OPEN RP W/ JACK
“Forgive me if I’m being rude, but you also made a promise to me.” Pepper struck a dramatic pose and started quoting what Jack had said in the past. “‘And if that’s what it takes, I have no qualms doing what I can to bring you to the end.’" A deep frown formed on Pepper’s face. “Remember that, Jack? But I understand if you only keep promises that you make to your friends. That’s a pretty rotten thing to do, though.”
“Monica was leaving that week… Rosie was already gone. I never said I was proud of things I’ve done in the competition. I had a feeling that I’d also be sent home had I not struck a deal.” he murmured quietly.
He looked down, fighting back tears. “If you’re going to kill me, wait until this is all over. I cannot and will not let down my friends! Screw the money… if that’s what you want, I’ll give you the portion I was going to use on myself. This isn’t about me though. This is about a dear friend of mine. I can raise the money for what I need it for in due time. It may take years, but I have that time. Though someone very close to my heart…. she doesn’t have time. If she doesn’t get the money now then she’ll be trapped for the rest of her life.” he said somberly.
“I’ve suffered too long and too hard to resign her to a fate like that. I may have to do abhorable things now… but if it’s to save her from a life of misery and suffering, then I guess I have to sell my soul.” he whispered.
“After this is over… then I can step away and strive towards atoning for all I’ve done. I can finally start becoming the good I’m searching for in the world.” he said wistfully, a tear streaming down his face.
“That is, if I live that long.”
“No Jack, it’s not just about the money. I’m not that shallow.” Pepper smirked. “Even though it would be really nice…” Pepper sighed. “You can keep some of the money for Rosie if you win.” He said, taking a chance on who Jack was talking about. “Though giving me a cut of the mill wouldn’t hurt your chances right now.” Pepper narrowed his eyes. “I don’t want you to just be ‘striking another deal’ to save yourself though. So if you’re not being honest, just tell me. I’ll make it less painful.”
Jack nodded. “How much do you need?” He asked curiously. He was crestfallen to think he would have to wait a few more years for his surgery… If he ever paid off his other medical bills to begin with. “I have no reason to lie to you right now, Pepper. If money will spare my life long enough to help those I need to help then that’s simply the way it will have to be.” He said quietly. His fleeting dream then struck him.
“To be honest… After this is said and done with, maybe I’d rather die.” He croaked in a voice barely louder than a whisper.
“After all I’ve done during this competition.. And then living in this body under a name that’s not mine for who knows how long… I’m starting to wonder if that’s really a life at all.”
He suddenly shook his head. “No, I can’t think like that.” He said to himself, looking terribly conflicted. The pain in his eyes showed as he glanced out at the water.
Pepper rolled his eyes. “Dude, I don’t even know like half of what you’re talking about. Just relax. All I really want is some money and an apology, then I’ll leave you alone. For now.” Pepper grinned. “Oh, it looks like you can do at least part of that right now! And please, try to look sincere.”
Jack blinked in surprised as Pepper suddenly seemed more relaxed.
“I truly am sorry, Pepper.” He said sincerely, looking to him. “I meant no ill will towards you at any point, though I won’t try to excuse that I lied to you. I certainly regret it, and not just because you threatened to kill me.” Jack said earnestly.
“Sorry for getting all weird and depressing a moment ago, that was odd.” He said, trying to laugh his pessimism away.
“Wow. That was really touching.” Pepper faked wiping a tear from his eye. “You almost had me believing you for a second there. Now, because I don’t want a repeat of last time, I need something belonging to you. Preferably something of important sentimental value. I’ll give it back to you as soon as the money is in my hand.”
Jack nodded, and reached for his necklace, but remembered Monica had it at the time. He then Looked perplexed, not sure what to give him without having his necklace.
He looked to his signature green wristbands. He wore them always, and to him they held sentimental value. He didn’t want to take them off though, for fear of Pepper seeing what lie beneath them. Having nothing else of value on hand, he gave a resigned sign and slid off the wristbands, careful to keep his wrists down turned so Pepper would not see the words carved into his skin. He held them out to him.
“Here. These hold value to me; my grandmother made them.” He insisted.
“It’s a shame you don’t believe my sincerity, considering I’m being honest with you, but I can’t force you to accept my words. Hopefully this will serve as collateral.”
(Source: totaldramacrazy)
