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FP walked Into the trailer; noticing his son and two full Pops bags.
FP: What's all this?
Jughead grabbed one of the bags and put It on the coffee table.
Jughead: This Is a salivary dinner. Penny never showed up for your meeting, did she?
FP looked at him questionably as he took off his Serpent jacket.
FP: No, no she didn't. Why, do you know something about that?
Jughead: The young Serpents and I dealt with her. And I got my pound of flesh In the process.
FP: Are you nuts?! She'll be back!! You better believe It!(Yelled angrily)
His son yelled right back
Jughead: No she won't! I was very persuasive. And even If she does we'll deal with her! You, me, and the rest of The Serpents! In Unity There Is Strength!
FP laughed angrily as he threw his arms In the air and sat on the couch. But that only caused Jughead to become angrier.
Jughead: That's the six law Dad! While you were In jail I recited that every day!! I lived by that!! You want to take away my Serpent jack?! You want to relegate me from Toys For Tots?! Fine! But I'm still a Serpent!! And this-
He started to choke up
Jughead: This life you wanted to protect me from, I'm proud of this!! I'm proud of who I am!! You can't take that away from me!!
After a long time of painful silence FP sighed sadly before standing up.
FP: Son, come here. Come here.
He pulled Jughead Into a gentle but tight hug; leaving a long kiss on his forehead.
FP: You have no Idea how much I missed you. And I'm SO sorry about everything.
Jughead's body couldn't fight It and ended up releasing everything he has been through during his Dad being locked and all the events that had happened since his release; sobbing hard Into his Dad's chest. His Dad started gently and continuously rubbing Jughead's head.
FP: Shh, Boy, I'm here now. I love you SO much Jug. We both have been under too much stress since the ShankShaw Incident, huh? Come on.
He gently picked him up Into his arms then sat on the couch so his arms were wrapped around his baby as Jughead cuddled his head Into FP's chest; sighing contently.
Jughead: I love you Daddy
FP let out a small hum and gently kissed his forehead
FP: My beautiful boy
They slowly dozed off to sleep together; wrapped In each other's arms. After two weeks of a Christmas break Jughead was now walking home from his first day back at school. But then he was suddenly grabbed by a man.
Jughead: Help! No! Help!
The man: It’s okay. You’re okay.
He yelled as Jughead kicked him hard In the right ankle. He backhanded Jughead hard In the face knocking him on the ground.
Jughead: No! No please!(Cried)
The man put Jughead on his right shoulder before throwing Jughead In the back seat and taking off. The man driving spoke.
Man 1: What’s wrong with you?! I said we weren’t going to hurt him! We’re here to help him, remember?!
He found a place to pull over. As he walked out and opened the backdoor Man 2 searched Jughead’s backpack.
Man 1: Come here
Jughead shook his head no and scooted away as tears of fear rolled down his cheeks.
Man 1: Are you okay?
Jughead: No!
Man 1: Does your head hurt? Do you need Ice?
“Other than the Ice I fell on when your friend backhanded me?!” Thought Jughead angrily.
Jughead: I think I’ll be okay
Man 1: Alright, buckle up
He shut the door and they continued driving
Man 1: Did you find anything we need to worry about?
Man 2: His cell phone, his ID, and his school ID
Man 1: Alright, use the scissors and the hammer In the glove box.
Man 2 cut up the IDs and smashed the cell phone. As he threw Jughead’s backpack In the back seat Jughead threw up on the floor.
Man 1: Crap!
He quickly found a place to pull over again. Once he took Jughead out of the car Jughead threw up again.
Man 1: All done? Do you want to sit?
Jughead nodded yes
Man 1: Look, there’s a small grocery store nearby. I want you to get the kid some food and a drink.
Man 2 walked away as Man 1 sat down next to Jughead
Man 1: Do you get car sit a lot?
Jughead: Or Is It that I am being kidnapped? Where are you taking me?
Man 1: Listen kid, we’re trying to give you a better life. We-
Jughead: Liar!
Man 1 sighed
Man 1: Let’s get you back In the car
He put Jughead In the passenger seat and put the air conditioner on as Man 2 returned giving Jughead the bag.
Man 1: He’s riding In the front now
Man 2 got In the back and they took off again
Man 2: Aren’t we going to take care of that stupid jacket and beanie of his?
Jughead whimpered as he wrapped his arms around himself
Man 2: One way or another you’re not keeping that jacket or that stupid looking trash beanie!
Man 1: Look kid, we’re trying to help you, trying to give you a better life. Let’s face It, your Dad Is not fit to be a Dad or give you the life you deserve. And we needed to get you away from those filthy Serpents.
Tears filled Jughead’s eyes
Jughead: My Dad’s a better man then you’ll ever know! And The Serpents are better people then you’ll ever know!
Man 2: A bunch of thieves, drug addicts, and criminals?! Your Dad covered up a murder of an Innocent kid and went to jail for It! He’s poor and a drunk even with his new job!
Man 1: You’ll see soon enough kid. You’ll be grateful not to become your Dad. You’re becoming a fresh new you. We’re getting rid of that filthy jacket and beanie and your filthy name and nickname. I’m Mitch Rosewood and In the back Is my brother Jay Rosewood. You’re now our little brother, Vincent Rosewood.
Jughead threw his head onto his knees; holding his legs as he sobbed hard.
Mitch: Drink a little and eat some, we don’t need you getting sick again.
Eventually Jughead woke up when they arrived at a house In SeaSide. They took Jughead to a basement room.
Mitch: Your new room. Make yourself at home while I start supper and Jay goes to buy you some new clothes.
Jughead: Can I please just wear my Serpent jacket?!
Mitch: No, that Is not allowed In your life anymore. Hand It over.
Jughead backed up as Mitch held out his hand
Mitch: Here, you’ll have a better life then you’ll ever Imagined. Of course, we’ll have to home school you and you won’t be allowed to leave the house. But If you misbehave we will have to give punishments.
Jughead let out hard sobs as he took off his jacket and threw It at Mitch’s chest before throwing himself on his new bed and sobbing Into his new pillows. The next morning FP got a package at his door. When he opened It he saw a Serpent jacket and beanie cut up to pieces and a letter that said “You’re nowhere near what a Dad Is. Drinking, being In a gang, poor, being sent to jail, covering up a murder, that boy deserves a better family and a better life. What you don’t know Is that we were filming you during the Christmas break. We saw you and your son’s conversation about being a Serpent. After your kid’s speech you should have told him that he wasn’t a Serpent. That you DID want him out of that life. But as usual, you’re failing as a parent. We’re keeping him! Get your life together before you EVER consider being a “parent”. FP fell to his knees sobbing as he clutched the letter. The words In that letter hit him hard as he remembered the more beautiful days before he ever knew Jason Blossom, It was a weekend where FP was taking Jughead to Pickens Park to play with Red and Betty.
(Flashback)
It was a Saturday morning and there were way too many people In Pickens Park for FP’s liking. The summer sun was warm, and the blue sky promised a beautiful day. Little Jughead held tightly onto FP’s hand as they crossed the street. FP would have preferred to stay at home today, he had a lot of work to do, but It was Saturday. He’d promised his son that they would go out today, so he could meet his friends Archie and Betty at the playground. It was their routine, they did this every week, and It was Important to his son. And his son was Important to him.
Jughead: Daddy? Daddy, can I have something to drink?
Jughead looked up at his Dad when they reached the park. In one arm he held his snake plush. He was never leaving the house without It.
FP: Of course, kiddo
He pulled a bottle filled with apple juice from the bag he was carrying and gave It to his son who took It with a “Thank you, Daddy”. FP ruffled his son’s black hair. Smiling, he watched the four year old drink. His friends liked to point out that Jughead looked exactly like FP and not at all like his mother. Jughead was the most Important person In his life.
Jughead: There’s Archie! And Betty! Can you take It, Daddy?
He exclaimed after he was finished drinking, and offered FP the empty plastic bottle with little snakes on It. He was squirming, excited to go and play with his friends.
FP: Of course, Juggie
He took the bottle from him and put It away. Then he looked over the park and miraculously spotted a free park bench, right next to the playground.
FP: I’ll sit over there and wait for you, okay? And you can bring Archie and Betty later. I need help with those sandwiches! Who should eat all of those super tasty peanut butter sandwiches If not you and your friends?(Smiled)
Jughead: Sandwiches! I love your sandwiches, Daddy! We can eat them! Can we eat them? Archie and Betty also love your sandwiches! And can we have Ice cream afterwards?
Jughead grinned up at him and held onto his pants leg. Jughead stared at him with his big brown puppy eyes that made It hard for FP to stay stern every time something like this happened.
FP: We can eat Ice cream later, If you want.
He heard someone yell Jughead’s name. Both of them looked up and saw that It was Archie waving at them from atop the monkey bars. Jughead looked up at him with a long pleading look In his huge brown doe eyes and FP chuckled.
FP: Go and have fun, Jug
He told him and Immediately his son was running towards his friends, his trusty snake plush In his arms. “But please be careful on the slide!” He added, but his son was already too busy hugging Archie to pay attention to his Dad. For a moment he wanted to go after him, but refrained from doing so. Fred always told him he was worrying too much. FP smiled at his son and watched the trio for another moment as they debated If they wanted to go to the sandbox or to the swings. FP strolled over to the free bench and flopped down. The bag he had been carrying over his shoulder was heavy with toys, food and drinks, and he was already sweating. Through his black shades he could watch the three kids who were now at the swings. A soft breeze ruffled FP’s hair and he pulled his phone from his pocket. A few emails, a missed call, a few unread messages, but nothing that needed his Immediate attention. The Serpent Daddy raised his phone and took a photo of Jughead, who was trying to build a sandcastle. Seeing the little boy so happy and delighted made something warm Inside of him bloom. It was more whole and wholesome than everything else. Jughead meant the world to him. He was his baby. FP knew he was loved when Jughead looked up at him with his big eyes and pressed a sloppy kiss to his cheek.
****
Jughead was slowly getting hungry. But Archie and Betty wouldn’t leave the playground with him yet. Jughead looked over to where his Daddy was sitting. He was looking at his phone and Jughead saw him yawning. That made him yawn too. Maybe he could go over to his Daddy and take a nap? Sleeping on his Daddy’s lap was the best, he gave the best cuddles In the world. Jughead loved cuddling with his Daddy. Clumsily Jughead stood up and was on his way to leave the playground, when he noticed something on the ground. It was a wallet! Little Jughead ran over to a man.
Jughead: Excuse me! Mister!
Jughead started running towards the man. He was fast, but Jughead was also super fast! He soon reached him and poked him In the leg. The blonde man stopped running and looked at him with big eyes. He smiled at Jughead and bent down so Jughead could look Into his blue eyes.
The man: Hey, buddy! What’s wrong? Are you lost?
Looking over his shoulder, Jughead could still see his Daddy sitting on the park bench on the other side of the playground. No, he wasn’t lost. So he shook his head and held out the hand with the wallet.
Jughead: No. I’m not lost. You dropped this.
Jughead watched closely for every reaction on the man’s face. He looked at the wallet In Jughead’s hand and patted himself down until he realized that Jughead had said the truth. He gently took the wallet from him and opened It. Then he looked at Jughead again and smiled.
The man: Thank you, kid! It really Is mine. Thank you for being so attentive. Hey, would you like some Ice cream as a thank you? I think that’s the least I can do after you heroically saved my wallet.
Jughead perked up
Jughead: Yes! I love Ice cream!
The man laughed again and led Jughead over to the next Ice cream vendor. Jughead had to run to keep up with his big steps. The man gave some of the paper strips from his wallet to the Ice cream vendor and then he handed Jughead the popsicle.
The man: Here you go, kid
Jughead: Thank you!
The man: Can you tell me your name, little boy?
Jughead: I’m Jughead. And this Is Benny!
Jughead told him and Introduced himself and his snake plush to the man.
The man: Nice to meet you, Jughead and Benny
The man offered his hand to Jughead, who took It after making sure that Benny wouldn’t fall down.
The man: I’m Manfred
Jughead: Hi, Manfred. Thank you for the Ice cream!(Smiled)
Manfred: No problem. I’m glad you like It. It was a pleasure to meet-
“Hey! Asshole! Hands off my son!”
Jughead turned around just In time to see his Daddy running over. Manfred looked up when he was Interrupted and had just enough time to see a black haired man with black shades run towards them. Then a fist collided with his face and he fell backwards and landed on his ass. Manfred groaned In pain and held onto his throbbing jaw. Through blurry eyes he saw the man pull Jughead behind him.
FP: Touch my son again and I’ll have my lawyers throw you behind bars, you pervert!
Clumsily Manfred stood back up and rubbed a hand over his aching face. He could feel a bruise forming there. Distantly he also noticed the stares from the other park visitors and the gob smacked face of the Ice cream vendor.
Manfred: I’m sorry, sir. But I think there’s a misundersta-
He tried to reason with him. Standing he realized the angry Dad was almost a head shorter than him and from this angle.
FP: Misunderstanding my ass! Try to tell that to the cops!
He fished his phone from his pocket and Manfred wanted to take It from him, but held back. He didn't want to make the man any even more angry.
Jughead: Daddy! Stop It! Manfred bought me Ice cream because-
He tried, but his Dad was too agitated to listen to him.
FP: Yeah, I can see that! We talked about this, Jughead! You mustn’t accept sweets from random strangers! It’s dangerous, Jughead! Come here! Please be more careful, Jug, I can't lose you.
He put his phone back Into his pocket so he could scoop his son up and place him on his hip to hold him In his arms. He pressed a kiss to his son's hair.
FP: And you!
He turned to Manfred again
FP: I swear If I see you near my son again, I will-
Jughead: Daddy!
He yelled and put one of his small hands over his Daddy’s mouth.
Jughead: Manfred bought me Ice cream because I gave him back his wallet! He lost It. And I found It.
Manfred saw how the man needed a minute to process his son's words. He could almost see the gears In his head working. But then FP shook his head no.
FP: Whether that’s true or not, you still should just stay away from my kid.
He walked away; carrying his son with him as he returned to the park bench. As he looked down at his boy he thought about all the enemies he made with being a Serpent King and how they would probably love to hurt his kid.
FP: No more talking to strangers baby boy, please
Tears filled Jughead’s eyes
Jughead: Okay Daddy, I’m sorry, I just-
His Daddy laid his head on Jughead’s head
FP: Shh
He kissed his little boy’s wet cheek
(Flashback over)
Mitch and Jay walked Into Jughead’s room and saw The Southside Serpents sign spray painted all over the walls. And they could tell It was permanent and never coming off.
Jay: You little brat! What do you have to say for yourself?!
Angry tears filled Jughead’s eyes
Jughead: It’s permanent, just like who I am!! You’re never taking who I am away from me no matter what you do!! And just like cleaning the walls won’t change what’s on the walls you’ll never change the fact that my Dad Is a good amazing loving man and Dad!! He did a good job and Is still doing a good job!! Whatever I deserve In life, It’s with FP Jones!!
Jay backhanded him so hard Jughead fell off the bed
Mitch: Jay! Quit slapping him! When I said punishments I didn’t mean physical!
He turned to Jughead
Mitch: Vincent, I’ll be bringing down your breakfast. As for your punishment, we’re taking the TV, the Wii, and the PlayStation out of your room for a week.
Jughead just looked away as The Rosewood Brothers grabbed the electronics and walked out; locking the door. Electronics that he hadn’t even used yet and he didn’t give a fuck! He didn’t want this new life! He wanted to be a high school student!! A Serpent!! And more Importantly, he wanted to be Jughead Jones, FP Jones’s son!! He wanted to be his Daddy’s little boy!! He wanted to hear his Daddy call him Juggie or Boy!! He remembered how he used to play video games with Archie when he lived with Fred and Archie. If he wanted to play video games that badly It could wait to do It again with Archie!
(Christmas Eve)
Jughead opened his eyes with a moan, but as soon as he did he closed them again because despite how many times he woke up In this room, that wasn’t his, he always hoped that one of these days he’d wake up to find out that It was just a weird and twisted dream, and that when he opened his eyes he would be back on the sofa bed In the trailer with his Dad. Now It was Christmas Eve morning, his second Christmas Eve and Christmas since his Dad had been released and Instead of being home with his Dad he was stuck In this house In the middle of nowhere with Mitch and Jay Rosewood, who had somehow convinced themselves that they knew better than his Dad about what he needed and where he needed to be. No way In hell did he want any presents from these men. If not his freedom the only present he desired was to have his Serpent signs back on the walls. But by December Jay had repainted the walls before removing any kind of paint from the basement supply closet. A tear ran down Jughead's right cheek as he thought, this would be another Christmas without his Daddy In his life. As he sat up knowing that he needed to leave his basement bedroom the only thing he knew for sure was that no matter how nice they acted he didn’t want whatever presents Jay and Mitch had for him, all he really wanted was to go home and to be held and loved by his Daddy, so since he couldn’t say It to his Dad he said It to the cold, empty room.
Jughead: Merry Christmas Daddy, I love you, and I miss you.
Soon Mitch walked In with a plate of Christmas cookies and a glass of milk, Jay following behind him.
Jay: Good morning Vincent, Merry Christmas.
Jughead grumbled and rolled his eyes at the pathetic name they had given him since they took him.
Jughead: Morning
Mitch: Is something wrong Vincent? You don’t seem to be In a festive mood.
Jughead snapped at that he’d lost track of how long he’d been stuck In this Insane purgatory and all he wanted was to go home, where he felt safe and happy.
Jughead: I’m not! And I’m not Vincent Rosewood!! I’m Jughead Jones, Son of FP Jones!! I hate It here! I hate you two! I just want to go home!
At his exclamation the men just ignored his outburst as Jay spoke.
Jay: No, you’re not that loser drunk’s son. You’re not a trailer trash Jones. You are home, you’ll just have to get used to things because you’re not leaving.
Mitch sighed sadly
Mitch: Enjoy the milk and cookies, but not too many, we don’t need you getting sick. We’ll be back later to give you some dinner and to watch Christmas movies with you.
He set the tray on Jughead’s end table then left the room with Jay; locking the door. Jughead screamed angrily; tears In his eyes as he threw the TV tray on the floor; breaking cookies everywhere and breaking the milk glass; soaking the carpet with milk. He fell to the floor next to the mess; not caring that his hair was laying In the milk mess or that crumbs were getting In his hair; wrapping his arms around himself as he laid on the floor; sobbing hard.
Jughead: Daddy! I NEED you!! PLEASE!! If I ever escape this hell hole the only present I want from you Is something you give me every day without fail, your NEVER ending love!!(Choked on his sobs)
(August)
It was the last two weeks of August, which met his junior year would be starting soon. That’s It, he had to get out of here! He needed to do his junior year at his REAL school!! DAMN home schooling!! He needed to be away from these bigoted freaks and be with his Dad and his friends!! It was 8PM, he didn’t know If Mitch and Jay were asleep, but he had to try! He opened the supply closet and grabbed a broom. Using the stick he knocked off the door handle to his room before jabbing the outside door handle out. He grabbed his backpack before booking It out of that room and Into a basement bedroom that had a window. Just as he ran In he heard rushing footsteps. Crap! They must have heard him knocking out the door handles. Just as he opened the window he was grabbed by the right arm and thrown hard onto the floor. Luckily he still had the broom just In case, and just as Mitch pulled him up by the arm Jughead whacked him In the head with the broomstick; knocking Mitch out and onto the floor. Jughead took the chance and ran upstairs Instead. Thankfully, besides the living room TV he could he the shower, which meant that’s where Jay was. Without wasting anymore time he dropped the broom and booked It out of the front door and Into the dark rainy night. He ran and ran until he got to The SeaSide Park where he ran straight to the phone booth, ready to call his Dad after almost a year! But after a couple of tries he had come to the conclusion that the phone wasn’t working. He threw the phone In frustration as his hopes died.
Jughead: Dammit!(Cried In despair)
He ran back to the road. But soon a car skidded and crashed Into a parked car; making that car fall over and land on Jughead’s right arm; pinning him to the ground. Jughead laid there screaming In pain. The man got out of his car and quickly kneeled by Jughead.
The man: Oh my god! Kid, I’m so sorry! Are you okay?! Hang on, I’ll call for help!
He quickly pulled out his cell phone and dialed for an ambulance. Soon Jughead was being rushed on a gurney to a hospital room with a broken right arm and a concussion. Three hours later Jughead slowly woke up to doctors and nurses In the room.
Doctor 1: Kid, do you know where you are? What happened?
Jughead knew this was a sign, It was time to escape his prison life and go back to his REAL life! He was at the hospital where not only they would keep him safe and not let anyone take him but call the cops and help get him home!! He doesn’t care In whatever point of view his captors thought they were helping him, Including Mitch who was pretty much the only nice one In that house. Jughead let everything spill out of his mouth, by the time he was done the doctors and nurses were shocked. Doctor 1 pulled Doctor 2 aside.
Doctor 1: Don’t let these people take him home. I’m going to get The Chief Executive Officer while you get one, just one of the men who came to see the kid.
The two doctors left; leaving Jughead with two nurses. Doctor 2 walked over to Mitch and Jay.
Doctor 2: Are you the family of the kid that car hit by a car tonight?
Jay: Yes, we are
Doctor 2: You may see him now, but just one of you
Mitch: Just me, he trusts me the most(Whispered to Jay)
Mitch: Just me(Said to the doctor)
Mitch followed and soon was In the room with Jughead, the doctors and nurses, and The Chief Executive Officer.
Mitch: Vincent, thank goodness-
Jughead: I’m not Vincent! I’m Jughead Jones!! I belong In Riverdale with my Daddy FP Jones!! I’m done with you!! I’m not letting you force me to live with you anymore!! You can take your views about my Dad and The Serpents straight with you to Hell!!(Cried and shook)
The Chief Executive Officer: What’s your name sir?
Mitch gulped
Mitch: Mitch Rosewood
The Chief Executive Officer: While we’re trying to figure all of this out the kid’s not going anywhere. He’s staying right here. And we’re having whoever this FP Jones Is come here along with the SeaSide Sheriff. You and your brother sit tight Mr. Rosewood, you two are not going anywhere either. But you will wait In my office, you’re not allowed In the kid’s room right now.
The Rosewood Brothers were forced In The Chief Executive Officer’s office as she called The Riverdale Sheriff Department.
Minetta: Sheriff Minetta
The Chief Executive Officer: This Is The Chief Executive Officer at The SeaSide Hospital, I need you to provide me the number to FP Jones. It’s an emergency.
Minetta: Very well
After Minetta gave her the phone number she hung up and called FP’s trailer. As soon as the phone rang FP jumped awake and answered It.
FP: Hello?
The Chief Executive Officer: Is this FP Jones?
FP: Yes It Is. Who’s asking?
The Chief Executive Officer: This Is The Chief Executive Officer at The SeaSide Hospital. We need you to come straight to our hospital. We have a kid here who claims he’s your son. Bring whatever proof you can If you want him back, we need to solve this matter before we consider letting this kid go home with these two men.
FP’s heart started beating like a jackrabbit
FP: I’m on my way!
FP quickly got dressed before grabbing Jughead’s birth certificate, pictures of him and Jughead together, ETC before rushing to his motorcycle and taking off. As soon as he got to The SeaSide Hospital he rushed Into The Chief Executive Officer’s office.
FP: Please tell me he’s okay?!
The Chief Executive Officer: He had a concussion and he has a broken arm but he’ll be okay. He got hit by a car tonight.
Angry tears started to fill FP’s eyes
FP: Probably because he was running away and trying to get away from these two!!
The Chief Executive Officer: Well, he’s not going home with you either unless we see your proof. So where Is It?
FP threw the birth certificate and pictures on The Chief Executive Officer’s desk along with his own birth certificate and his ID. After a while of The SeaSide Sheriff keeping FP, Mitch, and Jay In The Chief Executive Officer’s office the hospital looked over everything and tested Jughead’s plus the three men’s blood they knew It was FP Jones that was taking Jughead. Once done The Chief Executive Officer walked back Into her office and showed the Sheriff the evidence. After he took It In he spoke.
SeaSide Sheriff: Mitch and Jay Rosewood, you’re under arrest for kidnapping. Mr. Jones, how long has your son been missing?
FP: Since January of last year
SeaSide Sheriff: It’s two weeks from September. So two years, that will be added to your sentences. Mr. Jones, go to your son, take him home.
Jay: You can’t be seriously letting that poor kid go home with that man?! He’s a filthy Serpent, vagabond, and trailer trash!
The SeaSide Sheriff: No, you two are just pathetic! I wouldn’t even let that kid cross your mind anymore, you two will be In jail for a long time and that kid will be living a happy life, his real life, with his friends and REAL family.
FP rushed out of the room while The SeaSide Sheriff kept the other two men In the room while he called for backup. As soon as FP ran In neither he or Jughead could hide their emotions as tears ran down their cheeks.
Jughead: Daddy!
FP: Oh Juggie, let’s get you out of this town and back where you belong.
He put his arm around his son’s waist as they walked out before he put his boy In front of him on the motorcycle and took off. At daybreak FP had pulled up to their trailer and was now covering Jughead with a blanket as Jughead took In the fact his was back In the comfort of his Dad and his REAL home with a breath of relief.
Jughead: I must have missed so much
FP: You did kiddo, I have so much to tell you. Hiram fired me from Pops. But thanks to what Red said to Weatherbee about The Serpents Weatherbee gave me a job as a janitor at your school. We’ll be going to school and home always at the same time.
Jughead: That’s great!! I need to call Archie and thank him!!
FP’s eyes turned to sorrow
Jughead: Dad?
FP: That’s the bad news. Someone framed him for a murder he didn’t commit. He’s In juvie.
Jughead: What?!
FP: I know, everyone’s doing everything they can. Having a Sheriff like Minetta doesn’t help.
Jughead blinked hard
Jughead: No more Keller?
FP: No more Keller. But school starts again In two weeks and I am making sure you’re there for your junior year and getting whatever help you need. For now, are you hungry? Tired?
Jughead: Tired. I’ll eat later.
FP: Okay
He gently kissed Jughead’s right cheek before helping him settle In the bed.
FP: Rest up baby
After a couple weeks of getting back to his REAL life In the trailer with his Dad his arm was healed and he walked Into his first day of his junior year, he knew that after what he had been through he knew that things were going to be different and he had no desire to talk about what happened to him, but he knew people were going to have questions, so with that In mind needing a safe space before he dove back Into the deep end he headed for the Blue and Gold. When he walked In he found Kevin and Betty talking. The second he saw Betty everything Inside him lit up again, and he felt the weight that he’d been carrying around since everything happened lift slightly.
Jughead: Hey Betts
At the sudden voice behind them Betty and Kevin saw Jughead standing In the doorway.
Betty: Juggie! I didn’t know you were back!
With that said she moved over to him to help him sit down, since he seemed a little shaky, before she said anything else Kevin spoke up, as he pulled a bag of chips out of his bag and handed them to Jughead who took them gratefully.
Kevin: So how are you Jug?
Jughead: Still shaky, and I don’t really want to talk about things but, I really missed you guys, and I’m glad to be home.
That said after the trio hugged they walked out Into the hall. As they were walking Jughead spotted Sweet Pea, Fangs, and Toni and bee-lined towards his friends, and Sweet Pea was the first to speak.
Sweet Pea: Hey Jones. You okay?
Jughead: At this point, I’m just trying to breathe through It and not run screaming out the doors.
At that Toni spoke up while Fangs placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.
Toni: Well we’re here for you, and so Is your Dad, but for now, how bout we hit the lounge so we can get you some snacks?
Jughead had to smile at that because he definitely wanted food.
Jughead: Let’s do It
With that the quartet of Serpents made their way down the hall keeping. Jughead In the middle protecting him from everyone else’s stares. While Jughead had no desire to talk about what had been done he knew that people were going to have questions or comments, and he was proven right the second he walked Into the lounge, while he was getting a snack from the vending machine a football player walked up to him.
Football Player: Hey loser, did your new family realize that Southside trash like you wasn’t worth saving and that’s why your back now?
Jughead: Why don’t you just back off? I didn’t choose what happened to me so If you’re gonna mess with me at least try to be accurate with your commentary.
That said since he was barely holding It together Jughead ran out of the lounge and hid himself In a janitor’s closet hoping to get some peace. As he sat down he Immediately regretted choosing this as a place to hide, he started feeling like he was back In that damn basement! As he started hyperventilating he was about to get himself out of here but then, the door opened.
FP: Jug, Bub what are you doing In here?
At the question Jughead looked up at his Dad and when he did FP saw the tears shining In his boy’s eyes.
Jughead: Is anything ever gonna be normal again?
When he heard that shaky question FP moved to sit on the floor next to his boy, once he was there he pulled Jug against his side to offer comfort, as he spoke.
FP: It will be Juggie. It’s just gonna take time. It’s your first day back, so of course people have questions.
Jughead: But I don’t want to talk about It, I just want to pretend It didn’t happen, but I can’t when everybody brings It up every three seconds.
When he heard this FP turned and kissed Jughead on the top of his head.
FP: You don’t have to talk about It baby boy. But If and when you feel ready, I’m here, I’ll always be here. I love you Boy, more than anything.
Jughead: I love you too.
The minute school was done Jughead happily got Into his Dad’s truck with him!
FP: So, how was your first day back Juggie?
Jughead: Great! It’s so nice to be back with everyone! Even Reggie has changed! I just… I wish I could share me being back with Archie!! I’m sure he doesn’t even know I’m back!!
FP: I know baby, I know, I miss him too. What happened to you or Red Isn’t right! But we’re doing everything we can. Then once he’s back he’ll be thrilled to see you!!
The next day as Jughead sat In study hall a boy known as Phil Smit, the same football player who bullied him the day before threw paper balls at him and laughed.
Phil: Come on Jughead, clean up the trash! Make your Daddy proud!
Kevin squeezed his right shoulder
Kevin: You okay? Don’t listen to them, okay?
Jughead: Thanks Kevin
The bell rang and everyone walked out. But as Jughead walked towards his locker he saw Phil and walk over to FP and purposely kick over the mop bucket; laughing as the soapy water spilled all over the floor.
FP: Come on. Why would you do that?
Phil: Such a loser!
Jughead rushed over and put the mop bucket back up
Phil: What are you doing freak?
Jughead: I’m going to tell you what I told The Rosewood brothers, I’m not ashamed of who I am!! I’m not ashamed of who my Dad Is!! But you should be ashamed of yourself!!
Phil: Whatever trailer trash
He walked away. FP laid his hand on Jughead’s right shoulder.
FP: It’s okay. Come here sweetheart.
Jughead threw himself on his Dad and cried Into his chest as his Dad held him.
FP: I’ve got you. I’ve got you.
He ran his hand gently through Jughead’s hair
FP: It’s okay
He kissed the top of his head. Weatherbee walked over.
Weatherbee: I saw the Incident. But I also need to talk to you anyways Jughead. Your Dad can come too.
The Jones men followed Weatherbee Into his office and took their seats.
Weatherbee: Jughead, I’m so sorry what happened to you last year. You missed so much. But It’s because you missed so much that I have come up with something special for you. A way to make up with some of what you missed and really be there with your Dad and your friends. We’re having a school dance next Friday-
FP: Winter Wonderland, so It’s Christmas themed. Cheryl Blossom’s Idea actually.
He laughed
FP: Her and Toni are running for Snow Queens
Weatherbee: The theme Is Cheryl’s Idea yes, but the whole thing Is thanks to your Dad. All the treats and decorations are winter themed, so It would be like you’re home for Christmas.
FP: Some people Including Betty, Fred, and I bought you Christmas presents to give you so they were here If you came back. They’ll be at the dance ready for you to open In front of everyone.
Weatherbee: But not until after the fireworks to make up for missing 4th of July.
FP: Surprise Boy! The end of the dance Is the firework show In the football field. Then everyone goes back Inside to watch you open your presents.
Jughead was speechless as he blinked with tears In his eyes.
Jughead: I… I don’t know what to say
FP: You don’t have to say anything Jug, we do. Nothing was the same without you.
He kissed his cheek. Soon It was next week Friday, Jughead was watching a little TV before the dance. But soon he noticed his Dad filming him with a video camera.
Jughead: Dad, why are you filming me?
FP: Smile Boy!
Jughead: Dad stop!(Laughed)
FP put the video camera down only for a minute before pointing It back at his kid.
Jughead: Dad! Why are you filming me?!
FP: Because you look good Boy!
Jughead: Dad! Put It down!(Laughed)
FP put It down this time
FP: Hey, I didn’t see you for almost two years! I just wanted to get your beauty on tape!(Smirked)
Jughead smirked right back at his Dad
Jughead: Dad, when are you going to realize, my beauty Isn’t going anywhere.
FP laughed
FP: Of course not, where do you think you got It from?
His kid chucked a pillow at him. This night was one of the best nights of Jughead’s life. After the night came to a close with Cheryl and Toni winning Snow Queens and a beautiful firework show where Jughead snuggled In his Dad’s arms Jughead was soon opening his presents. From Betty, It was a type writer. From Veronica, It was a very expensive cell phone along with a note that said, “Figured you would need a new one.” From his Dad was a new Serpent jacket and a new beanie along with a note that said “I saw what they did to your old Serpent jacket. That wasn’t right! But here’s a new one. And I figured you would need a new beanie.” From Fred It was a new wallet and some money along with a note that said “It’s still tragic that we’re not able to share this moment with Archie. But I never want you to forget that I am always here for you and that you’re a son to me too.” From Kevin, more S t-shirts. From Toni and Cheryl, a welcome home pool party at Cheryl’s mansion on Sunday. From Sweet Pea and Fangs, they announced that while Jughead was gone The Serpents decided that If he ever returned Jughead would be Serpent King now. Jughead had missed so much! But now, everyone was giving It back to him ten times over!!