(Yeah~no, I'm too much of an inpatient bitch. I wanted to post this on the 24th and part 2 on the 25th, bcuz ✨ Christmas ✨, but I wanted to get these out as soon as possible and I did NOT just perfect a GOD TIER ending to this arc of the story just to WAIT to post later so I can start on the new arc! Because after these two chapters, we're hitting the time skip I promised! So ye ^^ Hehehehehehehe, y'all ain't ready for this~)

🥀Dee🥀

It was now the following morning after the Christmas Eve party. I woke up from my bed and grabbed my phone to check the time. It was 11:19. With a heavy yawn, I stretched my upper body hearing a pop. I then got out of bed and got ready for today. After taking a shower and other morning routines, I went into my closet to find an outfit for (name)'s party. I wanted to wear something nice to get her attention today. I grabbed what I thought would match well and when I was done changing and putting on my makeup, I went downstairs to meet my family for breakfast.

🌸You🌸

It was my birthday and I was very excited! I woke up around twelve in the afternoon, and for once, my cousins weren't bothering to wake me. I got out of my bed and stretched as I walked to the shower. The hot water ran down my body and relaxed my muscles as I washed it all down. However, despite the warmth, I was shaking violently from excitement. The anticipation for my celebration was driving me up the walls. I wondered what Heavy and Dee, my real, first friends, got me for my birthday? I knew it would be something sweet but I just couldn't wait any longer than today. When I was done with my shower, I brushed my teeth and got dressed.

I put on a little make up and once I did one final check on myself, I went downstairs to meet everybody for breakfast. It was just like yesterday. Crammed-in chairs at the dinner table and loud chatter. I waved to everyone a good morning and they repeated the greeting back to me. I sat down with my family and they could just see how happy I was for this day.

"Wow, (name)," Tyler pointed out, "you're really glowing. That happy that today's all about you, huh?"

I could care less about my cousin's passive aggressive comment, as I replied, "I really am," with the most cheekiest grin. I said that confidently for two reasons. One, Dee and Heavy, as I've mentioned before. And two, these motherfuckers are leaving tomorrow morning! Woohoo!!!

"Well, you're gonna be even more happy once you see our gift for you, my little princess!" Aunty Jenny squealed.

"Ahem," my mom came into the room, a fresh plate in her hands, "not your daughter, sis.." she reminded her with gritted teeth. She then placed the plate she had in front of me and I saw that she made my favorite savory breakfast, (fav. breaky). "Happy Birthday, hon."

"Aw, thanks mama," I hugged my mother, giving a grateful kiss on her cheek.

After she hugged me back, I dug into my food. My yummy, delicious, birthday food. I looked out the window that was behind one of my uncles, seeing the light snow fall, I wondered fondly. I hope the Metal Family is having a good Christmas morning today...

🥀Dee🥀

My family and I had finished our food and we're heading to the living room to open our Christmas presents. This year, Heavy got a cat themed hoodie from Dad, he got a new set of earrings and belt chains from Mom, I got her a branch new helmet to replace her old one, and Heavy got me some more makeup. It was a cheap brand but it was the thought that counted, I guess. When our celebration was over, it was about time to head back to the Mikhailov's home for (name)'s birthday. But before that, we needed to make a small stop at the pet store.

We made our way to the pet store and for sure our parents were skeptical about this gift idea. They said that I should've made a further investigation if she wanted or was able to care for a pet, which was fair. I did assume and based this idea on very little context. But I was sure that this puppy was going to make her happy.

Entering the store, the owner from a few days ago was sitting at his counter. When his eyes laid on me and my brother, he recognized us and left for a moment. He then came back with the puppy we chose, which had a collar to make sure it was the same one I paid for.

"Hey there, little lady," I waved to the chihuahua, "did you miss me?"

It started to yap excitedly while it's little body shook from how violently it was wagging it's tail.

"She's only got her first shot so obviously, don't let her run around outside." Said the store owner.

"Obviously. And the appointment dates for the next ones?"

"Yes. She'll need to be brought back for two more shots when she gets older. Here," he handed me a small card. It had two dates written on, "these are days are when she gets her last two vaccines. Keep this with you or whoever you plan to give her to."

"Uh, thanks," I take the card and put it in my pocket. Then, I look back at the pup, "come here," and I put her inside the box where I left some warm blankets and a heating pad to keep her warm.

"So, is that all? We need to get going," mom tapped her foot impatiently.

"It is, I just need the food." I answered as the owner grabbed a bag from under the counter and handled it to me.

"She's still small so don't feed this to her yet," he point to the bag of kibble, "for now, we'll give her this." He then grabbed a small container of wet dog food and placed it inside the box with the chihuahua. "And you're set."

"Thanks," I said after closing the box lid and we left the store to (name)'s party.

🌸You🌸

My birthday was going great. I was still eagerly waiting for Dee and his family to show up, but in the meantime, we were playing games and having fun. Well, as fun as you can have with petty relatives. After what my Aunt Jenny said this morning, Phoebe and Jarred have been acting more like assholes by the hour. They kept glaring at me across the room, making snide comments, and overall tried to make me look bad and ruin everything. I wouldn't be surprised if they slammed my face into the cake to make themselves feel better.

I tried to ignore them the best I could with the support of my brothers. It was almost time for cake and the Metal Family still hasn't arrived yet. I was worrying if something had happened, but suddenly, the doorbell rang. They're here! I raced to the front door and opened it wide to happily find the guests I've been waiting for.

"Happy Birthday!" They all said in unison.

The biggest smile stretched across my face when I saw them. I noticed how they also brought another gift bag and a box. Not to give myself a boost of ego, but it was safe to say that those were likely for me. Did they really have to go far and beyond for this? It's sweet but, right now I'm worried about how much money they spent for this stuff.

"Hey, y'all! Welcome back!" I let the family in and closed the door. "You're just in time! We're about to cut the cake."

"Cake?! Lesgoooo!!" Heavy shouted, all hyped up.

"Oh.. you're here." I squeezed to the front and saw my Aunt Jenny with arms crossed. God, not now. "Sweet heart, it's time for you to blow out your candles. Come now."

"Uh-heheh.. I'll be there in a sec. Don't worry."

"Hmmm. Alright.." she left the room, giving everyone the stink-eye.

"(Name)," Glam shifted his eyes to me, "[[forgive me when I say this but, that woman is insufferable.]]"

"[[Non-taken, I hate her too.]]" I said sharing the same tone. "Ignore her for now, but you guys can leave the gifts here and we'll have some cake."

After Dee left the gifts under the tree. We all gathered in the dinning room and I sat at the end of the table. Levi started the count down and at one, everyone started to sing the birthday song to me as my mom and dad brought out the cake.

"Happy birthday to you~ Happy birthday day to you~ Happy birthday to, (name)~! Happy birthday to you~"

They all clapped and cheered as I carried the happiest smile. The cake wasn't decorated in anything too fancy. All it had was white butter cream frosting and a dash of berry varieties in the corner. On top of it, there were two lit candles that declared my age. Once I blow these candles, I'll officially be seventeen.. And I blew the flames out. It felt like everything was going in slow motion. The applause was loud and the cheery laughter too. And the cake was exactly the way I wanted it to be. Tres leches with berry filling between the layers. How did I know that-?

*SPLAT!*

"*Gasps*!!'

I guess you could say, I was rightfully the first to have a bite. I pulled my head back from the cake, my face was covered of it. I couldn't see a thing but I could still feel. Two handfuls of cake were pressed against my body as they smeared it everywhere they could. It was cold and it was soaking into my clothes. I heard yelling too. Mostly from my [immediate] family. Someone did come to help remove the mush from my eyes and they were Dee and Heavy. They wiped my eyes and I saw chaos. Everyone, except for the two brothers helping me, was fighting. My Aunt Jenny was crying while my parents and the Schvagenbagens were screaming at her as my other aunt and uncles were trying to defend her. Levi and Joseph were fighting with our cousins. And from there, the culprits of this doing we're Phoebe and Jarred, like I fucking called it. The cake was in their hands. I looked down at clothes to see the damage they've done and I was a mess. My clothes were ruined, the party was ruined, everything was ruined!

"I've..fucking..HAD IT!" The room fell silent after my outburst and all eyes were on me again, for I had more to scream about. "Everything's gone to shit! From the visit to last night's party to my own birthday! Like! How can things get ANY WORSE!"

Aunt Jenny approached me with her arm reached out, "darling, I'm so sorry for this mess. Let me-"

"NO! You're not my mother!" I cut her off, pointing at my real mom, "SHE is my mother, NOT YOU! This only happened because you're so obsessed with me that you wanted me to be your pretty, innocent little princess, when you have your REAL daughter right in front of you! And not to mention, you also have a son that you equally neglect! And, ohoho! Don't get me started about you guys.." I said turning to my cousins, mostly Phoebe and Jarred. "You guys just think, because your mom is such an ignorant bitch, you'll be satisfied if you make me and my brothers' lives miserable?! I never wanted this! I never asked for it! And that shit you brought up thinking that I'm only mad at you all after what happened with Valen-FUCKING-tino?!! Ooohh!! That was just the CHERRY! ON! TOP! And as a matter of fact, yes! I am still mad! Because all of you are the reason that Joseph and I are so fucked, we had no choice but to come here!!"

By this point, burning tears streamed down my face. I just didn't care because of the adrenaline and the suppressed anger I was bottling up. I didn't care I was embarrassed. I didn't care anymore that my day was ruined. I just wanted to let out everything and make my relatives see how fucked up they made me and my entire life. I was panting, out of breath and needed a moment before I said more. Not a lot, just the nail in the coffin. Though I did have more to say. I just thought it was best to cut it short.

"I can't wait till you guys leave tomorrow morning...and hope you never come back, near me and my family- my real family, ever again...Go to hell. I'm going to take a fucking shower..."

I marched up the stairs to my room, leaving everybody flabbergasted. I was so drained. I've never blown up like that before. Normally, I'd cry from embarrassment, but today? Wow...it felt good. I turned on the warm water, and after taking off the cake-stained clothes, I stepped into the shower.

🥀Dee🥀

After witnessing (name) scream at her relatives, the tension in the air was suffocatingly thick. When she left for her room, all of us shared uncomfortable glances at one another. (Name)'s mother decided it was best to clean up before she came back. Apparently, she and her husband suspected that something like this would happen so, they had an extra cake ready, but it's not the same one. Shame. It was an ice cream cake.

I helped clean but there was no communication between anyone as we did so, except for a few whispers being passed around here and there. I was one of them, only talking to Heavy, Levi, and Joseph. Believe me, we shared some words. However, there was something (name) said during her rant. Someone by the name of Valentino? I wondered what she was talking about. I glanced at the stairs, debating if I should check on her. I made the excuse to use the bathroom and secretly made my way up, not before grabbing the gift bag I brought for her. Once I approached the girl's bedroom door, I steadily gave it a knock.

*Who..is it..?* Her voice spoke through, sounding stern but, maybe if I just tell her it was me, then-

"(Name)? Can I come in?"

*D-dee? Uh-...hh, give me a minute.*

"Alright.."

And, as she said, a minute goes by till I heard the door unlocking itself. She was in fresh new clothes. A skintight, black turtleneck shirt under a white, off-the-shoulder sweater. For the bottom, a red plaid skirt with a thin black belt, and black leggings underneath it. I could also smell the scent of her shampoo coming off her hair, green apples. It was combed back from the sides and held together by a white bow. She looked beautiful and her makeup wasn't even on.

"Hey.."

"Hi..." she said back, "you gonna come in, or-?"

"Oh, yeah! Yeah, thanks." I stepped inside. And after (name) locked her door again, we both sat on her bed in awkward silence. I then decided to make the first move. "So.. how are you feeling?"

She sighed, "could be better, but uhm-...I- I don't.." she started choking up and just broke down, sobbing into her hands. "I hate this! Why- *sniff* How could I have let this happen?!"

I started to panic. Honestly, I'm not good dealing with other people's emotions, including my own. With nothing coming to mind, all I did was pat her back. But then, she suddenly clung herself onto me in a desperate hug for comfort, I almost fell back. It felt only right to hug her just as tightly. Her sobs got more violent as she uncontrollably cried and let everything out. It made me angrier by the second. How long had she been suffering quietly? I began to shush her down, rocking us gently and hopefully, get her to calm down.

"Hey, it's okay. You're okay.."

"No, I'm noooot..!"

"And that's okay, too." I pulled away from her. Her face was completely red, including her eyes. She had a bit of snot coming out too, that I think might've smudged on my jacket..gross. But, despite how she looked now, it didn't make me any less attracted to her. Because, "you're human. And I'm guessing you were taught somehow..that you shouldn't be. You didn't fully get to be your own person. But it's not your fault. It never. Was." (Name) only curled up even more in my arms. Probably feeling more ashamed with herself, proving my theory. I had to say something to cheer her up. "Heh, for the record though, you have a very ugly crying face." Which was true, in a cute way.

"Wh-what..?"

"Yeah, that's right," I said with a smirk. "But it's not as bad as Heavy's crying ass. He takes first place for that award."

"*Snort!* Hahahaha!" There it was.

"His snot just POURS out. I know Heavy's my brother and all, but man, use a tissue for God's sake."

"Hahahahah! Hehe-kk! Hahaaaa!! Sssstaaahhp! You- you're so mean- pppfftt!"

"Well~ are you going to stop being a crybaby and calm down, then?"

"Mhm!" She nodded with a little sniff.

I grabbed a tissue box that was sitting on her bedside table and let her take one. And I was right, she did leave some snot on me so I took one for myself too. After cleaning her face, (name) took a deep breath and let it out.

"I'm sorry for everything just now..and before. I've... been going through a lot these past few days."

"No, I get it. But, can you tell me what happened between you and the rest of your family?"

She looked away from me, twiddling with the tissue ball in her hand but she came out with it. "Ever since I was born, I was immediately labeled as the golden child. I was the first girl in the family between my mom and her sisters, Jenny and Farren. And Aunt Jenny took a very personal liking to me. Despite having kids of her own later, she was still obsessed with me. She would visit only to see me, volunteer to babysit me, and overall pamper me like I was her biological daughter. Raised to be a someone I didn't want to be."

"You were groomed?"

"By the innocent meaning, yes. Everything in my life was being manipulated and controlled by her. It's why I wear soft aesthetics in public and wear my darker clothes in secret, I had an image to uphold. It was hard for me to make friends too because I was told by my aunt that the kids around me would be bad influences. I even believed those lies to be true until I got older and started thinking for myself, but was too scared to show it."

"Why?"

"Because, my relatives would freak out. The family on my mom's side hated how my brothers turned out before me. In their eyes, Levi was an average guy who couldn't amount to anything greater than himself, and Joseph...was a flat out disappointment and was soon labeled as the black sheep. Also, Joseph was bisexual."

"Oh...-oh, shit.."

"Yeah. After a few years, I think my cousins, Phoebe and Jarred, caught on to this favoritism their mother had towards me. Since then, they've made my life a living hell any chance they could when their mom wasn't looking. This had gone on for a long time until my second year of high school."

"The year before you moved." (Name) nodded. "Did something bigger happen? I remember how you said your cousins brought up a guy named Valen-"

"Don't.. I don't even want to hear his name. Saying it back there was bad enough for me...."

"Sorry."

"It's fine, but might as well," she sighed deeply before continuing. "Last year, I met a guy... He was a grade above me, Joseph's age, and new to the school after the first month. Everybody took a liking to him, especially the girls. He was handsome, charming, and very smart: a perfect, teen girl's dream crush. I, in the beginning, didn't really fall for him like the other girls and that's probably why he was so interested in me. At some point, he befriended my brother and we officially met and became friends and soon...lovers.

We started dating for a couple of weeks, but slowly, he changed. He began nitpicking at the way I ate, even though I had a healthy diet and body. He would tell me how to dress at school and avoid talking to me when I wore anything he disapproved of, making me think I was in the wrong. And if I had an assignment with a boy OR girl, he'd feel some type of way about it and throw a fit. He'd make me feel guilty about everything and we fought a lot. But I stayed with him because..he apologized and promised to be better when it was all a bunch of empty lies. And I was a fool to believe him and give him more chances. I even...."

"..you what?" I asked anxiously.

Tears were welling up again as she answered, "...I gave up my virginity to him.."

I stared at her in shock. She did it with him. A guy who treated her so poorly and she- "How did you come to a decision like that?"

"It- *sniff* it was the night of Homecoming. It was delayed till the end of October so it was Halloween themed. He chose our costumes: a vampire and a damsel. Fitting, am I right? After the dance, he took me home with him. His parents weren't around that night and it was the perfect opportunity to do what we wanted..."

"Did you even want to?"

"In the heat of the moment, yeah..but I regretted it after. We used protection of course, but he was so forceful and rough with me. I couldn't even trick myself to enjoy it either, it just h-hurt..all over..."

I saw her body begin to shake and her hands gripping on her sleeves. Her reliving this moment was not what she needed right now. Not on her birthday. I reached out to touch her hand, causing her to flinch a little bit but calmed down quickly too.

"I'm sorry. I think we'll stop there.. Don't get me wrong, I do want to know more, but not at the expense of your feelings. It wouldn't be fair since it's still your birthday. You should be happy." This brought back a small smile to (name)'s face. After she wiped away the small tears left over, I decided it was time to give her the present I brought with me. "Here. Knowing your family better now, I think you should open this privately."

"What is it?" She giggled, "this is from you, right?"

I hummed, nodding yes, "take a look."

(Name) popped off the staples that kept it closed and pulled out the tissue paper from the top. She then gasped and flipped the bag upside down, dropping its contents onto her bed. The girl's smile got even wider as she picked up the bat plushie first.

"It's a Skelanimal plush!" Then, she picked up the cape and gasped again. "A Skelanimal cape?!..AND a onesie too?!" She squealed, after noticing the last item.

"Do you like them?"

"Bitch, what kind of question is that?! I LOVE them! Thank you so much, Dee."

"It was nothing really. I knew you would enjoy the present.." I smiled softly at her. When suddenly, I felt an itch in my scalp "Ack-"

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing, just my ponytail messing with me." I explained, pulling off the hair tie and let my hair fall down loose. I was going to tie it back again but (name) shockingly grabbed my wrist.

"Wait. I've never seen you with your hair down before.." she then got closer, brushing her fingers over my blonde locks. "Your hair is so pretty, but you look really weird, lol."

"Oh? Says the girl that rarely goes bizarro in black clothes."

"Shut up!"

We laughed at our banter. I would've never thought in the beginning that I would become friends with this girl. Let alone fall for her. We stopped laughing and gazed into each other's eyes. Her (color) irises were so hypnotizing, I could stare at them all day.

Our faces got closer and for some reason I decided to whisper. "YA tebya lyublyu (I love you).." And then-