looked up. I didn't see any birds or any other critters in the tree. I saw a boy. And, no, surprisingly, it wasn't Brendon.

He jumped from the branches, and came down. "So I see you're here lurking around Gabe's tree? Sucks he didn't come by today...I was going to jump out and freak him out. Works all the time." The boy laughed and opened his arms, a gesture to hug him.

"Alex! It's been forever since I've talked to you...actually!" Hayley jumped up excitedly and hugged Alex. It was pretty funny to Hayley that it was only yesterday she was reminded about what happened at that party with Alex. Or at least, what could've happened. And then today, out of nowhere, he just shows up.

"It has been forever! So how are uh, things...with Josh?" You could tell by his tone he was digging for some information.

"Ehh, we're technically together, but not physically, you could say? It's really confusing. He referred to it as 'taking a break'. What does that even mean?!" Hayley explained her current situation. And for being a smart person, she still didn't understand the whole 'take a break' thing.

"Take a break, huh? I guess he just means that he won't be seeing you physically, but mentally you're still going out? I'm not exactly sure either." Alex tried to shine some light on the whole deal, but he couldn't hack it either.

"Crap, it's 8:30, my first period is this hour. I'll catch you later, okay?" Hayley hugged Alex once more before she left.

Alex whispered in Hayley's ear: "Call me when you're officially single. I haven't forgotten." He winked and then walked off. He hasn't forgotten the sophomore party, and how close things got, but all this time Hayley did until Brendon reminded her.

As for Josh, he was doing okay. Better than usual, actually. He felt renewed, but was still kind of sad about Hayley. He knew she was hiding something, but didn't feel it was necessary to get it out of her since at this point he kind of didn't care. He went about doing his own things for the remainder of that day.

HAYLEY'S FREE PERIOD

It was Hayley's free period, and since she didn't have a best friend anymore, she decided to go do her own thing. She went to the place that Brendon had showed her. It couldn't hurt going there...he was the one who had brought her there in the first place. She quietly made her way through the teacher's parking lot, and then the grassy hill with the great view, became visible. And then something looked out of place. Something black. As Hayley got closer, she saw that it was a boy, who was wearing a black shirt.

"So I guess we both decided to show up here. Today, out of all days." Hayley started. She sat down next to Brendon.

"Yeah, I guess great minds think alike. And trust me, I don't have a great mind." Brendon kept his focus on the view.

"And that's supposed to mean?" Hayley implored.

"Nothing. I'm just saying I'm not a very clever person. So anyways, did you get home okay yesterday?" Brendon asked, changing the subject. The mind thing was probably just another one of his jokes that no one understood.

"Yeah. I got home fine, only to discover that Josh and me are technically broken up. Rough patches...lying. Typical stuff..." She knew in fact those aren't always typical for couples. To be both cheating on one another.

"Hayley. That's not typical stuff." Brendon laughed.

"I know. Brendon, I'm pretty much single. With a chance of being taken..." Hayley hinted. This time Brendon latched on quick- he actually understood what she was saying. Next thing you know, Brendon leans into Hayley- and they start full on making out. A few minutes later they were laying on top of each other making out on the grass. On, and on. I'm sure one of them had to breathe. They were completely caught up in what was happening that they didn't know that Alex saw the entire thing. He wanted to hang out with Hayley during free period, and saw she headed back here, and curiously followed her. He turned away to go, and didn't feel sad or jealous. He felt scared.

It got out that Hayley had been sneaking around with Brendon. Alex didn't say a word. It's way too easy to spot Brendon and Hayley fooling around. Their first public display of affection was at a public beach after all. Tons of people could've seen that. It didn't make sense as to why NOW it was out. After sixth period Hayley was at her locker gathering her things up, since school was over. Josh made his way to her, to confront her now.

"So, Hayley. Been sneaking around with Brendon?" It all made sense to Josh now as to why Brendon was giving him "looks".

"Mmm, sure. And why does that matter Mr. Farro? Been sneaking around with the late Miss Asher?" Hayley tested. She wasn't dissapointed or guilty about making out with Brendon at free period. This time she wasn't lying to herself and said that she had a newfound interest in Brendon.

"It matters because when I asked you if you wanted to tell me anything yesterday, you lied, while I, told you the truth. It's all about lying now. Maybe it's good we're broken up." Josh wasn't yelling or being mean, but he wasn't being "Mr. Nice Guy". I don't know what you could describe his tone. Serious? Serious was Josh's tone.

"Look, I'm sorry for lying to you, okay? And I agree. Maybe it's time to you know, see other people since we've been together so long." Hayley proposed.

"Yeah, I think that sounds good. And, if we ever want to get back together, I'll do it. Deal? And the only reason you brought up this whole 'see-other-people' thing is because you want to go out with Brendon, huh?" Josh wasn't being so serious anymore. This time you couldn't really describe his tone. It wasn't mean though... maybe, excited?"

"It sounds great. And sure, I'll get back together with you, only if you want to. And no that's not why...Brendon has NOT asked me out, anyways. And come on, you know there's other girls you want to date." Hayley had a crooked smile. She was kind of excited about this too.

"Yeah, correct. This is probably one of the best ideas we've ever had. See you later, BFF." Josh smiled and waved, only for him to just walk away. It still wasn't easy, but he was excited to start new, along with Hayley.

AFTER SCHOOL

Hayley walked home from school that night in the dark. Once again. She had to do errands, like she usually does. But this time there'd be no drunk Gabe, no secrets, no parents and no hassle. Her parents were on a beautiful vaction for a week or so without Hayley. She didn't mind though- she could take care of herself. Walking wasn't that bad tonight. The moon was bright, and she could pretty much see everything.

[Hayley]

I passed the park on my way home. I though 'What the hell? Why not.' And stopped. It's been forever since I've been to the park. I made my way to the swingset, and then it attacked me. The memories on this swingset. It was the place where I first kissed Josh. I shuddered the memory away, and focused on the moon. I felt a presence next to me. I turned to look at the swing next to me, no one was there. I looked back up, and there standing in front of me, was Alex.

"What are you doing here?" I smiled.

"Running errands. Thought I'd stop and stare at the moon." Alex laughed.

Then it was just like that. We knew immediately what to do. I got up and picked up where I left off on that drunk night with Alex. Our foreheads touched, and our lips locked. He put his hands on my waist, and I put my arms around his neck. It was intense. Back and forth, there was crashing of the lips. There was no Brendon to pull me away, to pester me about Josh or Victoria, there was no alcohol, so I could remember this, and there was no one around. Except for us. We both pulled away at the same time.

"I'm officially single." I opened my eyes, to see Alex's friendly face.

"Good. What about Brendon?" Alex whispered.

"What about him?" I asked.

"I saw you at free period. I wanted to hang out with you, saw you, and kinda followed you. I'm sorry." Alex looked down.

"No, no, it's fine. I don't care. I'm such a whore...making out with two different guys in one day?" I questioned myself. I'm not a whore. I know i'm not. I just broke up with Josh. I was free! I could make out with whoever. It wasn't a problem. Why not live it up while I can? Take risks. Someday I'll be dead.

"Hayley. I have to warn you about Brendon. He's trouble." Alex looked me straight in the eyes for this one.

"Brendon's trouble...where have I not heard that? And Alex, you're not trouble? You're one of the badboys. Every girl at school likes you." I softly laughed.

"Thanks- but that's not the point. Brendon's a different kind of trouble. Watch your back Williams. See you tomorrow." Alex kissed my cheek, and winked. He then dissappeared and I was there alone, once again. For the second time in a row. What does he mean? Watch my back?

Mmm, Yay! I'm trying to set up the last few chapters with LOTS of drama and twists. :D

Cool! haha

[Hayley]

After letting Gabe know that I was definitely ready to face seeing Victoria, he raised his hand up to the fancy golden doorknob, and pushed the door open. Inside, the lighting was half from windows, and half from candles EVERYWHERE. Victoria's family were all inside, some of them crying. I had to stay strong; I couldn't break down again...I couldn't break down in front of Gabe. Together, we made our way to the resting place of Victoria. Sooner than I thought, we arrived at her casket. Gabe and I took a moment of silence, looking down at her body. She still looked beautiful, even in her permanent sleep. She had makeup on, her hair looked nice, and her clothes were exactly what she would've wanted. I was just examining my best friend, when I came across something that made me lose it. On Victoria's wrist was the bracelet I had made for her when I was six. It had a variety of different colors, and hers also said "Best Friends Forever" on it. I looked over to Gabe. I could see his eyes watering up, but he wasn't crying.

"Gabe, Look. Victoria's wearing the bracelet I made for her when I was six! I thought she had lost it. This small thing makes me a bit happier." I softly whispered to Gabe.

"I know. And you're wearing the one she made you. Best Friends Forever, really means forever, I guess." Gabe told me quietly, as he sniffled a bit.

"Yeah. Forever." I started to cry. I thought I could handle it, but after Gabe said "forever" I really cried that time. "I can't believe that she's gone!"

"Aw, Hayley, Victoria's in a safer place." Gabe assured me. He put an arm around me and told me that she and I would be okay. After we bid Victoria our goodbyes, I finally met up with Josh, and Gabe and Brendon took their places in the chapel.

"Josh, I can't believe I saw her body. Right in front of me, and lifeless." I blinked my eyes a few time to keep the tears from coming. I needed to suck it up, but something always knocked me down. Josh didn't say anything, but wrapped an arm around my waist and walked with me to where we'd sit for the service.

THE BURIAL

The service went by slowly for me. I listened to each and every word there was to be said. Gabe even said a few words, and called me up to talk about Victoria with him. I spoke about the good times we had when we were young, and how we met. Things like that. I even made a few people smile, which made me feel great. This was the part I dreaded. Watching the men in Victoria's life carry her casket to the place where it was supposed to be buried. We all followed the Priest to the burial site. The lot that was reserved for Victoria was on a ledge overlooking the ocean (like I said before). We gathered around on that depressing, cloudy day to watch some workers lower her into a perfectly rectangle hole. The priest said some words and blessed Victoria as she was put in. The workers then began the actual burial, while we were still watching. Everyone cried. I cried, and Gabe kept his eyes on the floor. Josh hugged me and didn't let go of me, so I cried against his suit, probably ruining it. When this miserable time was over, everyone headed back to their cars to meet up after for some food and things like that. I told Josh I wanted a moment alone with Victoria out here, and he agreed to leave me alone for a few minutes.

I stood, looking at her headstone, crying so hard. I felt a tap on my shoulder to see that it was Gabe. I hugged him and whispered "Victoria loved you so much." He smiled at me, and told me he'd meet me at the gathering. I continued mourning in front of her grave when I felt a prescence appear next to me.

"One day she's here, one day she's gone." It was Brendon, out of nowhere.

"Yeah. I'm just still so confused as to why she'd be murdered. I've asked almost everyone, and everyone replies with 'Cruel People, Hayley.'" I was so mad. I wanted the person responsible for her death to pay.

"When people don't get what they want, they get crazy." Brendon filled my mind with that thought now. It's basically what Josh had said to me.

"Let's get out of here." I proposed. I then turned my back on Victoria's grave, walking away from it for a long time.

ONE WEEK LATER: SCHOOL

Seaside High was still raving about the death of Victoria. Everywhere Hayley would go, people would say "I'm so sorry." Anywhere Gabe would go people would say "I'm so sorry." It was completely unnecessary for people to say that. You already feel sorry for yourself, and it doesn't really help if other people feel sorry too. Gabe was a complete mess. Now that reality had actually sunk in, he couldn't handle it. Yeah, he was a bit decent the few days after she died, but it's been a week without her, and now he really knows how it feels. He can't handle the pain. There's even a rumor going around school that he goes out and drinks himself away. As for Hayley, she was a mess too. Her skin was paler than ever, her eyes were always puffy, and her vibrant red hair, didn't shine as bright. Hayley was depressed, which was so unlike her. She needed help from someone who could relate.

Hayley walked alone to her locker to put some books away. When she shut the locker door, a face appeared next to her.

"Goddamn, you're always coming from out of nowhere!" Hayley jumped, only to be startled by Brendon.

"Hayley. You're a serious mess, no offense, and I think you should get away from schoolwork and do something different." Brendon, actually being a friend of Hayley since freshman year, looked really concerned.

"Thanks B, but I really don't think public places want me in them; you know, sulking around...acting like I hate life. I just wish I had a best friend to talk to." Hayley looked away, and took a deep breath, facing a surge of pain which was called- reality."

Brendon immediately looked down. "You know, I went through this too. Remember? I bet no one does."

"Wait..." Hayley paused. "Oh my god Brendon. I did completely forget."

"Yeah. Freshman year, I lost my best friend Ryan to a car accident. I can relate, you know?" Brendon looked like reality just kicked him in the face. "Would you want to go get coffee or something with me after school? I can help you get through this. And someday, the guy responsible for killing Victoria will seriously pay."

"Yeah, I think that would be good. I'll see you after school, 'kay? Oh, and yeah. He better pay. Pay REAL hard." Hayley waved goodbye quickly, and ran over to Josh who had been waving at her for a few seconds. Josh gave Hayley a quick kiss on the lips, and they walked hand-in-hand down the hall.

"Hayley, I can't hang out after school today. I'm tutoring that thirteen year old kid this afternoon. Maybe tomorrow?" Josh asked.

"No, Josh it's fine. I can't hang out either. I'm going to go talk to Brendon after school. You remember that Ryan died, right? Just like Victoria. Now we both lost our best friends. I'm sure it would make me feel better to talk to someone that gets it, you know what I mean?" Hayley explained to Josh, and since Joshw as extremely understanding, he had no problem with it.

"Sure, Hayley, I love you, but you're a serious wreck, so any help you can get - take it." Josh smiled a bit, and even laughed softly.

"Thanks. You're not the only one who's told me I'm a mess. But yeah, thanks for getting it. I'll call you later tonight, okay?" Hayley smiled a small grin, kissed Josh's cheek and went off to her last class.

AFTER SCHOOL:

Hayley met up with Brendon after school. They walked to the nearest Starbucks together, and got some drinks. They walked across the street, to the beach, and sat on the sand looking out into the sun.

"Thanks for offering to help me." Hayley punched Brendon's shoulder playfully.

"No problem. I sure as hell wish someone was there to help me when I had this problem, but no one was, so I had to deal with it on my own." Brendon took his gaze off of the sand, and fixed them out onto the horizon.

"Look, if I had known better, and had been a better friend in ninth grade, I would've tried my best to help. Even though back then I wouldn't be able to relate..." Hayley looked up at Brendon with a 'sorry-i-couldn't-help' look.

"It's alright. I turned to music, and I turned to coming down to the beach. Believe it or not, it's actually a great way to help." Hayley was starting to feel better. Talking to Brendon was helping, and Brendon continued. "At least I'm not turning to alcohol like Gabe. You know hes drinking out of control, right? Takes the edge off of the pain. Believe me, I'm not a virgin to alcohol."

"Yeah, I heard rumors, but I didn't know it was actually true. Yeah, I've heard it takes 'the edge off' but I don't really feel like boozing until I feel better." Hayley closed her eyes and imagined poor Gabe drinking his pains away.

"It's true. He told me that's all he does after school. I don't know where he gets the alcohol, but he does it somehow. This Victoria thing is really ripping him to pieces." Brendon made that obvious.

"Yeah. I feel so bad for him. And Victoria. The terrible way she had to die..." Hayley was cut short by Brendon.

"Hayley, you've gotta keep your spirits up. You've gotta find your own way to take the edge off the pain. Victoria will always be in your heart, and you at least have the bracelet as a rememberance of her. Just think of it as, Victoria will always be with you. And life goes on. You've got to fix yourself up and the best thing to do is to distract yourself from it for awhile." Brendon was making a lot of sense. Hayley took was said and processed it through her mind, only to find that he was exactly right.

"You know what, you're right. And it's been three years since Ryan's death, and even a week after he died, I remember that you were as happy as you are now. I will always have a part of Victoria, too. But how am I supposed to distract myself from something this big?" Hayley looked down at the sand, extremely puzzled, and sinking back into doubt slowly even after Brendon brought her spirits up so high.

"This is how you distract yourself." Brendon smiled, and leaned in closer to Hayley. Hayley, without thinking leaned in closer to Brendon too. Hayley's lips met Brendon's and she put a hand on his warm cheek. She pressed a bit harder onto Brendon, and started to kiss his bottom lip. Things started getting more intense when Brendon bit Hayley's lips, and Hayley's hands went from his cheek to his hair, running her fingers through it. They each pressed a bit harder, and then it was over. Hayley pulled away first.

"What were we talking about again?" Hayley asked, literally having forgotten.

"I told you that would distract you. It worked, didn't it?" Brendon smiled at Hayley.

"Oh, right, Victoria. I feel better now...and that was, wow. I've never kissed Josh that way ever." Hayley admitted.

"It's okay. It's only to get your mind off of it. Took the edge off the pain." Brendon and Hayley laughed, only to get up and walk away from the beach.

*I'm trying to get more readers! Apparently my methods aren't working very quick. Spread the word for me and hell, I will do the same for you! :)

Everyone has a secret. ;) They will unfold throughout!