It Could Be You ((Jack))

[Mackenzie Holden]

"You'll do fine...don't worry..." Jamie told her as he hugged her. Mack smiled and breathed out slowly, this was her first big performance since the record label happened. She pulled away and looked up at Jamie, "Thanks. I couldn't have done it without you, Jamie. You're the best." She smiled and hugged him again. She looked at herself in the mirror and shook her head, she couldn't believe this was happening. It was like a big huge dream- but it wasn't, it was reality. I have worked so hard for this...I can't believe it's come to me. Mack ran her fingers through her hair and splashed some water on her face before grabbing her guitar and facing Jamie, "Let's go." She told him. He grabbed her hand and led her out of the dressing room to the back of the stage. She was being announced, and her breathing became irregular- she looked at Jamie, "What if I can't do this?! What if I forgot the song?! I don't think I can-" He kissed her. Mack was shocked but she didn't do anything, when he pulled away he smiled- "You'll do fine.." Mack blinked and nodded before stepping out on to the stage.

The lights were so bright, she wished they would dim them down a bit- but then she realised that with the lights so bright she couldn't see the crowd. Mack walked to the microphone and stood in front of it. She bit her lip and started to play 'It could be you.' And like an angel, Mack began to sing;
"You and me all alone
it's too late to say we didn't know
We shouldn't be all alone
One of us might lose control
Of these feelings we've been hiding
Deep down they might start to show
Not here not now watch my frustrations grow,"

She sped the music up and her full singing came out. The crowd began to cheer and she smiled as she sang,
"I know what I feel and you feel it too
I dream of that first kiss and who'll make the first move
Who's gonna put their heart on the line
It could be me it could be you tonight.

Show me who you are
Stop me before I go too far
'cause it hurts to hold back
So hold me or I might crack
I'm gasoline you're the match
I'm not sure if we can handle that
We might explode could be a mess
I say we take the chance
I know what I feel and you feel it too
I dream of that first kiss and who'll make the first move
Who's gonna put their heart on the line
It could be me it could be you tonight
I'm mixed up confused
And I don't know what to do
I want to and I'd love to
If I knew you'd want me to."

The music slowed down and became quieter so she could say the next part;
"I know what I feel and you feel it too
I dream of that first kiss and who'll make the first move
Who's gonna put their heart on the line
It could be me it could be you...

I know what I feel and you feel it too
I dream of that first kiss and who'll make the first move
Who's gonna put their heart on the line
It could be me it could be you tonight..."
She exhaled and looked out in the crowd. They stood and gave her a standing ovation. Mack smiled and looked at Jamie who ran out on stage. She jumped on him, her legs curling around his waist and her hands behind his neck. He twirled her around and said, "See? Told you you would do well." He smiled and put her down. Mack took her bow and exited the stage. Completely happy. She was jumping up and down, Jamie holding her hand led her to the bar. Mack sat down ordered a water and looked at Jamie, "I can't believe I did that!" She exclaimed.

[Jack Rendel S5]

"JACK!" Padme screamed, grabbing Jack's shirt and pulling him inside so roughly that he almost fell. Felicity followed looking around with distaste. Padme's house wasn't nearly as big as a normal pureblood family's would be, but then again, Tessa was left with nothing when she had been kicked out by Roger. Felicity grabbed Jack's hand to show that she was with Jack, which made Padme raise her eyebrow so high it was hidden beneath her brown hair. "What is it Padme?" Jack asked, wishing he could pull his hand away from Felicity. "Jack- I'm- so- glad- you're- here- and- all- but- Mack's- preforming- at- Club- Mineral- downtown- and-and" Padme gasped as she spoke all words in one breath. Felicity seemed to be chocking back giggles but Jack was in such shock he dropped Felicity's hand, which made her stop giggling. "What?! She's preforming for what?" Jack asked completely dumb-founded. "You half-wit!" Padme shrieked. Jack had never seen Padme get this...excited, she was almost hysterical. Jack was going to pull Padme into a chair so she could take a breather but Padme was already talking again. "Look, Mack's going to be singing at Club Mineral! You should be there! You're her best friend!" Padme looked at Felicity with an air of significance before continuing. "So-?" When Jack didn't answer, Padme totally lost it. "Get out there and go see her!" She pushed Jack out with much more force than Jack had thought possible for such a little girl. He turned to see Padme push Felicity out. "But, aren't you coming?" Padme shook her head sadly. "Nope. Mack wouldn't want me there anyway. I'd ruin her day." A wicked smile spread across Padme's lips as she thought of the idea of ruining Mack's day. Jack decided it was time to go so Padme wouldn't decide to go after all. "Well... bye then." He slammed the door on Padme before walking out into the street, Felicity right behind him.

"Jack! Where are you going?" She asked as she took his hand yet again. Jack shivered when her hand touched his. "She's my best friend, Felicity. This is her special day; I can't miss it. You could stay with Padme." Jack told her. Felicity didn't answer; Jack knew that she loathed the idea. She grabbed his hand so tight that Jack thought he might not be able to move it when the night was over. Grimacing, Jack entered the club that Padme had mentioned and looked around. He was just in time. He heard Mack's name being called out and watched as a vivid red head came onto stage. Felicity pulled Jack to two seats in the middle row, and there they sat. Mack started to sing a beautiful song. Jack watched her the whole time, wishing that Mack could see that he was there. Once the song was over, he was going to go over and talk to make until he saw her jump on some boys back. Jack felt something he had never felt before burn up inside him..... he had no idea what it was. Who was that boy anyway? What was he doing here? Why was Mack... with him? Felicity, however, took no notice of Jack's disgust, instead she said in a soft voice as she leaned her head on Jack's shoulder: "Oh, that was so sweet. Did you know that all song writers write their songs about someone in particular? I wonder who she wrote her's about." Jack felt a revolting tremor go through his body as he watched Mack and the boy go off the stage together and head toward the bar. "Yeah, I wonder." Jack said with no doubt in his mind who it was. The boy, most definitely. He felt like he needed to go punch something, Felicity in particular. Smirking at the very idea, Jack stood up and grabbed Felicity's hand. Felicity seemed to be happy that Jack had been the one to hold her hand and followed Jack as he made his way to the bar.

"Mack!" Jack said in a sickly cheerful voice. He almost kicked himself for acting so foolishly. He noticed he was still holding Felicity's hand, but he didn't let go. "That was great!" his voice was still cheery but Jack was relieved that it wasn't as bad. Jack looked around as Felicity made a small noise for Jack to introduce her. Jack glared at her for a second and then turned back to his friend. "Mack meet Felicity. Felicity meet Mack. Felicity's my-er...." "Girlfriend." Felicity said in her sweet voice. "I'm Jack's girlfriend." Why, oh WHY did I bring her along? She's going to make everything worse! I'm am NOT her girlfriend! No, no, NO! Jack wanted to tell Mack that Felicity's statement was not true, that they weren't together at all, but found that he couldn't. All he could do was stare at the boy Mack had been with. "Who's your friend?" Jack asked in a harsh voice. Once he said that, he was ashamed at himself. Why was he acting this way? Shouldn't he be happy for Mack and not be demanding who her friend was in a voice that sounded exactly like Roger Rendel's? Jack shivered and hoped that Mack hadn't noticed his sudden remorse to the boy. Still holding Felicity's hand, he sat down next to Mack and ordered a butterbeer. As he took a drink, he couldn't help but remember that night that he had poured it over Mack's golden hair. Now, Mack had red hair and Felicity was the one with golden hair. Sighing, Jack turned back to Mack, his impatience growing as he waited to find out who the boy was.

[Mackenzie Holden]

Mack's mouth dropped and she felt like she had just had the wind knocked out of her. Her blue eyes looked from Jack to Felicity, her shock not bothering to be covered. She felt her heart drop to the floor and her mouth turned into a semi-lop sided smile, "Thanks, I wasn't expecting you to be here, Jack." She said slowly. Jamie looked at her with a raised eyebrow- "But I thought-" He whispered then he broke into a grin and sniffed the air, "Oooh what's that smell? Oh I know! It's your pants on fire!" He whispered into Mack's ear. Mack slapped him lightly and turned back to Jack and Felicity. Mack played with the guitar pick on the chain Jamie had given her before looking at Jamie, "This is Jamie Andrews, my one and only. My manager, my guy." She said sweetly. A smile spread across Jamie's face and he slipped an arm around Mack's waist- letting her know he was playing along. She stared intently at Jack and smiled, was that jealousy she saw in his eyes. She hoped so, because then she wouldn't be the only one jealous. She broke her gaze from Jack's and looked at Felicity. She was pretty, blonde hair. Mack unconsciously ran her fingers through her red hair and sighed at the rememberance of the sticky butterbeer in her blonde hair. Mack smirked as Jack ordered a butterbeer, "Keep that sticky substance away from me." She said with a laugh. Mack leaned against Jamie and breathed in the familiar smell- it was all like a dream, and it was slowly turning into a nightmare.

Jamie was enjoying this too much, though he couldn't do anything about it. Mack had said she was with Jack, but she wasn't This Felicity girl was, and that made Mack jealous. Jamie sighed and continued to hold Mack as she talked to Jack. Jamie had loved Mack, and he still did- but it was obvious she didn't return the feelings. Jack probably thinks that song is about me...when it isn't it's about him... Jamie thought as Mack leaned against him and breathed in deeply. Jamie smiled with joy and looked at Jack, "So you're a friend from school?" He asked, trying to ease the tension. Mack looked at Jack with a raised eyebrow, "Ah don't worry. He goes to Durmstrang, he knows about Hogwarts- how else would my father approve of him?" She shrugged and ordered a martini, even though she was under age. That didn't matter, however, she had just sang a marvelous song and could basically get what ever she wanted. She took the toothpick with the olive on it and slid the olive off the wood with her teeth before taking a sip of her drink. Mack fixed her studded bracelet and looked back up at Jack.

"How'd you know I was singing anyway? Or did you not know, and were here on a date by coincidence?" Mack asked him- hoping it wasn't the latter.Right, what say do I have in the matter anyway? It's not like we actually declared we liked each other. In fact I'm not even sure if he likes me. Dixie says he does- but who am I to believe her? I never believed Dix, but maybe I should start. No. I only want to believe her because I benefit from it. He probably doesn't like me, and it probably is the whole date thing. But what could he see in her?! She's too girly, not the least bit adventerous and has no taste in clothing. Mack thought. On that last thought she looked down at her own clothing. The pair of faded jeans with holes in the knees, and her red lace tank top with a white wife beater underneath it. Her millions of bracelets and rings, and her dangling necklaces. At least I'm an individual... She fiddled with her star shaped ring and smiled to herself. Mack felt a cold shiver run up her spine and she looked at Jamie who was tracing his finger along her back, Mack shuddered and giggled before slapping his hand away. Jamie smiled back, and in that smile she saw that he was sorry. Mack raised an eyebrow and mouthed, "For what?" He nodded towards Felicity and Mack smiled back, "As the world turns..." She whispered before laughing slightly.

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack watched Mack's reaction with satisfaction; he was glad that she was surprised. Felicity didn't seem to be bothering to look at Mack, instead she was gazing at Jack. He made a mental note not to make eye-contact with Felicity until she looked away. He decided to watch Mack instead. The boy was whispering something to Mack and then Mack slapped him lightly. Jack felt his hand grip the butterbeer so hard he was almost sure it would crack. Determined to not give her the satisfaction of seeing him jealous, although it probably already showed, Jack lifted the tankard to his mouth and drank a while to keep his mind occupied. When he was done, he lowered it slowly, keeping his eyes on Mack. "I just thought it would be the... friend thing to do." He almost chocked out "friend" and once he did he let his eyes stray back to the floor. He didn't want to look at Felicity or Mack or, mostly, that boy. Mack introduced him as Jamie Andrews, her one and only. Jack felt his blood boil but but didn't look up. He felt Felicity's head on his shoulder and felt her other hand on his other shoulder but that just made him even more angry. Can't that damn girl just leave me alone! He looked up when Mack said to keep the butterbeer away from her; Jack smirked back at her. "Don't worry, I don't think it would go as well with red as it did with blonde." He tried to smile but it probably became a grimace. At least he wasn't the only one remembering memories of what they had done together; Jack's fondest memories were of that clubbing night and when they had gone in the rain. Jack shook his head at the thought, knowing that Mack probably didn't prize those moments as much as he did.

He actually smiled at Jamie as he asked if they were friends from school. At least he wasn't that bad; it was no wonder that he liked Mack. Jack sighed inwardly, his eyes fixed on Jamie. "Yeah, we're friends from school. That's all. Just friends." Jack told Jamie as he tried to convince himself. Just friends. That's all. Of course, how could it be more? That's impossible; it would never work out. Padme had hinted that she thought we were more than friends, but who was Padme to say such things? She's an ignorant little eleven year old, who doesn't even know her place. Jack remembered when Padme had gotten slapped by Mack. Jack felt bad that he had just insulted his sister; he had grown quite attached to her. But, she shouldn't be feeding me lies. Or... maybe it wasn't lies. Padme doesn't usually lie, does she? Even so, she was just guessing and who said she had accurate guesses? Jack looked up quickly as Mack asked if they were on a date. Jack knew what Felicity's reply would be and he wouldn't let Mack get hurt by that. Wait. What the hell am I thinking? Mack wouldn't be hurt; she probably doesn't even care. But, I'm still not going to let Felicity lie to her again. She's still my friend.

"No, we aren't." Jack felt a grin growing on his face as he looked at Mack. He knew she would love the part about Padme. "Padme alerted me. I was going to her house today; Felicity tagged along." At this, Felicity squeezed his shoulder's reassuringly and Jack couldn't help but feel a small amount of gratitude toward her. "She said that you were performing and that I should be a good friend and go. When I asked her why she wasn't going, she didn't say exactly why-except for the part that she would ruin your day. Then, she actually thought about the idea and I think she really would have went, if I hadn't left without her." Jack laughed, feeling some jealousy go away. Padme always seemed to safe him from things. His grin slowly faded as he looked at Mack and Jamie. Well, at least Jamie's a nice guy. I can't deny that. Jack thought miserably as he wished Jamie was mean and cruel so he could tell Mack that he wasn't right for her. Turning back to his butterbeer, he heard Felicity's voice ring out. "It's really nice to meet you finally, Mack. Jack talks about you often. I could hardly wait to meet you personally. I go to Durmstrang too, actually. Third year, just like you two. How old are you Jamie?" Jack felt another rush of gratitude toward Felicity. She was trying to make conversation. Not doing very well, but at least it's an attempt. Jack's throat seemed to have shriveled; he didn't think he could talk. Trying to solve this problem, he took a drink of butterbeer, not daring to look at Mack or Jamie.

[Mackenzie Holden]

Mack smiled and drank the rest of her martini. She ordered another one, ate the olive and drank it. "You just gonna sit there? Or are you gonna help me outside?", "You really shouldn't be drinking that stuff,","Who are you? My dad?!" Mack downed the martini and ordered a fire whiskey. Jamie looked at her concerned but brushed it aside- he knew better than to stop her when she was letting loose. Her drink came to her and she took a big swig, it was easing her tension and she allowed herself to slip from Jamie's arms. He folded them across his chest, but watched her still. It was then he looked at Jack with a raised eyebrow. Mack took another drink of her fire whiskey. "Aren't scared?", "Me? Scared? Hah! How about you?" She sighed and lowered her head. The conversation droning in and out, "Just friends." Mack looked up, what would seem to be hatred in her eyes. She finished her fire whiskey and stood up from her place on the bar stool.

Mack waved the Padme thing aside- she was already buzzed from the fire whiskeys and she wasn't really paying attention to the conversation, but when Felicity spoke. Mack smirked and raised an eyebrow at her. Taking a drink of Jack's butter beer, which she so nicely stole from him, she looked at his "girlfriend" and said; "Oh that's funny. He' hasn't mentioned you. I guess you just don't cross his mind as much. How does that make you feel?" She rolled her eyes and grabbed her jacket. Already agitated and things were starting to blur. She headed to the entrance; shoved past a few people and stepped out into the cool night air. She sighed and slipped her red leather jacket on, crossed her arms and looked at the night sky. Back in the club, Jamie looked at Felicity- "I'm 16. Will you excuse me a moment?" He chased after Mack. When he stepped outside he looked around and spotted the familiar figure of Mack, he approached her- his hands tucked in his pockets.

"What's wrong?" He asked. Mack scoffed and turned to him, "WHAT'S WRONG?! WHAT'S WRONG?! Do you not have eyes Jamie?! Could you not see in there?! I must be so so so stupid to think he actually liked me! He's with Felicity and I was so blind to see it! I'm such a fool! How could I think that?! He doesn't like me, he never could be able to!" Mack screamed at him, tears stinging her eyes. Jamie pulled her into a hug and stroked her hair, "He likes you. How could anyone not like you?" Mack looked up at him, "You're beautiful, talented, and a great person, not to mention intelligent. He's the stupid one if he doesn't like you." Mack rolled her eyes, but she was smiling- "You're only saying that because you like me. But thanks." She said while hugging him. Jamie sighed and led her back inside the club, You have no idea... Mack took her seat next to Jack again and sent a glare to Felicity, "So? You're his girlfriend, eh? From the looks of it that's a one sided decision," Mack ordered another fire whiskey and when she got it, she downed it. She needed as much alcohol in her as possible for what she was going to say next, "Tell me, dear Felicity, did your mother pick out your outfit, or are you just fashionably challenged? And while we're on being challenged- can you not see how annoyed Jack is by you clinging onto him like a mussel on a stone in the ocean? Maybe it's just your half-wit brains that can't comprehend that not everyone wants you hanging on them, or you really think he likes you. Either way- you're an idiot."

Mack stood up, leaned across Jack and said to Felicity's face; "Let me clue you in on a little secret, bit." Mack chuckled, "He don't like you. Or- he might and I'm just wishing he doesn't, but either way; he doesn't want your," Mack picked up Felicity's arm and pulled it away from Jack, "grimy paws on him. Now, excuse me, I have to go sit in the dressing room and bury my head in my hands while I wonder why in hell I said any of this." Mack sent Jack a look before staggering off to the dressing rooms. Jamie looked down- quite ashamed of Mack, but not helping the smile of satisfaction on his face. That was Mack. Drunk. But honest. He looked at Jack who he expected was completely dumbfounded at the moment- and blinked; "You have no idea how lucky you are..." Jamie told him with a raise of his right eyebrow. Jamie gestured towards the direction Mack had sauntered off to, "That girl there, is going to make one guy very happy- but that one guy doesn't seem to see it. Look; I know it looks like me and Mack are together, but we aren't. We were. But we aren't. We are always like that- tonight however set something off in Mack that made her go further. Go talk to her. I'll keep your "girlfriend" company." Jamie crossed his arms over his chest and glared at Jack.

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack watched anxiously as Mack ordered another martini. I've seen her drunk before, but this seems to be the worst ever. What's happening to Mack? Is she trying to make herself look like a fool? Jack thought angrily. She seemed to be taking out everything on Jack, mostly when she looked up. She's looking at me like I just said something horrible. But-all I said was we're friends! Aren't we? Or, are we less than that? Or.... more? NO! Of course, we aren't more! Jack reached for his drink but found that Mack had taken it. Sighing, her turned back to her with mounting concern. He wasn't sure what to say, so he kept quiet. That is until Mack started saying things about Felicity.Jack felt his blood pressure go down; he wanted to laugh at what Mack was saying but wouldn't dare; he would get the beating of his life.

When Jack looked back up, Mack and Jamie were gone. Twisting in his seat to find where they went, Felicity seemed to take their absence with a light heart. "Well, it's a good thing she's gone. Did you see her clothes, Jack? Horribly disgusting. Plus, she was becoming a drunken-" Jack turned and rounded on Felicity so fast that she almost fell out of her seat. "Listen here, you can insult me all you want but you can't insult Mack!" He wanted to scream at the perfect little girl but instead his voice came out dangerously low. Felicity's eyes widened and then to Jack's satisfaction, her eyes started to water up. Stupid girl, can't even defend herself against me! I hate people like her! Jack glared at her and turned his neck to find Mack and Jamie, who had just taken their seats back.

Felicity felt her eyes stinging with tears at what Jack had just said to her. She wiped her eyes before looking up to find Mack and Jamie back. She gave them a smile showing all of her brilliantly white teeth before looking at Jack. She was starting to feel jealousy for this girl; Jack seemed to care about her a whole lot. Felicity's face was put into a nasty smile when Mack started talking to her. "Dearie, you must be mistaken." Felicity said as she batted her eyes at Jack. Jack seemed to be ignoring her although she still had her arms around him. Smirking at Mack, "Of course it isn't a one-sided decision; Jack told me he liked me just before we arrived." Felicity lied; she knew that she was most convincing when she lied. She would have gotten away with lying if Jack hadn't sent her a look of pure venom. Felicity decided to not look at her boyfriend until this was all over. Her eyes flashed when Mack mentioned her fashion statement. She was wearing a green skirt and blouse for the Slytherin house that Jack was in. Smirking at Mack, she looked at her clothes. Ripped jeans and a tang top, please. "Really, I would take a look in the mirror before you go insulting someone else about their clothes." She scoffed. She saw Jack roll his eyes, probably because he was wearing faded baggy jeans with holes at the knees. Plus, a t-shirt that said Weird Sisters. Felicity ignored it and glared at Mack.She ignored everything Mack said even when she realized her hands from Jack. She just continued to glare at her.

Jack was becoming so angry at Felicity he could hardly see anything clearly. He heard Mack get up and leave after looking back at him. Jack went to get up but found he couldn't because Felicity's arms were around him again. He was very concerned about Mack; what was going on? He grabbed Felicity's hands and pulled them off so hard that Felicity backed into the bar. Serves her right! Jack nodded at Jamie although he didn't need to be told and walked over to find Mack. He could hear Felicity wailing his name which made his hatred flow again. Finding Mack in the dressing room, Jack sat down on a nearby chair and looked down at the floor. "Look, Mack; what's wrong? Maybe you should sit down- I think you had too much to drink." Jack smirked at remembrance of the other time Mack had gotten drunk before pulling a stool over beside him and gesturing Mack to sit down.

[Mackenzie Holden]

"Idiot! Imbecile! El stupido!" Mack hit her head on the wall with each insult she gave herself. Her eyes closed and she inhaled- trying to calm her nerves. Her red hair fell over her shoulder and she batted it away before standing up and rubbing her temples, "Why did you say that?!" She asked her self, but immediately she knew the answer; "SHE DESERVED IT! God damned honest truth, that girl looks like a clone and acts like one too!" Mack spun around and fell onto the bed, burying her head into the pillow. Why there was a bed in the dressing room- Mack didn't know, but hey, it was there and she wasn't complaining. After a few moments passed, Mack stood up and headed towards the door- but someone opened it before her. Mack stepped back and looked at Jack, she tucked her hands in her pockets and looked away.

She walked over to the mirror and looked at herself, her black eyeliner accented her blue eyes and it made her look almost; little. Mack sighed and looked back at Jack as he started to talk, she waved her hand as if to get rid of the subject, but sat down next to him anyway; "What are you doing with her, Jack? She isn't right for you at all. And as the," Mack breathed, "best-friend; I think it my duty to make sure your 'girlfriend' isn't some stuck-up snob who dresses like her mother made her." She stated sourly. Though it was far from what she wanted to say, so very far. Mack fiddled with her bracelet and looked back up at Jack, "And was is with you just- sitting there; letting Miss Princess of Priss over there swallow you whole? I thought I knew you better than that?" Mack stood up and started pacing the room, not in a straight line either.

"Or maybe I don't know you, and you do like her and I'm just too drunk and insecure to see it. Or maybe you've changed and you look at all girls. Or maybe I've changed and I just don't see you the way I used to. Either way, someone changed!" Mack exclaimed, rambling on and on. She was confused! She didn't know what to say or do, she didn't know what to think or how to act! It was so confusing! Mack sighed and stopped pacing to look at Jack, "So which one is it? Is it any of them? Or do you not like her and I'm just to damned drunk to actually see?" Mack sat down again, "Even though- I disagree- I'm not drunk..."

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack was glad that Mack sat down; he was starting to worry about her. Once she sat down, she burst into speech about something Jack wasn't to excited to talk about. He leaned back in his chair, thinking about what Mack has said about him and Felicity. How was he supposed to say this? Sighing and wishing he had his butterbeer back to sustain him, Jack turned to look at Mack. "All right. You really want to know, do you? Roger's forcing her on me! Would you care to know what he would do if I refused?" Jack's breathing was irregular, his mind seemed to be full of air; he couldn't think straight, all he wanted to do was tell Mack the damn truth. "I'd be disowned and-and" Jack searched for a right way to end the sentence. Finding nothing, he ended rather hopelessly,"-and I have no where to go. Roger's the only one I have now. I can't go to you since your dad hates me, hell-so does my dad but at least I'm welcome in his home. I can't go to Padme; if Roger found out he would be after her next. It's a lost case Mack. I have nothing to fight for, so why fight at all?" Jack glared at her, remembering the last time the subject about Roger owning Jack had turned out. Mack had gotten angry at him and had told him to run away. But, Jack couldn't do that. He just couldn't. I'm not strong enough. Mack's stronger than I; I can't do what she can. I've always been the lost case, the hopeless one. What's it worth to keep on fighting if there's nothing to fight for?

Jack laughed, but stopped quickly. "No, I don't like her Mack! Surely you can see that. She's thinks she's some damn angel; someone better then everyone else. The fact is, I don't think I know you. Was it just me or were you flirting back there with Jamie? I never knew you would do something like that Mack. Since when were you the girl who would go flirting with someone?" Jack's anger was rising again; why had Mack done that? There has to be a good explanation, besides the one about her liking Jamie. He wouldn't accept that one. "Mack, you are drunk, just like you were at Hogsmeade, remember?" Jack remembered that day so well, that was the first time he had had a real conversation with Mack. Except for the time when Jack insulting that Vika girl, that didn't count. Jack leaned back in his chair again and waited to see what Mack's reaction would be. "You're a good best-friend Mack. It's just, I don't think you can help me out of this one. It's like I'm trapped in a hole that's so deep I can't get out."

[Mackenzie Holden]

Mack looked at Jack, anger and annoyance clearly written on her face; "You give in too easily. You might not have the will power to run, but you know there are some other things you can do. Make up this enormous lie about Felicity and tell your dad. Tell him she and I are like long lost best-friends or hell, even say that Jamie and her used to go out and Jamie and I are really close. Just do something! You can't sit there and just take it, Jack!" Mack said- her voice full of disgust. She ran her fingers through her hair and sighed about the Jamie thing. Mack lowered her head and nodded slowly, "Jamie and I- we, went out. Before I went to Hogwarts. I mean, I know I was 11 but he understood me. I kind of stopped being with him when I was sent to Hogwarts. But that doesn't mean we aren't close. You show up with that...trash and what am I supposed to do? Sit there and watch her cling all over you and allow it? No. I don't think so. I don't like Jamie, not anymore than a brother." She said slowly, sort of ashamed by her actions. Mack continued to fiddle with her bracelet before looking up at Jack.

"How could I forget?" Mack asked with a smile, "That was also the day you refused to do a cheer for me." She pouted, her lower lip sticking out .Mack laughed and looked away- trying hard to think of a way to get him out of the mess he was in. Then it hit her. In all the confusion and jealousy, Mack forgot to tell him the most important thing. "Jack, um, what if I said there was a way you could avoid this whole thing? What if I said there was a way you could live without your dad, my dad, or Padme. Would you believe me?" She asked, her right eyebrow raised only a litle. Mack stood up and took a paper out of her red jacket, handed it to Jack and said; "It's a contract. I have a record deal. Which means- I get money lots of it. Which also means- I can give you some, and you can find a place to stay. I mean, you can reject it; but I was only trying to be a good...f-" Mack sighed and looked at her hands, "friend."

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack looked down as Mack blew up just like he expected she would. Maybe I do give up to easily. It's harder said then done though. I should've known Mack wouldn't take it easily. But what else was I supposed to do, lie? Jack frowned at his hands, not looking at Mack. Jack knew she was right, but Jack was dead scared of his father, even though he wouldn't admit it. Scanning the floor looking for a different subject, Jack looked up when Mack started talking about Jamie, anger clearly in his eyes. "Do you realize how angry that made me Mack? Look, if you don't like him, why were you doing all those things? Even if I had a piece of filth clinging to me, why would you do something like that?" Jack demanded, his eyebrows raise. Mack's next comment made him want to take back his angry words. She had came up with a perfectly simple suggestion but Jack didn't like it. As he looked at the form Mack had given to him, he looked up at Mack and handed it back to her.

"I can't take that. You deserve it more then me; you worked for it and I didn't do anything. I can't take your money Mack; that's just not right. I can't let you worry about me when you have your own problems at home to worry about. I just can't take it, do you understand?" Jack looked back at his hands, wondering about how Mack had said friends. Didn't she know they were best Friends? Or, weren't they? Jack frowned again but this time he was looking at Mack. "Sorry if I said something to hurt you back there. I didn't mean it, I was just j-angry." Jack said, mentally beating himself for almost saying jealous. But, I wasn't jealous, was I? Even if I was-which I wasn't- I'm not going to tell Mack.

[Mackenzie Holden]

Mack looked at Jack, her eyebrows narrowed. She scoffed, "Forget it." She sat down on the bed and strummed her guitar, letting her fingers play the correct chords. Mack continued to play and looked up at Jack, "Sometimes- I think, I'm nothing, then it takes me awhile to realise I'm everything. Though, obviously everything isn't enough. It just gets so confusing, you know? Wait- it made you angry? Why would it do that?" She strummed a chord and began to play the chorus. She looked at the contract he handed back and sighed before nodding, "Yeah, I understand, but the offer always stands." Mack switched to the next chord and this time sang a little, "Let me rise. Let me fall. Let me breathe. I wanna lose control, I'm not afraid to lose it all." When Jack spoke again, Mack looked up- slightly amused.

"I wasn't, ok, I was. I was very hurt, but I get over it. And what you said is true- and I have to get that through my head. God, what am I saying?" Mack directed that last part to herself. She set her guitar down and flopped backward onto the bed. Her head was throbbing and she was in so much pain. Mack sat up, "Oh my God! I got the best idea!" She exclaimed jumping up and clapping her hands excitedly. "If you can't get rid of Felicity, we'll have Felicity get rid of you. Understand? You have to be the worst person on the planet- though that will be a bit hard for you," Mack smirked, "And she'll leave you. All girls want is some respect. Don't show her some- and she'll leave, that's if she's strong enough." Mack's eyes glimmered and she was about to do another twirl when she was overwhelmed with dizziness. Mack grabbed the nearest stable thing to prop her up, her other hand on her head trying to stop it from spinning. "Whoa...stay in one spot will you?" She asked, blinking.

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack narrowed his eyes dangerously. "I wasn't angry... I was just confused about the way you were acting." Jack could have laughed out loud at this pronounced lie that he had made up. It wasn't as though he wanted to lie, it was just he had no other choice. He couldn't tell Mack what was really going on inside his head because.... she wouldn't return the feelings. Jack felt like his mind was about to burst with the pain of keeping quiet but he wasn't about to break; he couldn't. Mostly not to Mack. Padme? No. He couldn't tell her, she would just go running to Dixie. Jack looked down at his hands to busy himself as Mack spoke again about how the offer still stands. Jack shook his head, knowing that he would never accept the offer. Even though it was quite tempting. Swallowing hard, Jack looked up at Mack to see what she was doing. She seemed to be singing quietly; Jack didn't say anything to interrupt her but she had stopped and had started talking yet again. This time, Jack looked at the wall across from him. He didn't reply until Mack told him her great idea. Jack's head turned slowly to face Mack, his face sporting a grin.

"That is a great idea, Mack! You know, I bet it would work; Felicity's such a perfect person she couldn't stand to be with someone who was being completely awful!" He felt his spirits soar momentarily, he would be lifted of the burden that was Felicity. Grinning rather stupidly, Jack got up. "Should we go back then? Jamie said he was going to watch over her. I wonder if he was able to stand her." Jack thought of the wails Felicity had been sending to his retreating back as he went to see Mack. He chuckled at the memory and then turned back to Mack, his fingers closed around the doorknob.

[Mackenzie Holden]

Mack looked at Jack, and rolled her eyes. When he stood up and asked if she was ready to head back out, Mack bit her lip. She tucked her hair behind her ear and nodded. Truth was she didn't want to go back out there, she didn't want to have to face Felicity. She breathed in and closed the door behind her as her and Jack walked back to the bar. Mack took her seat next to Jamie and shuddered lightly, a sudden chill had run up her spine. Jamie smiled reassuringly and pulled her into a hug, Mack sighed and closed her eyes- letting herself be engulfed in his security. When she pulled away she looked at Felicity with venom in her eyes, "So...you think I'm nothing. A nobody? You think my clothes are rubbish? Let me tell you something, Felicity, these clothes are a representation of who I am and who I am able to be. I have money, I'm rich- but unlike some people; I consider other people's feelings, and don't flaunt it." Jamie put his hand on her shoulder to keep her from launching at the girl.

"You may be pretty, but you have no talent. You have nothing to look forward to when you get older, and you have nothing that you are good at doing. And if you do, then you aren't going anywhere with it. You may be a big shot hot shot in the real world, but this place is my world. So if you have a problem with the way I dress, or who I am- take you and your wanna-be Barbie doll legs, and get out of here. Your kind isn't wanted around here and, well, if you don't leave- I will be forced to make you. Clear?" Mack tilted her head with a mock giggle. She smirked and ordered a water. Jamie couldn't help but smile, and was quite relieved when she ordered a water instead of a firewhiskey. Mack smiled into her cup, who says being a Slytherin isn't fun?

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack settled himself beside Felicity, who instantly took his hand. He wanted to take it away but instead, he just looked away from her. He saw Jamie pull Mack into a hug, which made his anger flare slightly, but instead of showing it, he ordered a firewhiskey. Time to put his plan into action. If anything, it would make Felicity upset, and since her and Mack were talking about clothes, Jack had based his plan upon it. He heard Mack insulting Felicity and was surprised that Felicity didn't retort back. She seemed to be listening to everything Mack had to say so she would be done. Jack smirked, as the bartender made his firewhiskey. Meanwhile, the smirk was wiped off of his face when he heard what Felicity had to say. "My dear girl, you really are rather stupid, aren't you?" she said slowly, as though talking to someone with no brain. Jack felt his hand clench the top of the bar in anger. "I had no idea that your school could turn out such idiots like yourself. Your clothes are a representation of who you are, are they? That's really rather stupid to say because if they are, then you don't represent yourself well. Instead, you look like some street gang member. Is that who you are? As for me getting out of here, I would like nothing better, but instead I have to stay with Jack instead. Just because he cares about you doesn't mean I have to." The firewhiskey had arrived.

Felicity stopped talking to Mack when she say what Jack was holding. "Oh, don't drink that stuff. You don't want to be like her, do you?" Felicity shook her head before reaching to the firewhiskey as if to take it from Jack. Instead Jack took a huge swig, welcoming the fiery taste. Felicity made to protest, just like he had wanted her to. She grabbed the bottle and tried to yank it out of his hands. Jack wouldn't let it go, instead he waited. Soon, Felicity began to pull harder and harder. He smirked at her before letting it go just as Felicity gave a huge tug, it broke all over her, shattering glass and firewhiskey all over. Jack broke out in a howl of laughter, but he soon stopped. "Soorry." Jack said with a slur in his voice to make the firewhiskey affects apparent. "You said you wanted it." Felicity was shrieking so loudly that it caught a few people's attention. Jack wasn't sorry to see a gash in Felicity's cheek where the glass had smashed. He wondered if this was the type of person Mack had suggested he should be around Felicity, but even if it wasn't, he was enjoying himself. He looked over at Mack, his eyes laughing since he voice could not. Felicity had run off to the bathroom to clean herself off. Jack pulled his chair closer to Mack, his voice still slurring. "Soo, how was that for awful?"

[Mackenzie Holden]

Mack looked back at Felicity, her tongue ready to snap back. It was now she wished Padme had been here. Even Dix. Especially Dix. She was about to say something when there was a tug of war on the firewhiskey. Mack's eyes widened slightly, and her jaw dropped as the fire whiskey spilled and glass shattered. She chuckled as the girl shrieked and walked off towards the bathroom. Mack closed her eyes and tried to suppress her laughter, "What happened in there?" Jamie whispered in her ear. Mack looked at him from the corner of her eye and let a sly smile creep across her face; "For me to know. And you to never find out." She whispered back. Jamie rolled his eyes with a smirk and watched as a new set of performers took the stage.

She smiled at Jack, "Pretty good for awful. And that is an oxymoron." Mack told him as she handed him her water, "Drink up...if Felicity still comes back thinking you two are together, you'll just have to do more of that good awful stuff. I don't want you to alcohol poisoning or get sick from drinking too much fire whiskey." She pointed out strictly, but her voice had a hint of teasing in it. Mack's eyes found a pattern in the wooden bar top they liked so much, and she let them trace over the circles ever so slowly. She could hear the music around her playing, but she couldn't hear the lyrics- yet she knew someone was singing. THe words nor the voices reached her, everything was on mute. She was thinking, and this is what happened to Mack when she was thinking. This is why she doesn't think!

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack smirked at Mack before leaning back in his seat, wondering if Felicity would think they were together still. He wouldn't let himself get his hopes up though. Taking the water away from Mack gratefully, he downed it in nearly two gulps. Handing it back to her, he smiled. "Maybe it would have been better if I had been drunk." He winked before closing his eyes, waiting for Felicity's voice to come back over the sound of music that was filling the place. It never came. Jack opened an eye to peer at Mack, wondering whether or not she had noticed anything. Tilting his head slightly to the left so he could get a clear view of the bathroom. A girl with black hair came out but not the blondie Jack was looking for. Turning back to Mack, he raised a questioning eyebrow. "Where'd she go?" he squinted around the area, but no where did he see Felicity. Shrugging, he pushed his chair away from Mack and more toward the bar. Out of instinct, he put his head in his hands. His head felt like a dead-weight and it hurt to keep his head up. Palms against his closed eyes, little stars erupted. Jack opened his electric blues to get rid of them.

"Hey, should I go look for the Princess, do you think?" Jack queried before glancing around at his surroundings once more. Not that they interested him, but if Felicity had ran off with a gash in her face..... He stomach squirmed unpleasantly at the thought before getting up and moving toward the bathroom. "I'll be right back." he called over his shoulder before stopping at the ladies bathroom, debating whether or not to go in. Of course, he couldn't. Moving toward the door, he opened his mouth to speak but was interrupted by a voice coming from the nearby corner. Turning sharply to face the speaker, he saw Felicity huddled in the corner, looking keen to stay out of sight. She was motioning for Jack to come nearer to her. Jack did so, moving cautiously. Once close enough to reach him, Felicity threw her arms around him and engulfed him. "Oh, Jack! What did she do to you? Why have you started drinking? Why did you throw your-your firewhiskey at me?" she howled with tears streaming down her cheeks. Jack rolled his eyes and pushed Felicity away from him, so hard that she ran into the wall. This let out a fresh howl of pain and tears, which made Jack suppress another wave of laughter.

"Sorry, I just thought you wouldn't want to get dirty." He told her, smirking. "As for the firewhiskey.... You said you wanted it, so I gave it to you." Jack had made up the lies rather quickly but her knew that they would be efficient for a small child at the least. Felicity, however, seemed to be taking in his words with a relieved expression on her face. Jack couldn't help but wonder who in hell would be that utterly blind of the truth. "Oh, I see how it is, Jack. I see now. Could you tell me why you left me to go speak to that girl? Why did you do such a thing? You told me she's only a-a friend!"Jack raised an eyebrow as far as it could go, making it hidden behind his hair. Grinning at her sheepishly, Jack's mind raced to make up an excuse. Finally, thinking of nothing he could say to Felicity except for most of the truth. "Just because I care about her feelings. That's why. Now...er... let's go sit down instead of hiding back here." Felicity nodded and wiped away her tears, making Jack reminded forcibly a young child crying. He smirked again, as he lead Felicity back to the bar. He was glad Mack was there; he felt awfully uncomfortable around Felicity alone. Moving his chair closer to Mack, he ordered a butterbeer, thinking of ideas for another awful thing to do.

"Care for a walk?" He asked Mack and Jamie, completely ignoring Felicity.

[Mackenzie Holden]

You being drunk wouldn' t be a good thing, Mack thought sourly, Jamie would never let me be your friend... A scowl crossed her face at that thought. Why did Jamie have control over who she saw and who she spoke to? It was something horrid, and Mack despised it almost as much as she despised having to change her music to his liking. She felt herself tense up at that thought, and she popped her neck- trying to ease her tension away. Mack's eyes flickered to the floor and she watched the interesting patterns of light. My life is so controlled! Every damn move I make, every thing I do is monitored. If not by my parents, then by Jamie! Anger flourished throw Mack and she stood up, realising that Jack had disappeared. Another scowl plastered on her face she headed to the dance floor.

The music pulsed through her, almost- methodically. It was like a super-natural phenomonal out of body experience. The way she moved her body to the music that was coming from the speakers. Her red hair swayed with her, and her eyes were closed- revealing the smokey grey eyeshadow on her lids. Her teeth grazed over her lower lip as she placed her palms on her hips and moved in slow circles. It wasn't too long before she felt hands on the small of her back. Mack's eyes fluttered open and smiled to see Jamie dancing beside her; keeping her steady by placing his hand on the small of her back, and his left leg situated behind her so she wouldn't stumble backward. The song ended too soon, and Mack felt her energy drained from her body all too fast. Mack sighed, and walked back to the bar.

"Did you get a sudden urge to make all the guys in the club look at you, Mack?" Jamie asked as he took his seat and ordered a water. She merely shrugged and took her seat, scooting it a little further away from Jamie than she originally had been. Her foot began to tap and Mack wanted to get up again, it seemed her energy had instantly restored. Jamie looked worn out though, so Mack didn't offer to go up and dance again; instead she sat in her seat, clicking her tongue to the beat and tapping the bar-top. Her blue eyes flickered to the washrooms- Jack and Felicity were still back there. What the hell is taking them so long? She thought angrily. Again, anger flared up inside of her, but it was quickly extinguished when she saw them head back, not exactly lovey dovey looking either.

"Care for a walk?" Jack asked. Mack sighed and looked at Jamie, who shook his head at Jack; "No. Actually I must be going." Jamie stood and took out his car keys, looking at Mack with a raised eyebrow. Mack stood also, Jamie was her ride home. Which meant- she would need to leave too. She didn't want to. Mack bit her lip in concentration and watched Jamie with pleading eyes. His brown ones stared back at her, hard and cold. She stuck out her lower lip and twisted her hands anxiously- "No! Mack, I have work tomorrow!" He said harshly. Mack sighed and took her seat, "I'll take a taxi home then. G'night, Jamie." She replied coldly. Jamie smirked and gave a nod toward Jack and Felicity before leaving the club. Mack swiveled around on her bar stool, tilted her head, and directed her deadly gaze at Felicity; "Shall we?"

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack watched as Mack rejected Jamie to take her home. He felt a sudden wave of satisfaction but he didn't show it. Jamie, Jack noticed, seemed to be rather harsh with Mack. After all, she could just walk with Jack to Padme's house and from there.... Well, they would jump that hurtle when the reached it. Putting his hands in his pockets so Felicity couldn't grab them, he nodded at Mack and opened the door for the two girls. He was going to let Mack go first and then close the door in Felicity's face, but instead, the stupid girl flounced in front of Mack, leaving Mack to walk through. Frowning, he waited until Mack was through the door before letting it swing shut behind him. A pool with a fence was in front of them, glittering rather eerily from the moonlight. Jack felt an urge to go there; he needed a good swim but that could wait later. Moving away from the pool, he spotted four swings swaying gently in the breeze. That was where Jack went, sitting on the swing gingerly. Felicity, of course, instantly sat on the swing next to him. Jack smirked. Perfect. He stood up instead of swinging, moved behind Felicity. She seemed to know what he was thinking at the moment.

"Jack, could you push me?" Jack smirked at her to show that he would. He grabbed the chain that held the swing to the top of the bar, grabbing a small part of Felicity's skirt and putting it in one of the small holes of the chain. Felicity, to Jack's relief, didn't notice. Jack grinned at Mack, wondering if she knew exactly what she was doing. Then turning back to Felicity, he pushed her hard, and she, not expecting the sudden push, fell off, tearing her skirt in the process. Jack soon found that she cared a lot about her clothes. "JACK!" she screamed so loud he felt the need to cover his ears. "How COULD you? This was my best skirt and now it's ruined until my daddy mends it! I'm going to-to go home!" she wailed, stomping off to Padme's house where she would attempt to call her parents. Jack sat in her empty swing and faced Mack, a grin spreading his face. "I think that got rid of her." he said quietly so Felicity wouldn't hear that he was plotting against her.

[Mackenzie Holden]

Mack walked almost in a daze, she wondered what time it was, but didn't ask. When Jack sat down on a swing, Mack couldn't help but smile; "You look like you're five years old." She told him with a small giggle. Mack leaned against the bar that held up the swings and watched as Jack slipped some of Felicity's skirt into the chain. Pushed her. And then Mack watched the girl wail about her skirt. Mack raised an eyebrow at the retreating back that was Felicity, "I thought she would be able to afford a new one. After all; she cared so damn much about her appearance she doesn't care that she looked like an old grandmother. My grandmother no less." Mack stated with a sour tongue. She crossed her arms over her chest and looked at Jack. Her blue eyes locked with his and there was a silence before Mack bit her lip and looked away.

"So, we got rid of the Lochness Monster, what are you going to do?" Asked Mack as she took Jack's seat that he had given up to sabotage Felicity. She held onto the chain, backed up, and swung forward. Mack liked swings. She liked the rushing feeling they gave her. She supposed it was also the feeling that she was little with no care in the world that really made her like the swings, but Mack would never totally admit it. She gave a sideways glance at Jack, awaiting his answer; and she took this time as a chance to think about Jamie and his actions. His actions at the airport, and behind stage before her performance. He had kissed her. Mack cringed at the memory- Jamie kissing her, was like her cousin Rolfe kissing her. It just, wasn't right. It made her feel all weird, and almost want to heave. Restraining herself from actually heaving up the lot of firewhiskey she had consumed, Mack looked at the stars and watched one blink into a brighter existence.

[Jack Rendel S5]

Jack smirked at Mack as she sat down next to him in the other swing. "I wish I was still a little boy; things were so much easier back then." Jack stopped, giving Mack a worried glance. He had had an easier childhood then his teenage years, but he had never really heard about Mack's young years of life. She never talked about it, so Jack figured it wasn't a subject that she would like to bring up. He frowned, before scrapping his feet against the ground to busy him. He laughed at Mack's comment, although it didn't really show what he was feeling. At the moment, he had no intentions of laughing. Kicking a nearby pebble so it hit the garbage can, Jack looked up in time to meet Mack's eyes. The one thing that they had the same was their blue eyes. Jack, having brown hair and a tan complexion contrasted hugely against Mack's pale complexion and blonde hair. Red, he reminded himself almost sourly. Turning away from Mack who had broken the eye-contact, Jack leaned back on the swing and pushed forward, sending him flying to the stars. Satisfaction swept through him, as he watched Felicity's retreating back become even more distant.

"Er- haven't thought really." Jack paused, thinking about his sentence. It was true though it hardly meant sense. He has not be thinking at all today, his head hurt and his hand burned from where Felicity had grabbed it. Rubbing it against his shorts, he looked up at Mack. "Too bad there isn't rain here, eh? It could have kept us busy." He pushed harder against the ground, sending him even closer to the stars. He sighed, knowing that no matter how hard he tried, he would never reach them. "Well could you tell me- I mean if you want to- how you met Jamie? I mean... I would...like to know." he finished rather lamely. The truth was, he was vastly curious about how long Jamie and Mack had been...friends, and when they had.... got together and... things like that. He wondered dully whether Mack would care to tell him, but-if she didn't- he couldn't blame her. After all, some things in life shouldn't be told, but stored in memory forever.