Archive of Our Own ^beta

Courtney didn’t know what to do. Yolanda wasn’t responding to her calls. Rick and Beth were at opposing sides of the argument, it seemed, while her mother was dealing with whatever was going on with The Shade. Meanwhile, Pat was teaching Mike the JSA ropes. She felt she had no one to turn to, and it terrified her. It felt like it did when she and her family had moved to Blue Valley all over again. While she kind of understood the strains everyone was going through, but what stung that Mrs Montez thought she was the reason her daughter had become messed up.

As she stared down at her contacts list whilst sitting on her bed, all she wanted to do was to talk to Yolanda. But she knew that she wouldn’t respond to any of her messages or calls. That ship had sailed. She didn’t want to disturb Rick or Beth as they had drama going on privately. Sighing, she scrolled up and down the list until she found the contact of someone who WOULD listen to her; Cameron.

Courtney could feel a seamlessly neverending churning of emotions as she stared down at the contact. She had never felt so strongly about any guy the way she did with Cameron. He had this bright aura to him that never seemed to disappear. From the moment in the hallway at school, after she'd lied to Joey Zarick about his card trick, there'd been a magnetic pull between them. It had taken her breath away, and even now, she was unsure why.

Biting her lip, she activated the call, placing the phone to her ear.

Cameron sat in the window seat in his room, sketching. He briefly looked up as if wondering what the sky was thinking. The weather the last few days had been horrible. It was the middle of summer, but there had been little sun, let alone warmth. He wasn’t complaining as he'd gotten the mural of his dad finished just in time for the Fourth of July, a holiday they usually enjoyed together. However, this year was different. His father had been gone just over six months, and while it had gotten a little easier, though it still didn’t seem real.

The buzz of his phone pulled Cameron from his thoughts. He grinned when he noticed it was Courtney calling. He didn’t hesitate to answer. “Twice in one day, Courtney.” He teased as a smirk crept into his voice. The silence on the other end of the call was enough to tell him something wasn’t right. “Court?”

The silence broke when he heard sniffling. “Hi.” Was her response.

“Is everything okay?” He asked with a frown, the smirk disappearing and being replaced by concern.

“Not really,” she responded, sounding utterly broken. “I just needed someone to talk to.”

Cameron felt touched that she’d chosen him. “What’s up?”

“I think It would be better if I spoke to you in person.”

“Okay, I’ll be there soon.” He deactivated the call, knowing she was at home. What was going on? Courtney had sounded fine when he'd spoken to her earlier. Knowing he had to get to the bottom of it, he pocketed his phone, closed his sketchbook and left the room, being sure to check if his grandparents were out of the house before leaving.

When he reached the kitchen, Cameron found a scribbled note from his grandfather, telling him that he and his grandmother were going to the supermarket to gather supplies for dinner. He knew that they’d be awhile so it gave him a chance to go see Courtney and get back before they did.

Cameron hadn’t missed that his grandmother was standoffish with almost everyone, especially Courtney. He wasn’t sure why and he wasn’t about to ask, knowing she’d come up with an excuse. His grandfather, however, was more open to people. Shaking his head, Cameron headed for the front door and was sure to lock it.

Cameron adjusted his jacket and was about to knock on the Whitemore-Dugan’s front door when it opened to reveal Pat, Courtney’s stepfather.

“Hey, Cameron.” Pat greeted with a sad smile. "Come on in."

Pat stepped aside and allowed him to enter the house.

“How did you know I was coming?”

“Court told us."

Cameron bit his lip and nodded. “How’s she doing?”

Pat shook his head. “Not great.” It was clear that Pat hated seeing Courtney upset.

“She didn’t explain anything on the phone. I know it sounded bad from what little she said.”

Pat nodded. “Yeah, I think it would be best if she explains it to you. She’s in the living room.”

“Thanks, Pat.”

“Anytime.”

Cameron took a few steps into the living room to find Courtney sitting on the couch with her head in her hands and Buddy the Bulldog was laying next to her, his head on her knee as a way of comforting her.

Slowly making his way to the couch, Cameron watched to see if Buddy would move from his place. Usually, the dog lifted his head when someone entered the room. It was clear that he was worried about his human.

Lowering himself onto the couch next to Courtney, Cameron reached out and touched her shoulder. “Court?” Without warning, Courtney flung herself into his arms and cried harder. Cameron didn't hesitate as he pulled her close and did what he could to comfort her. It saddened him to see her so upset. He just didn’t understand. She was okay when he’d seen her earlier. What had happened between then and now? While he tried not to think about it, he caught sight of Pat and Barbara poking their heads into the room.

After a couple of minutes, Courtney lifted her head, her eyes puffy and red from crying.

“You okay?” Cameron asked gently, his arms still around her.

Courtney shook her head, a fresh batch of tears welled in her eyes. “Not really.” She whimpered.

Cameron gave him a sympathetic smile as he wrapped her in another hug. “Do you want to talk about it?”

Courtney sniffed and nodded. “Yolanda wants nothing to do with me.”

Cameron listened intently as Courtney explained about Yolanda and how she had been struggling since Henry died. What he didn’t know was, she was leaving out everything to do with the JSA, Yolanda’s visions of Brainwave and Henry and the Shade and Eclipso. The last thing she wanted was to reveal anything odd that would tip him off to anything unusual.

He still didn't know his dad was Icicle. He also had zero clue that he might have ice powers. That was the last thing Courtney wanted. Then there was the whole thing with Mike which she prayed would NEVER get out. If Cameron discovered the truth about Mike’s involvement in his dad’s death, it would knock him for six. It would also destroy their relationship as she knew about it and didn’t tell him that her brother accidentally ran Jordan over. They’d spent a lot of time together over the last few days and it had been nice, even if she did have a ditch him. She didn’t enjoy doing that but with Eclipso on the loose, she didn’t have a choice.

Cameron understood that Yolanda was upset as she and Henry had history, but it didn’t sit right well that she would ditch Courtney and their other friends. “I don’t understand. Why would she ditch you? Why would she do what her mom told her to?”

Courtney shrugged.

“Maria did what?”

Courtney and Cameron looked up to see Barbara standing in the doorway.

Courtney quickly wiped her eyes and frowned at her mother. “Mom?”

“Maria blames you for everything going on with Yolanda?”

Courtney bit her lip to hold back her tears. “Yeah. She said I was a bad influence.”

“How is it Courtney’s fault?” Cameron questioned.

Barbara thought for a moment. “That's what I would like to know. I’m going to find out.” She headed for the door and left before either of the teenagers could respond.

Once the door had clicked shut, Cameron and Courtney turned to each other, confused.

“What just happened?” Courtney questioned.

“I have no idea.” Cameron responded.

“Pat!” Courtney called.

A few moments later, Pat appeared. “What’s up, guys?”

“Mom just left. Do you know why?”

“She overheard the two of you talking about Yolanda’s mom. What happened with that phone call, Court?”

Courtney didn’t want to repeat herself but she felt for Pat’s sake she had to. “Mrs Montez said I corrupted her daughter.”

“She what?” Pat said in disbelief. “Why would she think that?”

“I want to know that too,” Cameron admitted. “In the last few months, I’ve never seen Yolanda look happier to have friends that support her. Shouldn’t Mrs Montez be thankful for that?”

“I agree,” Pat nodded. “You are anything but a bad influence, Court. Deep down, Yolanda knows that. She’ll come around eventually.”

As grateful as Courtney was to Pat for being in her corner, she couldn’t help but think he was wrong. She remembered what Beth had told her about how much of a social outcast Yolanda had become after the nude phone scandal. What if Yolanda was never going to be her friend again. She knew that Yolanda was her best friend first and Wildcat second, but it wasn’t the same without her. She could tell her anything, but now, Courtney felt as if her world was beginning to crumble. She couldn’t lose anyone else.

“I hope you’re right, Pat.” Courtney said as she rose from where she was sitting next to Cameron on the couch and went to hug her stepdad.
Pat was just as worried about Yolanda as Courtney was. He had seen her beginning to struggle after the end of the battle with the ISA. However, he hadn’t expected it to be this bad. What concerned him was when Rick had called him and told him about how Yolanda had killed Brainwave in cold blood. It was the moment that he’d realised how dire the situation had become.

He had come to think of the JSA as his kids. Not just Courtney and Mike but Yolanda, Rick, and Beth too. Heck, he even had a soft spot for Alan Scott’s daughter, Jennie when she was in town. He loved those kids like they were his own and thought of them as such. He knew Barbara felt the same way about them.

With Jennie and Rick, he had known their dads, so he felt an even bigger connection to them but that didn’t change how he’d felt about Courtney, Yolanda, and Beth. He would die to keep them safe.

Hugging Courtney back, Pat wished for her sake that everything was going to go back to how things were. Looking over her shoulder, he could see the look of worry on Cameron’s face. He could see how much he cared about Courtney and it was clear to him that with Courtney, the feeling was mutual.

“Hey Court, let your mom do her thing. She knows what she’s doin’.”

Courtney could only nod and hope for the best.

Barbara stopped her car outside the Montez house. She knew she had to try and convince Maria that Courtney wasn’t a bad influence on Yolanda. It was her thought that perhaps if she appealed to her that she might get through to her. However, she wasn’t holding her breath. She understood that Maria and the entire Montez family took religion very seriously. However, the way that Yolanda was being treated wasn’t right. Everyone deserved to redeem themselves, regardless of what they had done in the past.

In Barbara’s eyes, Rick was the perfect example of that. He had a horrible upbringing due to being raised by an uncle who didn’t give a damn about him. However, he had enough memories of his parents to know right from wrong and how much they loved him. He hated being treated like he was worth nothing and garnered a reputation around town that made him out to be some punk kid with no respect.

She had seen first-hand what a great kid Rick actually was. He was kind and was fiercely protective of the girls and Mike. He would put himself in the line of fire for them. They were his family, and there was nothing that could be said to change that.

Before she knew it, Barbara found herself standing at the front door. She took a deep breath and knocked three times.

The door opened to reveal Maria Montez, her face expressionless and almost impossible to read.

“If you’ve come to advocate for your daughter, Barbara, you’re not welcome here.” Maria went to slam the door in Barbara’s face, but Barbara stopped it.

Maria appeared surprised at how fast Barbara was in catching the door but, she quickly recovered and allowed the same expressionless look to fall back into place.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Barbara said, holding her ground. “I came here to appeal to you. Not so much as a mother, but as someone who has seen first hand what your daughter has been through.”

Maria looked like she wanted to protest but decided against it. Against her better judgement, she stepped aside and allowed Barbara to enter the house.
Barbara pressed her lips together and gave Maria and thankful nod before she gingerly stepped over the threshold.

Maria closed the door, turned around and crossed her arms. “Five minutes. I’ll listen to what you have to say, but then I want you out of my house.”

“Understood. I came here to ask, why do you treat Yolanda like she’s done something unforgivable?”

Maria stared at her. Barbara stared back. “You have no right to question the way I parent my daughter.” She eventually snapped.

“You’re right,” Barbara agreed. “I don’t. But, I am not the only one questioning this. There have been others who have seen how you treat Yolanda. No one has said anything because they don’t want to evoke your wrath. Everyone in town knows how much you value religion, and I know you hate gossip, but your treatment of your daughter has become town gossip. I’ve been hearing things around the American Dream, and none of it is good.”

Maria clenched her jaw. That was the last thing she wanted to hear. Her family was now town gossip. “This is all Yolanda’s fault. If she had not engaged in that photo scandal, we would not be in this situation.”

Barbara shook her head. “No, it was not Yolanda’s fault. She trusted someone who took advantage of her good nature.”

“That boy deserves to be dead. He deserves to rot in hell.” Maria snarled.

Barbara straightened her shoulders. She knew what she said next would affect everything going forward, but she was prepared to take the brunt of Maria’s insults. “Henry is not at fault either.” Just as she expected, Maria rounded on her.

“Henry King Junior wanted nude photos of my daughter so he could ruin my family!”

Barbara took a deep breath and proceeded with caution. “What happened with the photo scandal was horrible. I would not wish that on my worst enemy. But Henry was not perfect either. He had a hard home life thanks to his father.”

Maria frowned. “Henry King was a renowned doctor who was respected in this town. He wouldn’t mistreat his own son.”

“Do you know that for sure? Were you there? I know I wasn’t, but I have heard reports of how hard Dr King was on his son.”

“You have two children,” Maria all but spat. “Parents are supposed to be hard on their children.”

“Yes, I’m hard on Courtney and Mike, but I also respect them as fellow human beings.”

For the first time since she had arrived at the house, Barbara saw a glimpse of what appeared to be remorse but, it disappeared just as quickly. She knew trying to talk Maria around was going to be hard, but she had to try.

“Henry’s actions were not good, I admit that, but I doubt very much he wanted to harm Yolanda’s reputation, let alone your family’s.”

Maria eyed Barbara for a moment as if trying to determine whether she was going to call the cops to throw her out. She took a breath as if she was trying to keep herself calm. “Your daughter is not welcome in this house again. She is the reason why Yolanda is messed up.”

“Now, hold on. You blame my daughter for messing your daughter up, and don’t take the blame on yourself.” Barbara had had enough of Maria blaming everyone else for Yolanda’s problems, but herself.

“Excuse me?!” Maria exploded.

Barbara straightened her shoulders. “You heard me. Do you not believe in any kind of forgiveness?”

Maria’s fingers curled into fists.”What Yolanda did was unforgivable.”

“Was it?” Barbara asked, her voice even. “Why is it that when my daughter was friends with Yolanda, she made your daughter’s life so much brighter? From what Beth Chapel has said, Yolanda’s friendships became non-existent after the scandal, and almost everyone slut-shamed her at school. Are you telling me that she deserved to be bullied?”

“It is god’s will to punish the wicked.” Maria said, raising her chin defiantly.

“Yolanda made one mistake, and now she has spent almost a full year trying to pull her life back together. Any parent that doesn’t stand up for their children when they need them the most, doesn’t deserve to be a parent. No person on the face of this Earth is perfect. You might consider yourself to be so, but you’re no better than a child abuser.”

Before Maria could yell and scream, Barbara turned towards the door and left the house and didn’t stop walking until she was in the car and halfway down the street.

Cameron and Courtney walked arm in arm down the street from the Whitmore-Dugan house. Pat has suggested they go for a walk as it might make Courtney feel better after everything that had happened.

“How are you feeling now?” Cameron asked.

“A little better.” Courtney admitted. “Hey, can I ask you something?”

“Sure. Ask away.”

“The other day,” Courtney said slowly as if carefully choosing her words. “When Pat and I saw you in the art room at school, you mentioned that Cindy Burman had visited you. Why would she do that?”

“That’s what I’m still wondering,” Cameron admitted. “Cindy has never paid attention to me before. So, why is she suddenly interested in me now?”

“What did you talk about?”

Cameron wanted to question her but held his tongue. It was just nice being able to talk to someone about his odd experience with the former Queen Bee of Blue Valley High. “She wanted to see my work. The whole thing screamed recruitment drive.”

A chill ran down Courtney’s spine. Recruitment drive? She hoped he wasn’t implying what she thought he was implying. “Why would she want to see your work? She’s never cared before.”

Cameron nodded in agreement. “That was my thought too.”

“What did you do?”

“I put her in her place by bringing up what she said when we were in the fourth grade.” Cameron sounded proud of himself.

“Which was?” Courtney pressed. She really wanted to know.

Cameron smirked. “What’s with all the questions?”

Courtney smiled as she shrugged. “Just curious. Is there a problem with that?” She teased.

“No. I’m just impressed, that’s all.”

“You haven’t answered my question.” Courtney smiled.

Cameron felt his heart hammer in his chest a little harder than normal. “I told her that no one ever forgot her telling everyone that she never liked her mom.”

“Her birth mom?”

Cameron nodded. “How’d you know?”

“Beth told me. She said that Cindy changed a lot after her mother died.”

“Yeah, it was weird. We left third grade and went back to school after the summer, and it was like she was a totally different person.”

Courtney remembered what Beth had told her about how Dragon King had remarried after the death of his first wife. Who would want to marry that monster was beyond her, but she kept the comment to herself. “I’m glad I’m not the only person at school who can stand up to Cindy.”

“Thankfully, she dropped out.” Cameron added.

“That too. School felt so much freer after she left.”

“Like it was no longer under a tyrannical rule? Yeah, I noticed that too.”

Courtney laughed. “That’s one way to put it.”

Pulling her attention away from the conversation, Courtney found she and Cameron had walked all the way into town and had stopped outside Richie’s Diner. Through the window, she spotted the waitress, Maria looking a little down. “Hungry?” She asked. Maria looked like she really needed someone to talk to who wasn't one of her colleagues.

“Yeah, I haven’t eaten since breakfast.” Cameron said.

“I’m buying.” Courtney called over her shoulder as she moved to push the door open.

Cameron couldn’t say “no” to that and grinned as he followed her inside.

The diner was empty except for the odd person sitting in the booths on the other side of the space.

Maria brightened when she saw Courtney and Cameron enter. “Courtney. Cameron. What do I owe this pleasure?”

Courtney turned back to Cameron. “Give me a minute?” He nodded and went to grab a table. She turned back to Maria the second Cameron was out of earshot. “Are you okay, Maria? You look upset.”

Maria wasn’t sure how she felt if she was honest, but she was grateful Courtney had asked. “Something’s going on with Yolanda and I’m really worried about her.”

Courtney was glad she, Pat, and Cameron weren’t the only ones. “What happened?” She asked.

“I got a call from Mrs Montez and was told Yolanda was no longer going to be working here. I’m not sure why. We all loved having her here.”

Courtney nodded in understanding. Looking over her shoulder, Cameron was watching them with concern. “Why don’t you join us?” She said, turning back to the waitress. “It looks like you need someone to talk to.”

Maria gave her a thankful look. “I think I might take you up on that. The diner’s quiet and I could do with a break. Oh, and coke’s on the house.”

“But, we didn’t…” Courtney started but stopped mid-sentence when Maria shook her head.

“It’s the least I can do, hun. You and Cameron are probably the best customers to come in here for weeks.”

Courtney frowned. “How do you mean?”

“Well, you’ve been coming in here to support Yolanda with your friends and Cameron’s been coming in here every day after working on his dad’s mural. I think it’s only fair. I’ll be back in a moment.” Maria turned towards the kitchen and disappeared, leaving Courtney perplexed as she headed over to join Cameron.

“What was that about?” He asked as she sat opposite him.

“I think I just scored us free cans of coke.” Courtney said bemused as she settled into her seat.

“How’d you score that?” Cameron snorted, folding his arms on the table.

“Maria noticed how often we’ve been coming in a lot on totally different occasions and thought we deserved a break.” Cameron nodded, clearly impressed. “I also invited her to join us. She looked a little down. I hope that’s okay.”

“Of course it’s okay. I noticed she looked a little upset too.”

A moment later, Maria arrived back at the table and slid two cans of coke across the tabletop. “Here you go.” She said as she sat down beside Cameron.

“Thanks, Maria.” Courtney smiled.

“Don’t mention it. I’m just glad to be of service.” Maria broke eye contact with Courtney, her eyes falling on the tabletop.

“What happened with Yolanda’s mom?” Courtney asked.

Maria gave a shaky sigh. “The whole thing happened out of the blue.”

“How?” Cameron questioned.

“Things were really shaping up for Yolanda. She was fitting in just fine, and while she was still struggling to learn what to do, she was beginning to adjust and then all of a sudden, her mom rings and says she’s not coming back.”

Cameron exchanged a look with Courtney. “Do you think Yolanda’s mom forced her to quit?”

Courtney shook her head. “I don’t think so. It was Mrs Montez’s idea for her to get the job to begin with.”

Cameron thought for a moment. “Could it have something to do with Henry?”

“Henry?” Maria said. “As in Yolanda’s ex?”

Courtney nodded. “Yeah. Him.”

“His death was so tragic. It all happened so suddenly.” Maria sighed sadly.

Courtney had to bite her tongue. She wanted to say that Brainwave had killed his own son.

Cameron nodded, snapping Courtney out of her pity party. “I didn’t like the guy, but he didn’t deserve that.”

From what Courtney knew, the official cause of death was a brain aneurysm brought on by trauma to the head due to playing football. Courtney remembered this was not how a brain aneurysm happened as Beth had told her that it was often heredity. Though, she did admit other forms were rare.

“What was going on with Henry and Yolanda before Henry died?” Maria asked her attention on Courtney.

“I think Yolanda was on the verge of forgiving him for what happened with the photo scandal.”

Cameron thought for a moment before he decided to say something. “About that. It wasn’t Henry that sent those photos.”

Courtney and Maria turned to look at him.

“What do you mean, hun?” Maria asked.

“From what I remember, Cindy swiped Henry’s phone the day the photos were sent around the school.”

“It only takes a few seconds for a transfer of media between devices,” said Courtney. “That would mean Cindy was behind the scandal, not Henry.”

“Exactly.” Cameron nodded. “If anything, Henry looked shocked that the photos were leaked.”

“But, I don’t understand,” said Maria. “Why did Henry slut-shame Yolanda, if he wasn’t the one who sent photos?”

“Beats me,” Cameron shrugged. “Having grown up around everyone at school, I’ve seen how horribly Henry used to treat people.”

“His dad wasn’t much better,” Courtney countered. “He might’ve passed himself off as a renowned and respected doctor, but from what I’ve heard, he criticised everything Henry did at home like nothing was ever good enough.”

“I got the same vibe from Cindy whenever I overheard her complain about her dad.” Cameron remembered.

“Wait, Cindy badmouthed her dad?” Courtney frowned. That didn’t sound like the Cindy she knew. Though, there was a load she didn't know about her arch-rival.

“Oh, yes,” said Maria suddenly. “I remember Jenny talking about it whenever she would walk in with her brother.”

“Her brother?” Courtney asked.

“Jakeem.” Cameron said. “Though, I don’t think Jenny likes talking about her nerdy little brother.”

“Wait, Mike’s friends with a Jakeem. Coincidence?”

“No, there’s only one Jakeem in town.”

“So, my brother is friends with Cindy’s former best friend’s brother. Did not see that one coming.”

Cameron had to hold back a laugh. “I’m surprised you didn’t piece it together sooner.” He smirked.

“I haven’t been focusing on Mike’s friends lately. I’ve only been focusing on mine.”

“And that’s what makes you a good friend to Yolanda,” Maria said gently. “Whatever she’s going through right now, she just needs some space. Give her some time.”

“Maria! You’ve got orders coming in!” Called the chef from the kitchen.

Maria deflated. “I better get going but thank you both for the chat. I feel a lot better about whatever is going with Yolanda.”

“You’re welcome, Maria,” Cameron nodded. “I just hope that she comes back to work here.”

“Me too.” Maria patted him on the shoulder as she rose from the booth. She gave Courtney a smile before she headed toward the kitchen.

“I did not expect to learn any of that.” Courtney said after a moment.

“What? That Henry wasn’t entirely responsible for Yolanda’s downfall?” Cameron questioned.

“Yeah. How do you even know what happened?”

“I was there. I had just walked out of class when I noticed Cindy swipe Henry’s phone. The next thing I remember is being in the auditorium during the school president speeches and then, everyone’s phones started going off.”

“What about Cindy?”

“I was sitting a few rows behind her and I noticed she had her phone out before that. The second I got the notification, I deleted it.”

Courtney felt her heart melt even further. Every time she and Cameron were together she was constantly reminded that not all the ISA legacies were like Cindy. If she was honest, Joey Zarick hadn’t been cruel either but Cameron was something else entirely. He was sweet and thoughtful and was always putting others before himself. She had felt drawn to him because of his big heart and his willingness to make others feel better.

“Do you know what happened in the days after the scandal?” Courtney snapped out of her gush-fest and braced herself for whatever Cameron was going to say next.

“Sure do,” Cameron nodded. “The fallout secured Cindy as Student Body President and Principal Bowin called Yolanda’s parents to her office.”

Courtney felt her stomach drop. Yolanda had hinted at what had come next, but she wanted a third party’s perspective. “How did they react?”

“As you can imagine, they were not happy. I remember hearing Mrs Montez screaming at Yolanda in the hallway with dozens of people watching. It was like she didn’t care who was there. She thought shaming her daughter would make herself feel better.” Cameron shook his head, obviously disgusted by the memory. “Yolanda’s mental health deteriorated until she became friends with you.”

Courtney nodded. She’d noticed the change too. “I noticed how dejected she looked on the first day I met her. Over time, she opened up about what had gone on with Henry. Now, she’s just gone backward and I can’t stop it.”

Cameron took her hand from across the table. “You did everything you could,” he assured her. “Now, it’s up to her. If she wants to talk to you, she will.”

Courtney bit her lip and nodded, squeezing his fingers as a show of thanks. She could tell he was worried about her and could see how personally she was taking Yolanda’s situation. “Also, I wanted to apologise again for earlier.”

Cameron knew exactly what she was talking about. “Oh, that. Not your fault, I did sneak up on you.”

“Yeah, you did, but I shouldn’t have slammed you into that wall.” Courtney cringed at her mistake.

“Hey, don’t worry about it. It could’ve been worse.”

“Actually, I have committed worse.”

Cameron frowned in amusement. “How worse?”

“Way worse. I flipped Artemis on the last day of school because I thought she was going to hit me in the head in a hockey stick.”

Cameron laughed. “Now that is much worse. I’m surprised Artemis didn’t try to kill you.”

“If she was given the chance she probably would have.” Courtney meant that, literally. She had a sudden flashback to the fight in the cafeteria a few days earlier where she’d been forced to watch Isaac die and Cindy get one of her shivs pulled from her wrists by Eclipso and pulled through the floor by something unnatural.

"Hey! You okay?”

Courtney instantly snapped out of her thoughts. “Huh? Oh, yeah. Sorry, I think my martial arts training kicked in.”

“Wait, you did karate?” Cameron snorted in amusement.

Courtney smiled, glad he had changed the subject. “You knew that.”

“No, I knew you did gymnastics.”

“I thought my mom mentioned it during the dinner a few months back.”

"Not that I recall. I know there was discussions about your gymnastics skills, but the karate doesn’t ring any bells.”

Courtney rolled her eyes, causing Cameron to chuckle. “Anyway, thanks for listening to me.”

Cameron smirked and nodded. “Any time. Beats having to put up with my grandparents constantly talking in Norwegian.”

“Can I ask a question?”

“Sure.”

“Why can’t you speak it?”

Cameron blinked.

“Sorry,” Courtney apologised. “I didn’t mean-”

“No, no. More than okay. My dad never saw the need for me to learn. My grandparents speak English as you already know, though sometimes I get the impression that they’re talking about me without me knowing it. I know it sounds weird.”

Courtney shook her head. “No. It doesn’t. I get it. I think it would be cool to speak another language.”

“Yeah, it would be. Though, I kinda suck at French.”

Courtney giggled. “Why are you taking it then?”

Cameron shrugged, too happy to care. “I dunno. I guess it was the closest thing to Norwegian I could take.”

Courtney smirked. “And how’s that turning out for you?”

Cameron narrowed his eyes at her teasing. His face broke out in a smile as he squeezed her hand.

What had shaped up to be the perfect afternoon, Courtney and Cameron found themselves throwing jokes at each other and if they were both honest with themselves, it felt nice.

Courtney had all but forgotten the drama with Yolanda and the JSA as she was having too much fun. Cameron had almost forgotten about his grandparents and their weirdness and about Paul Deisinger now being in a psych ward. They were just enjoying each other’s company and continuing to do so as they headed back to the Whitmore-Dugan house.

“This was fun,” Courtney said with the biggest smile on her face as her house came into view. “We really need to do this again.”

“I agree. When things aren’t so crazy.”

Courtney tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “Yeah.” They had reached the Whitmore-Dugan house. “Thanks… again.” She moved to hug him which he gladly returned. When she went to pull back, she couldn’t help but notice how close their faces were.

Cameron’s breath hitched in his throat. He had noticed the closeness too and didn’t know what to do. Should he pull back? Should he lean in and…

Apparently, he didn’t need to do anything as Courtney leaned up and kissed him. He responded to her before breaking contact. “What was that for?” He whispered, his forehead touching hers.

Courtney smiled up at him, not moving her forehead from his. “To make up for the other day.”

Cameron couldn’t help the smile from spreading across his face.

Courtney grinned as she lifted her chin up to kiss him briefly again. “See you later?” She whispered.

Cameron nodded before pressing a kiss to her forehead. Reluctantly, he pulled back, allowing her to head to the front door. She stopped and turned her head so she was looking over her shoulder. He could see her face was flushed with… was it embarrassment? Happiness? Whatever it was, she was happy and that was all he could’ve wanted for her. She smiled at him again before she turned the handle walked inside.

A few days later, Cameron found himself curled up on Courtney’s bed with his sketchbook out as she flicked through all the television show episodes she hadn’t watched on her laptop. They were supposed to be outside enjoying the summertime while they still could. But, the weather hadn’t let up and it had started to rain.

Courtney had found herself attaching herself to Cameron more in the past few days since she’d kissed him outside the house. She’d had to endure Rick’s arrest on July 4th for assaulting his uncle. She and Pat had tried everything to get him out scot-free, but it hadn’t been easy. Rick had only been let out after ten hours due to his admission of self-defence. It was no secret that Matt was a deadbeat. The entire town knew it and so did the police. They’d arrested him enough times over the years to know what type of person he was.

Cameron had been Courtney’s rock the whole time. As much he didn’t like Rick, he knew he was Courtney’s friend and wanted to support her in whatever way he could. Though, he hated Matt Harris even more.

Matt had been arrested for child neglect and abuse given how he had treated Rick for years. While he was still in hospital, the police were guarding his room to ensure he couldn’t escape. They knew that while Rick had been let go, they knew the kid was harmless compared to Matt. Sure, Rick had beaten him up, but that didn’t mean much to the police in Blue Valley.

Rick was simply a kid looking to get even all the years of toxicity he’d had endured.

Cameron was aware both Pat and Courtney had pleaded Rick’s case. Even Barbara had gone down to the police station to back up their version of events, despite having not been there at the time.

Courtney groaned in annoyance as she slammed her laptop lid shut and flopped back onto her pillows.

Cameron looked up from his drawing with a coy smile. “Can’t find anything to watch?”

“No,” Courtney pulled a face. “I can’t stop thinking about Rick.”

Cameron wanted to ask why Rick was so important to her but held his tongue.

“I know what you’re going to ask.” Courtney turned her head to look at him.

Raising an eyebrow at her, he leaned over to briefly kiss her. “Do you now?” He teased.

“You want to ask why Rick is important to me.”

Cameron wasn’t sure how to respond to that. “Ah…”

Courtney reached across to pull him closer, allowing her to teasingly kiss him. “To answer your silent question,” she said between kisses before allowing herself to snuggle into his side. “Rick’s family. His dad knew Pat.”

Cameron was confused now. “That lowlife doesn’t have friends.”

“Not Matt,” Courtney said. “There’s more to Rick than you think.”

“Care to share?” Cameron smirked.

Courtney gave him a hard look, pressing her lip together, not sure of how to phrase what she going to say next. “Do you remember earlier in the school year when word got out that Rick had changed his last name to Tyler?”

“Yeah, I do remember. Why?”

“Well, Tyler is his last name. Always was. Harris was the maiden name of his mom.”

“So, you’re saying someone else is Rick’s dad.”

“Yep.” Courtney knew what she said next had to be approached carefully to avoid suspicion. “Matt Harris isn’t Rick’s dad. He’s his uncle.”

“Did not see that coming," Cameron mused. "Are they still blood-related?”

“Yep, but it wouldn’t matter if they weren’t. Family isn’t always blood. It can be chosen.”

Cameron was taken aback by her statement. He should’ve realised that. Duh! “You’re a wise woman, you know that, right?”

Courtney nodded, the motion awkward because of how she was laying as she grinned up at him.

Cameron grinned down at her and went to kiss her again only to be interrupted by the buzz of Courtney’s phone on the nightstand. He hung his head in annoyance. “Not again.” He groaned.

Courtney quickly kissed him as she moved to sit up. “Better?”

“Yeah.” Was his only response as she reached across and grabbed her phone.

Courtney frowned as she swiped at the screen, opening whatever notification she had. “Oh my god.”

“What is it?”

Courtney turned her phone around so he could see what was on the screen.

“A text from Yolanda?”

Courtney nodded. “She wants to talk.”

Luckily for Courtney, she had been having trouble with her phone and had to clear stuff off it, including text messages. She had backed her phone up on her computer where everything was safe and Beth had guided her through how to encrypt everything to ensure no one tried to steal anything in case her laptop was hacked.

All Courtney had in her message app was a group chat between her, Beth, and Rick and now, a message from Yolanda.

A moment later, a second message came in from Yolanda with an address for where to meet her.

Courtney leaned back. “I don’t think I should go.” She whispered, her voice sounding utterly broken.

Cameron wrapped her in a hug. “Do you want me to go with you?”

Courtney was silent for a moment before she nodded. “Would you?”

“Of course I will.”

Almost immediately, Courtney’s fingers were swiping and typing at her phone screen.

“What are you doing?”

“Texting Beth and Rick. I want to see if they got the message too.”

A moment later, two identical responses came in.

No.

“Looks like it’s just me that got the message.” Courtney still sounded uncertain.

A second message from Rick came in.

“Rick or Beth?” Cameron asked.

“Rick which is surprising.”

“What’s he saying?”

“He wants to know if I wanted him and Beth there when I talk to Yolanda.”

“Do you want them there?”

Courtney thought for a moment. “Everything that is going on with Yolanda isn’t just about me. It includes them too as they’re part of the family.” She had to be careful not to say “team”.

Cameron didn’t like the idea of Rick being there, but if it was what Courtney wanted, he was more than okay to oblige. “I wanted to go to the art supplies place anyway. Need to stock up on paint after I used most of my stock on the mural of my dad.”

“Okay. I’ll just text Rick and Beth the address of where Yolanda wants to meet me and hopefully, we go from there.”

Cameron didn’t want to know what she meant by that, but judging by the determined look on her face, she want to set things right. He pulled her into another hug and felt her relax into the embrace.

“I just want my best friend back.” Courtney mumbled into his shoulder.

“I know you do, but hopefully you meeting up with her and it will put you back on the right path.”

Courtney shrugged, simply embracing how safe she felt in his arms. She felt him press a kiss to the top of her head before he pulled back to look at her.

“Come on, let’s go get your best friend back.”

A minute later, the teenagers were trudging down the stairs, jumping the last three, leading in the kitchen.

Barbara looked up from the table where she was sitting with her laptop open. “Where are you two going in a hurry?”

“I got a message from Yolanda.” The words fell out of Courtney’s mouth before she stop them.

“And you’re going to meet with her in this weather?” Barbara questioned.

Suddenly, Courtney realised something. “Mom, why aren’t you at work?”

“Power’s out so everyone got sent home. It’s easier to work here where the power works.”

“The weather’s really gotten that bad?” Cameron asked.

Barbara nodded. “Various parts of town have been experiencing the same power outages. It’s odd.”

Eclipso’s doing this, Courtney thought. She looked over at her mother who seemed to be thinking the same thing.

“Okay, go do what you have to do and come straight back. The last thing I want to do is send Pat out after you both.”

“Understood, Barbara.” Cameron nodded before he pulled Courtney towards the door. “We’ll be as quick as we can.”

Barbara nodded, watching as the teenagers filed out the door.

Cameron didn’t let go of Courtney’s hand as they headed down the street and towards the location Yolanda had texted. It didn’t surprise him that the streets were all about empty given the weather. It was a miracle that the July 4th celebrations had happened at all.

In the years after his mother’s death, July 4th was one of the holidays that he and his father had celebrated where it was just the two of them. Now that he was gone, it hadn’t felt the same until Courtney had rammed him into that wall.

He hadn’t expected any of this. Heck, he didn’t even know if he wanted to label his relationship with Courtney yet. He was just enjoying his time with her. All the times she had ditched him or not shown up at all, it had hurt, but now it seemed like things were beginning to look up or so he hoped.

Courtney could feel her stomach twist into knots as they walked closer to their destination. It had been days since she’d seen Yolanda and for all she knew, her mother had turned her against everything she had rebuilt in the last few months since she’d become Wildcat.

Was Mrs Montez really that spiteful and desperate to turn Yolanda back into the shell she had been after the photo scandal? Courtney didn’t like thinking negatively about anyone, but Mrs Montez wasn’t the nicest person. If anything, she was just like Rick’s uncle. She used her power to belittle her daughter into thinking she was worthless. Her husband wasn’t much better. The only person who didn’t think less of Yolanda was Alex, Yolanda’s cousin. Their grandmother apparently didn’t have an opinion on the matter it seemed.

“It’s going to be okay, Court.”

Courtney snapped out of her thought train. “I hope you’re right, Cam.” She leaned into his shoulder as they continue to walk.

A few minutes later, they reached where Yolanda wanted to meet. It was a very dead-looking park with a sidewalk down the left side which would’ve been used for joggers, people riding bicycles or anyone who walked their dog. The second they got as close as the entrance to the park, Courtney spotted two figures she knew immediately were Rick and Beth.

They got closer and Rick stopped dead when he saw Cameron. “What’s he doing here?”

Beth elbowed him. “Be nice.” She muttered as Courtney and Cameron stopped in front of them.

“Relax, Rick,” Cameron said, his expression neutral. “I’m not staying. I’ve got something to do.” He turned to Courtney. “I’ll be as quick as I can. Take your time with Yolanda, okay?” When she nodded, he pressed one last kiss to the top of her head before he released her hand. He then lowered his voice. “Back soon.” He stepped past Beth, patting her on the shoulder he moved past her but chose to ignore Rick altogether.

Courtney watched over Rick’s shoulder as Cameron headed down the street. Once he was out of earshot, she focused her attention on her two remaining friends and she knew immediately what was coming.

“You and him? Seriously, Court?” Rick said, clearly disgusted.

“Rick.” Beth elbowed him again. “What Court does in her own time is her business.”

“Yeah, but…” Rick started to speak again but one look from Beth told him to leave it alone.

“This isn’t about us, Rick,” Courtney said. “We’re here because Yolanda wanted to talk to me.”

“Does she know we’re here?” Beth asked, indicating herself her and Rick.

Courtney shook her head. “No, and she can’t know. If she sees you, she’s going to think that we’re trying to gang on her and take her back into the JSA.”

“Ah, you do know that I’m not JSA now, right?” Rick asked.

Courtney felt her stomach twist. The second he had smashed his dad’s hourglass had been the indication she had needed that he wanted out. As much as it had stung to see him in the back of that police car and looking down at the remains of the hourglass, she still wanted to be there for him. That was just the type of person she was. She wasn’t going to give up on him because he wanted her to do so. She shook herself out of her thoughts. "Yes, I’m aware.”

Beth looked over Courtney’s shoulder and her face fell. “Ah, Court?” She pointed.

Courtney whirled around to see Yolanda headed towards them. “Quick! Hide!”

Beth grabbed Rick by the arm before he had a chance to protest and pulled him behind the closest piece of play equipment.

Courtney turned around, silently praying that Yolanda hadn’t seen Beth and Rick.

Finally, Yolanda stopped in front of her. “Hi.” She said, folding her arms around herself as if trying to protect herself from the cold.

Courtney gave her a small smile. She desperately wanted to hug her but held herself back. She knew that Yolanda had shut herself off from everyone whom she’d been close to. It wasn’t just her or Rick and Beth. She also knew it was a defence mechanism for Yolanda. She wasn’t going to judge her for that as everyone had done. “You wanted to talk.”

Yolanda pressed her lips together and nodded. “Yeah. I…” she trailed off, unsure of how to proceed.

Courtney could see Yolanda wasn’t coping with the situation. She had dark circles under her eyes from the lack of sleep, and her face was blotchy from crying. “I… just wanted to say that I’m sorry for everything.” She knew she was probably going to be yelled at but she had to try to get through to her.

“Are you though?” Yolanda said, her voice small but dark sounding. “I’m sure you’re loving the time you’ve been spending with Cameron.”

Courtney froze. “How did…?”

“How did I know? I saw you two together the day before July 4th. You were having the time of your life.” Yolanda sounded… jealous? Spiteful? Courtney couldn’t tell.

This isn’t like her, Courtney thought desperately. I have to say something, but what?

“I’m not going to defend myself. I can hang out with whoever I want.” Courtney knew she sounded scared, but she had to push through. “What is this actually about, Yolanda?”

“The fact that you think you're so high and mighty. Always there for others but not for your friends. What does that tell you? When I needed you, you weren’t there.” Yolanda attempted to sound bitter, but the tears that cascaded down her face told a totally different story.

Yolanda’s words echoed in Courtney’s mind. It reminded her of what Cameron had said to her after they had almost kissed and he’d shown her his sketches of her. She could still hear the upset in his voice when he spoke about her always never showing or leaving randomly.

“Yes, I’m a horrible friend,” Courtney said. “I wasn’t there for you when I should have been. But, you’re not the only friend I have. Everyone else needs my attention too.”

“Oh, like Cameron?” Yolanda snapped. “I told you to stay away from him. If the truth were to get out about what Mike did to Icicle, Cameron could very well do to you what Henry did to me.”

Courtney wanted to defend Cameron and say he wouldn’t do what Henry did, but how could she be sure? Every person on the planet had a nefarious side. It didn’t matter how good of a person they were. “It wasn’t Henry.” She said, the words rushing out of her mouth before she could stop them.

Yolanda went to throw another barb at her but stopped at her words. “What?”

“I know what actually happened leading up to the photo scandal.”

Yolanda blinked. “What are you even talking about?”

Yolanda crossed her arms, which Courtney took as an indication to keep going.

“He was walking out of class that day and saw Cindy swipe Henry’s phone. You already know that Cindy was your rival. She wanted everything you did so she stole Henry’s phone, swiped the photos and sent them around the school.”

Yolanda’s mind raced a million miles a minute. That’s when she remembered the look of surprise and sorrow on Henry’s face when she’d spotted him in the crowd. She had stood shell-shocked behind the lectern. “He was innocent the whole time?” She all but whispered.

Courtney could still hear her statement as if she had spoken it out loud for everyone to hear.

From their hiding place, Rick and Beth looked at each other, unsure of what was going on. Yolanda’s voice had gone quiet. Though, Courtney’s words rung in their ears. Henry was innocent of the photo scandal? The guy had been a jerk who had been willing to change, which had ultimately cost him his life. They’d have to ask Courtney about it later. Right now, though, they needed to remain hidden.

“Yes,” Courtney said, hoping it was enough to convince Yolanda. “Henry wasn’t responsible for the scandal. Cindy was.”

“Cameron could’ve lied to make you trust him.” Yolanda said, her voice beginning to thicken with emotion.

Courtney shook her head. “No. He wouldn’t do that. I trust his judgement. He’s not the sort of person who would do that.”

Yolanda had to admit that was true. Cameron wasn’t the type of guy who would lie about something like that. After all, he did paint her locker to cover over the ‘slut’. That had been a nice thing for him to do. “I’m still not coming back to the JSA, Courtney.” She said finally. Before she could get another word out, the familiar shriek of her mother sounded.

“YOLANDA!”

Yolanda froze as her mother’s footsteps thundered closer.

On impulse, Beth pulled her phone from her pocket and started recording.

Maria grabbed her daughter by the arm forcibly, causing Yolanda to cry out. The woman then turned to Courtney. “I told you to stay away from my daughter!” Without any form of warning, she struck Courtney across the face with such force, Courtney collapsed to the pavement.

“COURT!” Three voices sounded.

Rick and Beth sprung from their hiding place, just in time to see Maria pulling a screaming Yolanda down the sidewalk.

The third, which happened to be Cameron, seemed closer than Rick and Beth had expected.

Cameron ran towards where Courtney had collapsed at the same time Rick and Beth did. “What happened?” He demanded.

“Yolanda’s mom hit her.” Beth said as she quickly pocketed her phone and helped the boys pull Courtney to her feet.

Rick, ignoring Cameron, turned to Beth. “Did you record all of that?”

“Yeah. Why?”

“We need to show Pat and Barbara and probably the police.”

You got arrested the other day.” Cameron said pointedly.

“Yeah, and?” Rick said.

“You’re willing to go the cops?”

“Yeah. I don’t have a problem with them. It’s my…”

“He knows about Matt, Rick.” Courtney said, her face stinging from where Yolanda’s mother had hit her. “I told him.”

Rick wasn’t sure whether to reprimand Courtney or to thank her. In the end, it didn’t matter. He’d changed his last name back to Tyler months ago. The truth would’ve gotten out anyway.

Thunder sounded overhead and tiny droplets of rain started to fall.

“Guys,” said Beth. “We need to get indoors before the rain comes down again.”

“Court and I walked from her house.” Cameron said as Courtney clung to him, still shaken from being slapped by Mrs Montez.

Rick shook his head. “I parked the Mustang at the Pit Stop. It’s closer.”

Cameron didn’t argue. Rick was right. The Pit Stop was closer than the Whitmore-Dugan house. “Let’s go before it starts pouring.”

A few minutes later, Rick had led Beth, Cameron and Courtney to the Pit Stop. “Pat? Pat!”

“Rick? What’s going on?”

Pat walked out of the storage area where he stored S.T.R.I.P.E. His eyes didn’t go straight to Rick, however. They fell on Courtney who had the reddest cheek he had ever seen. “Oh god! Court!” He hurried over to her where she stepped into his arms and started sobbing. He looked at the others. “What happened?”

“Yolanda’s mom,” Cameron said. “She attacked Courtney when Yolanda tried to talk to her.”

Rick and Beth nodded in agreement.

Pat could see that both boys were struggling to hold their anger back. Beth, meanwhile, was still processing what had happened. He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I knew things were bad, but I didn’t expect things to be THIS bad.”

Rick and Beth exchanged looks.

Courtney whimpered from her stepdad’s protective embrace.

“You’re okay,” Pat whispered as he pressed a kiss to his stepdaughter’s head. “You’re safe, Court.” He pulled back so he could look her in the eyes. “We’ll set this right. Promise.”

Courtney nodded and stepped back allowing both Cameron and Rick to wrap her in a half-hug. Beth reached across Rick and took Courtney’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze in a show of support.

Pulling his phone from his pocket, Pat pulled up his contacts list.

“Who are you calling Mr Dugan?” Beth asked.

“Barbara.” Pat said as he placed his phone to his ear.

After a couple of rings, Barbara picked up. “Pat? What’s wrong?”

“ Hey, honey, we have a problem.”

“Problem? What sort of problem?” Barbara questioned her husband.

“Yolanda’s mother.” Pat said, his tone hard. It was enough to give Barbara enough of an idea without a full explanation.

“Mike and I will be there soon.”

It was fifteen minutes before Barbara, flanked by Mike, walked through the Pit Stop.

“What happened?” Barbara asked as she rushed to her daughter’s side. Some of the redness from Courtney’s cheek had faded but not enough for it to disappear entirely. Pat explained to her what Cameron, Rick, and Beth had told him about Mrs Montez and how she had struck Courtney before pulling a screaming Yolanda away.

Barbara looked like she wanted to throw up. She knew Maria was a hard person, but never did she think she’d strike another person, let alone her daughter’s best friend. “That’s assault,” she said at last. “It was unprovoked.” She was seething but was trying to keep herself in check for the sake of the kids. “It’s just a shame we don’t have any evidence.”

“Umm. Mrs Whitmore we do have evidence.” Barbara turned to Beth, who was holding out her phone. “I recorded what happened.”

Barbara activated the video. She ignored Pat and Mike, who had crowded around her. For two minutes, they stood glued to the video. The horrified cries of Beth, Rick and Cameron brought the trio back to the present. “Oh. God.”

Beth took her phone back but didn’t put it away. “What are we going to do?”

“This whole situation with Yolanda’s mother has gone too far,” Pat said. “We need to end this. Now.”

For the first time, Rick and Cameron looked at each other without any form of malice. Their goal was to protect Courtney, and they would be damned if Mrs Montez stood in their way.

“What do we need to do, Pat?” Rick said.

Pat turned to him. As did Barbara. “We need to take this to the police. This can’t stand. If we didn’t have Beth’s video we’d have no luck as it would be our word against Maria’s.”

Barbara nodded. “We need to show the police the video and explain what we know.” She turned to the kids. “Beth, Rick, Cameron. You three saw what happened. You’ll be able to corroborate what the video shows. Court will be able to back you up as she is the victim.”

“But how does this help Yolanda?” Rick asked.

“She was a witness and a victim too,” said Beth. “She would have physical evidence on her arm from where her mom grabbed her.”

“Do you think she would be willing to turn her mother in?” Cameron questioned.

There was a pause as everyone considered the question.

“I know Yolanda loves her mom,” said Beth thoughtfully. “But, even she has her limits. Look at what happened with…” she stopped, realising Cameron was still in the room. “Ah…”

Cameron frowned.

“Doesn’t matter!” Rick interrupted. Beth sighed in relief, glad Rick had taken the heat off her. “Yolanda’s mom shouldn’t be abusing ANYONE. She is no different from my uncle.”

“Except your uncle is physical,” said Pat. “Yolanda’s mother is emotionally abusing her daughter. However, Beth’s video proves Maria is capable of physical abuse too.”

“Do you think Juan will get caught up in this too?” Barbara asked.

“Hard to say,” Pat told her. He turned to the kids. “Does anyone know whether Yolanda’s dad is abusive towards Yolanda in any way?”

The kids looked at each other and shook their heads.

“He would openly back his wife, though,” Barbara said as she thought back to all the conversations she’d had with him since she’d known Yolanda. “From what I’ve seen, he is the supportive father in front of people, but it’s possible he’s the polar opposite away from the public.”

“Is there any way we can prove it?” Cameron asked.

Rick, who had been silent since he’d saved Beth from embarrassment, suddenly perked up. “There might be,” he said. Everyone turned to look at him expectedly. “Alex might be able to help us. He’s always had Yolanda’s back.”

“Yeah!” Beth said gleefully. “Alex is the only person in the Montez family that will back Yolanda. I cannot believe I hadn’t thought of him.”

Mike slid off the workbench. “I can call Alex if you want. He’s told me about how his aunt and uncle treat his cousin and it’s obvious he hates being rebuffed by them.”

“Good idea, Mike. Go do that.” Pat nodded his approval at his son, who grinned, happy to be of service before he pulled his phone from his pocket went to call his friend.

“What about the rest of us?” Courtney asked, speaking up for the first time since her mother and brother’s arrival.

“Before we go to the cops, we all need to get our stories straight. If the police find that there’s an inconsistencies, they’ll think we’re lying.”

Rick snorted. “Most of us work as a team most days, Pat. Also, four of us were there. I’m pretty sure we’re in sync.”

“Doesn’t hurt to be prepared, Rick,” Barbara said. “We’ll have better luck if we can all keep our stories straight.”

“Barbara’s right,” said Cameron. “Everything has to line up.”

With everyone in agreement, they started to piece together everything by using Pat’s whiteboard that had been used to write down the wish Mike had given Thunderbolt. Luckily, it had been erased since then, so Cameron wasn’t going to see it.

It took a full hour for everything to be written up and plotted. Though, it felt like the world’s longest hour. There weren’t that many moving parts, unlike the wish for Thunderbolt.

As the group were beginning to plot out what had happened with Maria, Mike returned from his phone call with Alex. He explained that his friend had been worried about Yolanda’s wellbeing for a while, so he’d secretly recorded confrontations she’d had with her parents. This had surprised everyone.

Alex was a sweet kid with a big heart who thought the world of Yolanda. He hated how his uncle and aunt treated her because she made a mistake that cost her everything. Though, it had nothing to do with the rest of the family. He was aware they could’ve been supportive, but no. They wanted to punish her. He didn’t want that for her. All he wanted was for her to be happy.

“Alex said he’s going to email me all his recordings.” Mike had said, sounding rather proud of himself.

Courtney walked over and kissed him on the cheek. “Greatest. Baby Brother. Ever.”

Mike went red with embarrassment. “B-back at ya, big sis.”

He caught Cameron and Rick’s looks of amusement and wished he could kick them. He looked over at Beth next, and it looked like she was bursting at the sight. He rolled his eyes. “Go ahead.”

“Aww!”

Barbara laughed. “Okay, that’s enough you two. We’ve got plotting we need to do before we can present our case to the police.”

Once the story was fleshed out, the group headed down to the police station. It was better to go in person than to do it over the phone. Luckily, Pat was friendly with a few of the police officers who often got their cars serviced a the Pit Stop.

“Pat!” Greeted one of the officers sitting at the front desk.

“Hey, Phil.” Pat nodded in greeting.

“What brings you here?” Phil asked.

“Something’s happened. We need to report an assault and abuse allegations.” Pat said seriously.

“Who against?”

The group exchanged looks before Barbara spoke up. “Maria Montez and potentially her husband Juan Montez.”

“Those are some serious allegations,” Phil mused. “Do you have proof?”

“We do,” Pat said. “Beth?”

Beth stepped forward and showed the officer the video she had taken of Maria hitting Courtney and dragging Yolanda away.

Phil’s eyes bulged. “Wow. I knew she was super religious, but I didn’t think she was capable of such violence.”

“We didn’t either,” Barbara admitted. “We have more. Maria’s nephew, Alex has been keeping recordings of what is going on at the Montez house. We haven’t had a chance to listen to them.”

Mike stepped forward and played the first recording Alex had sent him.

The recording was of an argument Yolanda had had with her mother over her not allowing her to go out with her friends. While it sounded like a run-of-the-mill argument between mother and daughter, it was Yolanda’s cry of pain that bought everyone to a standstill.

“There’s more.” Mike said after a moment. He played another recording and then, another.

Phil listened intently. “Wow, I don’t know what to say.” He turned and spoke to one of his colleagues. “We’ll get this sorted out, I promise you.”

“Before you go, Phil. We have more evidence.” Pat said as he gestured at Courtney to step forward. “The mark on Courtney’s face corroborates the video Beth showed you.”

Phil pulled out his phone and snapped a photo of Courtney’s red cheek. “Thank you, Pat.” He nodded. His partner walked past him and out the door of the station. Courtney then stepped back, allowing Cameron to wrap her in a hug.

“What do we do now?” Beth asked.

“Well, Miss Chapel, I’ll need statements from everyone who was present in the video.”

“Yolanda was present too,” Rick said. “Will she need to be questioned?”

“Yes, Mister Tyler,” said Phil. “She's a victim as well. Like I told Pat, we’ll get to the bottom of this. I can promise you that.”

Rick nodded and said nothing more.

“Looks like we’re in for a long night.” said Barbara with a sigh.

Courtney turned to Cameron and murmured, “Don’t you have to get home?”

“I’ll ring Gramps and tell him I’ll be late. I’ll come up with an excuse.”

“Won’t Lily see through that?” Barbara asked.

Cameron considered that. “You’re right. I can’t go anywhere without her knowing where I am at all times.” He sighed. "I’ll just have to deal with the consequences later. This is a bit more important.”

Barbara gave him a small grin and a nod. “Still ring your grandfather, though.”

Cameron nodded as he turned to Courtney. “I’ll be back. I’ve just got to ring home.”

Courtney was reluctant to let him go but did so, knowing full well he’d be back.

Forty-five minutes passed, and the Whitmore-Dugans and the other kids were pulled from their state of silence when shouting sounded from outside.

“This is absurd! We haven’t done anything!”

“Try telling that to the teenage girl that was slapped in the face.”

Pat’s police buddy, Phil, walked into the police station with Juan Montez in handcuffs. Another officer followed close behind with Maria Montez, who wasn’t in handcuffs but looked irritated to be there in the first place.

When the couple was led into the police station, they went pale before going red in the face. It looked like they were going to burst with rage. Before either of them could implode, Phil and his partner pushed them both into separate interview rooms.

“I was expecting that to be bad.” Mike said, without lifting his head from his father’s arm.

Cameron cringed at the idea. “I thought Mrs Montez was going to start screaming again.”

Courtney didn’t stir from where she was sitting with her head resting against Beth’s who had fallen asleep next to her.

Barbara re-entered the space, having slipped out for coffee from the small cafe down the street. She handed Pat the second cup she was holding. “What’s been happening?”

“Nothing much,” said Rick, keeping his voice down, so he didn’t wake Beth. “Expect Yolanda’s parents coming in and being forced to keep their voices to themselves.”

Barbara retook her seat beside Mike. “Hopefully, we’ll get some answers soon.”

Another forty minutes passed, and there had been no change. Juan and Maria were still being questioned. Though there had been a change of tactics it seemed because Phil slipped out of the room holding Maria and another colleague of his took his place.

“Phil, has there been any updates?” Pat asked when Phil walked over to them.

“We’re slowly getting answers, but it will be a while before we have anything solid to go on.” Phil concluded. It was clear he wanted this to be over with. “They’re not making it easy for us.”

“Why?” Barbara asked as she looked over at Courtney to see she was still asleep.

“They’ve been talking about how it is god’s right to punish those who commit sins, no matter how minor.”

“Does slapping my daughter count as a sin?” Barbara quipped.

“Mom.” Mike nudged her.

“Sorry, honey.” She turned her attention back to Phil. “What should we do?”

Phil looked at the sleepy teenagers and he could also see how exhausted Pat and Barbara appeared. “I would advise going home and getting some rest. I’ll call you with an update once we have one.”

Pat yawned as he patted Mike on the shoulder. “I think that’s a good idea.”

Mike sluggishly rose from his seat while Rick and Cameron gently shook the girls awake.

“Beth, we’re going home.” Rick said gently as he shook her shoulder.

Beth jolted awake before realising she was at the police station. “Any progress?”

“Nothing,” said Rick as he helped to steady her as she climbed to her feet. “We’re going home.”

“But, don’t we have to talk to the police?” Beth protested, clearly sleep-deprived.

“Yes,” Barbara said as she swung her purse strap over her shoulder. “In the morning. Pat’s friend’s going to give us an update when there is one.”

Beth turned to look at the cop.

“Don’t worry, Miss Chapel,” Phil said. “I’ll tell Pat and he’ll be sure to pass on the message.”

Beth looked to Pat. “Really, Mr Dugan?”

“Of course, Beth.”

Beth turned when she felt Rick’s hand on her shoulder.

“Come on, I’ll take you home.”

Beth felt she was too tired to argue and followed him out the door.

Pat turned to Cameron once Rick and Beth had left. “Come on, Cam. We’ll drop Courtney, Barbara, and Mike home and then I’ll drop you off.”

Cameron nodded, too tired to argue that he’d rather stay with Courtney.

Pat stopped the Bruick outside the Mahkent house, and Cameron climbed out, switching on his phone’s flashlight to guide him up the dark path towards the house.

“Thanks for the lift, Pat. I appreciate it.”

“Any time. Besides, I wasn’t going to allow you to walk home in the dark and in this weather.” Overhead, there was a rumble of thunder and a brief flash of lightning. “Better get inside.”

Cameron nodded and waved his goodbyes before watching Pat pull away from the curb and drive back the way he’d come.

The rain started again, forcing Cameron to retreat towards the house.

Entering over the threshold of the foyer, he shook his head free of the drops of rain and found himself coming face-to-face with his grandfather who had gotten up from the couch where he’d been watching television.

“Cameron. How did it go?” Sofus asked, ushering his grandson into the living room.

Cameron looked around for his grandmother. “Where’s Gran?”

“She went to bed early.” Sofus answered, not offended that his question hadn’t been answered straight away.

Cameron nodded. “Didn’t get questioned by the police, at least not yet. It was late by the time the Montezes were bought in to the police station. Questioning took a while and was still going on by the time I left.”

“Did Pat bring you home?” Sofus asked as he sat down at the island counter as Cameron leaned across from him.

“Yeah. He wasn’t going to let me walk home in the dark or in the rain.”

Sofus could see that Cameron had a great admiration for Pat. Though, he chose not to say anything. Instead, he said, “That was nice of him.”

“Yeah, it’s easy to see why Courtney admires him.” Cameron allowed a small smile to escape him before allowing it to disappear. He had always had an odd vibe that his grandparents didn’t like Pat but he could never put his finger on why. Pat had always been welcoming to him so he didn’t see a problem. Whatever issue his grandparents had with him, might’ve had to do with Barbara. He was aware that his father always spoke about his fondness for Courtney’s mother, but there was more to the story that he didn’t know. If he were honest with himself, he didn’t want to. Whatever was going on, had nothing to do with him, so he didn’t ask or insert himself.

Sofus could see that even a mention of Barbara’s daughter put a smile on his grandson’s face. All he wanted was for Cameron to be happy. If he knew what had truly happened with Jordan, it would destroy him and Sofus knew this. He also wanted to honour Jordan’s wishes and not include Cameron in the supervillain business. However, he knew that Lily was in the opposite mindset.

“Gramps?”

Sofus snapped out of his thoughts to find Cameron watching him, curiously. “I’m sorry, my boy. Must be the lack of sleep catching up to me.”

“I think we ought to get some sleep then,” Cameron grinned as he moved away from the counter and around to give his grandfather a hug. “Night, Gramps.”

“Good night.”

Cameron issued one last smile before he left the room and headed up the stairs.

Dumping his art supplies on his desk chair, Cameron got ready for bed. He was about to pull the covers back when his phone vibrated on the nightstand. He smirked when he saw it was Courtney.

“Can’t get enough of me, Court?” He teased.

“Ha ha.” Courtney responded dryly on the other end. “Just thought I’d check in.”

“Why would you check in on me?” He asked, confused. “You’re the one who ended up in the middle of the Montez drama.”

“Yeah, but I dragged you into it and I shouldn’t have. I feel guilty.”

“Don’t feel guilty. Wasn’t your fault. Besides, I wanted to be there.”

The silence on the other end told him she was touched. “Well, thanks. I appreciate it.”

“What’s the next move?”

“Pat said he’s still waiting to hear back from his police friend.”

“I take it he hasn’t heard anything?”

“Nothing yet. He said it could be a little while until the police have interviewed Yolanda’s parents.”

Cameron lowered himself onto his bed. “Do you think Yolanda will become involved?”

“It’s likely. After all, her mom tore her away from the scene of when Mrs Montez attacked me.”

“How is your face, by the way?”

“Doesn’t sting now. Phil took photos of my cheek before the Montezes showed up at the station.”

“What do you think will happen if Mrs Montez is shown the photos?”

Courtney sighed. “From what my mom has said, Mrs Montez is going to blame everyone but herself for Yolanda’s failings.”

Cameron shook his head. “I feel so sorry for Yolanda. Having a mother who won’t accept an apology for anything.”

“So do I,” Courtney said, her voice deadpan. “I just wish there was something I could do. I know I’ve said that before but I just want things to go back to how they were.”

Cameron could hear the emotion in her voice. He knew the last few days had taken their toll on her. “I know you do, but hopefully, we’ll have a better picture tomorrow. Right now, though, get some sleep.”

“Since when do you give me orders?” She teased.

Cameron smirked. “Since right now,” he flirted. “You’ll feel better after a good night’s sleep.”

Courtney sounded like she wanted to protest but, a yawn escaped her. “I’m not tired.” She denied.

Cameron chuckled. “Yes, you do. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Aww! You’re no fun.” Courtney sounded disappointed. “Fine. I’ll sleep. See you in the morning.”

“Night Court.”

The next morning Cameron awoke to his grandfather shaking him awake. “Gramps?” He rubbed his eyes.

“Pat’s here.”

Cameron quickly got dressed and followed his grandfather downstairs.

Pat was standing awkwardly in the kitchen while Lily eyed him like she wanted to murder him.

Cameron noticed Pat relax when he saw him. “Morning, Pat.”

“Morning,” Pat greeted, though he still sounded uneasy with Lily’s intense gaze watching him. “Got a call from the station, they’re ready for statements.”

Cameron nodded, eager to escape his grandmother’s prodding before it had even started. He shouldered his backpack and followed Pat out the door without glancing over his shoulder.

Once he and Pat were in the car, he turned to him. “Thanks for coming to get me, Pat. I don’t think I could’ve handled explaining what happened to Gran.”

“Hey, no worries. Your grandmother has always been intense… right?”

Cameron shrugged. “She’s just protective.”

“I understand that. It’s what your dad would’ve wanted.” Pat said the words but had to hold back on his animosity. Yes, Jordan was dead, but he endangered people’s lives and he killed those who didn’t agree with him. Also, he kidnapped Barbara and tried to murder her and Courtney and ordered hits on him and Mike. How could he forgive that?

None of what Jordan had done was Cameron’s fault. He didn’t ask to have a supervillain as a father. Pat had never had a problem with the kid. He adored Courtney and he was well mannered. How did a kid, born to a supervillain, come to be so sweet?

“Pat?”

Pat snapped out of his thoughts to find Cameron staring at him.

“You okay?”

“Yeah,” Pat lied, issuing a faux smile. “I’m okay. Just hoping this doesn’t blow Courtney’s chances of getting Yolanda back as a friend.”

Cameron nodded in agreement. It had come to his attention that Yolanda had become like a sister to Courtney. They heavily relied on each other, so what had happened to make the situation so bad? He didn’t want to think about it.

For a moment, the pair sat in total silence. The radio wasn’t even turned on but the silence was deafening.

“Hey Pat?”

“Yeah?”

“I’m sorry that this is happening.”

Pat frowned. “What are you apologising for, Cam? None of this is your fault.”

“I feel like I could’ve done something to stop it. If I hadn’t of left Courtney when she went to talk to Yolanda, we wouldn’t be about to be interviewed right now.”

Pat reached across and patted him on the shoulder. “Hey, like I said, not your fault. You weren’t to know Yolanda’s mom was going to show up.”

Cameron shrugged, unsure of what to say next.

“If I’m honest,” Pat said, drawing Cameron’s attention back to him. “You’ve made Courtney happier then I’ve ever seen her.”

Cameron felt his face flush and silently prayed that Pat hadn’t noticed. “Oh, ah, thanks Pat. That means a lot.”

Pat nodded. “I can see that she’s had an effect on you too.”

There was no way Cameron could argue with that. “I can’t disagree.”

“I’ve seen how the two of you light up when you’re together. Even a blind person could see it.”

For Cameron, to get this kind of compliment from Pat meant a lot. It meant that he approved and that was all he could’ve asked for. Pat was the closest father figure Courtney had ever had in her life. He knew all about her biological father Sam and how he was a deadbeat who conned her out of her locket. What had impressed him was how Pat had given the guy a piece of his mind and had even punched him.

Having Pat on his side was a bonus as he’d always been nice to him. Cameron was pulled from his thoughts when the Bruick pulled to a stop outside the police station.

That was a faster trip than I thought, Cameron mused but chose not to voice it out loud as he climbed out of the car.

Pat locked the car and they walked up to the front of the police station. The second they walked through the door, they were engulfed by a hug from Courtney.

“It’s good to see you too, Court.” Pat chuckled.

“Hey, Court.” Cameron greeted, knowing that he had the world’s stupidest grin on his face.

Courtney reluctantly let them go and allowed them to sit down in the vacant chairs that had been left by those already assembled.

“Don’t mind Court,” said Mike from where he was sitting beside Barbara. “She’s been clingy all morning.”

Courtney threw her brother a dirty look.

Mike, who was usually fearless when it came to his big sister, attempted to make himself invisible as he slid down in his chair, attempting to hide between Beth and his mother.

“Court,” Barbara said sternly. “Don’t harass your brother.”

Courtney’s expression shifted. She vague heard Rick, who was sitting across from her, snort in amusement. Next to her, she felt Cameron squeeze her hand. She didn’t need to look up to know that his expression matched Rick’s.

Pat ignored the kids entirely as he leaned his head against the wall. His casual pose didn’t last very long as a moment later, Phil walked out from one of the interview rooms. “Mornin’ Phil.” He greeted.

“Morning, Pat,” Phil nodded at Pat before turning to the group. “Morning, everyone. So, we finished talking to Maria and Juan Montez, and unfortunately, they weren’t exactly helpful.”

“How do you mean?” Asked Mike.

“They kept saying they wouldn’t talk without their lawyer present and when the lawyer did show up, it ended up being a waste of time.”

“How?” Pat questioned with a frown.

“They kept talking about how it's a sin to talk back to your elders and how Courtney deserved to be struck and how their daughter has to live with her scandal.” Phil sounded exhausted.

Out the corner of Cameron’s eye, he saw Courtney shift in her seat uncomfortably. He squeezed her hand again as a show of support.

“Did you look at the evidence we gave you?” Barbara asked.

Phil nodded. “Yes, we did. We got a warrant to search the Montez home too.”

“Is that necessary?” Beth said, perking up.

“Unfortunately, yes.” Phil sighed. “Two teenage girls are being treated like they’re worth nothing. We cannot let this stand.” He shook his head, eager to change the subject.

Rick, Cameron, and Mike exchanged uneasy looks before turning their attention back to the conversation.

“Does Yolanda know?” Courtney asked.

Phil nodded. “Yes. My guys arrived at the house and she answered the door.”

Courtney felt her stomach drop. She felt guilty for all of this happening in the first place. But Yolanda had a lot going on already. After all, everything with her guilt regarding what had happened with Brainwave, she had every right to get it off her chest.

She was pulled from her thoughts by Mike elbowing her in the arm. She hadn’t seen him move from his place between Beth and Barbara to where she was sitting with Cameron a few seats over. Ultimately, she held back a yelp.

“Where’s Yolanda now?” Barbara asked.

Before Phil could respond, Yolanda herself walked out of the second interview room.

No one knew what to say. Beth and Courtney wanted to get up and hug her but they held themselves back, knowing how well that would go down. Mike looked like he wanted to disappear and Rick and Cameron didn’t know whether they wanted to stay or get the hell out of dodge. Barbara and Pat weren’t sure whether they should speak up.

What was odd was that Cameron knew there was more going on, but he wasn’t even involved so he wasn’t sure why he felt like he was. Was it because he was feeding off Courtney’s anxiety? Possibly. If there was anything he should’ve known, someone would’ve told him… right?

Yolanda found herself unable to look anyone present in the eye. These were her friends, moreover, her family. Who was she kidding? The JSA and Whitmore-Dugans were more like family than her actual family was. Her parents had given up on her, and her grandmother didn’t know which side to take. She was just glad she had Alex on her side. He was taking a massive beating too from her parents for simply standing up for her. She felt broken and didn’t know what was going to happen once school went back. All her thinking had led her to find herself standing outside the police station.

How had she gotten there? She didn’t remember feeling her feet move.

“Yolanda!”

Courtney was the first to speak as Yolanda hurried outside.

“Court, is that good idea?” Pat questioned as she moved from her chair towards the door.

Courtney could feel everyone’s eyes on her but, she didn’t care. She had to say something. Otherwise, she might not get a chance again. “Pat, I can’t just do nothing.” Her eyes became unfocused as she felt the burning sensation of tears.

“I understand that, we all do, but going after Yolanda will only make it worse. Do you want a repeat of what happened yesterday?”

Courtney knew Pat was right, but the only thing she was focused on was getting her best friend back. “I know, Pat, but…”

Pat shook his head. “I know you want everything to go back to the way it was, but you need to think that it might not happen.”

That wasn’t what Courtney wanted to hear, but she had to try. Ignoring her stepfather, she pushed past him and found herself just a few paces behind Yolanda.

Yolanda knew Courtney was standing behind her but she couldn't bring herself to turn around. It would hurt too much. She was her best friend. Did she regret what she had said to Courtney the day before? She wasn’t sure. While she knew it was normal to feel envious of Courtney spending so much time with Cameron, she felt bitter still. In her mind, Courtney wasn’t there when she wanted her to be. She knew it was selfish as Courtney had been right. She had every right to spend her time with whoever she wanted.

Courtney could feel a million negative emotions beginning to climb to the surface. She felt like Yolanda wasn’t listening to her and was abiding to everything her mother was telling her to think. It was like she could no longer think for herself and whatever Maria said, went. It also wasn’t fair of Yolanda to blame Cameron. While she hadn’t said anything directly, Courtney knew how Yolanda’s mind worked. She didn’t exactly have a label for the relationship yet and she wasn’t sure if she wanted to.

Yolanda wanted to protect her. She understood that, but she had to make her own mistakes. Hiding the truth of what had happened to Jordan was something that Courtney didn’t want to do, but she had to protect her brother. Who knew what would happen if the truth came out? It was something Courtney didn’t even want to think about as she was loving the time she was spending with him.

Courtney crossed her arms, waiting for Yolanda to make the first move. The seconds ticked by, but it felt like it was taking forever. “Are you going to continue ignoring me or are you going to accuse me of being a horrible person again?” She knew it sounded harsh, but she was tired of being blamed for something that she hadn’t done.

Yolanda could feel the barbs sink into her, but she couldn’t do this. Ignoring the fact that Courtney was very much right. She released the shaky breath she hadn’t known she was holding, curled her fingers into loose fists and turned around. She kept her head held high as she came face-to-face with Courtney for the first time in what felt like a hundred years.

Courtney kept her face expressionless as Yolanda turned to face her. She wished that someone was with her to back her up, but she knew this had to do with her and Yolanda and no one else. She raised an eyebrow, hoping, no, praying that Yolanda would say something so she didn’t have to.

“I’ve been a jerk to you,” Yolanda said, her voice small, but loud enough for Courtney to hear. “I lashed out at you when I shouldn’t have. My mom has this way of making everything seem worse than what it is. There is no persuading her otherwise. Everything I say, everything I do, is never good enough for her. She says I’ve ruined our family’s reputation. She claims that everything I touch becomes infected with my poison. She even believes you're the reason this whole thing started.”

Courtney knew this is what she was going to say but she chose to listen. “How is this my fault?” She questioned. “I wasn’t even in Blue Valley when the photo scandal started.”

Yolanda shrugged and crossed her arms. “Mom doesn’t like it when things change. She thought that because you’re rebellious and don’t allow people to walk all over you that your attitude had rubbed off on me.”

Courtney really wanted to hug her, but she held herself back. There was no denying that Yolanda really needed a hug by the way she was standing. “Yeah, I can be impulsive, I’m not going to deny that. You need to stand up to your parents more and tell them you won’t allow them to control your life anymore.”

“I’ve been trying,” Yolanda sobbed. “Everything I say or do, doesn’t do any good. They’re paranoid that any action or thing that I say, will ruin them.”

Courtney couldn’t take it anymore as she forced herself forward and enveloped Yolanda in the biggest hug she could manage.

Yolanda welcomed the embrace and allowed herself to sob harder than she had in months.

Behind the girls, Barbara and Rick poked their heads out to see what was happening. They looked at each other before pulling themselves back inside.

Beth and Pat were being interviewed so it left Cameron, Mike, Rick, and Barbara to their own devices.

To say Rick was worried about his friends was the world’s largest understatement. The girls were like his sisters though his relationship with Beth was becoming something more. Whether she realised this was up for debate. He didn’t mind. He was just grateful towards her for always being there and never giving up on him. While most see him as this punk kid, the JSA and the Whitmore-Dugans had accepted him for who he truly was; a kid in need of a hug.

Having Yolanda off the team was hard on everyone. Though, Rick himself wasn’t on the team right now either. However, he might’ve quit, but he wouldn’t abandon them. They were his family. It was as simple as that. Having Yolanda at odds with Courtney was strange as they were usually so in sync. Whether it had anything to do with Cameron Rick didn’t want to know. Yeah, he was Jordan’s son but Courtney knew what she was doing and if something happened, she would deal with it. That was the type of person she was. She didn’t sit back and do nothing. That is what Rick admired about her. She fought for what was right.

“What’s going on out there?” Mike asked.

“Progress. Hopefully.” Rick said as he sat back down.

“What does that mean?” Cameron questioned.

“Basically,” Barbara said as she sat next to him. “Court got her wish. She could have her best friend back.”

“Do you think it’s going to amount to backstabbing on Yolanda's part?” Mike inquired. “How do we know that this isn’t some kind of trick that Yolanda’s playing so she can report back to her mom?”

“Yolanda wouldn’t do that,” said Rick. “Since the photo scandal she hasn’t been able to put her life back together. Courtney’s arrival changed her trajectory of life.”

Cameron nodded in agreement. “I might not agree with Rick on much, but he’s right. Yolanda was stuck in a pitch black void of… I don’t know what. Her parents made her ashamed to be alive.”

Barbara and Mike looked at each other. In a normal situation, they would have admired that Rick and Cameron were on the same page, but the circumstances were anything but normal.

Yolanda was the first to break the hug. Part of her didn’t want to as she had missed any form of embrace from any of her friends since what had happened. She had distanced herself from everyone who cared for her, including Alex, who was always trying to reach her. Deep down, she appreciated that her cousin wanted to help. She also was grateful deep down that Courtney wanted to help her. However, she wasn’t ready to forgive and forget quite yet.

Yolanda sniffed as she pulled out of the hug. “I had to give a statement regarding the bruises I have.” She rolled up her sleeve to show the injuries to her wrists.

Courtney did her best not to gawk, but the question had to be asked. “Did your mom do that?”

Yolanda felt brave enough to admit the truth. She nodded. “Yeah. I came on my own free will. Mom and dad are under house arrest at the moment due to the police knowing what they did to you yesterday.”

Courtney resisted the urge to shudder. It was still a painful memory as it was still fresh on her mind. “Did Phil tell you about the recordings?”

“Yeah, he did. It was brave of Alex to do that.”

“He loves you and wants to watch your back. You’d do the same for him.”

Yolanda nodded. “Yeah, I would. Before you came to town, Alex was the only member of my family who believed in me. He never saw me as anything but the victim of a smear campaign.”

“I doubt the whole town would’ve seen you as a laughing stock.”

“Most of the town was fine, but it was the gathering at church that was the worst. All the adults gave me dirty looks. But the looks on the faces of the kids were even worse. Most of them didn’t say anything but I know that they were all thinking the same thing; that I was the school slut.”

Courtney knew most of the story, but she didn’t know about this. If she was honest, it was hard to listen to but she was glad that Yolanda was opening up to her finally. “Do you think that your parents are going to be charged?”

Yolanda shrugged. “Not sure. Wish I knew. As much I don’t want to see them end up in prison, I know something has to be done. The entire town knows how they treat me and anyone who doesn’t agree with them.”

“Did you know your mom had a go at my mom the other day?”

Yolanda looked surprised. “She did?”

Courtney nodded and did her best to fill in the blanks of the story.

“Court, I’m so sorry Barbara had to go through that.”

Courtney shook her head. “Don’t worry about it. Mom can handle herself as she’s faced way worse.”

“Jordan.” Yolanda concluded.

“Yeah.” Courtney responded awkwardly. She knew where this conversation was headed.

“So,” Yolanda said, her arms were crossed again over her chest. “You and Cameron, huh?”

Courtney knew that Yolanda had put the pieces together and that there was no point in hiding the truth. “Yeah, though nothing’s set in stone.”

Yolanda knew better than to argue. She was aware that trying to argue with Courtney was like arguing with a wall. “I just… want you to be careful.”

“Yolanda, I know you’re only trying to protect me, but I am being careful. I promise. I won’t fall into the same trap you did. Cameron isn’t Henry. You of all people know should know that. You grew up with him.”

Yolanda bit her lip and nodded. “Yes, but remember what you’re trying to keep under wraps? The whole thing with Mike could come out if you’re not careful.”

“Don’t worry, I know what I’m doing. I will protect my brother. That’s what I’m good at, remember?”

“Yes,” Yolanda said slowly, trying to come up with another reason why Courtney needed to keep silent. “You don’t want Cameron knowing about his dad being bad, right?”

Courtney wasn’t sure how to answer that. “I’m not sure what I want. Cameron not knowing either way is dangerous within itself. It could sabotage the relationship that we’re building, but can you imagine what will happen if he were to to discover that his dad and grandparents were lying to him all his life? Or that he has powers?”

“Have you been able to confirm that?” Yolanda asked.

Courtney shook her head “No. I mean, it makes sense right? His dad had powers so it makes sense he does too.”

Yolanda considered this. “His mom was human as far as I know so there has to be a fifty-fifty chance he has powers.”

What Courtney didn’t want to say aloud was that it was a scary thought. Her potential boyfriend having the same powers that almost killed her and everyone she loved, scared her. She could think of any number of situations where it was both a good thing and a bad thing. Cameron could take his powers and all the secrets and lies really well, but on the other hand, he might not. Given what she had seen after Mister Deisinger had been admitted to the psych ward, she could see Cameron taking everything badly. Everyone he cared for had been lying to him. It wouldn’t be pretty. It might even have been enough to bring out his powers in full if he had them.

Courtney’s phone chimed in her pocket, revealing a text from Mike.

“Something wrong?” Yolanda asked.

“No, ah, yeah kinda. Mike’s wondering where I am.”

“You’re here to talk to the police about what happened yesterday, right?”

“Yeah. I just want you know that, I don’t want your parents in prison, but their abusive ways make them no different to Rick’s uncle.”

Yolanda knew Courtney was right. Her parents had to be punished for treating everyone else like they were the problem. “You’re right. I’m tired of being treated like I’m worthless. I made one mistake and now I’m being punished like I committed mass murder.” She cringed at the choice of words. She recovered quickly. “Do what you have to.”

Courtney nodded. She gave her one last hug. “I’ll do what I can.”

Yolanda let her go before she walked away from the police station.

Courtney all but bounced back into the police station, prompting her family to look up from what they were doing.

“You look happier.” Rick commented, eager to get away from Mike’s annoying chewing.

“What happened?” Cameron asked as he pulled his eyes away from the game he’d been playing on his phone with Barbara.

“Well, Yolanda and I may or may not be on the road back to friendship-ville.”

“That wasn’t how I expecting that conversation to go,” Mike quipped, only to earn him an elbowing from Rick. “Ow!” He yelped. “Was that necessary?”

Rick smirked. “Yeah, totally necessary.”

Cameron rolled his eyes at the stark immaturity between the pair.

“Guys,” Barbara said, snapping Rick and Mike to attention. “This is a big step. We might end up getting Yolanda back in our good graces if this goes well.”

Courtney nodded as she sat down beside Cameron. “Mom’s right. We just need to be patient.”

Rick wanted to say that patience wasn’t Courtney’s strong point, but he held his tongue, knowing she’d probably kill him.

It took Courtney all of fifty seconds to realise that Pat and Beth were nowhere to be seen. “Ah… where are Pat and Beth?”

“Interview rooms,” Barbara said. “They’ve only been in there about ten minutes.”

Courtney slumped against the back of her chair. “We could be waiting a while.”

“It will depend on what Beth and Pat have to say.” Rick said, rubbing his face. This was a little too much for him. The last time he had been here, he had been put in a holding cell and charged for attacking his uncle.

Mike snorted. “Beth will probably talk their ears off.”

“Mike!” Courtney barked at her brother.

“Dude,” Rick said. “Harsh. Yes, Beth can talk but she has a good heart.”

“Again, we agree on something.” Cameron said as Courtney’s head dropped to his shoulder.

Rick ignored him and stared up at the ceiling.

Ten minutes past and the group started to grow restless.

Mike seemed to have forgotten the telling off he’d gotten earlier as he played a racing game on his phone.

“Rick, you’re making me anxious.” Courtney said, her head still resting on Cameron’s shoulder.

Rick had been absently tapping his feet. “Sorry. Just desperate to get this over and done with.”

“It’s okay that you don’t want to be here,” Barbara said, prompting everyone to turn to look at her. “You were just in prison. Though, being here is going to help Yolanda deal with her parents.”

Rick bit his lip and nodded. “I know, you’re right, Barbara it’s just…” he trailed off, unsure of how to continue.

Barbara got up from where she was sitting and sat beside him, wrapping him in a side hug.

Rick leaned into her. He had almost forgotten what it was like to get a hug from a maternal figure. That is what Barbara had become to him, a mother. She cared for him as she did for Mike, Beth, Yolanda, Jennie, even Cameron. He would be forever thankful to her for being in his corner just as Pat was. It was nice to be part of a family unit again. He’d been old enough to remember his parents and how much they loved him. He still recalled the last family hug they’d shared the night they’d died. All that came flooding when he had shared a group hug with the girls after their defeat of the ISA.

Courtney allowed herself to smile to see Rick feeling a little lighter than he had been the last few days.

A moment later, the door of the left interview room opened and Pat walked out, thanking Phil as he left. “Who’s going next?” He asked.

Courtney yawned and lifted her head from Cameron’s shoulder. She rose from her chair and marched towards the room without a word. Phil followed her and closed the door.

“That was weird, right?” Mike asked once the door had closed behind his sister and Phil.

“Not really,” said Rick. “Typical Court.”

Cameron had to rein in the smirk that had formed on his face. A few minutes later, Beth walked out, thanking her interviewer before taking a seat beside Barbara.

“Next up.” Called Beth’s interviewer.

Cameron sighed and got to his feet before following the interviewer into the room Beth had just left.

One by one each member of the JSA and company were interviewed. Beth had to occupy herself by playing tic-tac-toe with Pat and later Mike after he’d been interviewed after Courtney.

Once the interviews were over, it was another hour until Phil announced what would happen next.

“Okay, so I have some good news,” said Phil as he looked up from his desk, prompting everyone present to look up. “We’ve concluded that there’s enough evidence to charge Maria Montez with assault.”

Courtney exchanged looks with Beth and Rick.

“That’s good news, right?” Barbara asked, unsure of how she felt about it.

“It is, but there are a few things we’re still investigating.” Phil sounded hesitant.

“What sort of things?” Cameron asked.

“I’m glad you asked, Mister Mahkent. We’re still investigating whether Juan Montez had any role in abusing his daughter.”

Mike rose from his chair. “Weren’t Alex’s recordings enough?”

Phil shook his head. “Unfortunately, Juan is only heard on two of the recordings, but on a very minimal scale.”

“Alex did say he hadn’t heard the recordings, despite being the one to record them.” Beth said.

“We’ve got Yolanda’s testimony that both her parents are guilty, but until we have enough evidence, it might not be enough to charge Maria and Juan with abuse.”

“Any small victory is better than nothing,” said Rick, looking over at Pat who nodded in agreement. “So, what do we do now?”

“It might be a few days before we have another update for you. For now though, I would advise not worrying and trying to stay away from the Montezes if you can help it.” Phil said as he eyed everyone present.

The group nodded, said their farewells and left the police station.

Two days past and things started to go back to normal. Well… as normal as they were going to get while Eclipso was still out there.

Beth did her best to remain positive as she got the occasional signal from Doctor McNider’s pair of goggles. Rick did his best to keep himself busy while helping Zeek and Pat out at the Pit Stop. Cameron, meanwhile, didn’t leave Courtney’s side much in those two days. The only time he did was to go home. Mike, did his best to stay out of Cameron’s way, knowing full well that his guilt was going to wreak havoc. He spent most of the time either with Buddy or with his friend Jakeem who seemed to be acting odder than usual.

Barbara was in and out of work and but did her best to keep an eye on the kids.

Courtney loved spending whatever time she could with Cameron outside of her Summer School classes. Whenever she was in class, he’d be in the art room just a couple of doors down. It gave her comfort that someone was close by for her. Yolanda had withdrawn to study at home which had been okay by Principal Sherman who was continuing to struggle in teaching which he had not done in years, despite being a principal of a high school.

On the second day, Courtney walked out of the classroom after everyone else had left to meet Cameron in the hallway with a huge smile on her face.

“You look happy.” Cameron said as he approached.

“I think I’m finally get a hang of the English stuff. The History stuff is a breeze.”

“Well, that’s good news,” Cameron chuckled as he wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “But, don’t get too cocky. You still have to pass the final exam.”

Courtney groaned. “Spoil sport.”

The pair were too caught up in their little bubble that they didn’t see Yolanda walk around the corner.

“Hi.”

Cameron instantly dropped his arm from around Courtney’s shoulders. “Yolanda.”

“Cameron.” Yolanda nodded awkwardly.

Courtney crossed her arms, defiantly. She was tired of the silent treatment and hadn’t spoken to her since they had come face-to-face at the police station. She had assumed that things were going to get better, but she realised that she couldn't have been more wrong. Silence was not something she had expected after everything that had been going on.

“I can go if you want to talk.” Cameron said, unsure of where to look.

Yolanda shook her head. “No, it’s okay if you stay. I wanted to apologise to both of you.”

Cameron was aware that Yolanda was upset that Courtney had been spending a lot of time with him rather than with her.

“Do you?” Courtney said.

“Court…” Cameron muttered in warning.

Courtney ignored him and unleashed how she was feeling. “I’m tired of this, Yolanda. I have tried to help you, but you keep pushing me away. If you couldn’t come to me, then why didn’t you go to Rick or Beth? They’re just as worried about you. You could’ve gone to Pat or my mom even. Heck, even Mike would’ve listened. You haven’t been the same since Henry died. But you weren’t the only one who lost him. He was my friend too.”

Yolanda knew she was right by she couldn’t bring herself to argue. If she were honest, she was tired of being worn down. Her grief over what had happened with Henry and his dad was eating her alive. She thought that giving up the Wildcat mantle would make her feel better. It didn’t. In fact, she had felt herself be thrown backwards to what her life had been like in the days and weeks after the photo scandal had made her a social pariah. All she wanted was for her life to go back to how it was.

Thanks to Cindy, that was never going to happen. The damage was done. Her parents saw her as a massive burden to their family’s alleged shattered situation. It didn’t matter if she told them that Cindy was responsible for her downfall or not. They wouldn’t believe her.

“I know Henry was your friend too, but I have more history with him than you do.”

“What does it matter?” Courtney exploded. She knew that she had to watch what she said, especially since Cameron was standing next to her. “Henry died without fully owning up to what you thought he did to you. However, you never fully forgave him.”

Yolanda knew Courtney had her backed into a corner. It was true. She had never fully forgiven him and he had died without getting an apology. That was the spectre of him had said too. She knew that Courtney didn’t mean to throw this back at her, but it was necessary.

Cameron had never seen Courtney so worked up before. He knew how much Yolanda’s friendship meant to her. “Can we all just take a breath? I don’t mean to insert myself into this mess, but this has gone on for too long.”

Courtney relaxed when she felt his hand slip into hers. She looked up at him and nodded before she turned back to Yolanda. “Yes, you have history with Henry, but this isn’t just about you. I have been struggling to hold everybody together and after your mom attacked me, part of me felt broken that you didn’t reach out. I reached out to you but you didn’t do the same for me. Rick and Beth have been worried about you too. You haven’t reached out to them either. I honestly thought that our friendships meant more to you. Clearly, I was wrong.”

Yolanda had to hold back a sob because everything that Courtney was saying was true. Courtney had sent text after text and had left numerous voicemails. She had also called so many times.

Cameron felt Courtney’s hand tighten in his as she struggled to prevent herself from crying.

“You’re right,” Yolanda said, bringing herself up to her full height. “I haven’t been a good friend to you. I don’t own you. You were right when you said that you can hang out with anyone you want. Also, I want to thank you.”

“For what?” Courtney said, her rage suddenly gone.

“For giving me the strength to stand up to my parents.”

Courtney and Cameron exchanged surprised looks.

“Have you spoken to your parents yet?” Cameron asked.

“No, not yet. I came here first to apologise to you both. You don’t deserve me breathing down your necks. If you want to hang out, I can’t stop you.” She turned to Cameron. “Cameron, I’m so sorry for dropping you into this mess. I know you have enough going on with your dad gone.” Yolanda felt her stomach twist at that statement. She didn’t feel sorry that Jordan was gone, especially after everything he’d done. However, he was still Cameron’s father.

Cameron wasn’t vindictive. It wasn’t Yolanda’s fault that her mental health had taken a hit because Cindy had gotten greedy. Henry didn’t deserve to die the way he had. “Yolanda, it’s okay. It’s not me you have to apologise to.”

Yolanda nodded. She then turned her gaze to Courtney. “Courtney, I know I’ve said this before, but you deserve better than me telling you who you can and can’t see. You’re my best friend. You have every right to give up on me. I was horrible to you and should’ve known you were only trying to help me.”

Courtney really wanted to hug her but didn’t want to be disappointed if this whole thing blew up in her face again. She straightened her shoulders and nodded, civilly. It was going to take time, but it would have to wait until after Eclipso had been stopped before they could fully talk things through.

“So, now what?” Cameron asked after a moment of silence.

Yolanda sighed. “I have to go and confront my parents. I’m done with their poor treatment of me and Alex.”

“What about your grandma?” Courtney asked. “Did she even know what is going on?”

The thought hadn’t even occurred to Yolanda. “I… I don’t know. It hadn’t even occurred to me. I know she has never stopped my mom screaming at me. When the scandal happened, she just ignored me like everyone else did.”

“Minus Alex.” Cameron added.

“Minus Alex.” Yolanda pressed her lips together and nodded.

“Would she cover over abuse?” Courtney questioned. “I don’t know her the way I know your parents.”

“Hard to say.”

Yolanda’s phone vibrated in her jacket pocket.

“What is it?” Courtney frowned.

“It’s Alex. He says mom’s freaking out because I’m not home and I didn’t ask permission.”

“What more could she do? Ground you for life?” Courtney snorted.

Yolanda said nothing, but the look on her face told Courtney and Cameron everything they needed to know.

“Hey, we were just going to find Pat at the Pit Stop. We can walk you home if you like.” Courtney said.

Yolanda gave her a small smile and followed her and Cameron towards the exit of the school.

Yolanda felt lighter than she had since her encounter with the visions of Henry and Brainwave. She knew Courtney was still upset with her for not allowing her to live her life, but she swallowed the feeling. She recalled that she and Courtney had tried to bury the hatchet outside the police station two days earlier, but the pain had only resurfaced. And yet, here she was, holding Cameron’s arm as they and Courtney walked to her house. Courtney was on Cameron’s left, clutching his hand with dear life.

It was obvious what was coming to all of them. Once they hit Yolanda’s street, they were going to be intercepted by Yolanda’s mother and then the screaming was going to begin for everyone in the street to hear.

Cameron felt Courtney’s hand tighten in his while Yolanda clutched his arm with the same vice-like grip. He could tell they were bracing themselves. He had seen Mrs Montez at her worse and that was being generous. Even before Yolanda’s scandal, Mrs Montez had been obsessed with her family’s image. They were a modest family and lived in a house about the size of the Whitmore-Dugan house. He recalled a comment Mike had made when Alex had emailed him those recordings.

“Alex says his Aunt Maria has always been a control freak and wants their family to be portrayed as the perfect, idyllic family. He says she’d kill him if she ever caught him saying it out loud.”

At the time, Cameron had thought it was just a sarcastic comment. Then, he realised, it hadn’t been as Yolanda had just confirmed it.

Courtney had had enough of being Mrs Montez’s punching bag. She had been blamed for corrupting Yolanda when that hadn’t been the case at all. What Mrs Montez didn’t know was that Yolanda had chosen to become a superhero, to reclaim her life, to have some form of normalcy again.

The trio snapped out of their thoughts when they ended up on Yolanda’s street. They’d been so caught up in thinking the worse case scenarios that they hadn’t realised they’d walked so far already. They probably had gotten not even 500 metres from the Montez house when the unmistakable screech of Maria Montez sounded as she stomped down the driveway and towards the kids.

Alex, having seen his aunt storm out of the house, bolted out the front door and down the driveway, towards his cousin and her friends. He ignored the calls of his uncle as his voice grew further and further away. “Yolanda!”

Yolanda perked up at the sound of Alex’s voice. “Alex?”

“Your mom’s not happy.”

Alex instinctively stepped in front of Yolanda while Cameron felt Yolanda release his arm, allowing him to protect Courtney as he wedged himself between her and where Yolanda was standing.

Maria stomped up the road. “YOLANDA!”

Yolanda knew this had been coming from the second she had mentioned it to Courtney and Cameron back at the school.

“Step away, Alex!” Maria demanded of her nephew.

Alex defiantly remained rooted to the spot. “No, auntie. You can’t keep treating Yolanda like she’s a criminal.”

Maria’s face went as red as a fully ripened tomato.

“It’s okay, cuz.” Yolanda told Alex gently.

Alex reluctantly stepped aside.

Maria looked like she wanted to hit her daughter, but to everyone’s surprise, she kept it together… barely.

“Alex is right, mom. I didn’t do anything wrong. I righted my wrong. Do I regret what I did in sending those photos to Henry? Yes, I do. However, what ever I do just isn’t good enough for you. All you’ve ever cared about is our family’s precious reputation and never about what anyone else feels. It’s wrong. In the months after the photo scandal, I felt so alone. The only person at home who had my back was Alex. He defended me when you, dad, and grandma saw me as nothing more than a scourge. All I wanted was a hug and reassurance that everything would be okay. It never came. At school, only a handful of people didn’t see me as the school slut,” Yolanda paused and briefly looked over at Cameron. “Cameron, Rick, Beth, Joey all saw through the ruse of what happened. Also, the leak didn’t come from Henry. It came from Cindy.”

Maria’s face wasn’t quite as red now but she was still fuming. However, she allowed Yolanda to continue.

“It doesn’t matter how much I defend myself or what I say, you’re never going to believe me because you’re too stuck in the eyes of God to even forgive anyone.” Yolanda said bitterly, letting out whatever anger she had for her mother. “I am done being your perfect daughter and your punching bag.”

Maria let out a feral screech and raised her arm above her head as if to strike her daughter but only stopped by a voice behind her.

“ So, the allegations are true.”

Maria spun around to find the family’s pastor, Father Thomas and Phil heading towards the group. Her eyes widened in shock.

Courtney visibly deflated in relief that there wasn’t going to be a repeat of what happened with her.

“F-Father Thomas,” Maria stammered, allowing her hand to drop to her side. “What are you doing here?”

“I came to check in on Yolanda and Alex. You have not heeded to a single word I have said.” The pastor stopped just a few paces from where the kids were standing. “I have advised in forgiving your daughter for what she has done. Not continuing to vilify her.”

Maria went pale as she scrambled to find an excuse to exonerate herself.

“What Aunt Maria has been doing,” said Alex as he boldly stepped forward. “Has been doing on for months.”

“May I ask when all this started?” Father Thomas asked.

“After the photo scandal.” Yolanda said.

Father Thomas pursed his lips as if he was trying to think of what to say without upsetting Maria further. “It appears to me, Maria that you have a hard time in not trying to control the narrative.”

“Father Thomas, I only want what is best for my daughter.”

Cameron snorted. “No, you don’t.”

Courtney was surprised. She knew he’d gotten bold in speaking up against the likes of Cindy, but an adult? She was loving the new and improved Cameron even more than before.

Maria rounded on him. “Excuse me? You’re not involved in this, Cameron.”

“You hitting Courtney and dragging Yolanda away made me involved. I have seen the way you treat people, Mrs Montez. I was there when Cindy sent Yolanda’s photos around the school. I didn’t join the jeering the way most other people did. I observed what people were saying and doing and never once did I agree with such slander. What Yolanda did in sharing those photos was wrong, but she couldn’t help who got their hands on Henry’s phone. Cindy wanted what Yolanda had. She was jealous and spiteful. Yolanda trusted Henry to do good by her. He tried and failed. It doesn’t excuse the slut-shaming he did, but Cindy is the one that should be blamed for all this, not Yolanda or Henry.”

For the first time, Maria was stunned into silence. She only snapped out of it when yelling was heard coming from the house.

“I haven’t done anything!”

The group turned to see Phil’s partner walking out of the Montez House with Juan in handcuffs.

“Juan Montez, you’re under arrest for abuse of a minor under 18.” Phil’s partner continued to read Juan’s rights as he was shoved into the back of the unmarked police car.

Maria went pale as Phil forced her arms behind her back. She said nothing as she was led to the car.

As she watched her mother be pushed into the back of the police, Yolanda exhaled a breath she hadn’t realised she was holding.

Alex turned to look at her. “Looks like it’s over.”

“For now,” said Cameron. “Who knows what Juan and Maria will spin to get out of it.”

“Perhaps,” said Father Thomas as he stepped forward. He then turned to Yolanda and Alex. “Yolanda and Alex, I wanted to applaud you both on your bravery. Facing Maria would not have been easy for either of you.”

Yolanda shook her head. “It wasn’t, but I’m glad that something was done. I felt like I was drowning in a cesspit of guilt that wasn’t even my fault to begin with.”

“You got through it, my child,” Father Thomas said, resting a hand on her shoulder. “Now, why don’t you and Alex go and join your grandmother. I’m sure you have questions for her.”

Yolanda gave Courtney and Cameron one final look of thanks before following Alex back to the house.

Courtney and Cameron watched as Yolanda and Alex headed back to the house.

Courtney felt Cameron wrap an arm around her, allowing her to lean into his side. It felt like some of the old Yolanda had returned, but how long was it going to last with Eclipso still on the loose?