DEXTER

After a bad summer and my dad kicking me out for the fifth time, I hopped into my Range Rover and sat there for a few minutes thinking about all the pain I'd endured over the past ten years.

Screaming, I slammed my fist into my steering wheel again and again. Did it help me ... no.

 Did it make me feel better? Yes.

 Suffering was burned into my skin; I had scars to prove it.

 My skin was littered with every violent word I'd tried to escape.

Every call for help, I pleaded. Every battle to protect her. 

As I sat in my car, lost in my thoughts, a sudden knock on the window jolted me back to reality.

 I knew who it was before I even turned to look.

 Standing outside was my younger sister Isabella, her eyes filled with tears,holding her teddy bear tightly.

 Her eyes were a mirror image of mine, dark blue and upturned.

Her cheeks were wet with tears that glistened in the light.

"Please don't leave me here, Dex," she cried, her voice trembling with emotion.

I felt tired as I opened the door, but I couldn't ignore her plea.

As I opened my arms, I felt the warmth of Isabella's tiny body pressing against me.

 She was only seven years old,and I felt tremendous responsibility towards her.

Despite my best efforts, I had failed to take her away from my old man once before, and he had called the police on me, accusing me of kidnapping.

 It was a painful memory that still haunts me to this day. But even though I hated leaving her, I knew it was for the best.

 My old man kicked me out so often that I had lost count.

And if I stuck around, there would be fighting day and night, and he would make sure Isabella was taken away from me.

I couldn't bear the thought of that happening. 

We fought daily, and it seemed like we wouldn't stop, not for anyone.

 Our arguments were loud and fierce, leaving me feeling drained and hopeless.

 But whenever I held Isabella close, I felt a glimmer of hope that things would get better someday.

 The sight of our ruined family home was gut-wrenching.

 Weeds had overtaken our once beautiful front yard, and the flowers my mom had once planted were now nothing but a distant memory, crushed-up colours fading into the darkness.

 I couldn't help but remember how much my mom had loved gardening before everything changed.

My dad growled violently, "Isabella inside."

 I could feel the fear in my little sister, Bella, as she clutched onto me with all her might.

 Her tiny body was trembling with terror, and I could see tears streaming down her rosy, red cheeks.

 I leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Remember the number you call? I hid the phone under your bed. I'll pick you up from school tomorrow."

As I kissed her head, she nodded, wiping away her tears.

Her words, "I'll be brave like you, Dex," shook me to the core.

With a sudden burst of energy, she darted off and bounded into the house, and I heard my dad slamming the door behind her swiftly.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for her bravery each time he did things like this.

 She'd fight it.

However, I was a fucking coward who had left her there in the hands of a drug-ridden alcoholic monster who was capable of unimaginable cruelty.

 Looking at him, I saw glimpses of myself.

The uncanny similarities made me realise I was like him in more ways than people could imagine.

 I was a terrible person, and I knew it.

 But I couldn't bring myself to care.

** 

As I drove my car into the garage of my boy's apartment block, I couldn't help but notice the purple bruises that had formed on my hands.

 They were another addition to the collection of marks scattered all over my body.

 I parked the car and took a few moments to gather myself, trying to shake off the feeling of exhaustion that had lingered with me for days. 

I pulled down the mirror to take a closer look at myself.

 My deep blue eyes, which were once bright and lively, had now dulled down, reflecting the fear and the pain that I had been trying to hide for so long.

 A pair of tired bags sat heavily under my eyes, indicating my lack of sleep.

I knew that tonight wouldn't be any different. 

I slowly walked up the stairs to the boy's apartment,taking two steps at a time.

 I needed to find a way to regain control of my life, to put an end to the constant chaos that had been consuming me.

 As I walked into the apartment, I couldn't help but notice the mess that had accumulated over time.

But my eyes were soon drawn to the occupants of the apartment.

Callix sat on the kitchen counter, his baby blue eyes shining, contrasting heavily with his light brown hair, which fell slightly in his eyes.

He wore a hoodie and black jeans and was eating an apple.

 He was always quiet and introspective, constantly assessing but never speaking his mind.

It was as if he was the master of stealth, and it didn't surprise me that he was the best at knowing someone's character and whether they could be trusted. 

Axel emerged from the bedroom, his light amber eyes glowing with a fiery intensity as he adjusted his shoulder-length black hair with a scowl.

"You good?" he asked.

 He was built like a boxer and gave me a run for my money.

Axe was brutal, and his mere presence scared everyone, including me.

Despite his occasional unpredictability, he was very passionate about the things he loved.

"I was kicked out by the old man," I replied, finally answering his question.

I took a pack of cigarettes from my back pocket and lit one with a deep sigh.

 As I leaned against the dining table, I silently focused on the glowing tip of the cigarette and inhaled the dark toxins that were slowly but surely poisoning my body.

The feeling of calm that washed over me was the only respite for my broken soul. 

Suddenly, I asked, "Where are Jas and Romeo?" with a serious tone.

 "Jasper went out to get some food, and Romeo's probably out there somewhere, hooking up with some girl in his new BMW soft top," Axel grumbled,glancing at Cal.

 Cal looked at me with an expression I couldn't quite place, but it was nothing new. 

"You want me to check on Bella tonight," he said with a final look.

I turned towards Callix and replied, "Yes, brother."

 I quickly put out my cigarette and moved towards the expansive penthouse window.

 As I gazed out, I was struck by New York City's bustling streets, teeming with life and activity.

Suddenly, the front door opened, and Jasper and Romeo walked in.

 Jasper was carrying shopping bags that seemed out of place with his usual appearance.

 He was dressed in a smart shirt and jeans, looking impeccable as always.

 However, his troubled nature was unmistakable.

 Out of all of us, Jasper was the most damaged.

 I won't reveal the reasons why, but he was fiercely loyal and had a ruthless side, which caused many problems.

 Despite his flaws, he was always there for us, no matter what.

We were all broken somehow, but Jasper's struggles invaded his every being.

 Now Romeo didn't seem like your typical broken asshole.

Romeo had his very long blonde hair all tousled, looking freshly fucked, and I scowled at him.

He was the man whore of Firewell High and had fucked so many chicks I'd be surprised if he'd have kept count.

He was cocky and riled me up more than the others.

 It was because we were totally different.

 He lived off his dad's money.

The rest of us made money in any way we could.

He'd help us out if we needed it,though.

 He was good like that. 

 "Did you sell the shit I asked you to ?" I snapped,

 annoyed at him.

 Romeo smirked.

This fucker.

He was the only one who got away with pushing my buttons, and he knew it. 

"Well, I sold half fucked some bitch from River well High,sold the rest, then had a bit of fun with Selena Eaton", grinned Romeo, taking his top off and throwing it at the sofa, stroking his hands down his six-pack with a smile at something on his phone.

 "She's fucking half off Firewell High", I scoffed, rolling my eyes at him, exhausted by his antics.

 My brother had no standards. 

"Dex, I know what I'm doing. That's why condoms were invited," he smirked, laughing at something on his phone, meaning he was doing something immature.

 "Romeo,I don't know if you know this, but condoms are not one hundred per cent effective," stated Jasper, monotone, with no emotion, nothing.

It was typical Jasper.

He said that while putting the groceries away. 

He stated seriously, turning to me and finally glancing

up from his phone, 'Fuck off, they are.'

Axel barked a harsh laugh and flicked his fire eyes to me, genuinely surprised at how Romeo had lived this long without knowing that.

I could barely believe it myself and asked Romeo in disbelief, "Ro, please tell me you knew this".

 His face had gone as white as a ghost, and we all

 laughed, apart from Jasper, who just watched Romeo with

 a slight smirk. 

These boys are more than just friends—I've known them since preschool, and we've been inseparable ever since.

 They are my family, and this moment only reinforced how much I love them.

**

MIDNIGHT

 Standing in my new, spacious bedroom, I was struck by how much there was to take in.

The room was easily twice the size of my old one in London, and it felt almost cavernous.

 The walls were painted a soft, pale blue,which gave the space a calming, peaceful feel.

 However, the tranquillity of the room was somewhat disturbed by the towering piles of boxes scattered across the floor,each containing a jumbled mix of my belongings.

 It was daunting to think about sorting through everything, especially when I had my first day of school tomorrow.

 Meanwhile, my Aunt Aliza was in the living room, busily unpacking and organising our new home.

 She had been so busy that I had barely seen her since we arrived.

 I was grateful to have her with me, though.

 After my parents died in a tragic accident, she stepped up and took me in despite being relatively young herself.

 She'd saved me.

Everyone used to claim we were sisters because of how alike we looked.

My aunt Aliza blamed it on good genes.

 Looking around my new room, I realised how much it felt like a fresh start. 

I gazed at my reflection in the mirror on my desk as I fixed my blonde hair.

 My pale skin seemed to glow brightly under the lamp's warm light, and my bright grey eyes stared back at me. As I pondered this further, I realised my eyes were identical to my aunts'.

Exhausted after a long day of unpacking boxes, I sat on the floor for a break.

However, I must have dozed off because the next thing I knew, my aunt was shouting at me to wake up.

 My heart raced; she claimed the bus would arrive in five minutes.

I scrambled to my feet and grabbed my black school bag,shoving pens and a notepad into it.

 I was relieved that I didn't have to wear a uniform, but I knew I wouldn't have time to change even if I did.

As I rushed out the door, I marvelled at the thought of no longer wearing a tie.

 It was a small freedom, but I loved the idea.

I sprayed expensive perfume on my black Nike hoodie and adjusted my black shorts, but my aunt stopped me.

Her bright grey eyes bore into mine as she scolded me for wearing too short shorts.

 I knew better than to argue with her.

 I sighed heavily, running back upstairs, breathless.

 "Midnight, the bus is outside", she bellowed up the stairs, causing me to groan loudly.

 I threw on a pair of black jeans and bolted down the stairs, kissing my aunt's cheek as I went.

"Love you, have the best day", she laughed, sipping her coffee with a grin.

 "I love you more," I said, closing the front door speedily.

 Walking quickly towards the yellow bus, I got on.

 The bus smelled of sweat, cheese, and onion crisps, and I covered my nose and breathed in my sweet perfume. 

The back of the bus was completely empty, so I headed for it and sat down.

 "Bad idea," muttered a girl in front.

 She was sitting with her friends, and they were all sniggering. 

People began whispering, and I decided it was because I was new and British.

 Suddenly, a line of boys came down the bus, and everyone shut up.

No one spoke a fucking letter. 

Silently, I lifted my gaze, filled with worry.

The first boy had rich, dark hair slicked back, and his piercing blue eyes stared directly into mine, causing a shiver of fear to run down my spine.

 The second boy towered over me, his massive arms bulging with muscles, covered in intricate tribal tattoos.

His black hair was pulled back

 into a tight bun, and his blazing amber eyes scrutinised me from head to toe.

 The next boy regarded me closely;his stunning baby blue eyes sparkled with curiosity while his chestnut brown hair tumbled over his forehead.

 Unlike the first two, he inspected me without harshness.

 One of the boys had leapt onto the seats in front of me, his cocky grin beaming down at me.

His luscious blonde hair cascaded down his shoulders, and his striking emerald eyes sparkled with mischief.

 The man flashed a charming smile and finally said, "Hey there, baby, what's your name?" A sudden movement caught my attention, and I turned my head to see another man peering around.

 My heart skipped a beat as I caught sight of his black curly locks, falling into his stormy eyes that seemed to penetrate every secret I had.

 He fidgeted with his nose ring, adjusting it quickly as if it burned him.

 The American boys were a different breed, I could swear.

Then, the amber-eyed man spoke sternly, "You are in our seat, stunner."

 I felt a wave of fear wash over me as I realised my mistake.

 "I'm really sorry," I stuttered,standing up worriedly.

 The shark-like grin on the first man's face sent shivers down my spine.

 He turned to the man with ocean eyes and said something, but I couldn't make out the words. 

The man with ocean eyes then turned to me, his beautiful head tilted dangerously.

 "Please, miss?" he asked, his voice calm yet commanding.

In a state of panic, I told them my name.

 "I'm Midnight Ell- Ellison", I stuttered.

 With a grin on his face, the one with the long blonde hair ordered me to take a seat,making it clear that I had no choice.

I sat beside the boy with striking amber eyes by the window while another boy, whose teeth resembled a shark, sat beside me.

The other boys occupied the back seat of the bus, speaking in hushed tones as it began to move.

Feeling guilty for unknowingly sitting in an off-limits seat, I turned to the amber-eyed boy and spoke.

 "I'm really sorry", I managed, biting my bottom lip nervously.

He studied my lip for a moment before looking at the Shark-toothed boy.

 Suddenly, Shark grabbed my wrist and pulled me off the bus, ignoring my screams of protest.

 He said something to the driver, and the doors snapped open with a loud squeal.

 He pushed me out.

 With tears streaming down my face, I was left alone on the side of the road while the bus drove away.

 My heart was racing with fear.

I soon realised that I had already managed to make enemies with the school's notorious psychos.

 Trying to compose myself, I followed the signs and went to Firewell High School.

A sense of dread washed over me as I walked through the gates.

 I was totally fucked.

**

AXEL

The first lesson of today was English.

 I sat next to Jasper at the back of the class, focusing on a blonde beauty.

 She looked like Dehlila, and I guessed the boys noticed, too. 

Midnight had looked petrified when we'd cornered her.

 When she bit her lip, I wanted nothing more than to tell Dex to fuck off and that she was mine.

But I couldn't, shit didn't work like that.

 Dehlila had been a girl we'd all loved.

 Even Jasper, in his own way.

 Midnight looked like her.

 It had thrown me off.

 I was the reason she'd died.

I'd killed her.

 Not now, Axel, I scolded myself. 

Midnight Ellison was mysterious and had caught my attention.

She had no idea that she had become my latest fixation.

She rushed into the classroom, her eyes locking onto mine.

 I couldn't help but smirk as she seated herself as

 far away from me as possible.

 She was clearly uncomfortable in my presence, which only intrigued me. 

I shouted her name across the room to get her attention,and all eyes turned towards her.

 She trembled with embarrassment, just like Dehlila used to in similar situations. 

After a moment of hesitation, she slowly approached me,breathing heavily with nervousness.

Finally, she sat beside me, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness at her closeness.

 "I didn't get to introduce myself this morning," I smoothly stated.

"I am Axel Blair, and this is Jasper Underwood." She hesitantly nodded, sizing us both up with a nervous gaze.

 Throughout our English class, I couldn't resist studying her every move.

She was breathtakingly beautiful.

 Whenever she felt anxious, she nibbled her lower lip,and when she wrote, she gracefully turned her hair to one shoulder.

 Her eyes lit up with a smile whenever she got the correct answer, and with her intelligence, she easily outshined Jasper, which pissed him off.

I hadn't had the opportunity to discuss with Dex what we would do with her, but I couldn't help but want to keep her all to myself.

 As the bell rang, Midnight quickly jumped up.

 "It was nice meeting you," she mumbled before darting away without another glance, leaving me wanting more.

Before I could call after her, a text alerted me to my phone.

"Dexter needs us both round back," managed Jasper, a look of disgust rolling after Midnight.

 It was too much for him. I could see it on his face. 

**

 Finding all the boys around back, I sighed, putting my hands in my jean's pockets.

 "What's going down?" I asked, pulling out a cigarette.

 "Jack has been stealing from us. Some of our boys are bringing him around here",managed Dexter, seemingly pissed off and pacing. 

 Jasper was still scowling.

 "What's wrong with you,Underwood", laughed Romeo with a grin as he flicked me his lighter, which I caught effortlessly. 

"Fuck off, Summers", he growled, pulling up his black shirt sleeves, looking ready for blood.

"Midnight gave him a run for his money in English, so he's in a bad mood", I said, shrugging a tiny smirk creeping onto my lips.

 Dexter's eyes flashed.

"You saw her?" asked Dexter, tilting his head curiously. 

Jasper's tone was filled with anger and annoyance as he spoke, "Oh, didn't you know? He made her sit next to us as if she was on our level just because she looked like Lila".

 He scribbled something in his book with frustration, his pen scratching against the paper.

Dexter's expression twisted with irritation at the mention of her name.

 He gave me a quick glance, and his dark blue eyes looked haunted like he was lost in some painful memory. 

But he just muttered, "Fascinating," his voice barely

 above a whisper.

 He was annoyed, but he wouldn't talk about it.

 Suddenly, our friends approached us with Jack, who was squealing with panic.

"Oh, Jack, my friend, you've fucked it up good this time", sneered Dexter driving forward with a punch to his stomach. 

The lads who bought him scurried off.

 Dex and I took turns striking him.

 My fists burned with utter pain, but it felt good.

 It made me feel so fucking alive.

 Pain etched my hands until Jack was a bloody fucked up mess.

 Dex pulled out his knife, holding it to Jack's skinny throat. 

Until we heard a soft gasp.

 Stood there unblinking was none other than Midnight Ellison. 

"Wrong place, wrong time again, baby," Romeo declared, his voice low and threatening as he advanced towards her.

 Dexter moved in, a predator stalking its prey, and just as she spun to flee, Jasper's grip was on her arm, hurling her towards Cal.

 Cal caught her with ease, his grip firm.

Fear was stark on Midnight's face, a perfect canvas for pure terror.

 Dexter's smirk was cruel, his tone menacing as he taunted, "Aww, princess, you've really done it now."