#the hon joshua wood

[jakekiszkashangnail08]

Stars around my scars- Chapter one

TW: Attempted Suicide, Abuse, Drowning.

Word count:15760 :)

Allison Evans lived in Frankenmuth Michigan all her life with her Mother in a one-story house far into the woods  Their house was painted freshly white Their door was painted a Sky blue the front porch had a Swing hanging and a Screened back porch The house on the inside was beautiful to the Evans family just what they needed  When Allison was born she didn't know who her father was She only had her mother No grandparents no aunts or uncles it was just Allison and her mother. The school house far in town the Town was a couple of miles away When she started Kindergarten she met The Kiszka Twins Jacob and Joshua.

They clicked just like that couldn't get them away from each other... Allison would always walk home from school her mother didn't sign her up for the Bus that year so she Walked to her house at Five years old Her mother was what the Locals called a Recluse Her mother would never leave her house.The Mother would make her Five-year-old go get the Mail from the road and She walked to the schoolhouse and back every day. After school one day Karen Kiszka drove to pick up the Twins  Allison would sit and Talk to Jake and Josh until Their mom picked Them up then she would start walking home Karen pulled up in her Black Suburban rolling down the passenger window Josh hugged Allison quickly and Ran off to the car opening the Back Car door He turned back around " Bye Bye Allie!!" He waved giving Allison a Cheeky grin. Allison waved smiling bigger " Bye Bye Joshy Bye Jakey!!" Jake turned and waved his little hand at her smiling Karen's Heart fluttered How Cute She thought She pushed her sunglasses up pushing them over her hair " Hey, honey? Are you okay?? Where's your momma?" She looked at her from the driver's seat No other children were waiting on their parents " She don't come!" Allison said Grinning at Karen "Bye-bye!" Allison said waving bye to Karen She began walking down the sidewalk.

Karen frowned "Does she do that every day?" The Twins nodded at Their Mom through the Rear-view mirror Karen parked opened her door and started walking toward Allison " Hey... Honey!" Karen got closer Towards the Little Brunette girl " Hello.." Allison turned fiddling with her skirt hem " Where do you live Sweetheart?" Karen squatted down almost to Allison's height " Hugo Street.. On dirt road with my momma... I have to go home.!" Allison said She didn't make eye contact with Karen at all Normally Children can't Not make eye contact with an adult " Can I drive you Home Hon? I don't want you walking all alone It's not safe." Allison just nodded "Okay, Hon come on now.." Allison Shot her arms out grabbing for Karen with grippy hands Karen picks her up and begins walking back to her car

Karen looked Allison over Noticing a bruise on her wrist and upper arm Her heart fell into her stomach  but she Brushed it off Five-year-olds bruise easily The Twins have come home with bruises and scratches from the playground Maybe She fell on it during recess or Her friend was dragging her over to play When Karen and Allison made it to the Car Josh Was Practically dancing in his Car seat " Is Allie coming home with us!! Yay!! Yay!!" Karen chuckled "No Joshua we are just taking her home." She Sat Allison down In the Middle Of The Twins Hooking Allison in the Seat.

Karen got back in a began driving towards Hugo Road turning down the Dirt road When she pulled to a stop in front of the house she grimaced at the Overgrown grass Karen got out and Unbuckled Allison picking her up and her backpack and walking up the yard and up on the porch Karen knocked on the door " Hello?!" She called out knocking again She heard footsteps thudding through the house the wood creaking The door unlocked and pulled open The Woman in front of her was Obese her hair chopped and greasy wearing a blue Moomoo gown She glared at her from behind the screen door Her breath was ragged and hoarse " Hi, I'm Karen Kiszka! Nice to meet you I was just bringing Allison home... Um, she's been walking home from school... Do you know about that?" The Woman Rolled her eyes " Are you with DSS?" Karen was blown away " Um No ma'am I was just bringing your daughter home.. It's not Safe for a Five-year-old to be walking home... She's Best friends With my Twin boys." Karen laughed lightheartedly hoping she was joking " Oh, she's fine.. a Little walking won't hurt her." Her laugh Gurgles

" Well.. I'll see you later Allison!" Karen sat her down on the porch Allison wrapped her arms around Karen's leg " Thank you!!" Allison then ran off into the House Allison's Mother glared up at Karen "Don't you ever Come on my Porch again." She murmured " Excuse me?" Karen asked, " Oh you heard me get your ass off my porch and don't talk to my daughter again." She then slammed the Door locking it leaving Karen in a State of shock She walked back to the Suburban Getting back in Just as she thought Her children had been watching the whole show " She didn't seem that nice momma," Josh said in the Back seat "I know.."   She pulled off out of the driveway and started driving home She thought to herself and then spoke out loud " Guys... Does Allison ever have any Marks on her like Bad marks? Bruises?"  They just shrugged and continued to eat their snacks Karen dropped it driving back to the Kiszka house

As they grew up Allison started coming over to the Kiszka's house almost every day after school but she'd leave after dinner because her mother would start to get upset at her but she wouldn't tell Them that.

The Three friends were now in High school As Freshmen Throughout Middle school Josh and Allison had become closer than Jake and Allison Jake found other friends in his Art classes to spend his time with Josh and Allison Joined the Drama club and began to Audition for Various roles In the Seussical Josh got the Part of The Cat in the Hat While Allison got the Part of Mayzie La bird After the Show, The Kiszkas Kelly Karen Jake Sam, and Ronnie all Congratulated Josh and Allison Giving them both Bouquets Allison seemed off when She looked around the Auditorium " What's wrong Dovey?" Josh asked Her Tugging on her Costumes colorful feathers She turned "Nothing.." She sighed Jake started talking to them Both about The songs " You guys did amazing!!" The Congratulational words and the Flowers made her feel better about her Mother not showing up In their Spring Musical which was Little Shop of Horrors Josh Got cast as Seymour He originally had gone out for Orin

and Allison got cast as Audrey. She hated it. It took them several days to Practice the Stage kiss

When Jake saw the Show on opening night he felt like a Brick had been thrown at him from the stage. Seeing his Brother kiss Their best friend His best friend kissed his brother.. He didn't know why he felt the way he did.. Brushing it off as the Rest of the Musical went on He thought of everything he should say or what he shouldn't say. Everyone had seen how Jake's amazed Smile dropped into a neutral expression when The Two Kissed When they Did their Curtain call Coming out together Bowing one at a Time the whole cast and Ensemble pointed to the booth The wings and the audience then grabbed each other's hands and bowed the Curtains closed There was a Moment of silence until they all came out through the Side doors still in Costume Josh and Allison walked up to The Kiszkas " That was some Kiss Joshua!" His Dad teased Making both Josh and Allison blush " It wasn't how we practiced it Probably going to get chewed out about it later.." He Looked down at Allison " It was supposed to be Fake.."

Allison Met eyes With Jake who was Quiet He hadn't spoken a Word to them Not a Congratulations or anything It was then He Decided that Allison had never been his Friend. She was Josh's Friend. He then thought about how he's never had anything of his own, No friends to himself. Josh would always swoop in and make them his own " What'd you think Jakey?" Allison asked He shrugged " It was alright.."

The Kiszkas Dropped Allison off At her house later on that night after they went out and Ate like they did after Each night of the Musical Allison walked up the Path to her porch She looked up at the house It was a one-story house with peeling white paint and a normally blue door The porch had shit all over it Her mother was an Advid procrastinator and Never left the house. The grass and weeds grew to waist height over time causing the house to look run down Ivy Ran up the walls, and a Four door red Sedan parked outside of the house was the only way people knew someone lived there.

Allison walked up the stairs and opened the screen door The house was silent and still... Not a Light on in the house... The feeling of the home was cold and dark She shivered pulling her arms up and crossing them to keep warm.. she stepped forward causing the floorboards to creek

She mentally berated herself when she heard the grumble of a throat clear somehow sounding sassy if that was even possible Alice turned towards the kitchen seeing Her mother leaning against the Counter A cigarette was lit and wrapped tightly in her mother's small lips Her mother puffed the smoke out and tapped it into the ashtray taking the ashes off the tip.

"Do you know what damn time it is Allison?" She grunted " Yes ma'am I'm sorry I was with Josh-" "Always with that Josh boy... He's not good for you Baby. He Don't like you.." Her mother said bluntly her eyes searching her daughter's face She then laughed curtly "I-" "He's only after one damn thing Girl. and you know it!" She had cut her off Before she had time to defend herself Her Mother puffed on her cigarette once again "I don't want you hanging around those Kiszka boys again. They ain't nothin' but trouble." She pointed at Alice sternly her lips pursing in a sourly angry expression " I mean I'm doing the best I can from you getting hurt Baby... But you don't listen to me.. do you? Because I know tomorrow you're gonna go to them stupid Clubs and See them boys again!" She stomped forward Coming closer and getting into Alice's face " If I find out or see you talking to them boys again...You will be quitting all those Clubs immediately. You will just go to school and come straight back home ya hear?" She threatens Alice Bit at her gums to stop the sounds of her harsh breathing and sobs "I provide a Roof over your head, Food, Shit even the clothes on your back! nd You hardly ever respect me! I mean look at what time it is Hon? Am I that bad of a Mother?" The Last words stung Alice  She loved her mother with her whole heart Lord she couldn't stop loving her mother even after everything that's happened with her "No momma You're a Great Mom I'm sorry I Was at school I-" "Don't you fuckin cry, Allison. Them tears don't mean shit I'm done with you and all of your Bullshit excuses. You've lost my Trust and My Respect." Her mother's words cut into her gut like a Steak knife It was like Her mother's Fat disgusting hand was wrapped around her heart Squeezing it hard, fiddling with it all she could. Alice's face morphed into a Soured Emotionless face Her tears slowly dried on her cheeks and chest the cold wet feeling of the teardrop on her chin " Like I ever had it to begin with." Alice bit back

A Sudden force made her face fly to the Right causing her to lose her footing and fall onto the tile floor touching her left cheek the skin panging Heat radiating off of it She had mistakenly bit down on her tongue when Her Mother Punched her a metallic flavor pouring into her mouth This wasn't the First time She had Hit her... Her mother's crazed red face and big rounded eyes stared down at Allison " Don't you ever. Ever Say that Shit again You brat! You stupid Stupid brat I've given you everything! Get the Fuck out of my sight!" The Yelling pierced Allison's ears

The Brunette scrambled up onto her feet rounding the corner into her room shutting the door and placing her back onto it sinking to the floor She silently screamed nothing coming out She crumpled up pulling her knees into her chest Her lips trembling She reached up and locked her door and got up touching her cheek again as she looked into her cracked vanity mirror The only reason it was cracked was because she found it outside an old house. Alice had repainted it and dismissed the skinny crack across the middle of the mirror Her eyes were bloodshot red and swollen her nose was as well and tiny streams of snot lay above her top lip She gasped each time she sobbed.. shaking.

Allison Picked up the Landline phone Dialing the only person she knew could help her " Karen..." She whispered when The Woman picked up "Please... She's... She's hit me again and I..." She got choked up "Okay th- Thank you." Allison began packing a bag full of things she needed She heard her mother's footsteps stomping down the Hall "Allison! Allison, I'm sorry Baby!" She began knocking at her door " Alice Honey.. Answer me, Baby Allie.." Allison Glared at the Wooden door as if she could see through it "Open the Door, Allison." Her voice morphed into something more serious more sinister The Knocking turned into a Fist slamming into the Wood " Allison! Open this Fucking door!"

Allison opened her Window and Jumped out running into the Trees to Hide in case Her mother Came outside " Allison!" She screamed " Allison!!" The sound of the Door being broken open cracked through her ears Allison then saw Headlights pull into the Mouth of Her driveway Allison made a run for it Running towards the Black Suburban and getting into the Passenger seat Karen sat there in her Pajamas She then Pulled off and started driving back toward the Kiszka House "How did she hit you..? what happened honey..?"Karen kept her eyes on the road But Went and tried to hold Allison's Hand Allison pulled back and Shriveled up into her Seat "Ssshha-" She couldn't talk because of the amount of Shaking and Sobbing " She.." She shivered" She.. She said That I lost her T-Trust and.. And" She choked out "It's okay Honey you can tell me again Later just Calm down honey Just relax okay?" 

Karen parked the car turned it off and Grabbed Allison's bags running inside It was about 2 AM It was Now Saturday She had gotten the Call in the Middle of Their Movie night The Siblings sat on the Couch watching the TV Kelly stood up walking over to his wife "Where is she?"  Karen sat down Allison's bags "She's in the Car. Her mother Punched her in the Face Kelly.." He sighed placing his hands on his waist " What are we supposed to do? Should we call social services I don't know what to do-" Karen's eyes widened "No. She is going to stay here as long as she pleases Kelly." She said

Allison walked into the Living room Causing the Kiszka Siblings to look at her Allison's face was stained with tears making Josh get up and Run over to her to comfort her "What happened dovey." He went to pull her into a Hug but she pulled away shaking her head Karen Looked at Her Sons and Ronnie " Allison is going to be Staying here for a While, She can't stay at her own house... So I want everyone to be nice okay?"

That night Karen made a Palette in Jake and Josh's room Which Consisted of two Twin beds on each side of the room, The room seemed to almost be cut in half by their different styles and decor Karen made sure to look at Allison's face before bringing her into the Twins' room Jake was sitting up on his Bed reading Josh had already Passed out sprawled out on his twin-sized mattress Karen smiled at the brunette feeling sorry that a fourteen-year-old had to go through this if only she had seen it sooner...

Allison laid down on the Palette covering up with the old Rocketship blanket Karen cut off the overhead light leaving Jake's lamp the only light on in the Room and closed the door Allison sat there in silence tossing and turning "Jake.." she whispered He looked up from his book "Allie..?" "Can.. Can I come up there with you..?" She asked weary of the answer Jake had been distant and short with her Today so she was worried he was also mad at her She felt like the whole world hated her except the House of Kiszkas Jake sat there in thought But Sighed Heavily " If you kick me I will throw you through the wall." He said sliding over a little Allison stood up and walked over sliding underneath the Comforter that he had thrown back He wore basketball shorts and a Loose White teeshirt his hair was short and side-swept across his forehead.

Jake covered her up making sure she had enough pillow and space He flinched all of a Sudden causing Allison to giggle into the Comforter "Your feet are ice cold dear god??" He shivered They faced each other sharing the Pillows Squeezed into the Bed " That's why I touched your legs You D-A you're always Warm." she moved one of her legs in between his knees Jake Stiffened at this pulling his legs apart to not touch her leg But then relaxed completely after not wanting to hold them up anymore " Reach over and cut that light off would you?" He pointed She leaned over and cut it off and then got back into her space Closing her eyes and Relaxing into the mattress "Allie..?" Jake whispered she opened her eyes again looking into his His eyes always seemed to be down turned slightly Whenever Karen had showed her The Little Kiszkas Baby photos Allison could always Tell Jake and Josh apart when they had Buzz cuts when they were infants Josh's eyes had a certain Spark about them They were always upturned just a Little from Jake's eyes his eyes weren't as deep looking as Jake's eyes Jake's eyes had a Deep darker definition to them dark blemished circles underneath them as Allison looked into them they seemed Full of worry and tiredness

"yes Jakey?" she whispered turning her face more He sighed "When.. god I'm sorry.." He rubbed his face "I sound stupid already I'm sorry.." She giggled " No, No it's okay Jakey what's on your mind?"

He looked at her again after he was done rubbing his eyes His eyes trailed down her face Her eyes were downturned and a light brown color sometimes they looked grey Her cheeks were chunky round and pinkish she had little flakes of freckles strewn around her face Her nose wasn't big but wasn't small either it was long downturned and had an arch in the middle she had a Pimple on her chin that had scabbed over she had probably popped it the day before Her eye had begun to swell up and the Bruise had begun to form a little bandage laid across the slit on her upper cheekbone

"When you kissed Josh.. Did you like it..?" he asked her eyes widened a little her chunky eyebrows furrowed "Um.. well.. No." She closed her eyes and Continued "Not really I was caught off guard he wasn't supposed to kiss me... I didn't like it because He technically stole my you know.." Jake's eyebrows flared as if telling her with his mind What? "My first kiss.." she answered bashfully losing eye contact with him "Really?? You've never kissed anyone before??" Jake asked "Nope.." she said " and I liked it that way because I don't know if this is.. stupid but.. I was hoping I would've been able to save it for someone who cared about me you know like in those Romance chick flicks.." she chuckled she now picked at her thumb biting at the skin she peeled " that's not completely stupid.. I mean I'm pretty sure every Teen girl thinks like that." He smirked She rolled her eyes " Oh shut up Jake you probably haven't kissed anyone either!" she hissed

Jake clicked his tongue " You may be right but that doesn't mean I'm gonna stop bullying you Allie" She smiled a little biting the skin off again " why haven't you kissed anyone..?"  she trailed off biting another piece of skin off "Will you stop that!" Jake seethed pulling her hand away from her lips grabbing her wrist " Stop picking you're making me anxious." he let go of her wrist exhaling heavily " I just haven't... I mean it's not really anything serious.." He shrugged reclining his head back onto the pillow and rolling onto his back Allison still looked over at him Evaluating his side profile His nose was pointed it descended like a slope a slight bump in the middle of his bridge his lips were pouty His smile was always wide open His teeth on full display The Kiszka smile.

Jake's face had lost some face fat over the years but you could still see that childish look and the slight chubbiness in his cheeks " I heard that Charlotte likes you... Do you know that Girl in Crew? She's also in our English class." She gossiped Causing Jake to snort " Not interested." Allison gasped " And why not She's really pretty! and smart She needs to go out and Audition you know. She'd be cast in a Heartbeat." Jake shook his head "Have you ever even spoken to her?" Allison thought for a second " Um.." Jake looked over at her seeing her face blank out " Exactly-" "Listen! She helped me with my Costume once?" She interrupted him He rolled his eyes "She's probably a Mythic Bitch Allie... Not interested and Besides you said it Yourself I'd rather save it for someone who actually cares about me."  Allie closed her mouth and sighed " you should at least try there are plenty of pretty girls at school jakey." He nodded " I know Allie, Goodnight."  Turning over facing his back to her "goodnight Jake."

The next morning they were all woken up by Karen yelling for them to come get breakfast Jake woke up looking beside him seeing that Allison had moved in the middle of the night He sat up looking around seeing that she had crawled into Josh's bed He sighed lowly of course, she would she only came to him because Josh was asleep first Why would she want to spend time with Him Josh was her best friend, not him... He had decided She didn't talk to him how she talked to Josh He couldn't make her Laugh as loud as Josh made her laugh He couldn't even have a good conversation with her like Josh Josh would talk with her about music and Movies and all sorts of shit She never talked to Jake about that stuff Only when He initiated it It was Always Josh... Never Jake.

He hated her He hated her and her stupid laugh Her stupid Face and the way her eyes and nose would scrunch up when Josh made her laugh Her stupid Smile and Her stupid Voice He hated her

"Jake, are you coming?" Josh asked Jake looked up His brother stood in front of his bed near the Door " Yeah... Yeah, I'm comin'." He got up and walked into the Kitchen His dad sat at the end of the Table shoveling pancakes into his mouth Allison sat Beside Sammy Josh Took The Place Beside her on her Right Ronnie sat in front of her. Jake grabbed his plate and sat down beside his Sister and began to eat the pancakes and Bacon his mom had cooked "So how'd everyone sleep?" Karen asked Finally sitting down at the other end of the table a series of "Goods" and " Greats" flooded out of everyone's mouths She nodded " Allison.. I was thinking that we could go and get some more of your things today?... Only if you wanted to of course! You don't have to do anything you don't want to." Allison swallowed meeting Karen's eyes "Uhh Sure that'd be nice." She smiled

Jake grumbled and sunk lower into his chair "What's wrong Hon, Is your breakfast not good?" His mom asked Touching his hand "Yeah Mom.. I'm fine."

The doorbell rings Karen Wipes her hands " It's 8:30 Who on earth would that be." Karen got up and walked Toward the Front door Looking through the Peephole then unlocking and Opening it "Hello?" Two people stood in front of her One Woman held a Clipboard and the other one held another "Hi! Are you Karen Kiszka? We are with Child Protective Services can we come in?" The Older one chipped "Yep, that's me Come on in!" Karen smiled slightly She had nothing to be nervous about but a Sinking feeling flooded into the pit of her stomach The Kids at the Table turned towards the door

"We've had some Anonymous phone calls to come In and check in on Allison Misha Evans. She has Supposedly run away from home.." Karen rolled her eyes But Nodded " She didn't Run away.. She's eating Breakfast right now... Listen-" The Social Services worker walked towards The Table Spotting Allison

"Hey, honey... My Name is Quinn... I'm with Child protective services How are you feeling?" Allison's Face drained of Color " I- I'm fine.. Nice to meet you.." Quinn's face dropped seeing Allison's Swollen eye the Bruise had Worsened overnight " Oh my gosh- Who did that to you??" She gasped Allison's hand shot up covering it " She's here because Of Her mother," Karen said her arms crossed She stood by Her " Well... We are going to have to take her back home... No one in this house has custody of her... Since she's a Minor she's going to have to go back home-" Allison Burst into tears

" I- I Cant Go home please I can't!" Allison was Frantic " Please don't make me I can't go home, please! I'm begging you." Quinn wrote something down on her Clipboard " I'm sorry honey But it's The Law.. Unless Miss Kiszka Gets Custody of you.. You cannot stay here legally."

" Let's at least Talk about this somewhere else please-" Karen said They walked into the Living room Josh wrapped his arm around Allison's waist making her kinda lean on his shoulder with her own holding her in his arms.

Quinn walked back into the Kitchen with Karen on her tail after a while " Allison go on and Grab your Things Please.." Quinn sighed Josh took Allison back to the twins' Shared bedroom Allison grabbed her Backpack wiping away her face and pulling it onto her back She pulled Josh into a tight Hug sobbing into his shirt "I'm sorry Dovey... Momma will find out what to do okay?" She nodded She left after this.. Leaving an Unsettled feeling in the Kiszka home.

A month later it hit summer time the last week of their Freshman year Allison Came to school in a Big bulky sweatshirt and sweatpants She trudged over to her locker and unlocked it throwing her Bag inside Josh walked Up the hallway toward her Leaning on the locker Beside hers "Hey Dovey-Dove... Long time no see How's it goin'? I'm digging the hair when did ya cut it? It is very unique I guess" He giggled his smile never falling Her hand traveled up to her short mangled hair "A few weeks ago.." "I like it Dovey- Oh by the way are you gonna come to drama club? You haven't been to the past few meetings we are Electing today!" She sighed " Maybe I don't know... My mom wants me home straight after school.." She closes her locker and Walks away Josh follows closely " Why are you wearing a Sweatshirt it's almost 90 degrees outside?" He giggled She sighed " It's cold in my Classes Decided I wouldn't freeze today."

" Oh yeah, Science is always Bone Chilling." He said and then Mocked a Chill making Burr noises She didn't laugh not even a Slight smile His smile faded. " Dovey? Are you okay? You never answered." He asked Placing a hand on her Bicep causing her to Flinch and pull back " Jus don't feel like talking Josh... I gotta go I can't be late." She trudged off toward her First Period leaving Josh in the empty hallway " But- Okay.." He trailed off pushing his fists into his Shorts " You never cared about that before.." He mumbled to himself He then walked towards the theater room walking in and Threw himself on the Cyan Couch

The Class was loud too loud His friends were in the chairs all gossiping and catching up Shrills of laughter that would usually bug him slid in one ear and out the other The Seat next to him quickly filled " Hey Josh!" She chirped "Hey Charlotte.. I'm not really in the Mood today-" Charlotte was still Beaming " Guess what! Guess fricking What!! You were sooo wrong Joshy!!" He side eyed her " I'm never Wrong Charlotte." She giggled and Poked at His side " Oh yes you aree!! He asked me Out!! Can you believe it??!! God, I'm so excited!!" She poked his sides again "Who?" He laughed " Was it Ben.. I wouldn't be too excited about that troll-" She laughed at him " No! No.. Your Brother He asked me out this Morning Can you believe it? Ugh... He came by my Locker and Just asked me it was Insane like a Scene straight from a Movie!" She placed her hands on her chest looking up at the Ceiling " My brother? Um... Are you sure? I-" He cut himself off Chuckling "You're joking right?" He looked at her " Nope, It's 100 percent the Real deal!" She slapped his arm Josh flinched rolling his shoulder to get her hand off

" Wow... I can't believe that." He droned  She got up straightening her Skirt " Well, I'll see you later at Drama Club!! It's the Last meeting you know, We get to Vote today for the Cabinet for Next year!! Vote me For Vice!!" She hands him a Cherry Flavored Tootsie pop He grabbed it and nodded shooing her away with his hand Thinking back to Allison and her hair He hadn't seen her in over Two weeks why did she chop it all off? It was so Beautiful before now she had a buzzcut he liked it he thought maybe she had a breakdown and just chopped it all off maybe she just wanted a change. "Josh! Cmere man, I need your opinion!"

Allison sat at her desk doodling in her notebook Her first period was English which She loved she loved reading and writing and her English teacher was Newer and Had just got out of college So Allison thought she had a Connection with Her they both got each other's jokes and she loved the Book recommendations Ms. James would give her She also loved the annotations Ms. James would leave on her Essays or Poems

Jake had this class with her. He sat in the back of the classroom, He usually slept during the first period or read the book they were assigned. He wasn't doing anything but sitting at his desk staring down the front door as if he was waiting for someone. Allison looked back down at her Doodle she leaned against her arm somehow this caused pain to shoot up towards the bruises on her covered arms. making her wince. She then heard another thing that made her wince. The Shriek made her ears want to close up and take shelter in her head. She looked up at the shrieker It was Charlotte the girl she talked about to Jake two weeks ago.

Allison furrowed her brows opening her mouth as Charlotte started walking up her isle. "Char-" She closed her mouth as Charlotte passed her quickly Allison turned watching Charlotte Plop into Jake's lap Charlotte's Arms Found themselves around Jake's neck . Allison studied Jake's Expression He wasn't smiling he was smirking like that sarcastic smile he'd always wear when he talked to Allison.

Jake's eyes Diverted from Charlotte to Allison Who stared at him from a Few seats away. Allison looked away immediately and went back to her notebook scribbling the doodle out she dug her pencil into the paper biting her lip harshly She didn't know why this hurt her so badly She should be happy for him.

Allison pushed her emotions down into her heart further into the hollowed coldness She couldn't take any more of the letdowns and the pain she felt.

everyone around her had an excuse to hurt her she thought.

Everyone wanted her gone and hated her. No one had checked up on her No one even saw What she had written all over her face No one would Help her. She could almost vomit all over her desk her stomach chewing through her flesh clawing its huge talons into her skin Her mother fed into these thoughts On the days when Allison thought she had been graced with happiness. She'd go home to her wretched mother to endure the mentally draining pain and the bruises that came with it. if she told anyone nothing would be done... Just like the last couple of times... She'd end up in a cold office or worse a Cold room with someone feeding her pills like candy because they knew it was all her fault what happens to her she was the issue not her mother. None of the Kiszkas had asked her where she had been these past two weeks and the truth is she had been institutionalized by her caseworker Quinn. when they had found her in the Bathroom behind a locked door.

Allison had stayed home from school that day Her mother hadn't noticed She had passed out on the couch. It was a Wednesday. Allison remembered it well She had planned her path the night before spending the entire day building up the bravery to do what she planned. It was almost lunchtime when She walked into Her bathroom closing the door slowly hearing it click into the latch Her reflection stared back at her Her eyes were sunken in and red from crying her normally tanned skin was paled with yellow tones bleeding through like stains Her teeth were dirty yellow plaque and flecks of food from other days laying in the crevices between the gums Brown stains on her Yellowed teeth She stared at the Girl before her Fresh Bruises littered her arms neck and chest Some of her nails were broken off She squeezed her eyes shut.

Her mother had been nice to her welcoming sweet and Loving to her the Whole day " You know what you need my baby? You need to bathe I'll run you one!" Her Mother got off of the couch and walked down the hall toward Allison's bathroom The Pipes shifted as she started the water The sloshing water ran out and into the tub Hearing this made Allison feel relaxed at peace for once " Come on in here I got it nice and Hot for ya'!" She hollered Making Allison Stumble up and walk speedily down the hall Her mother sat down on the toilet seat crossing her arms Allison stood there staring at her mother blankly

" Well? Don't just stand there get in!" Her mother hissed venomously Allison began removing her clothes moving her arms in front of her Breasts covering them from her mother's eyes " Oh come own now I've changed Yer diapers get chur ass in that Tub!" Allison stepped in and Sat down slowly the Hot Boiling water engulfed her cold skin making her Inhale sharply She squeezed her eyes shut and smiled this feeling was unmatched Her mother dropped to her Knees making the room tremble a little Allison opened her eyes Making eye contact with her mother's Blue eyes.

" Let me wash your hair Baby I'll get your Scalp real good." She grabbed the Shampoo from the side of the tub pouring a Little into her palm Allison moved up a little hesitantly Until Her mother grabbed her shoulder and drug her up more violently making the water slosh up the sides of the tub Her mother began lathering her Hair scrubbing her scalp and Massaging it you would've thought she was a hairdresser earlier in life before she became a recluse the soap suds ran down her neck and forehead as her mother lathered the soap in " Alright honey let's rinse it out."  Her fat hand had been wrapped around her neck clutching it with an evil iron grip shoving Allison back under the water

Allison choked as soapy water filled her throat gasping in the boiling water every time she tried for air she began clawing at her mother's arm The Water was murky Allison's eyes burned from the soap as her eyes widened underneath trying to look for an escape her mothers eyes were bulging out of her head her tongue out in a concentrated face. Her Mothers nails dug into her throat choking her hard Allison's body flailed around the tub her hands trying to find a solid place to pull up on but every surface slipped from her grasp She then clawed at her mother's arms raking the skin up under her nails and making her mother bleed her choked screams couldn't be heard from the water drowning her out She was dying. Her chest filled with an Agonizing sensation that felt Red. it stung her going to fill all of her at once Her pain would finally stop when it filled her up inside.

Her Mother dragged her up by her hair dragging her out of the tub her bare back slapped on the dirty tile floor " Stand up! Stand!" She bellowed Kicking Her stomach and making Water escape from her mouth onto the floor Allison begged for oxygen to enter her lungs her chest heaving She threw up the water she swallowed onto the tiles Screaming when Her mother grabbed her hair and made her stand Allison's hands gripped the sink as her mother had a pair of scissors in her hand She began chopping at her curls

" You are nothing but a waste. Allison." Chop " I wish I would've had a son He would've been so much smarter than you" Chop " You're nothing but a Liar and a pathetic Brat" Chop " You don't deserve anything but spit and Vomit" Chop " Let Satan deal with you." Chop

"I should've finished the job just then" Chop " You will never be anything."

By the end of her chopping, Allison's hair lay in front of her in the sink in big clumps She grabbed the clumps and began crying harder Her mother then smiled fixing Allison's face to the Mirror " There. Now No Boy will want you will they?" Allison met her own eyes Her hair was chopped almost like a Buzz-cut but some chunks were still there The Red marks that lay around her neck were going to be worse in the morning Her Mother had finally left the Bathroom Allison looked down at the hair left in the sink Her tears dropped into the clumps Her lip trembled as she brought one of the clumps up to her head in a stupid attempt to reattach it She sobbed dropping her mouth open and hiccuping as she sobbed She crumbled down to the Floor pulling her knees into her bare chest her sobs echoed through the bathroom Part of her wishes her mother had finished the job She wished she was dead She wished she didn't have to live this again the next day, she wanted to scream, she wanted to kill her mother she had to do something Something to get out of this misery This misery of living in this world of hatred so then She got an Idea

Why not? She thought No one wants me here anyway Why not make it easier for Them... Me..

She went underneath the sink Grabbing a Razor blade laying it on the sink edge She stood up stumbling a little She unpack-aged the razor throwing the trash on the floor Meeting eyes with the Razor It shined in the Florescent light of the bathroom Her ears began ringing as she got lost in the piece of metal Losing herself... The voice in her head Silent.

But then she snapped out of it Dropping it back onto the sink.

Looking back into the mirror Her breathing was still hoarse She looked up almost as if she was asking God Why? Why did you put me here if I am to be harmed? What is the point lord? Why am I here?

She walked out and back to her room Sitting down on her bed She tried to Gather the courage to complete her task

Now She opened her eyes Rubbing the tears coming back from her thoughts Raising the Blade staring at it once again meeting her own eyes in its reflection she held her breath and looked into the mirror

3....

2....

1-

The blade sliced across her throat blood began to spurt from the slash She dropped back into the wall Dropping the blade on the Floor Sliding down the wall and falling onto her side her hand holding her throat the blood pouring out onto her sweatshirt As she stared up at the Ceiling Her ears ringing She smiled. For the first time in days a real happy smile painted her face and Her eyes fluttered shut. Death took her in his arms cradling her a Warm feeling flowing through her like a Huge blanket A Warm fire in the Harth at The Kiszkas.

Laughter sounded in her Ears She then began seeing a Scene before her She sat on a Sofa Her boys sitting beside her on each side. A Bowl of Popcorn propped on her lap. Candy all over the coffee table with Three Cups of pop and Their favorite Halloween movie playing in the background  Halloween Michael Myers Stalking Babysitters and Being a Crazy psycho Trying To Kill Laurie Strode Played by Jamie Lee Curtis Allison always had a crush on her Halloween had always been played on Halloween. It was the Original Movie that the Trio watched together and Josh Loved the Movie He loved Movies, Directing, and anything to do with that he was up and alert. Sometimes He would talk the whole movie Well not the whole movie but on Certain points Pointing out the Directors meaning or something But Allison would listen to him. Loving to see him rant about his passions.

Jake would always look at her when she was watching the movie to see if she was enjoying it as much as his brother But She was always looking at Josh whenever he looked. Never the movie only him. Jake got up abruptly "Where ya going?" Allison asked smiling up at him " Bathroom." He said Allison nodded " Hurry Back" Turning back to the Movie Jake went into their bedroom Grabbing His Halloween mask He was gonna wear Pulling it over his Head  No one was home Besides The Three Teens So he had planned to Scare the Bejesus Out of Both of Them with a Funny little Halloween prank He walked back out into the hallway Creeping around the corner The Two still Focused on the Movie Jake creeped up and Pounced on Them Making Allison Scream and Fall back onto the floor

It was as if She fell back into her body Her eyes opened she jerked up off the Bed looking around the Room She was in a Hospital Her hand flew to her throat it was Bandaged up Tears began to fall down She wanted to scream She was so close She felt it..  the Welcoming feeling A nurse walked in with Quinn behind her Making Allison Perk up quickly Quinn smiled at her "Hey Allie" Quinn shoved her hands in her pockets The Nurse checked her Vitals and Changed her bandage Quinn watched Closely " You didn't cut deep enough to damage your voice thankfully.." The Nurse informed her Allison nodded " You will be moved upstairs tomorrow." The Nurse said Wrapping up her work Allison's Eyebrows furrowed and looked over at Quinn

" Allison you tried to Kill Yourself." she sighed looking at her " You're being Institutionalized For A little while you'll be fine It's-" Quinn sighed " It's for the Best okay?"

Allison now sunk lower into her desk when Ms. James walked in not wanting to talk to anyone today Ms. James started the introduction for today's lesson Allison didn't know what they were working on since she had been gone for two weeks " Alice could you take your hood off for me? Thanks, sorry babe." Ms. James smiled and continued talking about Edgar Allen Poe Allison inhaled and then slowly took her hood down the grown out mangled haircut acted as if it was a bright light to her classmates Whispers started all eyes on her

What happened to her hair?

She hasn't been around for weeks

the whispers and murmurs made her want to shrink up into herself and crawl out of the room Ms. James began Reading The Cask of Amontillado Allison tried to listen along but she felt her ears burning She couldn't help but look behind her at Jake and Charlotte Charlotte Sat in the Desk beside him she even pulled it a little bit closer to him He was looking down at his English textbook She was looking at him Her hands all over his arm or gripping onto his shirt like he was going to fly away Jake looked up at Allison catching her gaze when he saw her looking at him he grabbed Charlotte's thigh caressing it awkwardly Allison saw Charlotte blush slightly Allison looked away not interested anymore She wondered when they even got together It was weird and really out of nowhere but Allison had no place to judge him since he looked to be happy and that's all she could wish for. The bell rang signaling the next period Allison packed her things up into her pencil pouch and tucked her books in her arm and stood up A Force bolting into her Making her fall over Her books were scattered on the floor Different papers spilling out.

"Oops," A Voice giggled "Sorry Allison Didn't mean to Bump into you I was just trying to pay attention to my Boyfriend." Allison looked up at the Blonde and Bit her tongue from cussing at her " It's nothing Charlotte..I-" Charlotte didn't give her another look Stepping along over papers and her open sketchbook Leaving a Giant shoe print on one of Allison's Drawings Making Allison gasp and Grab it trying to brush the Dirt off Jake Bent down and Grabbed a couple of loose papers and a Book off the Ground placing them next to Her " What happened to your Hair?" He asked " Cut it all off.." "Why?" He asked She got up and grabbed her stack of papers and books "None of your Business Don't you gotta Go be with your Girlfriend or something?" Her words came out harsher than intended He scoffed

"Would ask you where you've been for the past few weeks but Oh! It's none of my business... See ya later." He then walked out of the classroom She followed behind him He looped his arm around Charlotte's waist as they walked off Charlotte looked over their shoulders at Allison almost as if She could feel Her looking at Them She smiled a Huge smile and Turned back around the Couple walking to their next classes

"Dovey.. We need to talk.." was all she heard before she was Dragged into the Theater and Down the Auditorium into a Dressing room the Door shutting and locking " What's up with you What is happening? You haven't talked to Me in Weeks?! Then you show up being distant Suddenly caring about being Tardy? You won't let me hug you or even Touch your arm for that matter and Your Hair- Your hair! Why did you do that to your beautiful hair Allison!? I mean if you like it I support you But I- I just need you to tell me what's wrong I'm Begging you, Allie." His hands held out to her Wanting her to hold them

Josh's love language was Touch Allison knew that she'd never had a Problem with it They've talked about it even His eyes were teary his Eyebrows knitted together in worry and confusion "I just want you to be happy Mama... You're my Best friend."

Allison stood there in silence avoiding eye contact with him looking down at her Hands She couldn't stand this " Please look at me, Dovey.." He whispered Begging for her attention "I'm fine Josh... I'm just I- I'm sorry I hurt you-" She choked out Tears falling "I've been so horrible to you lately I-" He shook his head " No no... No, you haven't." He pulled her close to him holding her hands squeezing them intertwining them as He placed the back of her hands on his chest "Just tell me what's going on I will fix it." He said She took him in for the first time in Weeks Looking at his face and inhaling his Scent made her feel at peace he smelled like palo santo which was His favorite incense His hair was Long and curly at its ends it was always back behind his ears his forehead plagued with hormonal acne his eyebrows knitted together his eyes were big and brown they were bright and sorrowful His lips pouty like his brothers She was just a little shorter than Him

" I just don't feel like me, Josh... I'm- it is a change I need a Change I guess- Hair grows back." She said giving a small smile " I know you, Allie... Don't lie to me." his eyes somehow darkened "I'm not... I promise." She lied doing her best to morph her face to not give herself away He sighed out "I love you, Dovey... Please don't stop talking to me Please I can't deal with it anymore." She smiled softly and squeezed his hands "I love you too Josh."

"I am here for you mkay? I'll always be ready to listen I don't give a shit what the subject is I am your personal Ear Okay-" That made Allison's face scrunch into a blushed smile She looked up at him and started laughing " What?" He chuckled smiling now that she was "I- Huha!-" She laughed harder " I just saw you as a Big ass ear Hah!" Tears of joy now gathered at the corners of her eyes she held her stomach and Laughed harder "There she is.." He just watched her Laugh Cherishing this Listening to her laughter that he hadn't heard in weeks

The Bell rang for their Third-period class "Shit... We've officially skipped the Second period." Josh smiled "Whatever will I do without The Knowledge of Science Missing one day! How horrifically horrible!" She slapped her hands on her cheeks and pulled her face into a shocked expression But then she continued to laugh Following Josh out of the Dressing room and Back up to the Theater room.

It was now Their Junior Year of high school Josh and Allison were the President and Vice president of the Drama Club Charlotte had Lost to Allison which caused Allison's Sophomore year to be filled with Charlotte becoming Allison's School-based Torment She would do things like come over to the Kiszka home Since She was still Dating Jake She would purposely trip Allison causing her plate to fall onto the Floor She'd Steal Allison's Script and Deface it and Mark out her Lines in Black Permanent marker Charlotte would also flirt with All of the Kiszka Boys if they wanted it or not as well as Sammy Kiszkas Best friend Daniel Wagner This Didn't get under Allison's skin until one weekend The Summer Before Their Junior year Kelly had Cleaned out the Kiszkas Pool finally So Karen had shot out the idea that the Siblings should invite One Guest to have a Pool party!

Food and Drinks were there Chairs and Umbrellas were set out Josh invited Allison of course Sam invited Danny Veronica invited her Friend Marcy who was Sam and Danny's age and Jake of course invited His Girlfriend Charlotte. Much to Everyone's dismay. They didn't understand the Appeal that Jake had to Charlotte I mean yes, she was really pretty but as time went on That melted away The Entire Family saw how she Treated Ronnie and Allison as Well as Marcy when she was over at the same time as everyone else She saw every Female as a Threat.

Allison's mother hadn't been as Hard on her that weekend Snide remarks now and then about Allison's Weight but that was almost it Allison had been following her mother's rules closely She was done with hiding bruises from her friends She was nervous about wearing a bathing suit She was nervous to wear anything not covering up her neck and body The Scar on her neck had turned thinner over time Karen would rub Bio-Oil on the Scar whenever she remembered to so the Scar would Fade Allison thanked her every time The Scar was an Embarrassing reminder of failure She didn't want to see it ever She would wear bandannas around her neck or Scarfs and turtle necks or a Small choker scarf to cover it

Ever since then, she has had phantom pains of the slash and the blood... She felt as if she was reliving the stinging experience if she thought about it hard enough feeling the Liquid spurt out and cover her skin She shook off that Thought and Looked in the Mirror She had just changed in the Kiszkas bathroom She looked down to her stomach A Yellow purplish mark on her side made her fingers run over it sighing Whatever it's just a bruise She thought She then looked at her Stomach again squeezing her tummy Suddenly getting Self Conscious but she pushed it off Her Bathing-suit was A Deep Red That Fit her skin tone well Dark reds had always been her colors

Allison walked out of the Bathroom walked Into The Twins' Bedroom Placing down her clothes on Josh's bed she then grabbed What she needed outside Her Towel and sunglasses "Wow, Dovey Don't you look Nice." She turned Josh stood there smiling behind her His Hair was still long He had it in a Low bun His Face had lost a Bunch of Baby-fat His Cheekbones were now Filled out His Jawline more prominent He was Shirtless and Wore Floral red swimming trunks He grinned bigger and pointed to her then back at himself "We are matching!" She gasped as if she already didn't know "Wow Omg!" She giggled afterward

Allison had lost a lot of Baby-fat as well Her dimples were more prominent and Her cheekbones had begun to fill out but she still had some chub on her cheeks Her hair was Now In a Shaggy short short Mullet style She had freckles on the top of her shoulders that sprinkled down to her arms "Well let's go Back there Danny and Marcy are already here We're just waiting on Charlotte." Allison rolled her eyes " Forever late, isn't she? She's worse than you!" Josh rolled his eyes but nodded in agreement "Listen if she gives you any trouble I'll kick her ass out Jake can't say anything I'm 5 Minutes older an-"She interrupted "Josh I'll be fine I can Fight my own battles She's just weird and I don't know what her problem is.." Josh nodded slinging his arm around her as they walked to the Back, She broke off from Josh when she saw Danny,Running up to Him and Sammy Grabbing Them both in a Tight squeeze around their Necks " Danny!! Sammy! My Favorite Duo How's it going I haven't Seen you guys Since like Last time I was over." The Two Both giggled like little girls Hugging her back "We've been good Allie!" Danny smiled Allison smiled back at him Absorbing Their Faces into her mind Danny's Hair was short and in a sort of Bowl Swoop cut fashion Sam had Matched with him They both wore their Swim trunks. Danny's were Green and Sams were Orange.

"How's It Feel to Be Sophomores?" She smiled "You guys are growing up so well!" She wiped a Non-existent tear from her eye " How's it feel being old, You Junior!?" Sam shot back Smirking slightly She placed a hand over her heart "I'm getting all Rusty Sammy Granny can't walk as good as she used to." She bent over acting as if she had a Cane Sporting Her best Old person voice "But she Can still Pinch ye cheek and Give ye a Good Ol sloppy kiss over it." She grabbed his face Pinching his Left cheek and Kissing his right then blew a Raspberry after she kissed it He was laughing and trying to pull away from her Pushing her shoulders. When she finally pulled away. He was a Blushing mess Trying to Hide his Smile Wiping his cheek with the Back of His hand. Danny laughed at the Two pointing his Finger at Sam "She got you good!" He gave a Hearty laugh his other hand holding his stomach "Oh god!" He laughed more " That looked like it hurt Sam." Danny giggled Sam huffed " It did-" Allison slapped his chest "Oh you liked it Sammy? You're blushinnn Do you like Granny's Kisses? You want another?" She Smiled She then started Tickling His sides He Kept trying to push her away when Finally, He got an Idea He wrapped his arms around her waist picked her up and ran He Ran straight towards the Pool "SAM-" She gasped and started screaming He jumped in taking her with him.

Everyone started laughing at this Daniel came to the edge of the pool When the two resurfaced "YOU ARE SO DEAD FRANCIS!!" Allison screamed Slapping water in his direction He laughed and Splashed water at her Causing a huge Splash Fight to ensue Sam Caught her arms Holding them down so she'd stop After a load of splashing Allison smiled at him Her Chest Heaving from how much she was Laughing She calmed down " I obviously won that Sammy." She smiled He had let go of her arms She pushed her hair back from her face "I don't know about that" He then Splashed Water into her Face once again He couldn't stop laughing She sat there with a wide open mouth In shock "SAM?? THATS UNFAIR!!" This started another fight as she tackled him under the water " Hey Allie! Stop fighting with Sam and Come over here!" Josh yelled

The Two stopped Fighting Allie Pointed her Finger at Sam "This isn't over Francis." Then got out of the pool Pulling herself up and walked over to Josh "What's up?" she asked Josh wrapped an arm around her waist "Momma Wants to Take our Pictures With Jake when He gets Here So I just wanted to tell you that before you know... I don't know I just thought-" Allie nodded "No, I get you... She takes one every summer It's cool." She wrapped an arm around Josh's waist hanging on him loosely Her cheek pressed against his side " Wonder how She's gonna act today.." Josh asked "Probably the same way she always does, Wanting all the Attention" She rolled her eyes " And she'll probably start Bragging once again about how She thinks Sam is a Better Guitar player than Jake and Cause another Argument. She's always starting something." Allie sighed.

Karen walked out of the Back door "Joshua Allison!! Get ready For the Picture Jake is here!!" She called Smiling from Ear to Ear Jake walked out Behind her Charlotte was Far behind Jake had a Crabby look on his Face So did Charlotte when she stepped out He didn't Put his hand on her waist like he normally did They were spaced apart Kind of ignoring each other in a Way This caused Josh and Allie to Share a Look with each other that Only the two of them could read

Karen Ushered Jake Over To the Fence Where Josh and Allie Stood Jake greeted his Brother and Stood Beside Him Ready to get the Picture over with They talked about their Band Rehearsal that was Later that Day

They had started a Band Called Gretna Van Fleet It was Jake's Idea Since he loved playing guitar Josh was the Front-man Sammy Played Bass and then Jake's Friend Adam played Drums Allie didn't like Adam that Much he was Annoying and always made Weird Misogynistic comments to her

"Okay Allie I want you To be in the Middle This time Hun," Karen said She Moved Her between the Boys Josh Posed like Normal Wrapping an arm around Allie's waist and Started Smiling at the Camera Allie Wrapped her Arm around Josh's waist as well and Smiled Wide Jake stood there arms crossed His Sunglasses Covering his eyes His Hair was Cut like an Emo bob like Sam and Danny's But wasn't Long enough His Bangs Swooped over his Forehead He wore a Jimi Hendrix tee and black swim trunks Karen took a Picture but then Dropped the Phone and Looked at Jake "Jacob Thomas, You better Pose right now. I don't have time for Your Grumpiness." Jake sighed and Smiled "That's not Posing Do what Your Brother is doing!" She raised her voice a bit Jake sighed and Wrapped his Arm around Allison's waist Allie shivered slightly But continued to smile She put her arm around him Karen took the Picture and their Arms dropped immediately "Okay Now for the Second picture, I want you to Pose the Same But put your cheeks against each-others Okay?" Jake Groaned "Mom, can we please just swim? you already took a picture.." Karen placed a hand on her hip "I want another One Jacob. this Is for Facebook Now Come on Get it over with and You can go swim!" Jake groaned dramatically They posed Josh and Jake's faces smashed onto her cheeks They Smiled again The Phone shutter noise sounded and They pulled apart "Okay Now I want Josh and Allison's Picture and Then Her and Jake and then I'll get Danny and Sammy"

Josh and Allie posed Taking their Picture normally And then they took a Stupid One They Acted like They were in a Victorian Painting Wiping their Toothy grins off their faces to no emotion and Posing dramatically.

Jake went over to the Table Charlotte sat at. She Turned Ignoring him and Continued to talk to Marcy and Ronnie Jake rolled his eyes and looked back at Josh and Allie Who posed differently each time His mom pressed the Button He glared at them Envy running deep He wouldn't have doubted if they had Been Dating Secretly The way they were so Touchy and Close all the Time and The way they looked at each other.

"Jake Come on and Get a Picture with Allison!" Jake Walked over as Josh ran towards the Pool jumping in finally Jake stood next to her again She looked up at him and opened her mouth to say something "I'm not doing those stupid poses." He said Shutting her down immediately She raised her Eyebrows "I was just going to tell you that I liked your hair." He Swallowed heavily " Thanks now let's get this over with." He wrapped his arm around her again and Smiled big for His mom She put her arm around his waist she snuck her hand under his shirt and laid her hand on his Skin

Jake felt like his Skin had just been set aflame She Pinched his skin harshly causing him to Yelp and make a Face at her She was smiling at Karen His mom Laughed hysterically "That's the Face I wanted! HahA!" She bent over Allie looked up at him and Smiled "I got a Stupid pose out of you didn't I?" He glared at her and She Smiled and Patted his Cheek with her hand and then Ran and Jumped into the Pool Jake Trudged over to Charlotte's table again "Babe-" She shot her face to him "Don't talk to me." She placed her hand up in a silencing gesture Jake raised his Eyebrows "I-" She looked at him with Wider eyes "I said Don't talk to me Go talk to Allison." She said Her name in a Snotty voice moving her head from side to side.

Jake stared at her for a moment Anger flooding into his head He Finally Took off his Shirt and Walking towards His Brothers who Sat Over at the Table on the other side of the Pool He walked over and smiled at them But that Smile drained as Allie Walked past him Towards his Brothers Sitting in the seat he wanted that was Beside Josh and Danny Jake stood there and placed his hands on his waist Sam looked up at His Brother "Jake, what's up with You and Charlotte man? We saw her just like.. Silence you.." Sam said Looking around the Group They all nodded "She silenced you like you were her bitch Dude." Danny Laughed "That's so Embarrassing" Sam laughed slapping Danny's arm As they both laughed in sync

"Want some Chips for your Tough times?" Allison asked looking up at him Shaking the Bag at him He shook his head "No I'd Like to sit down but you took my seat." Allison laughed at him "I took your seat?!" She looked at Josh and Laughed more Tears forming at the sides of her eyes "Well, Sorrrrrey! King Jake! We thought you'd be up your Beloved Girlfriends Ass all night." She Sassed Causing his expression to retort into Rage "I'm not up her ass-" She cut him off "Oh but you are, You have been Since Freshman year Jakey. I honestly don't understand how you two are still together She treats you like Her Dog on a Leash Like you're her Dog at the Pet Show or some shit." He scoffed Looking at His Twin for Backup But Josh Nodded Along With Allison Causing Him to Blow up "You talk a Load of Shit for someone that's always stuck up Josh's ass What is he your Boyfriend or something? I bet you wish he was." Allison snorted her soda coming out her nose "Are you that Insecure Jake? You have to Pick at My Friendship because Your Relationship is plummeting? Wow What's new?" Allison smiled "Maybe you can Sit with us when You stop acting like a Dick to all the people around you. She treats you like shit She treats all of us like fucking shit, Jake. I think it's time you should realize it if you haven't already which I'm sure A Guy as Smart as you Would've Noticed it by now." Jake's Jaw clenched at her words She was right But he wasn't about to drop to his knees and Beg for forgiveness "Whatever Allie Have fun Fucking My brothers." He Retorted Causing Josh Sam and Danny to Look at him Shocked with their Jaws Dropped "You're worried about the Wrong Bitch Jake I'd worry about your Girlfriend... You know The One that Flirts with them all the fucking time I have no interest in Whatever the Hell you're Thinking. Go on back to your Brother Loving Girlfriend." She crunched down on a Potato chip "Slut." He Spat "Whore!" She spat Smiling Wide He turned and left the table and walked back to Charlotte who was Standing up looking over at Him and the Table "What did she Say?" Charlotte asked Her hands on her Hips "Nothing." Jake huffed "Can we please just Swim? Or something?" Before he knew it Charlotte was Walking over to them "Do you guys wanna Chicken Fight?" She asked They all looked at each other and nodded "Yeah Let's go." Sam Got up with everyone following him Getting into the Pool

"Allie, Can I get on your Shoulders? I don't really wanna get on one of the Boys' Shoulders You know Cause Jake's my Boyfriend and All.." Allie nodded "Oh yeah sure Man I'll go under while you get on 'Kay?" Charlotte nodded a Plan slowly forming in her Mind Allison went under Charlotte started climbing on stomping on Allison as hard as She could Digging her Nails on her shoulders When Charlotte was On Allison stood up holding Charlotte's Legs Josh was on top of Sammy's Shoulders Danny was Ref "Okay 1..2..3 GO!" Danny shouted slapping the water Charlotte Pushed Josh But then After Josh pushed her He didn't even push her that hard and She locked her Legs around Allison's neck and Fell back Causing Allison to Choke in water Charlotte's legs wouldn't loosen around Her neck Causing Allison to start thrashing around trying to get her Legs off of her neck She wouldn't Budge Allie started Struggling When she looked up at the Surface Flashbacks came back to Her Mothers Face and Her chunky arms holding her down Allison choked in more water Charlotte kicked Allison's head finally letting go Charlotte Got up resurfacing Josh and Sam were Jumping around in victory Danny Was Laughing they were out of the Pool "YOU GUYS CHEATED!!" Charlotte yelled At Josh poking her lip out "Where's Allison?" Danny asked He noticed First Looking Around wondering if she had got out But then he looked Down "Holy Shit!" He shouted Before Jumping in for her Karen screamed When she saw Allison Floating Danny Picked her up and Took her to the Side of the Pool placing her on the Cement and Getting Back Up Everyone Surrounded her Danny Shook her Josh looked around Frantically "WHO KNOWS CPR??" Everyone was running around Unsure of what To do Kelly Pushed through His Wife and Daughter And Looked at Josh "Every time I tell you to breathe Pinch her nose and Breath into her mouth okay." Josh nodded Kelly started compression's He counted As he pressed down "Breathe!" Kelly shouted Josh Pinched her nose closed and blew into her mouth Karen had already called 911 Allison Gasped her eyes opening She coughed water all over Josh's face Kelly turned her on her side Slamming his hand into her back She Threw up Water her eyes wouldn't open all the way her head panged and panged She reached for Whoever was Close to her Holding them close to Her Sam Wrapped his Arms around Her " You're okay It's Okay." He Reassured he rubbed her back Everyone looked at Her, Her eyes were huge saucers Her Chest was sore He had broken her sternum Probably some ribs as well

The Ambulance then arrived Kelly and Josh rode in the back of the Ambulance Everyone Met them at the Hospital after She had been finally taken to a Room They had to keep her for 24 hours for observation She was fine But it was in case she might Dry drown with the Water in her lungs She had two broken ribs and Her sternum was as well No one has Went back to talk to Her yet They had all thought she had just hit her head when they fell during chicken Charlotte and Jake sat in the waiting room with His family Everyone was worried Sitting on the Edges of their Seats Jake's Head pounded How could this even happen They weren't even Close to Sides or Stairs she couldn't have Hit her head on anything He Thought "Allison Evans Family?" The Nurse walked up Josh Sprung up "Yes That's us." Kelly Said Standing Karen Stood beside Him "How is she? Can we see her?" The Doctor nodded "Follow me."

Josh Sat beside her in the Chair closest to the bed holding onto her hand She smiled meekly "Hey Joshy.." He smiled as He felt her squeeze his hand "Hey my Dovey" "She has Two Broken Ribs and Her Sternum is Broken as Well... We will have to hold her here for Twenty-four Hours in case she dry drowns in her sleep because of the Water that entered her Lungs." The Doctor Said in a very monotonous voice "I can't stay here for Twenty-four hours." Allison groaned "I have to go home My mo-" She coughed when she raised her voice She Groaned again holding her side Jake and Charlotte walked in causing Allison's jaw to Tighten "Why is she" she coughs "here?" She asked Charlotte put a hand on her chest "I'm here because I'm worried about you! Can't let Our VP die on us!" She giggled  "Worried?" Allison asked She was Blown away "Worried?? Charlotte you fucking held me under the water?" Allison sat Up The Pain in her Chest Didn't hurt her anymore The only thing on her mind was Charlotte "What?? Why would you say that??" Charlotte asked Shocked Looking around the Room for some Help from the Brothers "You're Right why would she say that," Jake asked looking at Charlotte "Unless you- Ya know Did it." Charlotte Gasped again Her eyes growing wide

"Why would I do that?? Jakey?? Come on How would I have done that?!" Jake's Jaw clenched and He looked over at Allison Allison looked at him Meeting his eyes "Because Allie would never lie about something like that Charlotte. I think you should leave."

"What? Are you serious?? I didn't do anything?? She's a Liar!" Jake ignored her and sat Next to his brother "Jake!" She whined, " Jakey Please!" He ignored her His Eyes still on Allison "Babe-" He interrupted her "Leave." She finally shut her mouth Tears welling up in her eyes "Oh, you are so Over Jake Kiszka. Over!" and with that she stomped out of the room and down the hall Allison groaned and laid back down looking over at Jake "Took you long enough." She groaned He smiled a little "Shut up Allie... Just be glad I know you better than you think I do."

Months gone by Jake and Allison had Actually grown closer With a few fights here and there Jake liked to pick on Allison But she couldn't help but fight back or get upset about his Teasing She'd blow up on him Hell She'd even blow up on Josh if she was having a Bad day Quinn, Her case worker had Gotten her into a Therapy program The therapist had diagnosed her with post-traumatic stress disorder and Intermittent explosive disorder That was the cause of her Blow ups She had told them she'd Try and control it and try and not get so aggressive and defensive She got really good at Controlling it The Band had Hit it off That's what Allison always said She was their biggest fan Always present at rehearsals and taking their pictures when they rehearsed They finally had their First show and Of course Allison was gonna go How could she not? They were playing in this Bar downtown So of course she hopped on her Bike and Got there as Fast as she Could the room was filled with teens and old men and women She sat At the Bar and Turned her chair Towards them watching them play their Three songs Highway tune was her favorite Jake said they hadn't perfected it But she still liked it just as much

It was now after The Show when Jake Came up Pulling her Into a Hug " Hey Allie, you enjoy the show?" He asked she hugged him back " Yes! It was amazing You did so well on your Guitar solo Man." Alice was so Proud of her friends Jake Josh and Sammy Jake placed his hands On her Shoulders squeezing gently "I need help Because I lost my Lucky pick backstage can you come help me you've got good eyes right Allie?" She nodded " Oh ya of course Lead the Way Bud." She followed him through the Wings of the stage Into the Back Green room There was a Leather Maroon leather couch and A Coffee table with rock mags on it The walls were covered in Rocknroll posters Their Equipment had been moved in here after their Show

Jake's Guitar Sat In its case Sam's Bass sitting on the Couch He must've Just been Playing it " I feel so stupid, I lost it before the show Thanks for helping me By the way!" He smiles Looking around moving things to see where it Was Alice started to look around the couch seeing Something Bright Green Caught her Eye in between the Couch Cushion She drops to her knees in front of the couch digging for it Finally grabbing and Pulling it Out lifting it into the Air Standing up " Aha! Here she is!" She grins handing it to him " Thank you so much You're a Lifesaver that was my last one and If I lost that One I'd have to save up money for another pack of picks." He chuckled She nodded chuckling along with him sitting back on the couch "Oh yeah dude no problem friends help each other out." Alice says pushing her Brown hair back from her eyes It had grown longer finally He grins that stupid smile and Looks at her then at His Guitar " You wanna play before you leave? I- Only asking 'cause I know How Obsessed you are with it-" " Uhm I'm not Obsessed with it I just like playing... My mom won't buy me one.. we don't have the money right now.." He Frowns "I'm sorry Allie I didn't Mean to-" "No you're fine Jake" She Smiles faintly  "Sorry If I'm being annoying by asking you to play it all the time"

"Shut up Allie." Jake then Hands her His Guitar she straightens up and Takes the pick from him " I'm gonna attempt it Don't make fun of me" She glared at Him Playfully He snorted "There's More to Make fun of than you Messing up on guitar" She dropped her mouth open " Well that's just mean Jake." She then started Strumming The Chords she thought It would be And Started Singing The Lyrics She remembered them by Heart Because she had listened to it so much so she could try and Play it one day for him and So far it didn't sound that Bad...

" Dude?" He looks over at her From Where he is Packing Up a Box "Your Voice is Beautiful Like it Actually Sounds good Why haven't you Sung in front of me before? What song is that? Did you write it?" He Bombarded she blushed Slightly and continues to Play the Chords while she spoke "Thanks Asshole... It's an Amy Winehouse song Called Valarie I'm not good at writing songs so don't expect that Maybe someday... but I tried.." He nods " It works It fits your Voice man... Again Your voice is Amazing.." He sits down Next to her Smiling "Oh shut up Jake I'm not as Good as You on Guitar And I'm definitely not as good at Singing as Josh is." He scoffed " I don't know about that.." He looks down at his hands fiddling with his fingers

"We are all unique with our own Talents. Music is something that Reaches everyone in different Ways I can Have my Own opinions on your Talents Then You have your Own and Your voice is Just... Wow.." He Says Looking up at her his cheeks were pinker than usual she thought. " Thanks Jake." She continued to Strum Along "Anytime." He leans back on the couch closing his eyes Putting his Hands Behind his Head. She starts playing around With different chords and different tuning.

"Why don't you Join the Band Dude... Cause You're Good Have you been Playing somewhere else Besides with me?" She nodded focusing on the chords" Yeah, I work at the Music store In town with  Danny... I've been Practicing on the Guitars there As well as Some other Instruments.." She shrugs looking up at him "That's Great I'm glad You need a Way to Practice that Talent of yours." He smirks Pushing his hair back from his face She rolls her eyes Feeling like he's Trying to be Sarcastic " Oh shut up Jake You're Just trying to Sweeten me up."

" No Alice I'm serious I've Never Heard Anyone Play like that... Well except for myself...  Your Singing Is Very Melodic.." she rolls her eyes once more " Thanks...I guess.." she stares at him for a Little but she then Clears her Throat "Here you play Something, Hotshot." She hands him the Guitar and The Bright green Pick " Alright." He begins Playing a New Tune she has never heard Before... He laughs nervously " It's kind of Half-assed but that's a new song we are currently working on." she nods in approval" It's really good Jake... You guys were really good today by the way if I didn't already tell you, The girls all really went wild when you did your Solo." Alice laughs remembering all of the girls who were screaming for the Group of boys He nodded continuing to play Staring at The Guitar She stared at his side profile His nose turned up at the tip not much he had a slight hump on the bridge of his nose His eyebrows were boxy and furrowed in concentration His eyes were brown and down-turned his lips were chapped and pink from biting at them all the time when he focused He had decided last year he was going to start growing his hair out longer getting rid of the old short hair he's always had His hair had grown out to past his shoulder his swoopy bangs still there He looked up at her and she turned away almost instantly " You alright Allie?" He stopped playing " Oh yeah I'm fine Man." she nodded " I'm sorry Keep playing." she said "No worries Man, Are you sure everything's okay?" He asked putting a hand on her Shoulder.

She stiffened at the action, I don't even know what's wrong she thought to herself. She just nodded at him smiling big trying to Convince him, He pulls his hand off of her shoulder frowning waiting for her to answer him instead of just nodding. He watches Alice closely. She shakes her head "I'm okay! I swear. I'm just Thinking." She says Snarky then gives him another Tight-lipped fake smile... He smiles at her Reassuringly " Well, you wanna Play some more? Show off that Music store Talent?" He asks trying to change the subject seeing she is getting agitated "It's getting pretty late... I'm gonna go Don't wanna worry my Mom and all.. I'll see you on Monday alright? At school" she stands up " Oh okay let me walk you out then!" She sighs as he stands up placing his guitar into his case and wiping his hands on his jeans " No man you don't got to-" "Oh shut up I insist Besides I still wanna talk to you.." He cut her off She swallows dryly She didn't know what this feeling was it felt as if she could throw up She had a Terrible feeling in her stomach maybe it was the Dread of going home... "Okay then let's walk to the bike rack and you can talk to me on the way there.." they walk out into the hallway "Don't worry about your Mom Allison... She'll understand you're out with friends and besides it's the weekend man! No school till Monday!"

She laughs dryly" Yeah.. sure." They walk out into the parking lot He slings his arm around her shoulders pulling her closer and messing up her hair as he does so "I'm really glad you came and saw us today man.. really I appreciate it." She grins up at him While Pulling at her hair trying to fix it " I love watching you guys play I would do it all the time if I could!" " Random question.." He mutters She looks up at him as they walk His arm is still around her shoulders " But do you like hanging out with me?" He looked down at her "Uh... Yeah? Of course, Why wouldn't I? You're my friend?" Alice laughed quirking her eyebrow Stopping in her tracks Standing in front of him, his arm falling off of her shoulders as she did so

"Because... I feel like I haven't seen a real smile from you in a while... You seem sad all the time... Distant even... Even when I'm talking to you right in front of you? What's going on? I'm worried about you Alice and I know we haven't had a good past but I still... Care about you." He looks down at her with worry in his eyes Hoping in his mind that she will just tell him what the hell has been wrong recently.

"I smile- I'm happy I- Don't worry about me Jake there's nothing to worry about Okay?" She Throws her hands up at the last part slapping them back down on her thighs She felt angry How could he think that She didn't want to be around him... She thought am I that bad of a Friend I try, don't I? "See what was that? The old Alice would never Just push it off like that. Is it something I did... Is it your Mom?-" " Oh don't act like you know me so well Jake you don't know shit about my life!" she snaps cutting him off His face drops into a sad expression Alice's face turns from angry to Remorseful " Jake I'm sorry I-" "No forget it, Allison. Fucking forget it." She tries to catch his hand or shoulder anything she could hold onto to get him back "Jake please I'm sorry!" He turned to her again His Mind running full speed " Don't apologize if you're just gonna keep being this way. Apologize when you actually fucking change and want to be around me." he then stormed off back inside the Bar...

Allison Pulls her lip into her mouth biting down on it harshly "I'm sorry.." She whispered to no one in the empty grayed parking lot "I didn't mean to.." It wasn't grey before... The color drained from the scenery as soon as he left and slammed the door... The Warmth in her stomach went away turning into a sea of emptiness her heart welled with a stabbing feeling She sighed tears falling traveling from her cheeks to her chin and falling onto her Navy blue shirt " Why the fuck are you crying." she said aloud to herself " It's your fucking fault why the fuck are you crying? why do you act this way.." She then pulled at her hair hard almost breaking off a piece She walked over to her bike taking it out of the Bike rack.

She begins peddling her way home looking around the streets in town she finally makes it into her neighborhood looking at the Houses She then Passes the Kiszka House Stopping her bike in the middle of the road having a Perfect view inside of the Dining room window Lights were on Her friends sat around the table with their family The scene before her was cheery and homey their grass had been cut recently flowers were planted in the dirt patch below the dining room window Their Door was painted a Bright Yellow she then saw Jake sitting there almost like he knew she would see him sitting there dead center... Smiling as if nothing had just happened Like She didn't just write their future as friends Like she didn't just snap at him Like he didn't even care.

This made more Tears well up watching him smile at his brothers and laugh at whatever stupid jokes Sammy made Kelly gave a Playful shoulder push to Sammy as he joked around They all got up and began cleaning up the table Karen Planted a Kiss on their Foreheads or cheeks Depending if they were sitting or standing...

Her thoughts were interrupted by a Car horn honking behind her She gasped peddling off the road and down a Gravel road that cut to her house through the woods She didn't stop peddling until she got to her house Hearing her dog bark at her behind the chain fence She dropped her bike outside She looked up at the house It was a one-story house with peeling white paint and a Navy blue door The porch had shit all over it it had grown over the years The grass and weeds grew to waist height over time

Allie walked up the stairs and opened the screen door the house was silent and still... Not a Light on in the house... Allie turned towards the kitchen seeing Her mother leaning against the Counter A cigarette was lit and wrapped tightly around her lips Just like always "Do you know what damn time it is Allison?" She grunted " Yes ma'am I'm sorry I was with Jake-" "Always with them boys.." Her mother said scoffing her eyes searching her daughter's face She then laughed curtly "After I've told you time and time again!" She puffed on her cigarette once again "I don't want you hanging around those Kiszka boys again Especially that Wagner boy They ain't nothin' but trouble I've told you this!" She pointed at Alice sternly her lips pursing I know tomorrow you're gonna go to that pitiful excuse for a Job and See them!" She stomped forward Coming closer and getting into Alice's face " If I find out or see you talking to them boys again...You will be quitting your job immediately." She threatens Allison made a Sobbing noise and then A Sharp heavy force made her face fly to the Right causing her to lose her footing and fall onto the tile floor touching her left cheek the skin pulsing and red heat radiating off of it Her eyes widened blood dripped down her nose she tasted it in her mouth from where she had bit her tongue Her mother's crazed red face and big rounded eyes stared down at her as they always did "Get the Fuck out of my sight!"

She ran around the corner into her room and sank onto the floor when she closed the door She reached up and locked her door and got up touching her face again as she looked into her cracked vanity mirror She shook Crying more as she looked at herself she looked pitiful Her eyes red from all the crying Alice glimpsed down at her desk seeing Polaroid photos that she had strung across the desk sometime last week when she deep-cleaned her room Picking one of them Up It was a Photo of Her with Sam and Jake on the Orange sofa Their Mother Had put in their Garage for their Band practices She would go over there and hang out whenever she could She remembered that...

Sam was Talking to her about a New Album that had just come out recently and He was excited for them to get it into the store this week When she saw a Flash go off  in the corner of her eye Josh stood in front of the couch with his Polaroid camera He waited for it to come out of the Bottom and Shook it Giving Alice his Famous goofy grin "For the original fan, Allison Evans. To keep in her Shoe-box of photos to Look back on and Have a Good Smile." She looked at him with a grin " Thank you Josh I will keep this forever." She clasped it to her chest

She looked back up at Her mirror and saw a different face an Unfamiliar face staring back at her She looked back down at the Polaroid Seeing That girl Smile big at the short haired Bassist He wore a huge smile as well His hand Waved and paused in the air... He would always talk with his hands... and Jake who had Sat Behind her Looked into the Camera sticking his Tongue out his fingers frozen in a Rocknroll sign

Alice sighed and dropped the photo back down onto her Desk She fell back into her bed crumpling up and dragging her knees into her chest She thought for a minute staring at the white wall moving into a sitting position Her thoughts were clear in her actions. Alice nodded slowly to herself Getting up and Grabbed everything she needed shoving it into her backpack and zipping it closed Bundling up throwing another jacket on top of her Loose jacket and Tee-shirt pulling a Hat over her hair. Lifting her window Jumping out then closing it she ran She then began riding her bike far into town Pausing at the Music store Sitting down On the Bench outside of the store Pulling her hat down over her face resting her eyes.

Author Phoebes note :): Hey I hope you enjoyed it and I hope it wasn't confusing I always kinda have a hard time with punctuation and everything so I really hope you enjoy and want more!! Tell me your favorite part in the comments if you want I love feedback!

Taglist: @girlattheseaside @edgingthedarkness @wildbluesorbit @wetkleenex-gvf @oliver-mf-reed @woyayaofdreams @blankvz @hollyco

[countvonreutern]

His Serene Highness The Count of Münnich and Reutern wishes his cousin Her Imperial Highness Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna of Russia a very happy 67th birthday. Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna is daughter of Grand Duke Vladimir of Russia and Grand Duchess Leonida of Russia née Bagration-Moukhransky. Her Imperial Highness The Grand Duchess Maria Vladimirovna of Russia is His Serene Highness’s ninth cousin thrice removed.

[michigantoplawyers]

State Bar of Michigan Announces 2017 Election Results - Michigan Top Lawyers

State Bar of Michigan Announces 2017 Election Results

Seven attorneys—David C. Anderson, Bernhardt “Chris” D. Christenson, III, Shauna L. Dunnings, James W. Heath, Hon. David A. Perkins, Daniel D. Quick and Gregory L. Ulrich—won contested seats in this year’s Board of Commissioners elections. All will serve three-year terms expiring at the close of the 2020 Annual Meeting.

David C. Anderson and Daniel D. Quick were both elected to serve District I, representing Oakland County. Anderson is a shareholder at Collins Einhorn Farrell in Southfield, dedicating his practice primarily to defending Michigan lawyers and law firms against personal liability claims. Quick is a trial lawyer with Dickinson Wright in Troy and national leader of the firm's commercial litigation practice.

Bernhardt “Chris” D. Christenson, III, was elected to serve District B, representing Bay, Genesee, Huron, Lapeer, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac and Tuscola Counties. He started his own firm, Christenson & Fiederlein in Flint in 2006.

Shauna L. Dunnings was elected to serve District E, representing Barry, Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Livingston, Montcalm and Shiawasee Counties. She currently serves as administrator for the 30th Judicial Circuit Court in Lansing.

James W. Heath, Hon. David A. Perkins and Gregory L. Ulrich were elected to serve District H, representing Monroe, Lenawee and Wayne Counties. Heath currently serves as the City of Detroit’s first inspector general, and in that role is responsible for rooting out waste, abuse, fraud and corruption in city government. Judge Perkins serves on the 36th District Court in Detroit. Ulrich runs a law practice in Grosse Pointe Woods with a focus on business law, real estate law, finance, technology and litigation.

The SBM Board of Commissioners provides oversight to the State Bar on finance, public policy, professional standards and member services and communications.

Judicial Tenure Commission

James W. Burdick, of Bloomfield Hills, won a contested election for a three-year term on the Judicial Tenure Commission that will commence Jan. 1, 2018 and will expire on Dec. 31, 2020.

The JTC is a constitutionally created body that promotes the integrity of the judicial process and preserves public confidence in the courts. 

SBM Representative Assembly

Forty-seven attorneys won unopposed races in the State Bar Representative Assembly. These new members are:

First Circuit—Hillsdale County Karlye A. Horton

Third Circuit—Wayne County Stephen M. Taratuta Mark M. Koroi Thomas M.J. Lavigne Daniel D. McLean Aaron V. Burrell Elizabeth A. Young

Fourth Circuit—Jackson County Terry J. Klaasen

Sixth Circuit—Oakland County Sheldon G. Larky Dawn M. King John Chau Victoria B. King Matthew M. Aneese Patrick D. Crandell Chelsea M. Rebeck Matthew J. Turchyn David J. Eagles Marco M. Bisbikis Aristidi D. Papaioannou Jennifer R. Turchyn

Seventh Circuit—Genesee County Jill L. Nylander

Eighth Circuit—Ionia and Montcalm Counties Ryan Cade C. Villet

Ninth Circuit—Kalamazoo County Alan B. Koenig

10th Circuit—Saginaw County Randy L. Price

13th Circuit—Antrim, Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties John R. Blakeslee

16th Circuit—Macomb County R. Timothy Kohler

17th Circuit—Kent County Martin J. Hillard Joshua Z. Kosmerick

18th Circuit—Bay County Jessie S. Wood Marcus R. Garske

20th Circuit—Ottawa County Ronald L. Foster

21st Circuit—Isabella County Robert M. Backus

22nd Circuit—Washtenaw County John W. Reiser, III Elizabeth Kitchen-Troop Jonathan D. Goslow

26th Circuit—Alpena and Montmorency Counties Daniel J. Florip

27th Circuit—Newaygo and Oceana Counties Ellsworth J. Stay, Jr.

30th Circuit—Ingham County Darling A. Garcia

31st Circuit—St. Clair County Hilary B. Georgia

35th Circuit—Shiawassee County Michael L. Herendeen

37th Circuit—Calhoun County James L. Jordan

43rd Circuit—Cass County Kelley James-Jura

47th Circuit—Delta County Ian R. Rothe

49th Circuit—Mecosta and Osceola Counties Erin M. Carrier Barnhart

51st Circuit—Lake and Mason Counties Kathryn E. Glancy

54th Circuit–Tuscola County Gregory H. Bringard

55th Circuit–Clare and Gladwin Counties Hon. Thomas R. Evans

The 150-member Representative Assembly was created in 1972 to increase the proportion of members who actively participate in State Bar policy; it serves as the SBM final policy-making body. 

SBM Young Lawyers Section Executive Council

Three attorneys—Elisha M. Oakes, of St. Clair Shores; Colemon L. Potts, of Detroit; and Aaron P. Sohaski, of Detroit—won uncontested elections in District 1, representing Wayne and Macomb counties, for a two-year term expiring in 2019.

Three attorneys—Matthew P. Breuer, of Royal Oak; Silvia A. Mansoor, of Troy; and Aristidi D. Papaioannou, of Farmington—won uncontested elections in District 2, representing Oakland County, for two-year terms expiring in 2019.

Four attorneys—Kara R. Hart-Negrich, of Lansing; Amy S. Krieg, of East Lansing; Laura M. Kubit, of Caro; and Bobby A. Ficklin, Jr., of Lansing—won contested elections in District Three, representing all Michigan counties except for Wayne, Oakland and Macomb, for two-year terms expiring in 2019.

The Young Lawyers Executive Council governs the members of the Young Lawyers Section, one of the State Bar's largest sections. The section provides education, information and analysis about issues of concern through meetings, seminars, public service programs and newsletters. The section has won numerous awards for its public service and educational programs.

Source link

See more at https://www.michigantoplawyers.com/state-bar-of-michigan-announces-2017-election-results/

[jwpcompany]

Producer Josh Wood remembering Andrew Lesnie and his remarkable work in cinematography.

[countvonreutern]

Many congratulations to Mrs Flora Vesterberg née Ogilvy and Mr Timothy Vesterberg on their wedding!

The couple were married in a private ceremony due to the COVID pandemic at the Chapel Royal in St James’s Palace on Saturday 26 September 2020. This year, they were able to celebrate their special day in a traditional wedding ceremony at the St James’s Church on Friday 10 September surrounded by family and friends.

Flora were her stunning Phillipa Lepley wedding dress and the historic Ogilvy Tiara.

Mrs Flora Alexandra Vesterberg is The Count of Münnich and Reutern’s eleventh cousin once removed via her grandmother, Princess Alexandra of Kent and seventh cousin via her grandfather, The Hon Sir Angus James Bruce Ogilvy.

His Serene Highness sends his warmest congratulations and very best wishes to his cousin.

[countvonreutern]

His Serene Highness The Count of Münnich and Reutern wishes His Royal Highness The Duke of York a very happy birthday!

Prince Andrew is Joshua’s 7th cousin twice removed trough his mother, HM Queen Elizabeth II​ and 10th cousin once removed through his father, HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh​.

Photo: Alex Bramall

[countvonreutern]

His Serene Highness The Count of Münnich and Reutern wishes his cousin Princess Eugenie a very happy 30th birthday.

Princess Eugenie Victoria Helena is Joshua’s sixth cousin once removed through her mother Sarah, The Duchess of York and eighth cousin once removed through her father HRH Prince Andrew, The Duke of York. Tenth in line to the throne,  she was born on 23 March 1990 at the Portland Hospital in London.

[countvonreutern]

His Serene Highness The Count of Münnich and Reutern wishing a very happy 71st birthday to his cousin, His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales!

The Prince of Wales is Count’s 10th cousin once removed through his father, HRH Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh and 7th cousin twice removed through his mother, HM Queen Elizabeth II. His Royal Highness is also husband, father, grandfather, and godfather of Joshua’s cousins.

This photograph was taken by Chris Jackson at the Highgrove House.

[countvonreutern]

His Serene Highness The Count of Münnich and Reutern and his family wishing Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II a very happy 93rd birthday!

The Queen is Joshua’s 6th cousin thrice removed, she is also wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother of his cousins.

[countvonreutern]

Happy Birthday to Archie Mountbatten-Windsor who is celebrating his 1st birthday today! 

Master Archie is The Queen’s eighth great-grandchild and The Count's sixth cousin once removed. ‬

[countvonreutern]

A very Happy Birthday to Princess Charlotte, who is celebrating her 5th birthday today. 

Princess Charlotte is The Queen’s fifth great-grandchild and The Count's sixth cousin once removed.

To mark the day The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have released new photos of Princess Charlotte taken by The Duchess this April as the family helped to pack up and deliver food packages for isolated pensioners in the local area.

[countvonreutern]

His Serene Highness The Count of Munnich and Reutern wishes his cousin, Prince Louis a very happy second birthday!

Prince Louis Arthur Charles of Cambridge is The Count’s sixth cousin once removed, fifth-in-line to the throne, was born at 11.01am on April 23 2018 - on St George’s Day - weighing 8lb 7oz.

The photograph was taken by The Duchess this April.

Photo: The Duchess of Cambridge/Kensington Palace

[countvonreutern]

His Serene Highness The Count of Munnich and Reutern wishes his Cousin, Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II of Denmark a very happy 80th birthday.

Queen Margrethe II is the Count’s tenth cousin once removed through her father, His Majesty King Frederick IX of Denmark and thirteenth cousin once removed through her mother, Her Majesty Queen Ingrid of Denmark, formerly known as Princess Ingrid of Sweden.

Photo: Per Morten Abrahamsen ©

[countvonreutern]

"We should take comfort that while we may have more still to endure, better days will return: we will be with our friends again; we will be with our families again; we will meet again."

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II addressed the UK and The Commonwealth last Sunday in a special broadcast recorded at Windsor Castle.

[countvonreutern]

Huge congratulations to Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall on their 15th wedding Anniversary!

Prince Charles is Count's seventh cousin twice removed through his mother, HM Queen Elizabeth II​ and tenth cousin once removed through his father, HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh​. 

Duchess of Cornwall is the Count's ninth cousin twice removed trough her mother, Rosalind Maud Shand.

The photo of Their Royal Highnesses was taken at Birkhall with The Duchess's dogs Bluebell and Beth.

[countvonreutern]

His Serene Highness The Count of Münnich and Reutern wishes his cousin Princess Alexandra of Kent a very happy birthday!

Princess Alexandra is a daughter of TRH Prince George, The Duke of Kent and Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark. 

She is a first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II, she is also a first cousin once removed of Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, and tenth cousin once removed of His Serene Highness Prince Joshua Count of Münnich and Reutern.