Also speacial thanks to Mutt as always, Dawn, Kat, Crys, Sue, MC, Em, KatySnail, Mel and CK. <wink> Hugs and stuff to you all.

<Disclaimer - Potty mouth alert. These teenage characters kinda need their mouths washing out with soap...or perhaps even bleach. Heh. What can I say? They're slightly pissed off with all the angsty crap I've put them through. <grin>

Feedback - Yes pweeze. <eager grin> Snap_0101@hotmail.com

God I'm frigging knackered. Raven crossed her weary arms behind her head, listening attentively as Phil's noisy footsteps clomped up the staircase in his mother's cosy little house. Coach Redburn sure didn't let me cut any corners round that track this afternoon. What a bitch. Hmm, at least I didn't get stuck with Ms.Keeny instead, I'd sooner run a thousand miles than be stuck in a room with that lecherous weirdo.

Talking about Phil's Mom...Raven shivered. The whirl wind of a woman had stormed into the room catching Raven by surprise. It's lucky I can move quick, the dark haired girl grumbled. Otherwise I would have been caught and chucked out on ma rear. As soon as the dark haired girl had realised that it wasn't Phil entering the room, Raven had hurriedly jumped into Phil's closet.

Raven calmly looked up as Phil strutted into his bedroom like a prize stud, putting her thoughts away for the moment. Jesus, you'd think he was king of the hill the way he's parading around. Snickering softly, Raven nodded her tired head in welcome at the merry geek.

Kicking at his carpeted floor, Phil hopped over to his bed and sat down, giving Raven a pitying look. " I'm sorry, I was just kinda excited...I know that today wasn't so hot for you what with Nik and...."

" A good day for you as well...But?" Phil took his glasses off, rubbing them clean on his sweater before perching them back on his slightly crooked nose. " But I thought that, you know, what with...you know, what happened this morning and then you got into trouble over smashing that door to pieces." Phil stared in puzzlement at his friend, curiosity running rampant through his mind." By the way, what did happen to you after Redburn carted you away? I thought for sure that after all of today's fiasco that you would have been in real bad mood. So c'mon, spill it. What happened?"

" Great? Huh?!" Phil scratched the side of his head. Women are confusing. Nicky kisses Brad, Raven smashes a door, Rae gets carted off to the principal's office....and now Raven's happy?" C'mon, there's got to be more to it than that!"

" Treat?" Phil blinked twice. Women are also rather weird.

" Okayyyyy." Phil drawled, standing up to pull his jacket off, tossing it onto a near by chair. Someday, it may be a long time from now, but someday Raven Vlade will actually make sense." So tell me about this treat. What did it involve?" Phil turned around to face his extremely smug looking friend. Must have been good to get her to grin like that! Talk about the cat getting the cream.

Phil frowned, kicking his own shoes off. " Guess? Hmmm." What could possibly make Rae grin that much? Phil ran a hand through his tangled mud brown hair. Ok, hmm, think about it. Nicky's just the obvious answer to making Rae happy..but there's no way that the two of them could have..... Hold on! Phil cocked his head to the side, staring at Raven as his jaw swung open. Last time I saw Nicky she was being lead off to...to..... Greener's office! Gulping, Phil bounded back over to his friend. " You don't say....it can't have been..you were in Greener's office.... did you and Nicky...!?"

" Oh...oh my!" Phil said, shock not stopping him from grinning right along with his friend." Again? You two bumped monkeys again?"

" In the Principal's office?" Phil gasped.

Phil grinned." You are a God!" Shit, wish I could get up to half the stuff she does! Then again, I've got my Penny now...sooooo, who knows what might happen! Goody, goody gumdrops! I might turn out to be a stud like Rae! Oh yeah! Great stuff!

" Yeah, you think so?" Raven smirked. Yeah, I don't feel too bad right now. Being with Nicky certainly brightens up my day...especially in THAT way! Yee ha! Pant, pant, pant. " Hey, what about you?" Raven asked, fluffing the pillow up behind her."Seems like you've done well for yourself. I heard your Mom screech and holler excitedly about something, so c'mon, spill it Philly Boy."

Raven smiled, encouraging Phil to continue. Cool. I'd like to see him end up with someone as nice as Penny.

" And she said yes, right?" Raven interrupted, confident in her answer.

" Nah! Shurrup Phil!" Raven scoffed, holding a hand up to silence the gushing boy." It had sod all to do with me and you know it. Penny fancies the socks off you Philly." Raven reached over and punched the scrawny boy on the shoulder." I knew you could do it. Told ya she'd find you irresistible."

" Ahhh, don't be silly Phil, there's nothin' wrong wid you. So have ya decided what you're gonna wear to this Dance?" Rae asked, twiddling her thumbs slightly. Raven froze suddenly, halting her motions as she cocked her head to the side.

" Nah, I told my mom I'd be taking a girl to the Dance and she said she'd get me dressed and make sure I was clean and scrubed up...." Phil glared over towards the now snickering girl on his bed." What's wrong with that? My Mom always picks my clothes and.." Phil scowled at Raven." You're just jealous because your Mom doesn't do that stuff for you and...and..."

Raven remained silent, continuing to sit casually on Phil bed. Ohhh, that hurt Phil. Shaking her head, the dark haired girl propped her face up with a sneering smile.

Phil blushed, his lean face glowing red. " Rae, I didn't mean it to sound like that. About your Mom I mean. I know that..."

" I....erm.." Time to panic Phil!

Phil walked cautiously back over to the dark haired girl and wrapped a consoling arm around her.

Raven sighed, trying as subtly as possible to shirk off Phil's touch. No offence pal, but enough with the touchy-touchy thing. Choosing to simply stand up and pick her jacket up, Raven smiled at her friend, hoping to ease his apprehension. There! That wasn't so hard to do was it Rae? Maybe you should apologise more often?

Grinning like a mad rabbit at the height of mating season, Raven pounced on her friend, whacking him solidly on the back of his head.

" Hehehe! Run Philly, run Philly, run, run, run!" Raven snickered wickedly, whacking the squealing boy harder. " Round one to me! Get up you wimp!"

" Wench?" Raven growled, stalking closer to the slightly panicking Phil. " Did you just call me a wench?"

" Argghh!" Raven yelled, launching her leab form at the slender boy." No one calls me a wench and lives to tell the tale. Prepare for battle Philly."

Raven raised her cushion, her brow arching with superiority." Then let the battle commence. To the winner the spoils!"

The woman sighed happily, her head titling to the side with a dreamy expression lodged on her portly face. She had known right from the start that Phil's 'girl' had been staying with him in his room. She wasn't senile or stupid for that matter. Wish they'd just tell me the truth, that they're 'together' that way, Phil knows I can't wait for him to settle down.....age be damned. 17 is old enough to get married. I can't wait!

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" Yo Nik, how's it going babe?" Stacy called to her friend, grinning as the small blonde trotted towards her. The red head glanced past Nicky, to the head cheerleader's boyfriend who was now speeding off in his car like a bat out of hell. Raising an eyebrow, the red head pursed her lips." You and Brad still talkin'?"

Stacy shrugged her shoulders. How could she tell her friend that she didn't like to be in the house without her if Daniel Mayfair was there. That guy is just plain old mean and I ain't gonna be the target of all that anal aggression. Nooo way. Taking the blonde girl's hand with her own Stacy leant into her friend and sighed wistfully.

Nicky bit her lip and closed her eyes, giving her friend a hug. " Something like that."

Nicky gave her friend a final squeeze before leaning back. Hmmm, time to shift the subject methinks before Stacy starts pressing for more information about this 'trailer trash' dude.

" Hmm, so..." Nicky's green eyes scrunched up, trying to think of a different category to switch to." Hey!" Green eyes sparkled as a gleeful thought entered her head." Did you see Philip Rogers this afternoon? You know with...."

" Really?" Nicky grinned, tilting her head as she imagined the cute if somewhat unusual couple the two of them made. No more unusual than you and Rae though, huh Nik?

" Stace!" Nicky chastised, swatting her friend on the arm.

" Stacy!" Nicky narrowed her eyes and raised an eyebrow. Yeah, this should intimidate my red dragon of a friend, Rae does it and she always looks cool. Hmm, why do I get the impression that no one but Rae can pull it off properly?

" My face?" Nicky added a frown to her image. Oh yeah, shiver in fear Stace.

" Convulsions?!" Nicky said indignantly, dropping the struggling raised brow in favour for plain old simple glaring." I'll have you know that I was intimidating you for saying those nasty things about poor Penny."

Nicky choked on her next words, coughing as her mind processed what Stacy had just said. Too late Stace, already been to Rae for lessons and they were miiiighty fine thank ye very much!

" Swallow? Down the wrong way???!" Nicky gasped. Go down the wrong way? Not a chance in hell! A sudden vivid image of Raven spreading her legs open and flicking her tongue across her open folds ran through the steadily blushing teenager's mind." I errr...no."

" Good!" Stacy beamed." Wouldn't want you to have a mishap just mere hours away from this dance. It's gonna be great!"

" Hey." Stacy murmured, a thoughtful expression passing over her sly fox like features. " Do you reckon Raven'll have a date to the Dance?!"

" Can you just imagine it?" Stacy beamed, her mind working 100,000, miles a minute." Which guy would actually have the balls to bring Raven Vlade in on their arm?"

" I mean, it's not as if they wouldn't want to bring her to the Dance." Stacy continued, reaching over to her hand bag to rifle for her lip gloss." I've heard those boys talk about her, all over the school. I must say she is totally gorgeous though." Stacy admitted reluctantly.

" I've heard it all from the side lines during practice, the way they talk about her every time she passes by on the running track in her short sport skirt," Ah-ha! Stacy pulled out her elusive lip gloss and paused a second to apply it." Bet more than a few have came away with a boner in their pants."

" Hehe. You should have stayed behind after school like the rest of us. Me and Donna and May watched her circle that track a million times over. She's fast, I'll give her that. Bet those long legs of hers come in use fer more than just running as well." Stacy clipped the lid back on top of her gloss and threw it idly back in her bag." That girl has stamina. What I wouldn't give to have thighs like that!"

" Huh?" Stacy cocked her head to the side and regarded her friend's miserable countenance. What's up with her?

Stacy nodded her head, unsure what to make of her friend when she was acting this weird. Then again Stace, remember she's probably emotional right now, you know, with the new guy in her life." Yeah, impressive."

" Sooooo, are we gonna get a move on or what?" Stacy demanded, nudging her friend with her shoulder." I'm getting my shower first, no arguing!" Stacy asserted, grinning and putting a finger to Nicky's lips halting any complaints.

" Let's go then!" Stacy practically screamed, shaking her flaming head of hair with excitement shining from her face.

" Ok, I'm a-coming Stace." Nicky grinned, enjoying her friend's jubilant behaviour.

Nicky's grin grew as Stacy wrapped her short arms around her trim waist, hugging her tight.

Nicky took her friend's hand and lead her into the large house, both girls skipping excitedly up the grand stair case, oblivious to the worried gaze of Joan Mayfair.

" They love each other!?" Joan whispered frantically to herself, shaking hands pulling at greying hair. Granted, she felt low as a dog peeking out of the curtains to spy on her own daughter, but now the evidence was all there. Nicky stayed at Stacy's. Nicky had a HUGE love bite on her neck the next morning. And the girls always openly and repeatedly embraced each other...

" And they told each other that they love one another. Oh dear, oh...oh dear." Joan sank into a near by chair holding her head in her hands, a feeling of overwhelming confusion and desolation flooding her as she heard her youngest daughter's bedroom door slam shut." My daughter's gay. She's having an affair with her best friend. What on earth am I going to do?"

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" Ohhh! My baby boy! All grown up!" Mrs.Rogers gushed, partially sobbing as she embraced her only child with both of her arms." My oh my, you're getting such a big boy! Just look at you, such a strapping young man!"

I'll give that woman one thing, she sure does love her kid. Feeling suddenly self conscious, Raven looked down at her own out-fit. Wonder if Nicky'll approve? Raven's hands ran over the deep blue silk shirt she was wearing. Ahhh, dammit. Who gives a damn what that little cheerleader thinks? It's not as if I'M the one that's gonna be picking her up, now is it? Raven shoved her hands into the pockets of her black Levi's.

" Shush now my baby boy. Let your momma have a good long look at you." Mrs.Rogers grabbed hold of her son's slender shoulders and spun him around, admiring his lilac tuxedo and white ruffled shirt that had once belonged to his rather effeminate uncle Hank.

Mrs.Rogers clasped her hands together in delight. " My oh my, yes you do indeed!" The short woman's eyes flickered to the tall, incredibly beautiful girl fidgeting on the top of the stairs. Oh, what a handsome pair they make! " Come down here my dear!"

" Hey Mrs.Rogers." Raven said politely, smiling at the shorter woman.

Raven and Phil both noticed the frown on his Mom's face, waiting for her to continue.

Small hands curled uncomfortably around a peach coloured apron." But my dear, I wish you had come to me....to help you pick a dress out."

" A dress?!" Raven repeated, a horrified look on her smooth face.

" But..." Raven tried backing away from the excited woman, her eyes seeking Phil for help. Reign in your Mom...now!

" Hmmm. Yup. I do believe that you would look particularly delightful in a pink satin."

" Yes...yes." Mrs.Roger's hands sneaked towards the retreating girl who was desperately shrinking backwards against the wall." A touch of lace at the neck line would be perfect."

Phil grinned. That's the highest I've ever heard Rae's voice go...and damn it sounded painful! Hehe. Better go rescue the damsel in distress again.

"Penny?" Mrs.Rogers said in confusion, taking a step back from her future daughter-in-law to go answer the front door." Who on earth is Penny?"

" Philip?" Mrs.Rogers whispered as looked curiously towards her giddily hopping son." Who's Penny?"

" Two dates?" The short woman pressed one palm to her flushed face, the other hand shaking slightly as she reached for the lock on the door. My baby boy's become a stud! Two dates! In one night..at the same time!

" Come in, come in my dear!" She gushed happily. Her little family was going to be growing soon enough.

Nodding sagely to herself, Mrs.Rogers practically skipped to the kitchen, calling back over her shoulder to the youngsters." I've got some nice hot cocoa of anyone's up for some? Lovely delicious marshmallows as well. Who's game?"

" Nope. None fer me." Raven muttered, patting her stomach. Don't think I could handle it right now. You're not...nervous are you Rae? Raven clenched her jaw determined to convince herself otherwise. Hell no! Nervous over what?

Mrs.Rogers nodded once more and hopped into the cluttered kitchen, humming a merry tune.

" Umm hmmmm." Phil continued to gaze at Penny, a goofy expression on his clean shaven face.

" Erm...listen." Raven took a hand out of her pockets and scratched the back of her neck uncomfortably. These two need to be alone. Like now.

" I'm just gonna...head on over to the school now. Ok? I'll meet you there." Raven edged her way towards the front door, her eyes darting to the kitchen hoping to God that Phil's mother would not reappear and make her stay. Not that I would stay just because some silly bossy woman told me to. Raven nodded to herself. Yeah and who're you trying to convince Rae ya bloody wuss?

" What?"

" I thought you were coming with us Rae?" Phil pleaded, his eyes now searching Raven's.

" Listen Philly, I don't mean to be funny with you or anything but I really don't like being the third wheel if ya know what I mean?" Raven nodded towards Penny who was standing there looking like a little porcelain doll in all her frills. I don't want to spoil this for them, they deserve to have a good time without me and the trouble that follows me bothering them.

" No, we don't mind Rae. We'd love to have you with us." Penny added hastily, stepping cautiously towards the beautiful girl. How could any girl so gorgeous be gay? She could have any man she wanted. It just doesn't make sense. Penny sighed, trying to smile for Phil's sake.

" You're sure?" Phil walked Raven to the door, passing her leather jacket to her.

" Oh." Phil sighed, breathing in the tall girl's exotic fragrance. It's so easy to love her.

Penny walked up behind her date and put a comforting arm around his waist, squeezing slightly in reassurance." She's right Phil, you shouldn't worry about her, she can take care of herself."

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

"Ok. Ok Carl, this is it! Are we in for a night of fucking or are we in for a night of fucking?!"

"Ouch! Shit man! Careful! I could have strained something!" Carl rubbed at his neck, glaring at the grinning blonde boy angrily.

" Jesus, calm down man." Carl shook his head." Anyone'd think you'd never gotten any dude."

"Yeah, whatever Carl. I can have whatever I want when I want it." Brad scowled at his smirking friend.

Brad flipped down his mirror and posed for himself, grinning at the handsome image that greeted him. Oh yeah Nicky, I'm gonna show you what a real man is made of. 

" Yeah and the sooner we get into their pants, huh pal?" Brad snickered, patting his blaser pocket where a pack of condoms sat in preparation for the big night.

" Wow." Carl gawped, straightening his jacket.

Carl nodded as the two of them walked up the steps to the porch, impressed at the opulence that greeted his eyes. Turning to stare at his friend, Carl motioned with his hand for Brad to do the honours of knocking on the front door.

" I've been waiting for this moment for ages Carl." Brad smiled, his perfectly perfect teeth glinting against the illuminated gold tinted lamp over head. With that, the cocky teenager reached over and knocked on the white door, standing back slightly in anticipation. Nicky, Nicky, Nicky. Tonight is our night.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" Nicky sweetheart!" Joan Mayfair called anxiously up the stairs for her daughter. She was afraid of walking up there to find the two girls....being more than just friendly with one another." The boys are at the door."

" Oh for God's sake Nicky SIT STILL!" Stacy growled. The little red head was all frantic motion as she whizzed around the room, picking up scattered pins to hold Nicky's hair-do into place." Uhmmhummm...there! All done!"

Nicky grinned at her friend, leaning over to look at her reflection in the mirror. Hmm, not bad. Not bad at all Nik.

" You look lovely Nik, you really do." The red head sighed and tilted her head to the side as she regarded her best friend. Wish I was like that, like her. Always looking so pretty no matter what she does." You all nervous?"

" Well....what if Brad tries something on tonight. You know, what if he expects a certain something from you." Stacy's eyebrows waggled, crossing one leg over the other in a prim posture.

" Nik!" Stacy screeched, quickly jumping off Nicky's bed and dipping her hand into her own purse in search for some lip gloss." You're wiping all the lip stick away! Urggh! Really!"

" But nothing, stay still while I re-apply. Don't worry, this damage can be rectified..this time." Stacy shot Nicky a disgruntled look, ignoring the evil little grin she got in return.

" You done yet?" Nicky complained. Sheesh, Stace is worse than Monica and Mom!

" Ahh shit." Nicky cursed, wandering worriedly back over to the mirror and tilting her head to the side." Maybe I should have worn my hair down? Then it would cover it more? Is it visible? Stacy?"

" Of course you can't see it Nik! I mean c'mon, remember who you've had helping you cover the bugger up." Stacy raised her head proudly and adopted a smug look on her face.

" Yes. Now stop asking Nik. C'mon, lets get a move on. Our guys are waiting downstairs."

Stacy walked with her friend arm in arm towards the bedroom door, a sceptical look on her pixie like face.

Nicky paused and turned to look at her friend, a serious expression on her pretty young features." He better had respect my wishes or he won't like the result Stace."

" Stacy, lets just see what happens yeah?" The blonde cheerleader opened the door an strode out with her friend, squeezing the red head's hand in return." I'm not looking for trouble Stace, I know you'll always be there for me." Please, please, please be there for me when the truth gets out about me and Rae. And I KNOW the truth will eventually come out." That's why I love you Stace. You're the best friend a girl could have."

Nicky looked up to see her mother standing at the top of the grand staircase, looking rather uncomfortable as she stared back at them.

" I-I...errr, no I'm fine darling, just fine." Joan's eyes flickered back and forth between the two girls. Uh-oh. That's twice I've heard them declare their love to each other! Daniel will kill Nicky if he finds out!

Joan placed a smile on her face. I can deal with this. I can. Taking a deep breath and shaking her youngest daughter's hands off her, she gestured towards the stairs.

" Is it me or is everyone acting peculiar?" Nicky muttered to Stacy, who in turn was raising an inquisitive eyebrow.

Nicky rolled her eyes skywards. God give me strength. I'm going to need it tonight.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" Well this is just great." Raven mumbled to herself, watching from the corner she was residing in as several teenage couples entered the double doors at the front of the gym.

" Impressive." Raven snickered sarcastically to herself, immediately reaching in her back pocket for her nifty little whisky flask that she had tucked away." Ahhh, I knew I'd be needing you." Whisking the top off, the dark haired girl took a nice long swig of the liquid inside, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand." Ahh, needed that."

" Vlade. Raven Vlade. Didn't think I'd be seeing you here." A smug voice interrupted the tall girl's dark thoughts.

" Yeah well I am here. So what about it? I ain't bothering you or no one so just leave me alone." Raven turned her back to the annoying teacher, determined to ignore her.

" Ask me if I give a flying fuck whether I'm being polite to you or not Ms.Keeny. You earned me extra hours at school doing a load of crap for you. I ain't exactly gonna get all warm and fuzzy with you now, am I?" Raven's voice was calm and indifferent as she once again turned away from her teacher's garishly made up face.

Raven raised one brow, a despondent careless shrug showing Kenny that she didn't much care about either inquiry.

Keeny's eyes widened in surprise. Shit! I don't want her to go! Damn! The art teacher hastily stood infront of Raven, pushing her back with one hand.

" Why'd you care so much?" Raven muttered darkly, stepping back away from Keeny's clinging claws. You know why Rae, because for some strange reason if given the chance this chick would get into your pants faster than a farmer would lunge for cover if cows with diarrhoea were flying overhead.

Feeling Coach Redburn's blazing gaze levelling on her, Raven simply nodded at her art teacher and accepted. What can it hurt? You know you can't leave until you see Nicky you idiot, so you might as well stay for the free ride courtesy of Ms.Keeny.

" What?"

Raven growled angrily as Keeny's hand sneaked inside of her jacket, pulling out her handy little flask.

" Fuck." Raven grumbled. If this is any indication of how the night is going to go then I'd be best heading off back to Phil's right now! Urgggh!

" Ms.Kenny!"

" Whoops. Time to go." Ms.Keeny winked lewdly at the younger woman, licking her scarlet tinted lips before walking off and calling over her shoulder." Try not to miss me too much."

The dark haired girl was just about to storm off out of the dance hall in a disgruntled huff when she spied Phil and Penny walking through the front doors.

" Hey Philip, there's Raven!" Penny gushed, seeing the tall girl stride confidently towards them, the throng of teenagers parting to let the now notorious girl through.

Wow. She really is gorgeous. Feeling Penny grab onto his arm, Phil's gaze guiltily dropped to the floor for a second. C'mon Phil! There's nothing wrong with appreciating beauty when you're faced with looking at Raven everyday of your life. Lifting his eyes back up, Phil sent Penny a gentle smile before greeting Raven with a cautious hug.

" Swinging?" Raven smirked, causing the boy to blush." Erm, if you say so Phil."

Raven's glared towards Ms.Keeny, then back to the clueless duo who were regarding her with interest." Ahhh, nuthin' much. Ms.Keeny's just being a pest."

Raven ignored Penny's puzzled gaze, trying to silently reassure her best friend that Ms.Keeny was just being a pest in general, not trying to rape her or anything...yet.

" The happy flask?" Penny was still puzzled. Why do I always get the feeling that I'm missing something here? That I'm not getting all of the conversation? The petite brunette's curly head glanced nervously between the two friends. Definitely silent communication going on here. Jealous? Perhaps so.

Raven raised both brows as the chubby girl continued to stare at her. What's her problem?

" Nah. I'm just gonna talk wid Rae for a while." Phil answered, concern marring his young features. Have I done something wrong? Maybe she doesn't really want to be here with me? Phil frowned. Then why would she be here with you in the first place doofus!?

" What's wrong with her?" Phil wondered, looking questioningly at his friend.

" But we weren't leaving her out. Were we?" Phil's eyes darted back to where Penny had disappeared. Shit! Hope I haven't screwed things up with her already!

" And did you?"

" Pay yourself in, I know for a fact you never had a ticket Raven." Phil stared expectantly at Raven's sneakily grinning features, her innocent expression melting under the pressure of the devilish one that eagerly replaced it.

Phil simply shook his head, his darkening sandy brown hair falling into scruffy disarray.

Raven chuckled, bringing a hand up to her mouth to cover the huge grin and flashing dimples that had appeared.

" Might not be such a bad thing Rae." Phil sighed, kicking at the floor.

Phil scratched his forehead in consternation." I didn't mean nuthin' nasty by it, just if you see Brad and Nicky it might be better if you're sober Rae. You know, act rationally..."

Phil's nose twitched, his gaze vague as he shrugged his shoulders." Dunno."

Raven and Phil stared at the rushing pupils and then looked curiously towards one another. That's got to be them. Looks like the 'in' crowd just arrived.

" It's only me Philip." Penny said quietly, unsure of whether she should have come back so soon. Phil and Rae seemed to be in a deep conversation. Maybe I should just go." Do you want me to wait for you over there?" A small plump finger pointed to a spot on the far side, well away from Raven's little isolated refuge.

" Really?" Penny glanced up at Phil through her eyelashes, hope glinting slightly in their gentle depths.

" Yes!" Penny squealed with excitement, practically beaming with delight. This is more like it, she thought as she snuggled into Phil's gangly arms.

Raven heard her friend's voice and nodded slightly, strands of silky onyx hair dropping into clear blue eyes, hiding their intent." Go ahead. I'll be fine." Raven said, distracted. Where is she? Raven's heart was beating so fast she was sure that she was going to have a heart-attack.

" Yeah. Later." Raven mumbled in a thoroughly preoccupied manner. Dammit people get outta ma way! The tall girl cursed silently to herself, mentally shoving students who were blocking her view aside. Where is she? Where is she...where....

Raven didn't dare close her eyes, a small smile lifting the corners of her mouth as she covertly watched Nicole Mayfair, the pride and joy of Thursville walk gracefully into the interior of the school hall.

Raven's left eyebrow quirked, the dark haired girl licking her bottom lip as she stared intently at the blonde girl's slim calves, moving on up past the cheerleaders knees to the point where the hem of the dress covered the rest of Nicky's firmly tanned thighs. Hot in here...hot, hot, hot. Raven gulped as she felt a bead of sweat roll down the back of her neck, causing her to shake out her stiffened shoulders.

" Motherfucker." Raven hissed, anger radiating clearing from her tense profile, the unblemished skin on her forehead wrinkling as she ground her teeth together, jealousy tearing through her body faster and as equally devastating as a pure strike of lightning.

" Fuck this!" Raven growled, turning away from the sight of her girl with Brad Maitland. My girl? Yeah, right. Curling her fists up into balls of abject frustration, the angry girl shrunk back further into her corner not daring to look over in the happy couple's direction lest her temper brake. Why bother Rae? Why bother?

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" Brad can you stop squeezing so hard? I can't breathe!"

" Babe? Don't you wanna be as close to me as possible?" Brad whispered, disregarding Nicky's request, squishing the petite blonde to him even more.

" Hmm." Nicky's answered ambiguously. I can't believe I've been going out with this guy for as long as I have!

" D-dance?" Nicky muttered." I erm...." No! Not with you anyway!

" Over there, huh? Ok." Brad easily agreed. Don't bother me none, not that fond of dancing anyways, dancing is for puffs. But I must admit, it IS a good way to get close to the girls and cop a feel.

Both football players groaned as if in pain.

" Yeah," Brad agreed, trying to wrap himself around Nicky again." All I need to know is that MY babe is looking gorgeous for me, don't care what all the other losers are wearing."

" Tough titty gentlemen, me and the Nickster here have an appointment with fashion." Neither boy appeared ready to argue with the little spitfire." Carl go get us some refreshment. Then come on over, I expect you by my side in approximately 20 minutes. See you then ok boys?"

Brad just remained silent, shooting Nicky an inquisitive glance before stumbling off after Carl.

" Men." Stacy chuckled, shaking her head. Whoa, less head movement. A small bejewelled hand reached up to pat the elaborate flaming red curls. Don't want to spoil the hair-do now do we?

Keeping hold of Nicky's soft hand, Stacy's curious eyes sought those of her best friend's as they trotted their way through the crowd of students, ignoring the coos of admiration sent in their direction.

Nicky sighed, her eyes turning downwards to the floor." Stace, I don't know...I.."

" I am here with him." Nicky said, puzzled at her friend's line of questioning. Yeah, you are here with Brad, so at least ACT like it. Got to belong, got to be one of the popular crowd. Daddy says..... Daddy says......Nicky sighed again, her shoulders slumping. I just want Rae.

" Trailer trash." Raven, Raven, Raven. Nicky's forehead furrowed. Get OUT of my head Raven! Damn you! I NEED to be normal! At least for tonight.

Nicky stopped walking and ripped her hand away from Stacy as though she'd just been burned." What!?!?" In love? Me!? No way! No! Nooo nooo nooooooooooo!

" I...Stace...I..." I can't be in love with Raven...can I? An image of Raven's quirkily smiling face passed through her mind, her penetrating blue eyes, her long, thick onyx hair, those sharp angular cheekbones that any model would die for. Nicky felt her heart flutter, her pulse quicken. Damn, my arms feel so empty not being able to hold her. How does she do this to me?! I just have to think of her and I'm a fucking mess! Nicky shook her head gently, a small smile on her lips. Plus my language is getting worse. Potty mouth must be catching. 

Nicky shook her head, trying to clear out the visions of Raven, the memory of having the dark brooding girl touching her, inside of her.....Nicky closed her eyes and bit her lip as her heart thumped steadily with excitement. Hmmmm.... moving together. Green eyes blinked open. Arrrgh! Dammit Rae!

" Can't repeat it." Stacy muttered." They'll hear us." Stacy strolled on over to the group of popular girls who were thoroughly enjoying themselves discussing and criticising every other girl's attire.

" Hey!"

" Great dress Nicky!"

" You think?" Nicky ran her hands down the smooth silky emerald material that clung flatteringly to her curves.

Nicky's smile stiffened slightly. Shit, we really are going to talk about frigging fashion aren't we? Urggh. Where's Raven and Phil when you want to talk about inane subjects?

" I think they look a bit tacky myself." Maria piped up, looking over the rim of her punch glass.

Nicky snarled briefly in Maria's direction before dismissing her totally. I'll not be letting her ruin my night, even though I seem to be doing a mighty good job of that myself without any help from her. Come on Nicky girl! You can do this, you've been playing this role all your life, just slip back into it.

Maria continued to glare at the superior acting blonde girl, wishing she could scratch her eyes out, especially after the fiasco that happened in the cafeteria. Glancing briefly past the head cheerleader, something decidedly pink caught Maria's critical eye.

Every girl in the cheerleader entourage turn to look at the so called monstrosity stumbling across the dance floor. Oh dear, Nicky thought as she regarded the awkward, but never the less obliviously happy couple plodding their way around the room. Phil and Penny. Nicky's eyes left the geeky couple, her eyes once more searching for her dark lover. Raven. Where are you?

Nicky bit her lip and screwed her face up. Ignore the bitchiness....ignore it. You've heard it all before Nik, just let it go.

Stacy was grinning to herself, but caught herself from joining in and responding nastily when she caught the look of anger flit across Nicky's prettily flushed face. Uh-oh.

" Whatever?" Maria's sly brown eyes regarded the red head with disbelief." Yer kidding right?! Shit, that fucking Penny what-do-you-ma-call-her looks like a frigging neon wobby jobbly jello gone wrong! And as for that ugly little dweeb that's escorting her, he's wearing a purple tuxedo. Purple for Gods sake!"

Nicky frowned at her 'friends'. This is so bloody unreal! May and Donna were snickering softly, Maria was gloating, enjoying the brief feeling of power that always came along with putting someone else down...and Stacy. Stacy was trying her best not to join in and make fun of the clumsy couple. Why!? What's the frigging point of making fun of Penny and Phil? What have they done to harm any of the cheerleaders?

Maria raised a sceptical dark brow at the blonde cheerleader, a malicious intent in her snide tone." You're not above us Nicky, you needn't pull this holier-than-thou routine. You're just like us and you know it."

" Not like us?" Maria saw a chance to knock the little princess off her pedestal for a moment. The slim brunette swayed her way over to Nicky, stopping within inches of the apparently flawless young blonde girl. Bitch. Maria's eyes scanned Nicky's face for any sign of blemish and was beyond frustrated when she was unable to find any. Dammit, how does she keep her skin so clear?" Hear that girls?" Maria said loud enough for even the hangers-on to hear." Seems like our dear little leader is ashamed to be known as one of us."

" That is NOT what I said! Stop twisting my words Maria." Nicky exclaimed defensively, her eyes searching around the group for their reaction.

" I...I don't run off." Nicky defended herself, her eyes going to Stacy for help.

" Hmmm, is that so?" The conniving blonde turned to the silent red head." So Stace, how much time have you been spending with Nik lately? I mean, like, the two of you are usually joined at the hip, but I've seen you wander around without Nicky dear here..isn't that true?"

" Really?" Maria sneered nastily." Is that why you've spent the last week hanging on Carl's arm and roughing it with us." Maria motioned towards herself, May and Donna." C'mon, tell the truth, Nicky's dumping you in favour of Raven Vlade."

" It's not like that..." Stacy began, trying to bury her insecurities that Nicky had indeed found a new best friend. Stace, you know that can't be true! Me and Nik have been pals since we were knee high to a grasshopper. Stacy turned to her long time friend and was unable to say anything to comfort her. It WAS true that Nicky had distanced herself from the crowd...and the one person she seemed to be always following was Raven Vlade. Maybe she was just being friendly with Raven so that the tall girl could introduce her to the dude she's banging? Yeah! That's gotta be it!

" Listen, if that's the way you feel then maybe I should just go. I'm fed up with your attitude." Nicky sighed heavily. Sod this. I'm not putting up with their empty accusations. Hmm, but Nicky, are they really so empty? Think about it, who would you rather be with now; your cheerleaders or tall, dark and moody?

Several of her cheerleaders immediately responded.

" No!"

" Nicky, don't say that."

" Huh?" Maria said in disbelief, sending the rebellious girls a sharp glance." Do you really want our team captain to be someone who is ashamed to be seen with us?"

" Yeah but..." Maria floundered. Noooo! What's going on here? Why can't they just realise that she isn't so fucking perfect?! The infuriated brunette was steadily doing serious damage to her slinky black dress, her fingers curling like talonous claws in the delicate material. It's not fair! Nothing ever goes my way!

" What a load of shit!" Maria hissed, her slim shoulders hunched defiantly.

" Hey babe, miss me?" Brad interrupted, sliding his hand around Nicky's trim waist, placing a kiss on her flushed cheek." Howdy girls." The smug footballer winked at the irate cheerleaders who were muttering amongst themselves.

" Just a slight disagreement." Nicky murmured, consciously trying her best to stand still and not to squirm away from Brad's clinging arms.

" Ahhhh, not more frigging arguing." Carl grumbled, his voice indicating his irritation. The captain of the football team reached over and grabbed Stacy's small hand in his own, dragging her away." C'mon sugar-lips, me and you are going to boogey."

Nicky watched with a small smile to her face. Come on Nik, liven up. This is a dance...so be happy, smile...that's it! You can do it! A painfully small smile lodged on the blonde cheerleaders lips.

Yeah, like you'd know. Not. Nicky winced slightly, fighting the urge to move away. Just stay still, you can pull this off. Brad continued to chew at her ear and neck, the rest of the group, including a highly pissed off Maria, apparently forgotten about. Ewww! Nicky cringed a glop of spittle slimed down her neck, left behind by a very pleased Brad. Ewww, Ewww, EWWWWWWWW!

Brad opened his eyes with disappointment. Nicky took one look at Brad's expression and panicked.

" I erm...wanna dance? Lets dance!" With that the petite blonde grabbed Brad's large hand and pulled him towards the dance floor.

Nicky walked through the bustling students and stood ready at the edge of the dance floor, waiting for Brad to take the initiative. Glancing at the closely packed, shuffling partners, Nicky suddenly realised that perhaps having Brad draped all over her in these close confines wasn't the best plan she'd ever devised. Oh crap, the head cheerleader thought as Brad smuzzied on up to her again, wrapping his arms around her. This was definitely not a good idea at all.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" What the hell are you staring at Rachel?" Coach Redburn grumbled, glaring out into the room, her beady eyes tauntingly making contact with any student that dared to look her way. Gotta keep the fear factor going. Fear is power.

Hmmm, that girl makes my blood boil! Keeny squeezed her eyes shut and crushed her thighs together to control the wave of lust that was gathering inside of her as she purposefully ignored the Coach's constant yammering and steady complaints about the student body as a whole.

" Are you listening to me?" Coach Redburn grumbled, staring at the attractive teacher with appreciation.

" What's so funny?" Redburn asked, her whiskers twitching as she attempted to keep her eyes on Keeny's face and not...any other part of her pleasantly rounded body.

" Care to share?" Redburn smiled seductively, her slightly yellowed teeth showing.

" Okkkay then." Take that as a no all round. Damn. Redburn brought a hand up to her face and ran it down her weathered cheeks, her gaze dropping to the silver flask that Keeny had a death grip on." You find that on one of the students?"

" No, it's my own." Keeny muttered, stroking the rim once more. I'd give anything to have those luscious lips on mine right now. Oh, oh, oh. Raven Vlade, light my fire anyday girl.

" No!" Keeny huffed, appalled at the thought of the Coach's cracked lips defiling the flask.

" Oh yeah?" Keeny smiled smugly. Bringing the flask up to her pouting mouth, the art teacher parted her lips and sexily attached them onto the rim, tipped the flask back and proceeded to swallow each and every drop within the container.

Keeny reluctantly took the empty flask away from her lips and shoved it down her low cut top, hiding it from view between her ample cleavage. Hmmm, warming up now. Keeny smiled in triumph. Tasted good. Not as good as Raven herself though I'll bet.

Redburn quickly reached up to steady the swaying teacher.

" Ummmn, hummmn." Keeny murmured, shrugging herself away from Redburn's sweaty hands.

" I'm...going to go check..." Keeny's finger twiddled around in aimless circles." Just... around...you know...the place."

" Toodle pip!" Keeny said merrily, skipping off in the general direction of Raven's corner. Ha! Makes her sound like a troll of something, stuck in a cave...erm...corner? Keeny shrugged. Who cares? I feel all snugly and warm inside! Yipee! With self assured strides the art teacher made her way determinedly towards the girl of her lustful dreams. Watch out Rae, here I come!

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Arms crossed, face devoid of all emotion, shoulders stiffly pronounced, eyes glinting with the strength of steel. Raven could not move. The anger was too severe. The jealousy too much to bare. There they were, Thursville High's golden couple laughing, smiling, dancing....together. For all intents and purposes they were perfect heterosexual couple. Part of the American Dream. It makes me sick.

Raven's jaw clenched briefly, a soft wash of tears lining her sky blue eyes for the briefest moments as she watched Brad gently hold Nicky, his arms wrap around the cheerleader protectively, Nicky laying her head on his shoulder.

How can she do this to me!? As soon as she felt her bottom lip tremble, Raven's defiance raised its head and she bit down harshly on the offending flesh. I'll be fucking damned if I cry over her! No way! No one is worth all this pain Rae, especially a two faced cow like Nicky Mayfair.

How can she just have sex.....no, make love with me one minute and then turn up on Brad's arm like she belongs there instead of with me by my side? Raven shook her head, her arms wrapping round her body slightly in comfort. Maybe because she does belong with him Raven.

The anguished girl continued to stare, unable to tear her saddened gaze away from the painful scene infront of her. But if that's so, why does it always feel so damned right when I'm with her? And why does she always come back for more?

" Why do I want her so much? Why her?" Raven whispered to herself. Some bloody Dance this is. I've spent most of my time getting told off and trying by best not to bloody cry. What a sodding wuss.

Raven refused to alter her stance. She was fine so long as she maintained her defences. Looking out of the corner of her eyes, she saw who was welcoming her again and re-thought her situation. Dammit. Ms.Keeny.

Ms.Keeny smirked, her red lips curling up sensually with obvious intent.

" I don't think so lady." Raven grumbled, finally turning away from the scene of the dancing couple.

Worth my while? Raven raised a slightly amused brow. Does this woman ever give up?

" But I've got something you want."

Keeny stepped back, stumbling a little as Jack Daniels gave her a quick kick up the arse.

" My flask?" Raven stared at the teacher, boredom written clearly across her face.

Raven frowned, puzzled. What is it with women? Contradictive being an understatement.

" Because....hmmm, because I was watching you and you look...sad." Keeny watched with interest as Raven seemed to detach herself from all emotion and visible expression." So I thought I'd put a smile back on your face."

Raven stared at the teacher with disbelief. What a load of bullshit." Really?"

Ravens gaze dubiously followed the extravagantly chirpy teacher with suspicion. I'm no fool, she's up to something. Glancing briefly back to the dance floor, Raven felt her gut clench painfully, raw emotion bubbling up and surfacing as resentment. Bastards. What have I got to lose!? With that the angry girl stormed after her art teacher, the doors of the girls changing room loudly slamming shut behind her.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" Ahhh, Brad?" Nicky was trying her best sound civil." That was my foot again."

" Me...what?" Nicky was lost for words. Of all the arrogant, big headed, selfish... urggh! That's it! Nicky dropped her arms and pulled away from her dancing partner, her poor bruised feet itching to rebel and kick the jerk right in the shins. That'd serve the bugger right. Ah ah ah. Control your temper Nicky.

" Hey, what's up babe?" Brad asked, bemused at his girlfriends behaviour.

" But Nicky..." Brad complained, earning himself an evil glare." 'Kay, 'kay." Brad held his hands up in defeat." Chill out."

" Okayyyyy." Brad drawled, scratching his clean shaven chin. Things weren't working out according to plan. But I'll be damned if I don't get a little bit of booty tonight! The blonde boy took off in look of his next conquest.

Nicky dead stopped, turning around totally to peer in the direction that had caught her attention, hopeful green eyes zoning in on the place she'd disappeared. That was Raven wasn't it? Nicky felt her heart start bouncing around in her chest, a smile inexplicably finding it's way to her weary face. Raven. Forgetting her need to just get away from Brad, Nicky now concentrated on her need to be with the one girl who made her feel like she truly belonged.

Nicky made her way to the heavy doors where she had seen the dark haired girl vanish, pushing her way through, a small grunt of effort escaping her lips as she shoved the doors with both hands.

Taking a deep breath, the head cheerleader smoothed down her dress again, unexpectedly nervous to be facing Raven again. How can you be nervous? Look at how close you were this afternoon, you can't really get much more intimate than that!

With her mouth wide open in horror Nicky just gawped at the scene infront of her. Ms.Keeny was pressing Raven up against a locker, her hands disappearing inside Raven's blue shirt.

The closer she got, the more Nicky could see. The horny teacher was doing her best to ride Raven's thigh.

" Get the fuck away from her." Nicky snarled viciously, teeth baring as she ripped Keeny's head away from Raven.

" Eeeeeeeek!" Keeny squealed like a pig being jabbed with a long sharp pointy stick.

Raven leaned heavily against the lockers, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand trying to get the taste of the sly teacher off her. Raven was too astonished to move as she watched Nicky's slender frame seemingly effortlessly drag the larger, older woman away like a sack of potatoes.

" Bitch. You fucking whore!" Nicky growled.

Raven blinked in surprise. What the hell is going on? Ok, I was pissed off at Nik, so I went in here with Keeny. Next thing I know I've got the octopus of a teacher grabbing at me, now here's Nicky....protecting me? This is a pretty damn frightening version of Nicky actually.

Nicky brought her face within inches of Keeny's, her pulse throbbing erratically as the dislike for this woman notched up to downright hatred.

Keeny's eyes widened in fear. Who would have thought Nicole Mayfair was a violent, raving lunatic?

Nicky slammed the woman harder against the wall." DO NOT even talk to her! You hear me?!" Nicky shouted, her green eyes gleaming menacingly, a threat clearly evident." If I see you talk to her ever again or even look at her again I'll make sure your life is pure hell. Don't doubt that I can do it Ms.Keeny. My family's influence in this town ranks a hell of a lot higher than yours does, so just don't fuck with me. STAY AWAY FROM RAVEN!"

" You understand me?" Nicky asked, loosening her grip slightly.

Nicky released Keeny and flexed her hand as the fingers began to cramp from holding onto Keeny so hard.

" Raven..." Keeny looked to the dark haired girl. Save me? The art teacher stared at the dark haired girl and realised right then and there that Raven would never be hers.

Sighing, the semi-drunk teacher stumbled to her feet, carefully edging away from Nicky who looked like a cobra, ready to strike at any moment.

Keeny, rubbed the aching skin around her neck and warily backed away from the teenagers, heading for the door. This isn't over Nicky Mayfair...this isn't over by a long shot.

" Phew, thank God that's over..." Raven muttered, moving towards Nicky.

" Huh?!" Raven cocked her head to the side, confused. What did I do wrong?

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Maria's teeth crunched furiously on the ice from her drink that she held in a death grip in her hand. Why hasn't he asked me to dance?! Nicky's pissed off somewhere and he's asked three other stupid bimbos to dance..why not me!? Grabbing hold of a lock of chestnut hair, Maria proceeded to methodically chew on it.

" Wow. You're such a great dancer Brad!" The anonymous girl prattled, her hand repeatedly touching the star footballer as often as possible.

Maria crunched down on another ice cube and placed her glass on a near by table as Brad approached.

" Oh. Hey." Brad muttered absent mindedly. Another favourite song started, causing all the couples to make their way enthusiastically to the dance floor." Great! I love this song!"

" Thought you'd never ask sweetie." Maria said softly, a gentle grin on her face as she took his offered hand.

" What the fuck're you doing Maria?" Brad scowled." Get the hell offa me."

" But nothing. Move out of my way." Brad pushed passed the startled girl and held his hand out again to the girl standing behind Maria." C'mon Donna. Lets boogey!" Brad said gleefully, grasping Donna's hand and dragging his new partner to the dance floor with the rest of the couples, pushing a thoroughly hurt Maria out of the way in the process.

" Ohhh, that's gotta hurt." Stacy whispered to May as they stood watching the shell shocked slim girl.

" Tell me about it." Stacy agreed, continuing to observe Maria's reaction." She needs to learn to treat 'em mean. Then again, Brad isn't even hers to treat mean, if you know what I mean."

Maria finally shook herself out from her stupor, resentment bubbling to the surface. Unfortunately it was aimed at the wrong person. This is all Nicky's fault! Maria took a deep breath trying to prevent herself from crying. Gotta get out of here.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Keeny swayed her way towards the desk where Redburn sat, scowling at students and generally looking like a bulldog that had been chewing on wasps for the last hour.

Redburn looked up as she saw Keeny approach, her ruddy countenance turning redder as she watched the art teacher walk towards her, the short skirt she was wearing clinging to the tops of her thighs.

Ms.Keeny simply looked at the Coach for a couple of seconds before her face turned a decidedly interesting shade of green.

" I...I..fresh air...help!" Keeny flopped onto the desk, her head landing in the Coach's crotch.

Keeny felt a sudden weightlessness and let out a belt of laughter, confused as to what was going on.

" Keep still Rachel!" Redburn shouted at the squirming woman." Goddamn it woman!"

Redburn frowned as the wildly swinging woman suddenly lurched forward.

Keeny nodded weakly, little hiccuping sounds escaping from her mouth as she sat in a puddle on the cold ground.

Keeny shook her head, sobbing softly.

Keeny sighed and closed her eyes, imagining that it was another woman carrying her like this." 'Kay Raven." Keeny mumbled, snuggling closer.

Keeny just hung on for dear life, her arms wrapped tightly around the stout woman who was carrying her." Nuthin'...." She whispered." Absolutely nuthin'."

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" Now Nicky.....you have to understand..."

Raven did as she was told, her head cocking to the side again curious as to Nicky's behaviour. What's she up to?

Opening her tearful green eyes, Nicky felt a lump form in her throat, her hands now shaking. Damn she's beautiful. Raven had done as she requested, she wasn't moving, she wasn't hassling her at all.

Raven's hypnotic crystal eyes gazed intently at Nicky. What's she doing? Don't like it when people look at me so intently.

" You look....beautiful." Nicky said softly, releasing a sigh as she felt the familiar flood of warmth fill her whenever she looked at Raven." Blue really suits you...brings out your eyes." Oh God does it! Nicky continued to take a good look at the tall girl, unable to tear her needy eyes away.

Nicky could feel those same haunting eyes repeatedly glint self consciously at her. She looks good enough to eat. No wonder frigging Ms.Keeny pounced. Rae looks dangerous, exotically wild....phew...pant, pant, pant...yep, this definitely does it for me. Raven Vlade in denim and leather looking like hell on wheels. Nicky felt her stomach clench with anticipation, her breathing become shallow as she lifted her eyes back up to the silent girl.

" Nik..."

Uh-oh. Someone's not amused. The dark haired girl sighed heavily and slumped back against the lockers in defeat.

Raven bowed her head. Shit, I feel like a bloody puppy sent to the damned corner for doing something wrong! Rebellious eyes the colour of a startlingly clear summers day looked up at the toe tapping cheerleader from beneath thick black lashes. Why should I have to explain?

" I MEAN EXPLAIN TO ME WHY YOU AND THE ART TEACHER WERE SUCKING FACES?!" Nicky shouted, her little fists curled up, her chin jutting forward as she stepped closer to Raven.

" I WASN'T sucking faces with Ms.Keeny." Raven said defensively.

" What does it matter to you anyways?" Raven was starting to get angry. Where does she get off criticising me? She's the one out there parading around like some fucking prized mare on the arm of the biggest jerk in Thursville.

" See!" Raven pounced on the opportunity for the upper hand." You can't even answer. You have no right to tell me what I can or can not do!"

" No right?! After what we did last night...after what we did this AFTERNOON, I have NO right?!" Nicky took a deep breath, willing the tears that were burning her eyes to disappear. You're MINE Rae!

" You've been drinking? Again!?" Nicky asked, surprised. I would have thought after the other night that neither Rae or Phil would want to drink ever again.

" Soooo, you thought she was going to give it back to you?" Nicky's face crinkled up in thought, tongue in cheek as she cocked her head to the side.

" Did I mention that your hair looks great? You look really beautiful with it up like that." Raven suddenly blurted, reaching out to gently touch a soft golden tendril, a small smirk tugging at her lips as her finger trailed down to the juncture of the cheerleader's throat, along the heavily covered up area where Raven knew a hickey was hiding.

" Ok..." Raven sighed, leaning back against the lockers again and dropping her hands to the side.

" Oh gee thanks fer ya vote of confidence." Raven huffed, grumbling at the knock at her intelligence.

Raven sighed. How you gonna get out of this one Rae? Raven stared down at the fuming blonde cheerleader and ran a hand over her face, an image of Nicky dancing and laughing in the arms of Brad skittering it's way insidiously through her head. How about you go with the truth?

" I didn't give a damn what Keeny was up to Nicky." Raven shoved her hands in her pockets.

" Well...truth is, it isn't the first time she's done it Nik."

Raven followed Nicky over to a bench, standing against a locker closer to the distressed teenager.

" It's not like that Nicky." Raven tried to explain, worried at Nicky's reaction. Damn, she looks so lost." Me and Keeny...there ain't nuthing going on between us."

" No...no, it...." Raven ran another agitated hand through her long black locks." Listen I don't want or even like that bimbo Nik. It's the truth, I don't want her."

" It started when I was in class with her, she just kept looking at me in THAT way. Then she would flirt with me. Nicky, this was way before me and you...you know." Raven ducked her dark head, trying to capture shiny jade eyes with her own.

" Yes. Before the two of us...got together...like that." Raven's fingers dug into the wood on the bench, desperate to take the smaller girl's hands in her own, but fearful of rejection." I turned her down Nicky...I turned her down..because...." Raven felt her heart pound relentlessly in her ears, her palms sweating." Because all I could think about was you, not her and then when the two of us got together Nik it was like...heaven."

" I...Nicky...you've got to know that...I...I..." Raven hunched her shoulders, her hands shaking...just tell her! Tell her you love her! Tell her she means everything to you, that you'd gladly kill to be with her! Tell her! Raven stared at the object of all her desires, her hormones flying all over the place like a psychotic bees on a rampage.

" I....I..." Raven's glistening eyes said it all. Her eyes said it all but she couldn't actually voice it. Why can't I do it? Sighing, the dark haired girl reached out and took one small trembling hand in her own as she scooted closer to her girl, her fingers gently running over the soft skin she was delicately holding." I'm sorry."

" Sorry for what just happened, sorry for being a jealous ass.."

Raven snorted and gave the cheerleader an incredulous look. Smiling slightly Raven ran her fingers along Nicky's face, wiping the tears away. Give her a break Rae, she's emotionally shattered.

Nicky's heart jumped in her chest. She was jealous of Brad? Blonde eyebrows rose. She doesn't have ANYTHING to be jealous of when it comes to Brad. Nicky wrinkled her forehead again. God this is all such a mess.

Nicky reached out and stroked a needy hand through Ravens luxurious black hair, loving the feeling of the silky strands part through her fingers like a dark mist. You do realise Nik that all this trouble and heartache could be over with if you just told the girl you loved her, broke up with Brad and got with her for good?

" Just me." Raven repeated Nicky's words, a small smile lighting up her face." I know that I was your...first."

Raven's smile grew. I love you." C'mere." Raven whispered huskily as she knelt up and snuggled between Nicky's thighs, her arms wide open to envelop Nicky.

Raven tightened her hold around the little blonde's waist, holding her as physically close as possible. I can felt her heart beat. Raven thought with wonder as she closed her eyes and inhaled the cheerleader's intoxicating scent of lavender and lilac. Oh yeah, now this feels like home. This is where I belong.

Raven shivered in response, enjoying the tingles that always came along with holding Nicky close." What for?"

Raven chuckled at the tone of Nicky's voice, hugging the blonde girl even tighter to her. I'm addicted, I'm soooo gone.

Raven smiled back at the cheerleader, cuddling her closer as the strains of music floated softly around them.

" Huh?" Raven rose a brow, looking down at the sweetly smiling girl.

" Oh." Raven bit her lip and almost shyly glanced back up at Nicky, her big blue eyes looking with hope at the smaller girl." Erm...would you...I mean." Raven puffed out her chest and released a big breath." Would you do me the greatest honour of dancing with me?"

" Please? I just wanna hold you."

Raven gave the smaller girl an adorable grin, her dimples winking in her tanned cheeks as Nicky slipped her hand into her own. Raven wrapped her fingers around Nicky's, careful not to hurt her as she pulled the blonde girl to her feet. The dark haired girl slipped her hands around Nicky's waist, her fingers fanning out alongside gently flaring hips, holding the other girl possessively to her. Nicky reached up and put her arms around the tall girl's neck, linking her fingers behind Raven's head, her fingers gently brushing along the tall girl's silky hair.

" Hmmmm," Nicky mumbled, her tongue darting out, unable to resist flicking over the speedy pulse she found there.

" I don't like fighting with you Rae." Nicky said softly, her gentle green eyes reflecting the honesty of that statement as she continued to stroke Raven's flushed cheek." Just doesn't feel right." Nicky felt Raven nod her head in agreement. An adorable smile lit up the cheerleader's face as the song drew to an end." I'll tell you what does feel right though."

" Holding you...hugging you...like this." Nicky squeezed Raven slightly, pressing her body closer to the tall girl.

Raven gulped, her nipples hardening as Nicky pressed her agile little body closer to her, their breasts rubbing up against one another. Whoooeee, definitely sensitive there.

 Raven frowned slightly, mentally giving herself a slap to the back of the head. C'mon Rae! Here you are just making up and all you can think about is getting down and dirty with Nicky? Raven gulped hard as she felt Nicky's hard little nipples brush against hers. Ok, so I'm not the only one feeling it then! Even still, you shouldn't be thinking those sort of thoughts right now....

Raven's breathing became erratic, matching the rhythm of Nicky's thumping heartbeat.

" This...."

Raven frantically scooped the blonde cheerleader up, manually wrapping Nicky's firm thighs around her waist as she kissed the blonde girl with all the pent up passion she had, backing her up against the nearest locker as she thrust her hips forward, pinning the smaller girl in place. Jealous of Brad? Ha, not when I know that I'M the one that Nicky really wants.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

" I hate life. It's not fair!" Maria moaned, sniffling into a handkerchief." Oh dammit!" Maria took her hand away from her face and saw that her mascara had run all over the place leaving dollops of black along her cheeks." Urggh. Can't anything go right for me?!"

" Oh it was hilarious."

" I know!"

" The look on her face when Brad dropped her hand. That is going to stay with me for a long long long time." Stacy snickered." It was worth coming to this dance just to see that. Infact I would have paid to see Maria go through that all over again. God, Brad was such an arsehole, but I admit I did enjoy him being a bastard on this occasion."

Maria clutched at the edge of the table, her red varnished nails digging into the wood leaving little grooves on its surface. Bunch of nasty fucking bitches!

" Shit, shit, shit." Maria was fuming. I need to get this frigging make up off before it stains, but I can't go in the toilets while they're there. I ain't giving them the satisfaction of knowing that I've been crying. Bunch of evil twats.

" Urggh. Bloody hell!" Maria squirmed her way through the doors, rolling on her stomach until she heard the doors close behind her. Maria glanced down, dismayed at the state of her dress." What a shitting mess!"

" Where's the bloody sinks?" Maria stumbled her way along, obliviously walking right past a couple who were getting rather heated against the lockers." Gods get a room." Maria muttered sarcastically, stumbling to the sinks and quickly running the taps.

Maria dropped the tissue she was holding, her jaw slowly gaping open as though it was about to hit the floor. That couple.....brown eyes bugged out.

Maria felt a thrill of excitement rush through her. Almost afraid that she was imagining it all, Maria slowly stalked backwards, her head peering cautiously around a group of lockers.

" H-H-HOLY SHIT!"

Oh, there IS a GOD! Eyes blinking, legs trembling, Maria could not believe her luck. I knew something was up between them!

Sneaking her head back around the lockers once more, Maria was practically floating in glee. Yup. It was true, there was little Miss.Perfect, Nicole Mayfair with her dress hiked up around her hips like a slut grinding into Raven Vlade like a bitch in heat.

 Oh my GAWD! The two of them were going at it like starved dogs, lips tongues, hands and fingers everywhere. They were practically eating each other up in their hunger for one another.

At last! Yesss! Maria pumped a fist in the air, the beaming smile on her face almost cracking her cheeks. AT LAST I have some dirt on that perfect bitch! An evil smirk smeared across the brunettes face, her eyes glazed as the possibilities floated through her head. Oh, I've got you now Nicky. The possibilities are simply endless. It just so happens that Little Miss.Perfect isn't so flawless after all.