Dear Jackson

Chapter 17

A school year has passed, and we're both in our last level of high school. Our petition wasn't going as easy as I planned. I already knew there would be bumps in my path to rights, but I had this hidden wish and hope that it would just go along easily.

"Jackson! We're here."

Mark and BamBam were breathing heavily as they ran up to me in the courtyard.

"Finally, how many signatures did you both get?"

I took both clipboards from the two and examined them.

"We didn't do so well today. We got only some faculty and staff to sign. Many students of course denied to put their name, but a small bunch were willing to."

Mark explained with a heavy tone after his short exercise to see me.

"The same with me."

Bam spoke still heaving and grasping his knees.

"Two things. One, you both really need to get fit. Two, we keep trying again until these sheets have no space left."

I gave the boards back and placed my hands on my hips.

"But, what if they report us for bugging them? The ones who are reluctant I mean."

Mark's voice was slightly saddened.

"What did I say before we started this petition and protest? We draw no line and go to any extent. These are civil rights we're talking about, not putting up a stop sign in the damn neighborhood for speeding cars. I'm willing to put my life on the line for others to live comfortably. You both don't have to as you just support me."

"Jackson, you're really heartfelt about this aren't you?"

BamBam questioned while knowing the answer, finally breathing normally. I gave a silent nod and picked up my binder from the bench, opening to a page of notes and information.

"I already planned out other spots to go for signatures. On the weekend we go through our neighborhood. Then during our week break, we can go downtown where it's busy and approach as many pedestrians as we can. This will be every day during that time."

I closed it back up and smiled with a proud attitude.

"So, how many signatures do we need exactly?" Mark spoke curiously.

"Over two hundred and fifty thousand."

My response was calmly given as I put my binder away. However, the two's response was the opposite.

"What?! That many?! Jackson, we cannot get that many. For God's sake, we only have a mere six hundred since we started this year!"

BamBam freaked on me while nearly pulling on his hair. Mark just stared dumbfounded. I picked up my book bag and slung it over my shoulder, speaking with a normal tone of voice.

"Well then, I guess we better keep up the good work."

I gave a grin as I began walking down the courtyard to head back home.

"You both better follow me, because there is no way in hell I'm getting ready alone for the pride parade."

--

"Jackson, I'm nervous."

Bam spoke while letting me spray his hair to have rainbow colors. I raised my eyebrows in curiosity.

"Why is that? You shouldn't be."

He sighed and fixed up his colorful wrist bands.

"Because I've never been out to something like this before."

Before I could give my answer Mark did it for me.

"I don't think that's nerves, I think that's excitement and eagerness."

He laughed softly as he examined his pride attire in the mirror. I finished with BamBam's hair whilst nodding.

"I think he's right, just relax. Think happy as this event can boost our signatures by a whole lot."

As I spoke I kissed Bam quickly with a smile, only to hear a groan from Mark.

"Can you please not, it reminds me I'm single."

He laughed while taking his phone off the charger and putting it in his pocket. We both did the same.

"You know Mark, you just might find somebody at the event."

BamBam spoke joyfully as he walked out my bedroom door.

"Yeah, like that'll actually happen."

Mark sarcastically spoke following, taking the clipboards in his hand with him. I closed my door as I stepped out with my things, talking to myself.

"A lot can change today."

--

A/N: Short I know, but just to show what was happening. Vote and comment^^