IMAGINES ▹ ROSS BUTLER

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by capbucky-0506

You've always hated the hospital. Seeing all those sick, helpless people who want nothing more than to either live another day or be put out of their misery. It terrified you.

Your panic worsens as you run swiftly through the halls of the hospital. You had just gotten word that Fred Andrews, your best friend's dad, the man who practically raised you when your parents didn't care enough to, was shot earlier this morning.

You immediately spot everyone, from Josie and the Pussycats to the Bulldogs, standing around in the waiting room.

"Y/N!"

Veronica runs up to you. "Where have you been?"

"My parents were straight up ignoring me as if I weren't there. I spent an hour trying to get the car keys to get to the diner, but then I got your phone call. I finally had to take the damn bus! What the hell happened?"

"Archie was at the diner with his dad when a guy in a black ski mask came in. Fred jumped in front of Archie so he wouldn't get shot."

You feel tears start to form, but you stay strong. "Is he-"

"No," Archie interrupts, walking up next to Veronica. "He's still in surgery."

He was covered in blood and sweat, a broken look on his face. Nevertheless, you step forward and wrap your arms around him, holding back your tears.

"Arch, I'm so sorry! I was supposed to be there. If my parents hadn't held me back-"

"You would've been shot. I'm glad you weren't there. I just wish I could've taken the shot myself."

"Archie-"

"I'm going to my place with Veronica to get cleaned up, bring some clothes for my dad. Can you come?"

You look over his shoulder and notice Reggie. He locks eyes with you, instantly perking up.

"I'm just gonna stay here, Arch. Ronnie, help him out."

"Okay."

They run out, leaving you standing alone. You take a deep, shaky breath and walk up to Reggie.

"Y/N-"

You fall into his arms, finally letting out all of your tears. You feel his arms tighten around you, holding you as if you had never let go in the first place.

"He's gonna die," you manage to get out. "I never showed up and he got shot and now he's gonna die! If it wasn't for my fucking parents holding me back-"

"Y/N!"

He pulls away and grabs your face, wiping the tears away. "He has a chance. None of this is your fault, Y/N. You couldn't have known!"

"But my parents-"

"Are terrible people, yes! They broke us apart and tried to keep you away from Fred so they could change you into some mindless pet. But for once, I'm glad they stalled you. If they hadn't, you would've gotten shot and I would be here under much different circumstances."

He inches closer. "I can't lose you."

You struggle to catch your breath. "Reg, you know we can't-"

"Says who? Your parents? Fred used to help us meet secretly before they found out. He wanted you to be happy, Y/N. He still does. He loves you, and he's gonna fight to stay alive for you and Archie. For now, he would want me to be there for you."