Notorious Hope

26. The Past is the Past

Northside High, main hallway-7: 20 am

There's a hostile vibe this morning in the compacted hallways. Amongst the hustle and bustle of the students lie Maya and Missy Bradford-Hart, fraternal twins and Queen Bees of Northside High.

Now in order to fully digest and understand the complexity of the situation at large, the story needs to be reversed a bit. Back to the summer before 5th grade, the day where Riley revealed things that changed their friendships forever.

Summer before 5th Grade-John Adams Elementary

Two brunettes and a blonde sit on a bench that oversees the ocean. Munching on their popsicles as they admire kids frolicking in the ocean.

''We go to middle school at the end of summer. That's where we learn about our bodies''

The brunette in pink attire from head to toe is the most energetic for their new ventures. 

''Really Maya? Cause Teala told me that middle school is where you learn about boys and kissing.''

Missy had always been more mature for her age. More than her parents would've liked to be. 

''I think that middle school is where you learn about yourself more than anything. Especially about family members. When your Mom leaves one morning and doesn't come that's when true colours begin to show.''

The twins twist their heads towards the usually bubbly brunette.

''Mom told me that your Mom was a bitch to her anyways. Dumping milkshakes on her head, leaving her trash on our front lawn. She even left a used condom in our living room when she stayed with us one evening. What kind of mother hooks up with a guy when her kids are right across the street with their father?''

The blonde smirks in agreeance with her twin. As if their mother's opinions weren't supposed to be shared, why would she tell them?

'Your mother was always drinking and never came to our showcases. Always bailed on dance shows. Never picked us up from school when it was her turn. Always left in the middle of the night whenever we had sleepovers. She's a deadbeat mother don't even try to deny it''

Her brunette friend refrains from unleashing her anger as her friends belittle her mother.

''Oh and Missy, don't even get me started on her Dad. He's more of a deadbeat than her Mom. He's always flat-out drunk on the couch. Always has drugs just lying around the house. Never gives his kids the light of day to acknowledge their existence. Not to mention he runs an illegal gang on the outskirts of town. He's such an asshole and your mother's such a downright bitch.''

The Jones' daughter is on the verge of tears when somebody's voice comes to the rescue.

'' Maya and Marissa Bradford-Hart! We are going to wash out that foul mouths of yours. Come with me right now! You are going with your father and going to manners school immediately''

Grabbing her daughters by the elbow and dragging her towards the car. Walking back towards the brunette and rubbing her back soothingly. Wrapping her arms around the little girl, kissing her on her forehead.

''I'm terribly sorry Riley. You should never have anybody belittle your family like that. You are an amazingly courageous girl, with or without your mother, I know you are going to change the world. Never forget how special you are, okay. You can always come to me in a time of need. I'll always be here for you whenever you need me.''