Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hatchetfield, a town full of the weird and wonderful. Willow sighed as she read the crappy brochure on the town. “Now Willow, you’re very lucky to have this opportunity.” Said the orphanage worker driving her. “Why are we travelling all the way to a small island in America? Surely I could have stayed in Britain.” Willow said. “There wasn’t any room and the director knows how good you are at adjusting.” The worker responded.

”He just wants rid of me.” Willow remarked as they passed a sign for Hatchetfield. “Why’s it even called Hatchetfield? You can’t plant hatchets.” She added and the worker chuckled. “And you wonder why the director wanted you gone.” The worker said.

Hatchetfield, 6pm

Willow sat with her bag clutched tightly against her chest as the worker spoke to a man named Paul and a boy called Richie in the kitchen. “I don’t like him.” Nova’s voice echoed out. “You don’t like anyone, Nova.” Willow said softly so no one else would hear. “They’re nice.” Penny remarked, leaving no room for any other points to be made. 

“Good.” Willow murmured. Willow heard a light tap on the window next to her. She turned to look at it and saw a crow. “Corvid!” She exclaimed happily as she opened the window and picked up the crow. Corvid happily sat on her leg as the worker walked back into the man’s living room.

”it’s your lucky day, Willow. Paul has agreed to take you in for the foster program.” The worker said as Paul smiled. “Thank you…” Willow said. They all stood in awkward silence, Penny and Nova taking seats on the settee. “Well, I’ll leave you to get settled, call me if you need anything.” The worker said, breaking the silence and leaving.

”Willow, it’s nice to meet you.” Paul said. “It’s nice to meet you too.” Willow smiled as she said that. “Come on, I’ll show you your room.” Paul said and started walking. Willow sat Corvid on her head and followed after him.

They walked up the stairs and Paul stopped at a door, opening it. “Here we are.” Paul said. The room had beige walls and wooden flooring. There was a mint green fluffy rug and white bedding with little leaves on it on a double bed, tucked into the corner so the room had space for a desk and a wardrobe. “Feel free to decorate how you like! The worker said you liked mint green so…” Paul trailed off. “I’ll leave you to get sorted.” He said as he closed the door behind him as he left.

Corvid hopped off Willow’s shoulder and took perch on the windowsill. Willow set her tattered case on the floor and opened it. It had a few outfits and small decorations like a clay mushroom Nova had made Willow.

There was also a picture of Nova, Willow and Penny. Nova had purple hair in a ponytail and skeleton makeup around her mouth. Nova also had her favourite black and white cropped turtle neck on, the sleeves cut off. Her shorts ripped and her shoes muddy. Penny had her white hair down, her favourite white cropped blouse with a black corset on top. Penny also had her black shorts on with brown belt and her black and white roller skates on. Willow had her blonde hair tied into two braids, mint green bobbles keeping them in. Willow’s bangs were messy as usual, half of it being dyed in white. Willow was in her turquoise shirt jacket and mint green t-shirt with blue shorts on. Willow’s arms and legs were covered in burn scars from the… accident. They all had two necklaces on,  one with the others favourite colour on. They were all smiling, a rare moment for Penny. It brought a soft smile to Willow’s face.

Willow picked up the picture and set it on the desk, turning it to face the bed. Willow also placed the clay mushroom and a tiny yellow cube on the other side of the desk. Nova smuggled Willow some coloured fairy lights in the orphanage so Willow hung them up above her bed. She was happy with how the room looked so far so she hung up her clothes and then shut the tattered case, shoving it under the bed.

A boy then opened the door and smiled at Willow. “Hi, I’m Richie!” He spoke excitedly. “Hiya, I’m Willow.” She said, turning to him. “Who’s that?” He asked, pointing at the photo. “My two girlfriends, Nova and Penny. We met back in Britain.” Willow said, a smile on her face. “Oh, I’m sorry you had to leave them…” Richie said, closing the door behind him. “Eh, it’s okay, they’re dead.” Willow said bluntly. Penny, having just appeared and heard Willow, gave a light chuckle. “…oh… Well, do you like anime?” He asked. “Oh, I’ve always wanted to watch it but I never had the-“ Willow started but Richie cut her off, grabbing her by the wrist. “Really? Well, I’ll show you all the good shows!” Richie said, dragging her to his room. Penny gave Willow a playful wave.

Paul’s House, 3am

After a long night of watching anime with Richie and him talking over most of it to tell her facts, Willow headed back to rooms. She didn’t mind listening to him, he had reminded her of Penny when Penny showed Willow all her bird books. Willow threw a white nighty on and climbed into bed. She turned off the coloured fairy lights and closed her eyes

Chapter Text

Willow finds herself in what looks like a void, it’s devoid of anything except the occasional scurrying she can hear. She takes notice of how dark it is, she can’t even see her hand in front of her face. That is until she hears something, something big coming her way. Willow turns only to met with bright green light. There are two different sources, like having spotlights for eyes. Due to the light, she can see a few tentacles below the eyes. 

“Hewo, fwendy-wend! It’s been a while since we’ve seen you.” The thing says, its voice childlike. “W-what are you?…” Willow stutters, scared. “Oh, don’t worry about that, fwendy-wend. We’ll see you soon.” It says and taps her head with a tentacle gently. It’s oddly comforting?…

Whatever the thing is laughs? Willow can’t tell… “Aw, as cute as ever, wittle Willow!” It said, moving its tentacle to rub her cheek. “Don’t worry, we won’t hurt you.” It said. “W-We?” Willow stuttered and the thing just laughed again.

Willow wakes up in a cold sweat, panting. She sees that it’s light outside and she checks the time on her clock, it reads as nine am. Willow sighs and gets up, throwing on what she had on yesterday. She listens and hears voices so she knows Richie and Paul are awake.

Suddenly, Nova materialises next to Willow. “Don’t go, stay here.” Nova says. “I can’t, Novs…” Willow mutters. “I don’t like them.” Nova reminds Willow. Willow rolls her eyes and open her bedroom’s door, walking down the stairs.

She looks into the kitchen and spots Paul with Richie. Paul gives her a little wave and Willow smiles. She walks into the kitchen and spots a woman with brunette hair in a bun. “Willow, this is Emma. Emma, this is Willow.” Paul says. “It’s nice to meet you.” Emma says and extends her hand for a handshake. “Oh, I don’t shake hands, the amount of germs spread is disgusting! It’s actually safer to kiss.” Willow says, not thinking. 

Emma chuckles. “Well, I’ve got to get to work.” She says and walks to the front door, opening it. “Don’t forget we’ve got dinner, Paul.” Emma says as she walks out the door. “I won’t!” Paul shouts back.

”How’d you sleep?” Richie asks Willow. “Ah, good.” She says as she takes a seat next to him. “Good.” Paul says before continuing. “I think the social worker in town will be heading over for about ten. Duke, I think it was..” “Why’s he coming?” Richie asks. “Well, since I’m in a different country, my files will have been transferred over to him so he’s coming to meet me and make sure this home is working for me.” Willow remarks.

Just then, the doorbell rings. “I’ll get it!” Willow says as she hops off her seat and runs over to the door, unlocking it. Standing before her is Douglas ‘Duke’ Keane, a man with slicked back hair and green eyes. “Heya, darlin’! Are you Willow?” He questions. “Yes and you’re Duke.” Willow says. “Yes, I am. Can I come in?” Fine asks and Willow steps aside for him. 

Paul stops cleaning for a moment and walks over. “Paul Matthews.” Paul says and Duke regards him with a nod. “Duke Keane.” Duke says and then turns to Willow. “Alright darlin’, are we alright to talk?” He asks and Willow nods. Penny and Nova materialise next to Willow. “That’s the guy with a crush on Miss Retro.” Penny says. “Who?” Willow asks. “I didn’t say anythin’…” Duke says, confused. “I wasn’t asking you, Duke.” Willow says. “Miss Holloway, she owns Miss Retro’s.” Penny says.

Willow nods softly. “…Why don’t you show me your room?” Duke asks. “Oh, follow me.” Willow says and she walks to her room, Duke following. She pushes open the door and steps inside. “Here’s my room.” Willow says as she gestures around. Duke walks in and looks around, his eyes setting on the photo of Willow, Penny and Nova. “Who are they?” He asks gently. “My girlfriends. Penny is the one with white hair and the one with the skeleton makeup is Nova.” Willow said.

”Oh, are they back in Britain?” Duke asks. “Yeah, they’re dead.” Willow states bluntly. “Ah, I’m sorry for your loss.” Duke said. “Oh, don’t be, they died a while ago.” Willow remarks as she sits on her bed. Duke sets the picture down and points to the yellow maze cube. “What’s that?” Duke asks. “That’s a replication of the…”  Willow starts. “Don’t tell him, he’s got greasy hair.” A voice tells her though she doesn’t know who. “I can’t say.” Willow remarks.

”why not?” Duke asks. “He says I can’t.” Willow said. “Who?” Duke questions and Willow shrugs. Duke gives her a curious look but nods. “Well, I better get going but how about I see you tomorrow, after school?” Duke asks. “Sure.” Willow says as she walks Duke to the front door. “I’m gonna bring a friend, she’s a specialist.” Duke says. “Okay, goodbye.” She says and shuts the door before Duke can respond.

Outside, Duke walks over to his car and climbs in. He pulls out his phone. “Miss Holloway, I think I’ve got another in need of your… help.” He says.

Chapter Text

Willow had gotten up early that morning, picking out her favourite outfit for school. She was packing herself lunch when Richie came down the stairs.

”Hey Willow!” He said as he walked over. “Heya, Paul went to work already.” Willow remarks, nodding to the note Paul had left. “Yeah, he has to start early for CCRP.” Richie said as he started packing his lunch.

Willow picked up Corvid. “Can he come?” She asked as she put her lunch in her bag. “Uh I don’t think the school allows pets…” Richie said. Corvid gave an annoyed skwalk at that. “He’ll blend in just fine.” She said as she sat Corvid on her shoulder.

They walked together, chatting about anime characters. They soon arrived at school and walked inside as Willow tucked Corvid in her bag, keeping the zip open enough for him to breathe. 

Soon enough, a girl with red headgear and brunette curls. She was wearing a brown and beige stripped jumper with a brown musical note on it as she ran over. “Hey Richie! Who’s your friend?” The girl asked as a tall lanky boy followed the girl. The tall boy was wearing a beige plaid jumper and brown glasses, his shoulder length brown hair slicked back. 

“Guys, this is Willow, she’s the new transfer student.” Richie paused before continuing. “Willow, this is Ruth and Pete!” Richie finished with a smile. Willow gave them a wave before Ruth, the girl, was quickly pulling Willow into a handshake. “Hi! I’m the lighting tech for the theatre club.” Ruth said. “Hi, that sounds fun.” Willow said, quickly pulling her hand away. 

“She doesn’t like hand shakes, Ruth.” Richie reprimanded. “Oh, god, sorry!” Ruth said quickly. “It’s.. fine.” Willow said, smiling softly. “It’s a pleasure to meet you both.” She said. Pete nodded and Ruth smiled back. “C’mon! We’ll get your schedule and show you around.” 

12:30pm, lunch time

Willow sat down on the table with Ruth, Richie, Pete and two new girls. “Oh! Willow, this is Steph and Grace.” Richie said. “Pleasure.” Willow said and the two girls nodded. The girl with a band shirt Willow didn’t recognise on smiled. “I’m Steph.” Steph, the band shirt girl, said. “Great! I’m Willow.” Willow said. The other girl, Grace, looked at Willow.

”Tell me, Willow, do you believe in god?” Grace questioned. “Uh… it’s.. complicated.” Willow said, not wanting to elaborate. “Do you go to church?” Grace pressed on. “No, I don’t.” Willow said, the topic uncomfortable enough.

Grace tutted and then shoved Willow a pocket bible. “I hope you find this useful, it’s not too late to make it to heaven!” Grace said optimistically. Willow chuckled “Heaven isn’t real.” She stated without thinking.

Willow could feel the glare from Grace. Pete coughed uncomfortably. Nova then appears, standing behind Grace. “Something is wrong with her.” Nova remarked. “Don’t do this now.” Willow said and Grace gasped.

”Don’t do what now? What are you even looking at?!” Grace asked. “Nothing, sorry…” Willow mumbled, embarrassed. Penny then appears and drapes herself over Willow, playing with Willow’s baby hairs. “Ignore the freaky Jesus girl…” Penny said.

Willow sighed softly but it seemed the uncomfortable questions weren’t over. “Why don’t you have boobs?” Ruth asked Willow. “Ruth!” Richie exclaimed and smacked her arm softly. “What? We were all thinking it…” Ruth grumbled.

Willow sighed, confession time. “No, it’s fine. I uh am trans, I’m a girl born in a boy’s body.” Willow said softly, the whole hall felt like it went silent. Grace slowly pulled the pocket bible back to herself and Richie’s mouth made an ‘O’

”oh uh… how come you don’t look more.. manly?” Pete asked. “Pete!” Richie exclaimed, pulling himself out the daze. “Uh I took estrogen when I was younger, it’s why I sound girly?” Willow said. “I mean, I thought she was just a girl with no tits and a deep voice.” Steph commented. 

Willow smiled. “Uh yeah so that’s why I don’t have boobs and I’m short because my parents are just naturally short.” She said. “Well, you’re going to hell.” Grace said. This made Penny roll her eyes. “Calm down, Jesus dickrider.” Penny remarked.

Willow snickered at Penny’s comment. “What are you laughing at?!” Grace asked. “Oh, nothing…” Willow said, finishing her lunch. “Anyway, we all support you, Willow.” Richie said with a smile. “Speak for yourself…” Grace mumbled.

They all grabbed their bags and started walking to class. Of course, since Willow was new, she didn’t know about Max Jägerman or his hallway. She walked down the hallway. “Oh! Look what we got here, a nerd in my hallway.” A voice said, making Willow turn around. Willow was face to face with Max Jägerman, a smirk on his face.

”Ah, you’re that new girl.” He said, reaching out to touch her hair. Willow stepped back. “Don’t touch me.” She said. “Oh, feisty!” Max remarked with a chuckle. Nova and Penny popped up, Nova looked angry. “This isn’t your hallway, it’s the school’s.” Willow pointed out. “Aw, the nerd thinks she can talk back to me! Listen here, since you’re new you probably don’t know how things work here so let me tell you, this is my hallway, bitch.” Max said.

Nova gasped. “Let me at him, Willow, I don’t like hi-“ Nova started. “I know, you don’t like anyone!” Willow said and Max glared at Willow. “What.” He said. “Oh uh I didn’t mean you…” Willow said, looking off to the side at Penny and Nova. “What you looking at, freak?” Max asked condescendingly.

”I-I’m..” Willow stuttered, unsure how to describe that she could see her dead girlfriends. “What’s your name?” Max asked. “Don’t tell him.” Nova said to Willow. “Willow, Willow Black” Willow said. Nova groaned while Penny just stared Max down like she usually did with anyone. 

Max chuckled. “That’s perfect! I’m gonna call you… weird Willow!” He remarked with a smug smirk. Thankfully, the p.e teacher turned the corner and spoke to Max, meaning Willow could slip away.

Paul’s house, 5:30 pm

Paul, Richie and Willow sat around a dinner table. “How was your first day, Willow?” Paul asked. “Eh, fine. Grace tried to give me a bible, some jock decided my new nickname is “weird Willow” and-“ Willow started. “Wait, what jock?” Richie questioned. “Uh… Max Jägerman, I think.” Willow said. Richie seemed concerned for Willow. “Did he hurt you?!” Richie asked, his tone now much higher.

”Oh, no. The p.e teacher came to talk to Max and I slipped away.” Willow said. Richie seemed to calm down at that. “You’re lucky he didn’t give you a swirly…” Richie mumbled. “I wish the teachers would do something about that Max kid! It’s unfair.” Paul remarked. “Don’t we all…” Richie said.

Later that night

Willow stands in the small bathroom, brushing her teeth when she notices something off about her hair. She looks closer at the white part of her messy bangs. If she squints, she can see five colours ever so faintly. Blue, purple, yellow, pink and green. The sight of these colours makes Willow happy though she doesn’t know why.

Willow feels something on her hand and turns it over to see a white spider crawling on her palm. In the blink of an eye, the spider is gone and in its place, a woman stands next to Willow. The woman’s hair is long, wavy and white. The woman also wears a long white dress with silver web details. This woman is Webby.

”Webby? I haven’t seen you sin-“ Willow starts. “Willow, you need to be careful.” Webby warns. “What?” Willow asks. “I can’t stay long, my brothers will know if I do. Be careful and do not touch the black book.” Webby says before fading away.

Willow looks back in the mirror and runs a hand through her hair. “What a day…” She mumbles.

Chapter Text

Willow pulled their self out of bed, a sharp pain filling their eyes. They rub them and sigh, checking the time. 10:30am, a normal time to be up on the weekend. They blinked and the time read 3:30am. 

“W-How’d the time just change?!” Willow said, grabbing their bedside clock.

Nova popped up. “Think the lords are back?” She asked.

Willow sighed. “Let’s hope not.” They said.

”Now, that’s rude, fwendy-wend.” A voice said, a stupid baby voice.

Nova seemed… disturbed by the noise, stepping closer to Willow. “They’re back.” Nova said.

Suddenly, Willow’s bedroom door swings open and there stands… Richie! He has a pleasant smile on his face.

“Willow! We’re gonna be late to see Ruth and Pete.” He said.

”I’ll be down in a minute, Richie.” Willow said.

Richie nodded and shut the door behind him.

“Aw, wittle Willow has fwendy-wends! We’ll be seeing you soon, Willow.” That annoying baby voice said again though the second sentence seemed much more serious.

Lakeside mall, 11:05 pm

“Willow, whatcha think of this?” Ruth asked, holding up a very over the top dress.

Willow suppressed a laugh. “You’d look great, Ruth!” They said which made Ruth strike a pose. Willow could no longer suppress their laughter, a wide smile on their face.

Pete and Richie came back with a bag or two, Richie has definitely bought some anime merch. Ruth hung the dress back on the rack.

”You found some new clothes, Willow?” Pete asked, adjusting his glasses.

Willow nodded, holding up a small stack of clothes. “Yeah though Ruth insists I need a dress.” They said and Ruth tutted.

”You do! Even just one, you never know when you’ll want a dress.” Ruth said.

”They don’t have to get one, Ruth.” Richie said and Ruth pouted.

Willow left the three to argue as they had spotted a gorgeous blue dress. It had sequins and embroidery on it. The embroidery was of little mushrooms and clouds of spores. Willow heard a song playing in their head, let it out seemed to be the focal lyrics. They didn’t feel scared, it felt comforting like a lullaby a mother would sing her children.

”Whatcha got, Willow?” Ruth asked, walking over and inspecting the dress.

”Oh, I wasn’t going to buy it…” Willow said and that seemed to offend Ruth so Ruth grabbed it.

”Try it on, please!” Ruth begged and Willow sighed.

”Fine.” They said, walking over to the dressing rooms with the dress.

It fit Willow perfectly, as if it was made for them. They stepped out and Ruth gasped, starstruck. Pete and Richie definitely approved.

”You look like a real life waifu!” Richie said which was a high compliment coming from him.

”Thanks, Richie.” Willow said.

“Never mind waifu, you look like a goddess!” Ruth said, a faint blush covering her cheeks.

”You could wear it to prom, it’s months away but it’s good preparation.” Pete said and Willow nodded.

Willow stepped out the dress, sorted it onto the hanger and went to pay for everything while the trio of nerds waited outside the clothes shop.

On their way out, Willow looked in the glass window of the shop. Their white part of their bangs now faded, being covered by those five neon colours. Ruth dragged Willow and the boys around some more, unable to resist a good shopping day.

Paul’s drive way, 6:52 pm

“And honestly the biggest plot twist was-“ Richie started but was interrupted by spotting Duke and a red headed lady on the doorstep to Paul’s house. They both turned around and Duke smiled.

”Willow, this is my friend, Miss Holloway. She’s a specialist and I think she’ll be able to help you.” Duke said and Miss Holloway was already analysing Willow.

”I’ve heard a lot about you, Willow, good things.” Miss Holloway said.

”Great, I’ll let you two in.” Willow said. Pulling Richie to the door and grabbing their keys, unlocking the door.

The four made their way inside, Paul wasn’t there which was weird but he must of popped out to go to the shops. Richie rushed upstairs with his bags of anime merch and Willow sighed.

”I’d like to see your room, Willow, if that’s alright.” Miss Holloway said and Willow nodded.

”That’s fine.” Willow said, leading Duke and Miss Holloway to Willow’s room.

Willow pushed open the door, everything was like normal. They set the bag of clothes down up their wardrobe and sat on their bed. Miss Holloway sat on the desk chair, moving it to be looking at Willow while Duke hung in the doorway.

”So, Duke told me you’ve got some cool figures.” Miss Holloway said and looked over Willow’s desk, her eyes landing on the small yellow puzzle box.

”They’re not figures.” Willow said, semi-annoyed at that.

Miss Holloway picked up the box and tilted her head. “What’s this?” She asked.

”That’s the bastard’s box. Well, not the bastard’s box but a recreation of it.” Willow said and Miss Holloway nodded. 

“Have you heard of the lords in black, Willow?” Miss Holloway asked.

”I think?… They sound familiar.” Willow said. Willow’s fairy lights started flickering. Slowly, one became blue, then purple, yellow, pink and green. The lights all became those colours in that pattern. Miss Holloway looked distressed.

”Willow, are the-“ Miss Holloway started. When all the lights went out in the room and the door slammed shut, locking Duke, Miss Holloway and Willow inside the room.

”Willow, under the covers. It’s late, you should be in bed.” A voice rang out that wasn’t Duke’s or Miss Holloway’s. Willow listened, getting under the cover of their bed and pressing their hands over their ears.

Willow could hear the desk chair be knocked over, some struggling and then the lights came back on though the fairy lights were still those five neon colours.

Willow peeked out the covers, no one was in her room. Paul burst open the door, Richie stood behind him, both were worried.

”Willow! You alright?” Paul asked.

”I’m fine, Duke and Miss Holloway had to go… urgently.” Willow said, picking back up the desk chair.

Paul sighed and seemed much less worried. “As long as you’re safe, Willow.”

But, of course they would be safe, that’s how it always would be. Those mysterious forces from beyond would protect Willow though Willow had no idea why those forces did it.

Unfortunately, with Duke and Miss Holloway interfering, it seems those mysterious forces would have to hurry up that plan of theirs.

Chapter Text

Willow’s  p.o.v

I sit up, my body in a cold sweat as my heart thumps out my chest. I look over at the clock, 3:33 am. I stand up and open my door.

I look over at the bathroom and see neon purple light coming out the bathroom. I push open the door and I look in the mirror. I push the five neon colours and groan. I hear giggling, like a child so I turn and jump. In the bathtub are five teens who look around my age. I jump back, startled. Each one is wearing a different neon colour with a different style their outfit is based on.

”W-Who are you lot?!” I ask, panicking.

The purple one rolls their eyes. “Willow, calm down.”

I gasp. “H-How’d you know my name?!”

The green one speaks up, fixing his jock jacket. “We’re… Richie’s friends.” 

I raise an eyebrow. “Uh huh. What are your names then?” I ask.

”Well, I’m William Black and these are my siblings Pierce, Blyth, Terrence and Nori.” William says, a sly smirk on his face.

”And what are you doing in my bathtub at 3:33 am?” I ask, getting more suspicious by the minute.

”Uhh… We got here early?” Terrence says and Pierce glares at him.

I sigh when I turn to the sink and jump, Penny and Nova are here. Penny plays with her white hair, humming a song I don’t know while Nova glares at the five teens. The teens just smirk even more.

“I don’t like them.” Nova states

”I know, you don’t like anyone.” I say.

”Aw, Nova doesn’t like us?” William asks, pouting playfully.

I feel my body freeze up, they can see Nova and Penny?… William chuckles. “We’ll see you at school, Will.” William says and the five teens vanish.

I look at Penny and Nova. “What are they?” I ask softly.

Penny looks at me, her piercing blue eyes now glossy. I feel that lump grow in my throat and I hold back tears. Penny puts a cold hand to my cheek.

”Don’t cry, sweet one.” Penny says softly, I nod and wipe my eyes.

”I-I’m sorry I couldn’t save you…” I say, feeling guilty for their deaths.

”It’s not your fault, Willow.” Nova says and Penny nods.

”I miss you…” I mumble, those three words holding so much more meaning than it sounds.

A rare smile crosses Penny’s face. “We miss you too, sweet one. Now go back to bed, you’ll be exhausted in the morning.” She says and I nod, kissing her hand as I move towards the door. 

I open the door and lay down in my bed, closing my eyes.

Hatchetfield high

8:20am

I walk into the gates with Richie, chatting about his new favourite anime.

We make a stop at our lockers and Mr Houston walks down the hall.

”Oh, Willow! Mr Blim wanted to see you.” Mr Houston says and Richie smirks at me.

”In trouble with the principal?” Pete asks from behind me and I jump which makes Ruth snicker.

”Wait here, he probably wants me to show some new kids around and I don’t want to do it myself.” I say and the others nod.

I walk on over to the principal’s office and open the door. “You wanted to see me, sir?” I ask before looking up. There are those god damn teens from my bathtub! Well, they look around my age so I can’t really talk.

”Yes, I’d appreciate if you could show these five around the school.” Mr Blim says.

I nod and lead the five out the office. Pierce moves very fluidly while the others look like it’s their first time walking. I can’t hold back the snicker that comes out which earns me an angry glare from Terrence.

”What you laughing at, lamb?” He questions bitterly while William observes quietly.

”’lamb’? I’m no lamb.” I say, rather annoyed at the suggestion.

”Yes, you are.” Terrence insists.

”Am not.” I say.

”Are too.” He says, not backing down.

”Am not!” I say, crossing my arms.

”Are-“ Terrence starts before Pierce covers Terrence’s mouth.

”Leave the girl alone, Terrence. There are other nicknames we can give her. Besides, we just met.” Pierce says which sounded more like a reminder.

Terrence nods and moves to walk next to Nori. Pierce smiles at me and I wave over Ruth, Pete and Richie.

”Ruth, Pete and Richie meet the Black siblings. The Black siblings meet my best friends.” I say, a smile on my face.

The Black siblings look over my friends as examining a toy for defective parts.

William hums. “Hello.” He says simply and Ruth smiles.

”Hello! I’m-“ Ruth starts before William cuts her off.

”Ruth. I heard, little Willow told us.” He states and Pete raises an eyebrow.

”’Little’?” Pete asks.

”Yes! She’s rather small.” Terrence says, staring at Pete.

Richie smiles. “Anyway! Let us show you around.” He says and we start walking.

The whole time, Terrence stares at Pete while William just watches everything like an older brother who’s basically become a parent. I slow down to be walking next to William.

”So, are you the oldest?” I ask, curious.

He looks at me and nods. “Yes, I am, Terrence is the youngest.” He says and I nod.

”Thought so.” I say and it’s quiet for a few minutes before we stop.

”And this is the drama theatre! I work as the light tech and Willow helps with costumes so you’ll usually find me and Willow here.” Ruth announces happily.

Pierce looks at me. “You do drama?” He asks.

”Yeah but I only really do costumes, make-up and hair.” I say while he nods.

”Makes sense, you look like you’ve got an eye for detail.” Pierce says and Richie clears his throat.

”Let’s get going.” Richie says and the group starts walking.

”I didn’t know you helped with the costumes.” William says.

I chuckle. “No one does, that’s kind of the point. I mean, no one talks about the paints that the Mona Lisa is made from.” I say.

”Fair but the paints are just as important to the art piece, no?” William says.

“Well, no one really cares about the costumes that much. Honestly, the students are kind of rough with them.” I admit and Pierce gasps.

”That’s horrible, the costumes are so much more important!” Pierce says, appalled.

”I know! I remember when Caitlyn tugged one of the dresses too hard and all the bead work came off.” I say, letting my anger get the best of me.

Pierce nods and smiles at me. “Well, I’m sure you did a good job of fixing it.” He says and Ruth nods.

”Oh yeah, Willow is great at last minute repairs!” She says.

I laugh awkwardly and I jab Ruth in the side playfully. “Oh, I’m not that great.” I say and I sigh when the attention comes off of me. I walk next to Blyth who’s been on their phone this whole team, they don’t seem very talkative which suits me fine as I need a break from talking.

We arrive back at the lockers in time for lunch! Steph and Grace walk over.

”Steph, Grace meet the Black siblings. The Black siblings meet Steph and Grace.” I say and Grace pushes me out the way accidentally.

“Hello! Can I interest any of you in a bib-“ Grace starts.

”No, we don’t believe in God.” William states rather simply.

”You pushed Willow.” Blyth points out, speaking for the first time. It sounded like someone snitching but I pay it no mind.

”Oh, sorry, Willow.” Grace says.

”It’s fine, Grace, you didn’t hurt me.” I say and I give her a reluctant smile.

”Well, I’ve got bible study, bye!” Grace says and she walks off.

”Finally.” Steph says with a sigh.

”I’m glad she’s gone.” I admit and everyone but the Black siblings nod or agree.

”Is she always like that?” William asks.

”What, holier-than-thou church girl? Yeah, that’s Grace Chastity. She’s got so much religious trauma, it’s crazy.” I say, sighing.

“She’s kind of mean, as well.” Ruth says.

”Anyway! Enough about Grace, who wants to get food?” I ask.

”Me! Me!” Nori says enthusiastically.

”Alright, c’mon.” I say and me and Nori walk off from the main group.

Little did I know, the Black siblings were going to complicate my life even more…

Chapter Text

Willow’s p.o.v

Hatchetfield high

1:15 pm

I head out of the drama room with Ruth. We get to miss our lessons since we’re doing a new drama play which is great. We head to the lunch and Nori is already digging into her lunch like a wild animal. Pierce looks less than enthusiastic about this fact but perks up when he spots us.

”Willow, Ruth! How’s the performance?” He asks.

”Oh, you know, as untalented as a high school can get.” I say and Ruth nods. Pierce laughs.

Richie smiles at me. “What’s the play?” He asks.

”The barbecue monologues which means I have to do very little work on the costumes. I’m just painting some of the props and set.” I say.

”I didn’t know you did set work.” Pierce says.

I sigh. “I do everything creative for drama. The set, the costumes, the props are my job.” I say.

”That’s a lot of responsibility.” William butts in.

”Yeah but it’s alright, I don’t mind it.” I say. I look around the table.

”Where’s Grace?” I ask.

Steph groans. “Don’t know, don’t wanna know.” She says.

”She said something about bathrooms not being safe for her right now.” Pete says.

I sigh. “I second that.” I say. Whenever I had a bath, I would see eyes watching me or tentacles on the wall. It was pretty freaky.

”Oh, still seeing those things?..” Richie asks and I nod.

”What things?” Nori asks, looking up from her lunch.

”Eyes, tentacles.” I say and Ruth grins. “Not like that, ya perv!” I push Ruth’s face playfully.

”Aw, c’mon. Hentai is hot.” She says and William grimaces.

I look at him. “Everything alright?” I ask.

“Yeah, can we not talk about tentacles?” He asks and I nod.

”Anyway! You gonna eat that, Willow?” Nori asks me, gesturing to my lunch. I can’t get a word out before she’s already shoved my sandwich down her throat. 

I blink. “Guess not.” I say and she giggles.

”Sorry.” She says though she doesn’t mean it.

”It’s cool, I wasn’t ganna eat it anyway.” I say. 

“‘Ganna’? That’s not a word.” Grace says who apparently just appeared.

”Jesus!” Steph jumps and falls off her seat. Blyth giggles. 

“It’s British slang.” I say as Pete helps Steph up.

”C’mon, let’s get going before Max shows up.” Richie says and I nod, standing up.

We all walk to our classes, even the Black siblings who seem less than thrilled at just having each other in a class. As I’m walking, I feel someone grab me by my backpack. I hear Corvid squawk.

”Aw, weird Willow has a pet!” Max says as he pulls Corvid out my bag.

”Hey! P-put him down.” I stutter out, attempting to grab Corvid who looks less than impressed. He squawks again, telling me to calm down. I take a step back. Max just laughs and squeezes Corvid tighter but drops him. 

“It would be fun to pop your little pet’s head off but I’d much rather kick the snot out of you.” Max says as he punches me. I hit the wall and groan, my back hurting. Max grabs me by my shirt, pulling me off the ground.

”Where are those weird friends of yours, huh? No one to save you~” Max teases as he drops me, leaving me gasping for air. He punches and kicks me some more till he’s had his fun with that.

”Hey, Kyle, you two go to your lesson, I’ll join ya in a minute.” Max says and Kyle and the other boy walk away.

”N-Not satisfied?” I ask, rage in my eyes.

”Not quite.” Max says as he unzips his pants.

He pulls me into an empty classroom, the one where the camera never worked, and rips off my uniform. He groans at my cock and flips me over, sticking his cock in my ass roughly. I whimper, attempting to claw at his arm. I go to scream but he covers my mouth with his hand.

”Shut the fuck up and take it, tranny.” Max says. “It’ll be worse if you don’t.” He adds.

Tears roll down my cheeks but I don’t fight, scared. I focus on the clock on the wall, counting down the minutes till this torture is over. After, Max half puts my clothes back on and leaves.

I feel Penny hold me tightly, rubbing my back softly. I feel blood dripping into my nickers, Max must of ripped up my ass… I shiver as I say his name in my head, I never wanted to see him again.

”It’s okay, sweet one.” She says, glaring at where Max was. Nova looks particularly angry, ready to jump Max.

”He can’t get away with that!” Nova complains.

”It’s okay, he won’t. I won’t let him.” Penny says, rage in her eyes but her touch is still soft.

I pull my jacket out my bag and zip it up, covering myself. Final bell rings and I walk out of school, my ripped clothes in my bag.

Richie smiles at me, he’s waiting with the Black siblings. William’s hands twitch while Terrance looks ready to fight.

”Something up?..” I ask, confused. William just shakes his head, the siblings are strangely quiet.

”Willow, what happened to your outfit?..” Richie asks. Tears I was holding back run down my cheeks.

“M-M-Max fucked me…” I stutter out.

”Did you want it?” Pierce asks and I shake my head. The Black siblings look angrier, if that’s even possible.

”That’s called rape, Willow..” Richie says softly, rubbing my back like Penny did. I had heard that word before, only from Penny. Penny had been in a bad, bad situation before she came to the orphanage. She was great at drawing but only ever drew what those men did to her so she would never forget and they, hopefully, wouldn’t get away with it.

I sigh. “I-I want to go home…” I say, feeling the blood pooling between my legs again. Richie nods and goes to hold my hand but Blyth, out of all the siblings, picks me up. Richie blinks for a moment and just sighs.

”You guys can walk home with us, I guess.” Richie says.

”Willow’s legs are shaky, they’re barely able to stand.” Pierce says, as if defending Blyth.

Richie puts up his hands in a peace gesture. “Wow, not tryna cause an argument.”

William nods and says “Good, because you’ll lose.”

Richie leads the way as we walk home, I just shiver.

Paul smiles. “Oh, we having friends over?” He asks.

Richie’s face turns grim. “Paul, Max took it too far this time, he raped Willow.” He says.

Paul’s face mirrors Richie’s and he nods. “I’ll call the school, you run Willow a lukewarm bath.” Paul says, getting up and walking to the kitchen. Blyth sets me down and smiles.

”You’ll be alright, Max won’t be alive much longer~” They whisper in my ear and I just nod, exhausted. Richie shows the Black siblings out the house as I climb up the stairs. Richie follows after me, helping me into the shower.

Richie sits in the corner of the bathroom, turned around to give me privacy. I watch the pinkish water pool around the drain and I cry.

”Hey, it’s okay, Willow, you’ll be fine. Max won’t get away with this.” He says.

I turn off the shower after cleaning myself but I can still feel his hands on me. I wrap a towel around myself and Richie stands up, walking out the bathroom. Richie hands me some warm pyjamas and I change into them.

”You gonna be alright to sleep alone?” Richie asks and I nod.

”Alrighty, goodnight then.” Richie says and I climb into bed. I feel a familiar presence hug me, it’s Penny. She doesn’t say anything, she just plays with my hair and rubs my back till I fall asleep.