We've loved and lost - Jack, Marree, Cameo

The weekends together with the group seem to become a constant. Even when I'd like to spend some private time with my girl friend I agree to coming along to an afternoon at the local pub, which seems like not such a bad way to wind down after an exhausting week at the academy. My first week back and almost the last one there in the program. I've caught up on a few points thanks to the spar with Vy, that earned her a few sore ribs and me a nice shiner because she just wouldn't accept her defeat. Both of us got 4 points though, which I desperately needed because of my two week absence after the Jins incident, that is slowly becoming a distant memory. Not distant enough for some of us. I shoot Kyanite a brief look because she freaked out on me yesterday but she seems alright now. She actually seems happy for a change. Maybe she doesn't need to see the psychologist that I was forced to see to get cleared. At leats nobody got wind of that to tease me.

Casually we walk into the dingy, drak place and claim a sticky table when Tyren leaves to get us drinks. I sit down and lean back to relax instantly. Today some baggy shorts and a hoodie is my clothing of choice because I'm so sick and tired of the stiff uniforms.

Tyrens brother walks in introducing us to his 'girl friend' as if we hadn't already known.
"Hey." I greet her because I know her from the academy.

When asked how everyone is, I quickly take Kyanites hand and squeeze it. "Awesome!" I'm not fibbing. The weekends are always awesome and everybody's turning back to normal.
"Ready to get shitfaced, if you ask me."
I do get up however to stroll over to the juke box passing a couple of drunk sailors arguing over some boat they use for fishing on the big river of the districts.

I brows the music of the old style juke box and choose a song before I turn back to sit down with the others and grab one of the beers he's offering.
"Thanks, man, good choice." At least nobody's being asked for an ID today.

Through the overhead speakers 'No woman no cry' comes on...my favorite song for a long time.

There's not much that can top having female roommates, annoyance wise that is. Having a free hour of bunk time used to be fun. Filled with sarcastic humor, and even a few remarks that got under skin. Compared to now though, Vy would give anything to have that back. For some odd reason chicks just don't understand sarcasm, and the only insults they have are over looks. If she's forced to listen to one more comment about how shocked they are that Jeran apparently slept with her she's gonna cut someone. To put it simply the weekends have become as important as ever, even if they were meaningful for her before. Now it's just a lot more. Not only a chance to be with Brooklyn, but also hang out with her friends surprisingly....as long as Brittany allows it of course.

Luckily tonight the witch is actually in need of the toddler, to go to a mommy and me class despite the fact it's her granddaughter. Guess being the youngest Nana in this District makes that possible. Whatever it takes to get the clear to go out, and Vy takes it gratefully. To show her gratitude she even keeps the little Tyke under her eye while getting ready. Slipping on a pair of black sort-of tight pants and a white blouse. Nothing to girly, yet not her usual attire. "Lip tick." Brooklyn attempts to persuade as she holds up eyeliner from the pile of makeup that's now become her toys. Obviously she hasn't been trained well in the beauty department as that sort of liner doesn't even go on lips. Would of figured Brittany tutored her in all of that. It's unknown that last time Vy's applied on such a thing.

"No, mommy doesn't wear makeup." Vy chuckles, gently pushing away the offer. The fact that she's put on anything but jeans and a tank is a miracle. "LIp tick!" The two year old continues to persist though. With a squinted noise, the older Blonde tries to deny it again. Only giggles erupt though as Brooklyn pushes it further. "Okay, okay. Just a little." How a toddler manages to control her when no one else can is beyond her understanding. Least it gets a Yay out of the adorable rugrat, followed by retrieval of more things that Vy no longer uses. "Thanks." She mutters sarcastically with a laugh.

"You trying to make me look like a ho...se. Hose. Water hose?" Close save. Being around only adults five day out of the week must of altered her mommy filter. Brooklyn going back and forth until she's brought over every stupid piece of makeup just made it slip. Someone's been hanging out with Brittany too much, even if she's not getting lessons on her fashion. "Hose." Even if it also means something completely innocent, it sounds horrible coming from a toddler. "Shhhh." Vy tries to convince, unable to hold back a little laughter. "Water hose." She corrects, shaking her head from side to side. Opps. "I gotta go, I love you." A kiss is given to the tiny forehead before she's left in Brittany's care for the night. Now to get out before the witch changes her mind.

To think Vy's gotten to a place where she has a special group of friends she regularly goes out with. Something about that camping trip they all shared, despite how dramatic it all started out, caused this. All that matters is the present though, right? A lack of a rift as they share a table at the local bar. It's as if they're a set of normal young adults, almost. Plus being that they all even manage to slip into the pub without even a glance from anyone makes it a great mix. LIght conversations drift around as drinks are delivered and more friends arrive. Hand in hand another couple joins the table. Good thing at least one other single person's around, or this would be awkward. Still just a friendly gathering though.

"Thanks." Vy finds a bit of curtesy since she's been given a beer. Each by a round kind of night? Show their appreciation to the gang though it'd be the same as everyone providing for themselves basically. That's sort of what people do though. A large swig is taken by the Blonde, just to start the night off right.

As if it wasn't obvious Alex points out that he's now an item with Adina as he greets everyone. The two are constantly together at the academy, it's no surprise. "Well congrats love birds." Vy comments with a smirk. Might as well be kind of nice tonight. She busies herself with sips of her beer as how everyone's doing floats around the table. Simply listening as she has no interest in sharing how awesome the female dorms are. A gentle lean given to her chair as she remains casual as usual. "Ditto," being the only thing said as she agrees to getting shit faced. Pretty much sums up her current desire.

Of course the very thing Vy would prefer to avoid gets brought up, the academy. Just thinking about it has her automatically rolling her eyes. It's only Friday, but in no time she'll have to return. It's a horrible feeling. "Peachy." There's a number of reasons why she doesn't want to get into details. the embarrassment and move to a chick room actually not being first. Most likely Kyanite has no clue what happened between Vy and Jeran, and it's probably best it stays that way.

"So, MAtthew, save me a dance for later on, right?" She gives me a look form those pretty brown eyes that almost makes me say yes but then I claim. "Only if it's a slow dance. That's all I can do."

"So, how's the academy? Anything interesting this week that I need to know about?"
I grin over at Vy and state.
"Vy and I got a few points through a spar."
I'm surprised she hasn't asked about that black eye that her friend gave me yet. Maybe it's become too normal by now.

Vy and me exchange a few glances because she claims she"s 'peachy'.
"Yeah?" I ask because I'm a little put off by the black eye she gave me that's reached it's peak at two days later now.
"How are your ribs and..oh..how are the new room mates?"
By now everybody heard about her near romp with Jeran and her visit to the shower when I was in there. The only one who doesn't is Ky and I can't wait to share the news.

Then I watch Tyren and Alex's conversation about the glasses. Tyren looks sophisticated but strange with them. I scratch my growing beard and have another drink of beer.
"Maybe you'll find someone who digs glasses..." I raise my brows and toast my friend thankful for the light mood of the afternoon.

Adina claims that the academy is getting tough but it's always been that way. "What do you mean?" I wonder.

Tyren's choice of music is completely different from mine. It's a soft but serious song. Desperate almost. I don't like it.

That's when Alex drops the bomb on us acting as if it was the most normal thing in the world to have a child at 18 cause the birthday I was invited to was their 18th.
He wants everybody not to judge them but how long have they been dating? Two months at the most. They're barely adults and are having a kid now?
I really don't know what to say to this other than. "Holy shit. Guess somebody other than Vy got busy at the academy."
oops, that just slipped out. I guess I can top that. "At least she's not jail bait anymore."

How has the Academy been? Complete walk in the park by far. Alright so that's a lie, or let's say sarcasm since that sounds better. Just one word sums up the amazing experiences Vy's had at that place. But for her to respond in any other way? Typical. Especially given this circumstance where certain information is needing to be held back. Ever realize the never ending cycle of secrets? Where once one is out in the open, another one comes quickly to replace it. And with the king of revealing secrets here -Matthew- there's no telling what's going to spark the truth. A dull answer from Vy doesn't mean he's going to hold back as well. Immediately her eyes dart over to him in an evil glare as he so kindly asks how her ribs are doing, and brings up her new dorm situation.

The new roommates. Leave it at that it's a miracle Vy has lasted this long within that horrible room. Identical to the boy's courters, the chicks have somehow still managed to leave their mark. Pinkness decorating the room as if a giant thing of bubblegum exploded in there. Let alone bringing up the fantastic personalities that designed the room. Least they're avoiding the reason for this punishment. Perhaps there is niceness within Matthew, unless he's waiting for a buildup for the big reveal at the end. "Fantastic." She answers with a much higher volume of sarcasm dripped from her voice. "And my ribs are like new. How are your bruises treating you?" Their spar has already been brought up anyways, though it wasn't really something to hold back. Seems like everyone here has had a round with everyone here. Not a big deal.

Someone here is actually capable of a straightforward conversation, giving a more honest approach on how the Academy's been. Looks like Alex has gotten himself a nice catch with Adina, smart and pretty, a rare combination. Is he like that to? How horrible that Vy's been in the academy for this long with them, and with Alex as one of her roommates nonetheless, yet she hardly knows anything about them. Just that seem like a cute couple with how often they isolate to just the two of them. Nothing about the training they've been through, or how they're taking it. The friendships have been sticking to the group that went camping, which is no surprise given that separates the smart-asses with the serious smart ones. Till now that is. Might as well give everyone a chance, and they don't seem half bad at all. Surprisingly there's similarities, which Vy notes though she stays quiet as the rest agree.

It's easy to assume that things shared in common would bring people together, not so much now though. This is suppose to be exciting news, and by their faces it is. As for Vy it only makes her casual grin sink to her usual tough expression. Arms crossing over her chest unconsciously as she decides to not comment. Kyanite on the other hand seems as ecstatic as they are. Sure, babies are precious and all, but having them at such a young age? She only knows from the single point of view though. Maybe them being in love and together in this will make a huge difference. It just still feels wrong, coming from her bias experience that is. Whatever has them smiling, right? They'll be faced with the difficulties soon enough.

With the attention completely off of her, her face grows even more stern as Matthew -once again- discovers a way to still bring up details that should stay hidden. Is his job revealing all of her crap or something? Because it seems to be his biggest talent lately. "Do you want another black eye?" Vy questions in return since it seems like that's what he's asking for. Can never get enough of a fight, huh? To make matters even better Kyanite goes on a roll of questions, obviously with no clue that the mystery man is her brother. "No." She answers instantly. As if she'd ever get dressed up for a man, or anyone for that matter. The toddler bribed her into the useless makeup, and the clothing is just typical Pub attire. "It's no one." An attempt is given though it's practically too late. Like Matthew's not going to blurt out who it is.

It's rude of them to go off of the big announcement. Even if they are young, it's something they're happy over. Who are they to deny them of this? Wanting to share their excitement over this new journey with some friends. "Yes, congrats guys." Vy tries her best to be sincere. Truthfully she wants to be happy for them, and she even is, just a bit envious over their situation. With no interest in baby conversation or the reveal of who she's been on and off with, she decides to excuse herself for a little. "Well I'm going to go have a smoke to celebrate for you guys." She jokes and goes to exit with the assumption no one else will be joining. One day everyone at that table will realize the value of quiet time, once they're all blessed with children of their own.

That's one thing that never crossed my mind.
That there are circumstances that will prevent you from becoming a peace keeper other than physical or mental inability. Like for Adina now that she’s pregnant. Three months. It must have happened on their first time because the academy course hasn’t been going for much more than three or four months and will soon be over.

"About the academy. It's got too hard as it is. It's not good for the baby.”
The two seem to have talked this through as they both share the same opinion.
I just nod and raise my brows. “That’s a pity but probably better. Beating each other up and crawling around in the mud might not be the best thing.”
"We're both going to drop out." Alex announces which has me puzzled. “Why?”

On top of that they want to keep their reason secret, which I don’t understand. Why would you need to name a reason at all?
“You’re not joining the military…why give a reason?” I bite my lip wondering whether I should have read the regulations more carefully.

I’m glad that his brother destroys Tyrens plan to drop out right when he voices it. Otherwise I’d have to. So he still wants to quit. Damn. I shoot him a glance and give him a slight kick under the table before I finish my beer.

Tyren seems to be done with this conversation as he decides to join Vy outside. When he’s gone I mention to Alex. “Didn’t know he’s smoking.” I wonder what else I don’t know abouzt my friend. There seems to be a lot of stuff going on that he doesn’t necessarily share with me.
Whilst I’m waiting for another drink Alex asks me and Kyanite what seems to be so important to them right now but has never been a topic for us.
"Have you two thought of settling down? I mean Matthew, you must know that you can't become a Peacekeeper with a girlfriend. It's not possible."
While Adina watches our reaction I gasp inaudibly. Why is he putting me on the spot like this? I mean, half a year ago I was still trying to hide the fact that we’re dating. Now it’s public but still really new to me. I’m slowly easing into the role of a boy friend but am far from perfect.
I cast a side glance at Kyanite wondering what her reaction to this question will be? Is she secretly wondering about this as well or does she think it’s a far fetched as I do?
“Settling down?” I ask him and then swirl around my empty glass to buy me some time.
“Er…bit early, I mean we’ve only been dating for maybe 7 months or a bit more. Ask me again in a year.”
I mean I don’t rule it out but I’m not there yet with my thoughts. Now that he brings it up I reach for Kyanites hand under the table to rub it.
“We haven’t really talked about it.” Hopefully she can say more to this.
Alex is a little too talkative today as he also stresses that PKs can’t have girl friends.
My eyes narrow because this is something we should have talked about but never did and which I simply like to ignore.
Another glance is cast at her when I add.
“Er...I’m just not going to put it in my file.” Maybe that can be a solution but if I get caught I’m screwed. There has to be another way.
“I think trainers here at the academy can.”

Not to be mean or rude Vy has to excuse herself from this conversation. Plus it's not every day she gets to enjoy a beer and a smoke. Talking about babies is not part of her interest though. She doesn't even have a baby, she has a toddler. And whenever she's not at the academy, she's having to deal with the precious terrible twos. Recapping to almost three years ago when she first discovered her own news is far from her definition of a fun night. Even if they're not bringing up her own story, she's unable to avoid thinking about it with the pregnancy chat going on. To make matters worse, now everyone wants to quit the academy over it. As if she didn't already have an entire list of why she should leave herself.

Fresh air and a little less talk is exactly what's needed, and she doesn't mind at all when one of them decides to join. Least it's not all of them, pretty sure she can't smoke around a pregnant person. Tyren's enjoyable company to, perhaps he'll have a better topic to bring to the table. "Hey." Vy greets when she realizes she hasn't been left to her own thoughts. This is surprisingly great, she didn't want to get stuck by herself anyways. Nothing good ever comes from that.

A cigarette's held in her mouth and before she even has a chance to search for her light, Tyren's offering up a flame. "Thanks." She actually responds with after the end of her cigarette comes to life. Kindness and manners have magically found a spot in her personality lately. Only towards the ones she's somehow managed to call friends. Leaning against the wall she enjoys her lovely combination of a beer and cig, and now some company.

"Little over two." Vy answers the simple question given her way. Guess all this baby talk has seeped out here as well. Anything can be changed and shifted though. "So why do you want to drop out, Uncle Ty?" She has to tease a little, especially since it seems like he's happy over this news. Why it has him wanting to drop is beyond her though, except for the obvious reasons that is. Subtly and curiously she decides to straightforwardly ask.

Kyanite shares my opinion about not thinking about settling down just yet, which I'm thankful for.
"Why settle down so fast? We've barely even gotten to know each other. I think we need more time to develope our relationship, you know? I don't want to just jump on the bandwagon. I want to enjoy it."
It's probably because we split once before and I pushed her away. Maybe also because of Jins, who knows. I think she needs to learn that she can relyon me just as much as I need to learn to be reliable.

Adina and Alex seem to agree on us not having to settle down comparing it with a bus trip which has me wrinking my forehead wondering what they mean.

As I tell them that I'm not going to tell people about my girl friend Alex objects.
"That's stupid, come on man. Make up your mind before they make it for you. These Peacekeepers don't mess around. They'll tear you apart. I don't want to see that."
Is Alex being sincere here? Does he care about my fate?
"Is that a tear in your eye, I see?" I smirk at him but as we get up I pat him on the shoulder.
"It's going to be fine. Don't worry about me. You made your choice. I make mine."
Another friendly slap is added to let him know I appreciate his friendly concern.

"We should all dance. The music is good... good company. Lets go, Lazybones. YOu two as well. You're not at the academy anymore. Loosen up."
Kyanite gets us all to stand up and I don't object. I've never dance with her but Max has. ITt's my turn now. After all she's my girl friend. Plus we need to show Adina that you don't have to settle down to be passionate.

As the music picks up it's beat I walk to the middle of the pub hand in hand with my girl friend and starts moving my feet to the music. I'm certainly not the world best dance but I'm okay. I can move my butt and shake my hips.
With a smirk I pull her closer and whisper.
"Is that a topic for your...what they said? Don't worry about the academy. I'll be fine."
I'm not sure how but as long as nobody tells and there's no ring on her finger, what can go wrong? I'm just going for the first test now.