Ch. 11 - A New Family Comes With Trouble

After the four of them gathered outside of school and walked, Drake talked with Akane. "So what exactly do you do for fun?" He asked him since Drake only ever tried an arcade very few times.

"Uh… I'm not so sure myself… I just get on my computer after I get home, what about you?" He asked, replying to him.

"Not a thing… I am usually busy taking care of my kid sister. Up until recently, I've been doing other things for myself… but I wouldn't call that fun I think. Yeah, I have no idea what also is considered good when it comes to games or shows or books… I never got to enjoy that stuff growing up… well… maybe some books on my phone or ones at the library, but that's about it… I got music to enjoy but that's not a group of friends kind of thing…" Drake explained to him, thinking Akane would have been able to share some of his hobbies or ideas of fun with him. "What do you usually do on your computer…"

"I bet he's looking up porn or something!" Alex said standing behind them. Messing with him after hearing such a question.

"Ah! No! I would never…" he said, but his eyes diverted so Drake knew he just lied but didn't say a thing.

The girls giggled a bit and kept talking to one another behind them after Alex backed off.

"It's alright man… every guy has a need. Just don't be a creep about it…" Drake said in an attempt to have him relax.

"Ah… yeah right" he felt defeated and somehow as if he was caught. "I usually play games… well large MMORPG's I also have consoles and stuff to play more story based or fighting games. I have been a bit spoiled being an only child and all.'' he was nervous to bring it up but honest.

"So are they…" Drake said suddenly.

"Huh? Who?" Akane wondered what he meant.

"The ladies behind us. I've known Marlene for just a few days, and I've learned what I think is a bit about her, and since im living with her, yeah she doesnt have any siblings… and Alex also doesn't have siblings either and ive known her most of my life… I'm the only one with a sibling huh" he chuckled a bit.

"Is that funny?" Akane asked, confused.

"Nope… just that, they adore my sister… and she calls both of them her big sister's. I find it cute and it got me thinking of that moment… sorry" Drake explained as he had also had a little smile.

"You're a nice guy aren't you Drake?" Akane said, learning just a bit more about him.

"A lot of people would say you're wrong, and I'd tell you too" he told him. But he did like the compliment. "We're here…" Drake said. "Wait a sec…" they stood at the front of the path to the primary school Sarah attended and watched Drake walk up to Marry. The teacher who always attended to them in the morning and acted as a teacher for Sarah.

"Someone is making lots of friends isn't he…" she smiled at him.

"Maybe, where is Sarah?" He asked her.

"She's just finishing grabbing her things inside. Don't worry. Mind explained how you've been?" She asked him.

"I'm doing fine… the two girls behind me I'm dating, and that gloomy guy is a friend I just made. He's nice, just needs to look the part" he explained to her in a blunt manner.

She couldn't help but smile at him. "I'm happy to see your not alone anymore… and that you've been making friends Draky. But, really? Two girls?" She said and sighed. "Make sure to keep them happy… wait… is that Alex? So you're finally with her. she came by looking for you. is everything okay." She asked, looking at them also curious about whats happened.

"I promise I will… and yeah, I'm surprised you remember her, and stop it... everything is perfectly fine." Drake went on to talk with her.

Akane spoke to both Alex and Marlene. "Is that his mother or something? He's being very friendly with her…" he was confused. Even more about him.

"You can say that, she just acts like a big sister if I'm honest… they aren't related, but he's known her ever since his sister was around," Alex explained a bit. "I have met her a few times. When I was younger. And just the other day. She is the same as ever…"

"I see…" Akane said.

The door of the school opened and Sarah came out hugging Drake first thing. "Hiii!"

Both Marry and he chuckled.

"Hey, Sarah… ready to go shopping?" He asked her and held her hand.

"Yes! Very excited!" She said with a happy grin on her face.

"So you're treating her… are you sure Drake?" The teacher asked, concerned for him.

"Yeah I'm sure… oh I haven't told any of you adult's yet I'm sorry… but, we moved… we're staying at Marlene's house for the time being… just me and Sarah," he told her, and she couldn't help but be happy for him.

She reached and hugged him, squeezing his face between her breasts. "Thank goodness… and just what do you mean 'you adults' were practically your family you know…"

The girls reacted surprised by the sudden sight. And Akane stepped aside a bit.

Drake gently hugged her and then eased her away. "Yeah… I know, thank you Marry and your brother for all you've done for me. I'll still be working of course he won't have to worry"

"Wait! That reminds me." She went inside and went to grab a roll of cash for him. She came back and handed it to him. "My brother dropped it off… a bonus with your pay. Please, make sure to treat yourself too okay"

He was a bit hesitant. But he did take it. "Thank you both so much…" he smiled and then picked up Sarah, holding her close, and hugged her teacher with her.

"Just how long are they gonna suck up to one another?" Alex said, a bit jealous.

"Relax, he will explain I'm sure…" Marlene said and watched them.

'What the hell Drake… even a mature woman?' Akane thought, still not aware of the full story.

"See you next week and please be safe…" he told her, as he finally began to leave with Sarah.

"What was that about?" Marlene asked first.

"She gave Draky money," Sarah said.

"Why?" Alex wondered.

"It was a bonus… My boss at my work is her brother. He drops off my pay here first thing on his way to work once a week. So now I have more spending money." He explained them.

"Draky… please use some it on yourself like she said." Sarah said, and got down to hold both Alex and Marlene's hands.

"I will… don't worry, come on let's go…" he told them as they all followed.

Akane noticed how different both him and his sister looked. He was hesitant to even ask. But, noticing the difference did answer stuff he wondered about him.

"Hey Draky!" Sarah spoke up.

"Yes?" He turned behind to see her in the middle of the girls.

"Who is your new friend? And why does he look weird" she was so innocent it hurt.

The girls laughed a bit. But explained for him. "He's Akane. Your big brother's friend and ours…" Alex said.

And Marlene looked at Akane. "Don't worry about what she says, okay… and by the way, her name is Sarah"

"Oh no it's fine… I know I look gloomy. But yeah, hi Sarah. It's nice to meet you" he spoke kindly to her and didn't let what she said get to him. She was just a child after all.

"Oh, I'm sorry, hi! Nice to meet you" she quickly acted more polite to him. Her behavior came directly from her brother as she even bowed her head a bit.

"She has nice manners…" he said and looked at Drake.

"Yeah, I made sure she learned some of the basics." He looked back again. "What sort of clothes do you want Sarah?"

Her eyes lit up by the question. Together they apl looked at her with joy as she began skipping and holding Alex and Marlene as she kept listing clothes she wanted to try and some to keep.

Drake enjoyed this scene. He had friends, two fine ladies who can help take care of his sister and help him but also had big hearts and were just as understanding and kind. And a new friend, a lonely guy who wasn't bad and had a nice heart. He was surrounded by them, him and his sister, with people who could look out for them.

They arrived at a mall, and Drake spoke up. "I'm gonna go off a bit on my own with Akane. When she has her clothes, mind giving me a call?" He asked them.

"But, I wanted you to stay Draky" Sarah pouted a little.

"I know, I helped you pick out clothes before, but I have no taste and I also got what was cheapest… Alex and Marlene will help you this time okay, they will get you the best stuff… and don't worry, I can't wait to see you in new clothes okay" he crouched down and patted her head. "Have fun okay, and be nice to your big sisters…"

She was still bummed her brother couldn't tag along, but nodded understanding and listening to her older brother. "Okay…"

"We'll call you in about an hour or maybe longer…" Alex told him.

"Yeah, I want to get her all the clothes she can get… but baby, how much do you have to spend?" Marlene asked and used a nickname first on him.

"Uh, I'd say about a grand… I'm not paying those damn bills for those deadbeats, so yeah, go nuts. But keep it around that okay" he told them. And they both nodded.

"Oh for sure. I'm excited to have her dress up. She'll be looking like a new girl when you see her" Marlen was excited.

 Alex hid her own excitement. "Don't worry, we'll take care of her… but hey, she does sound like she wanted you around. Maybe swing by some time soon, we'll be on the third floor" Alex told him and kissed her cheek. "See ya"

Marlene had already been walking away with Sarah and Alex joined them after talking to Drake a sec.

Akane then asked him. "Hey Drake… are you by any chance adopted?"

"Nope… why is that your first question?" He asked him, while they walked together.

"Your sister looks nothing like you… I didn't mean to be rude about it… but, her eyes and blonde hair. It sticks out…" Akane said.

"We're half siblings. Same mother, but very different fathers… my father is the one she stuck with. Can you imagine how hard that must have been when he found out… It was no surprise to me or to my mother. But let me just say, I had to be the one raising her… and I gave up a lot to do that the best I could" he explained, giving him insight. "She's the only family I have, Akane. Do please be careful and aware of this… I'm not threatening you. Far from it. Just know, I would do anything to make her happy. Even if it means I need to do things no kid our age should."

"Sorry, I didn't mean anything by what I said…'' Akane felt bad bringing it up, and based on what he said now and before. he gets why he thinks so little of himself and why he's believes he's so bad.

"Don't worry, it's natural to want to know. You got nothing to be sorry for man. But, it's appreciated. That you wanted to know. Rather than ignore it… to sum things up about me Akane. I'm not a good man. Far from it." He didn't want to recall any more. He wanted to step away from that past that held him.

"It's alright." Akane told him. "I got a better understanding of you Drake. So please let me get to know you more. You don't seem all that dangerous. Or bad. So if I can help I will" he said spontaneously. But his stare at Drake let him know he meant it.

"I was right. You are a good friend… Thank you Akane. Come on… there is probably an arcade around here we can kill some time in… also let me know what sort of stuff you'd think I'd enjoy" Drake told him as they both walked along together looking very around seeing how they could spend their time while they waited.

On the complete opposite of the mall, the guy early at school, who beat up Akane and was held down by Alex after he himself was toyed with. We're pissed and on the edge still. Only this time there were four others with him. The man who was sprayed was not around or they're would have been five of them.

"Dude you need to chill or you'll cause a damn scene here…" one of them spoke to him.

"Shut it! You weren't there, that damned humiliation… I'll show those sluts their place next time…" he said, and then another man grabbed him.

"Do you have an idea who you're talking about here? I was there with you, and those are Drake's bitches… you better learn to chill… or he will come after you. I get your pissed but don't be a dumbass" he let him go roughly. "Let me ask you, John, do you know who he is out here? in the streets you think you're running?"

"You think I care? And i am so watch your damn tone"

"You should" Another told him, as he had helped the second guy get his point across. His tone of voice is much deeper.

"Why? He's just a wannabe kid from the street now… not like what I heard" John was the one leading them and recklessly as he still protested the idea of backing off.

"His posse ran these streets back then… and now, they just watch over him since he left. We should be too because of the boss's order, but you want to start something. He has a 'J' after all tattooed onto him to let us all know… if you don't start being careful he will put you in his place." He warned him. "And none of us or anyone will stop it. Not like we even could."

"Why the hell am I surrounded by cowards? What you're telling me was in the past" John looked at them.

"That fucking past was only nine months ago… that ain't far" the last of the other four told him. "Look, the boss warned you not to interfere with him, he told all of us. Let him be."

"He's washed up… he ain't doing nothing now but playing house with his sluts… he isn't going to lay a damn finger on me" John kept insisting and hearing them praise Drake only angered him.

"Screw this. I'm not so damn idiotic as to pick a fight I'm losing. You're on your own John… I got better shit I can do for the boss than babysit some power tripping new kid. The hell was the boss thinking, making you 'Jack' of all things." one man left, and the others followed. All that remained was the other adult who had a deep voice.

"You ain't leaving with those guys?" John asked him.

"Nah… boss gave us orders to watch the new blood, I'm here to stick to it and see what you're made of. Just know, if it involves that young man. I'm not helping. You will be on your own no matter how bad it gets… and this is my only warning to you. If you're picking a fight. One you intend to see to the end with Drake 'Joker'. Be ready to die…" he was serious as he stared at John.

He couldn't help but laugh. "Yeah right… whatever, I'll be fine… as if he can still be the same as he was back then… fuck him and fuck them for leaving…" he continued to walk around. Unknowingly passing Drake thanks to the people around them both.

"Let's hit up some of the games in the back… they're more retro but fun nonetheless" Akane told Drake. A bit excited to be hanging out with someone to play with who also could enjoy games.

"Yeah sure. Sounds fine to me…" he gave up just ten bucks in coins for both of them. It was a fighting game. And both stood side by side. "I won't be any good… the last time I played this, I got excited just seeing the moves and colors… I'm pretty much an old timer when it comes down to these kinds of things" he explained to Akane, giving him a good idea how new he was to any sort of game.

"No problem. I'll be here to help you and it's not like I want to win, I'm here just for a good time with all you guys" he said honestly.

"Alright let's play then…" he was glad for Akane's attitude. So as they played he guided him through it. Teaching Drake the basics of the fighting game. They were there for a while. Even going to different stations to try out plenty of stuff to kill time.

On the third floor. Alex was holding onto Sarah's hand while Marlene was looking around. "We're here for Sarah… Why are you so excited?" She smiled and walked through the aisle of clothes for young girls. "If you see anything you like just grab it okay Sarah" Alex told her.

"Okay, I will…" she looked around a bit nervous. This was the first time for her to be shopping for herself. Even if she had Alex and Marlene. She didn't feel so comfortable without her older brother.

Marlene soon came up to her and held out some dresses for Sarah. "Look at these, aren't they cute? I also saw some cute tops and skirts if you want to see" she smiled at her and Sarah looked at her.

"They are, but…" she didn't like the idea of spending money if she couldn't. "I would rather not spend too much. I know he needs it…" Sarah shyly stepped to Alex's side holding back herself.

Marlene got down to her knees and Alex hugged her, but also pat Sarah on her head. "You are just so precious… don't worry, your big brother said it was fine before we left. I asked him how much. And I promise you, he wants to see you in all the cute things you ever wanted, okay. Let's go make him happy."

"Is it really okay?" Sarah asked hopefully and her eyes lit up, but her expression still was one of worry.

"Of course it is… would your brother not want you happy? You're his pride and joy, you mean so much to him. So of course it's okay!" Marlene smiled and helped cheer her up.

"Okay! Let's get lots of cute stuff" she grabbed onto Marlene's first dress for her and held it close. She was happy, beyond anything. She would finally know what it's like to be spoiled like a princess.

Marlene and Alex smiled at one another, happy to see Sarah so happy herself. They didn't want to hold her back and wished for her to be a little selfish. So to hear her agree, they both held her hand and walked around together fishing for clothes of all sorts.

"So I've been meaning to ask, why only now take her shopping?" Akane asked him.

"My sister? Oh, our parents are deadbeats, and frankly we're poor as hell… so I never had the money… until now. She dreamed of wearing clothes like other kids… or like models in magazines. Everytime we go shopping or walking, she stares at the windows of stores… I hated telling her we can't afford it… since we just moved. I'm no longer in debt to my shit parents" he explained as they played air hockey.

"I see… so now that you got money for yourselves, you can treat her now, your one hell of a brother, a very cool guy you know that, '' Akane told Drake. And as he got sweaty, he pulled half of his hair up and the other was down making his gloomy look go right away, and to Drake's surprise, he didn't look bad at all.

"Dude, you're hot as hell without the bangs hiding your face" he stopped and when Akane was flustered he let Drake score on him.

"What! No way man I'm just a nerd" Akane said not realizing how he looked.

"Seriously, man, why do you let your hair flow down like that? If you kept it up and slit back you'd be bringing girls around, or dudes if that's your thing" Drake told him.

"Definitely not into guys, but are you really sure? Hold on, why am I getting flustered!" Akane and Drake laughed a bit.

"Alright, whatever man" Drake let it go. And the game continued.

It was only an hour and a half later that Drake got a message. "Looks like they're about ready…" he told Akane. "We still have coins though."

"Why not go ahead on your own. I feel somehow like a third wheel in this group. Besides, they aren't really waiting on me, so go and see them, I'm sure they must want to have you" he told Drake, "I'll just keep having fun here" he then got seated for a racing game.

"Haha, sure okay then. I'll message you when and if we're eating. I'm not sure how much I'm paying, but I did say I'd treat us all to something… be careful alright" with Akane's permission he left on his own, going all the way up to the third floor.

When he met up with the girls, he waited in front of the store until Marlene met him and led him right to them. "Where'd Akane go?" She wondered while they reached them at a changing stall.

"He told me to come up here without him, he's playing at the arcade spending both of our coins." He told her and then followed up while he stood by her. "Where is Alex and Sarah?"

"They're both changing, well Alex is helping, but she also insisted on trying some clothes on." Marlene explained to him.

"What about you? You can try some stuff on, I won't be able to buy much for either of you though…" he said, and that did make him feel bad.

"Oh don't worry, we're just waiting for the day you do take us out one at a time. And treat us both. We can wait baby" Marlene said speaking for both her and Alex.

"Alright, I'll be sure to spoil you both when the time comes… but that doesn't answer my question."

"Oh, I was just wanted to wait for you… because now you can sit and wait, while I go get changed for you too. We can still at least try stuff on for you right? And won't cost you a thing" Marlene was cheerful, almost excited to be doing something like this with him.

"Right, well I won't be going anywhere go ahead." he did sit down and waited for them, seeing Marlene disappear into a booth of her own to change.

'This feels very awkward now…' he thought to himself, and got on his phone to pass the time and in just a few more minutes both Alex and Sarah came out together. Showing Drake how they looked.

"What do you think" Alex asked

"Am I cute! Tell me I'm cute!" Sarah's eyes were lit with excitement as she rushed her brother's lap to lean on and look at him.

Drake looked at them both and smiled down at his sister. "Yes… very cute. Just like a princess" he told her gazing down at her with soft and kind eyes. He was truly happy that she was smiling, and finally getting to enjoy doing something she wanted. She had on overalls, but at the end of them was a skirt instead of something like pants for that sort of outfit. The color was black but to show off her color palette her shirt that was tucked in, was an open shoulder top, it was white with pink spots and shapes that also had a bedazzled design of two cats. It didn't stop there, she also got her hair braided by Alex onto her left shoulder laid down As well had dress shoes red and bright with pink frilly socks visible to match.

"Thank you so much Draky!" She hugged his waist as tight as she could. "I love you!"

"I know… and you're very welcome. But what about your other clothes? This can't be all you want?" He said to her, seemingly giving his attention all to his sister. 

Alex didn't mind. And when Marlene came out both of them stood together. "Ahem…" Marlene spoke up for him to notice.

"Oh, I'm sorry!" He looked up and was a bit stunned by what he saw.

Marlene and Alex held each other's hands and slightly pressed on each other's breasts. "About time you noticed…" Alex said shyly, but had a soft smile enjoying seeing her best friend happy, and even more so herself to be with Marlene and him.

"Yeah, so… what do you think? I know you can't buy us this, but…" Alex was still shy, but did want his opinion.

Alex wore a dress, it was nothing incredible, but it was still remarkable to see her in. It was a short dress, so it reached her thighs, just barely leaving a gap to peak under. The light blue color stood out with her figuer since the dress held her tightly. he could see she tried to make it work. She typically had on or kept male clothes, so for her to even try on something like this was a sight. Her shy attitude made him forget how tough she really was. And it didn't help that her breasts were pushed up against Marlene who boasted their looks together with her own outfit.

Marlene wore shorts so her thighs looked appetizing, it was also a mix of overalls that worked well with her top, She also had an open lace shoulder top that only reached her midriff. Her body looked tight in her clothes and it was allurring how she looked good in it. Her makeup and hair made her stand out between the two, but Drake couldn't stop staring at them both.

"You look good, both of you… Alex. It's rare to see you in a dress, you look cute… and Marlene, that outfit is a bit bold, but you definitely have my attention and I like how it clings to you. It's hard to keep my eyes away from the parts of you I like… but Alex, I like your shy expression, you look so cute. Like a real lady, but also, I like how I can still see your shoulders, and your legs. It leaves me wondering more about what's underneath. You look so fine, the both of you." He praised them both, treated them like goddesses the best he could with his words as he made sure to notice the details and effort they put in.

Both were a bit flustered, and red. He noticed everything they wanted him too it seemed, and got plenty of praise. They whispered to one another while looking away. "How can he be so straightforward?!" Marlene said.

"For real? This was embarrassing enough, but come on" Alex replied to her. And went on. "Fuck I love that… he doesn't beat around the bush…" Alex spoke again to her. "Dammit…" her heart raced for a moment. "Let me have him tonight… please…" she asked Marlene. With a look of both desire and affection.

"What!? hey hun. Relax…" Marlene was shocked she even asked her for that and couldn't find her words for a moment. "I can't deny what you want or what he does. You just ask him" she herself was weak along her knees. It was the first time she even went out doing something like that, so she wasn't sure how to react. But couldn't deny how it made her feel either.

Drake got up and walked up behind them. "Girls are you okay?"

Both hugged him tightly, Marlene along his chest and Alex along his shoulder. Both nodded.

"Yeah, we're good babe" Marlen said and Alex kissed his neck.

"Not in front of my sister girls… I can take care of you two later okay…" he whispered to them. And both grabbed his sleeve out of uneasy nerves and how his whispered words and breathing felt down on them.

"Okay…" Alex spoke for them both.

"Are my sisters okay?" Sarah asked, tugging on Drake's shirt.

"Yeah, they're fine… they just got excited spending time together…" he told her. And thank God for her innocent mind to not interpret that any worse that it could mean.

"Okay! I had plenty of fun dressing up too! Oh Draky… Here are the rest of my clothes I wanted" she grabbed a pile of stuff the girls picked together for her.

"I see… okay… let me go through it with you" he looked at the tags both Alex and Marlene had on their clothes. But then also calculated the stuff his sister picked up. "You made sure to get new socks and underwear right?"

"Yeah! I did, I also picked up some hair bands, is that okay?" She asked, liking her hair style, but also was kicking her feet beside him as he had sat down only after letting go of his girls.

"Of course it is. Now what do you say to your big sisters for helping you" he asked Sarah.

"I know…" she got down and hugged them both. "I love you… Alex, Marlene.  Thank you for helping me today…!" She looked up at them sweetly with a smile full of happiness and joy.

Both of them hugged her, and even picked her up together. "You're very welcome Sarah." Said Alex. "Yeah, and we love you very much," Marlene added and also told her. "Let's get changed… and have Draky buy you everything."

"Okay!" Sarah agreed to get into a stall with the both of them as they got changed into their clothes from earlier.

'Looks like… I'll be left with about $300 bucks… but with tax, I'd say around $270 at the end of it… that's fine with me. I get to have some spending money and treat us.' "Marlene Alex. Can you two bring your outfits? I'll buy those as well."

"Huh! No way!" Both peaked just their head. "No way you can afford all of it. They took turns speaking.

"I did the math, relax you two… just grab it okay… and let's go… Akane is waiting, and I'm sure all of us are hungry" he told them.

"Okay!" Alex was happy since it meant he was able to spare some cash. And Marlene still felt hesitant. "If you're sure… okay babe" both went back to finish changing and the first one out was Sarah, since she didn't stop to talk, she was all changed coming out, However when she pulled the curtain aside. Drake had a view of Both Marlene and Alex. Sliding on their underwear. They were topless, he got to see all of their glistened bodies from the light inside, and how there breast and legs were in full view for him. The curtain came back down to cover them. "You saw didn't you!" Alex was a bit mad.

"Of course I did…" he said, casually and with no hesitation. "Why do you sound mad Alex? I've seen you plenty before…"

She was embarrassed red from anger and being flushed. "Shut up!"

"Drake…" Marlene spoke up shyly.

"Yeah? Are you okay." He asked her.

"Did you like… what you saw…?" She was nervous and covered herself with her hands even if there was a curtain again.

And Alex was now quiet listening out for him also wanting to know.

"Yes. I liked it a lot…" he could have said something sly again. But, he got the hint this meant more to them. Even if he has seen them naked both of them already. "I loved the view both of MY girlfriends have given me." He said, onky reminding himself how he had to treat them both.

"You're a pervert…!" Marlene told him, but both of them had a smile of bliss. "Go and buy the stuff already, we'll see you outside" Alex then told him.

"Okay sure…" he grabbed their outfits, and then walked with Sarah to go buy the clothes together and waited outside. He did also talk with Sarah.

"Hey Sarah. Remember how you wanted a play date with that friend?" He looked down to her on the right side where he held her hand. his other hand held the bags of clothes after paying up front.

"Yeah, I do. Her mom said, you can come over tomorrow if you're free." Sarah told him.

"Okay, after work, I'll take us over… does that sound good? Do you know where she lives your friend?" He asked her.

"She gave me a paper with an address. But won't you be tired?" She was concerned.

"Nah, beside… you want to have a playdate Remember. I can leave you with her… if her parents are good people okay" he said and let go of her hand to pat her head.

"Yay." She smiled and gently rubbed her head into his hand. "You're the best big brother ever" she used both of her hands to hold his.

"Hehe… that means a lot… thank you Sarah, you're the best, and cutest little sister ever too…" he replied back to her and she was overjoyed. He kept a soft smile down to her. His expression is also more relaxed.

"Did stuff go well?" Akane showed up earlier than intended. Making Sarah shyly hide since he still had his hair back and nervous to speak up.

Drake turned and nodded to him. "Yeah, I got lots of clothes for her and managed to treat my ladies to just an outfit each… I was just about to ask the girls to call you to meet up after they came out… what happened?"

"Oh I finished all the coins… a lot sooner than I thought, but hey good thing I came anyway" Akane told him, his hair still slick back.

"Who's that?" Sarah asked since Akane looked different.

"It's Akane. Oh the hair right… hehe he looks cool doesn't he?" Drake asked Sarah.

"Mhm… very cool, but not as cool as you"  Sarah agreed, but still favored her brother.

"Awe, that means a lot… maybe I should keep it up like this then…" Akane agreed, still shy about it.

Alex and Marlene came out finally. "Sorry if we made you wait" Alex said to them.

"It's not a problem, come on. How is everyone feeling on burgers?" Drake asked while together they walked and Sarah stayed by his side this time while he led the way and they all agreed together.

Akane looked at Alex and Marlene. "Hey, so what's his story? I don't have any siblings, but he seems awfully close to his sisters. It's sweet, don't get me wrong, but…" he was cut off by Alex.

"But why is he the one taking care of her? And treating her like a princess? If your question is close to those, I can explain" she told him.

"I mean no offense by it, but yeah. What's the story?" he asked again and confirmed what they figured he wanted to ask.

"Don't worry, it's nice of you to be so motivated to learn about him… but next time, ask him yourself okay" Marlene and Alex talked with him.

"His parents are deadbeats, not to mention he's so poor he's living with Marlene. But this was just a recent change, before that his parents would make him do things… and until he chose to leave. He had to give up money and they didn't spend it on her." Alex explained.

"They were selfish from what I understand. And his father is the worst. He threatens her if he doesn't do as he tells him… so to summarize why they are so close. It's because in reality. They are the only family they have with one another." It made Marlene sad thinking about it.

"he did say some of that ealier to me when we were alone… I didn't understand they had it that bad… he seems happy though… doesn't he?" Akane pointed out. "I mean… this is my first time with very cool people… and he doesn't seem to let his situation bother him or anything. It's worrying, sure, but… I think he's happy. Or he wouldn't be so selfish to do all this for his sister. for you two. Or for me." He pointed out and sounded poetic. "He could have left things as is. But he is doing something about his situation and making the best of what he has."

"Maybe… I'm glad you can notice that… your right, he doesn't let his past get to him… but he does regret sometimes, After all, He was forced to believe the reason they have lived horrible lives. Was his fault, now do you see how horrible it was?" Alex asked and told him, more in depth. "I've known that man basically all my life. I'd go as far to say, he's the reason I'm even alive and around. He's a wonderful man, even if he has done bad and worse. He did it out of necessity and to survive, for her sake because he always had to go home and protect his little sister. I just can't help but love that about him… he isn't just a trouble maker. He has reasons for everything he does. He never lets anything get him. He's kind for no reason and loves unconditionally because it's how he himself wishes to be cared for, so he offers it to anyone in need, even if he doesn't show it. He's amazing, for someone who had to live through so much darkness alone." Alex went on admiring Drake.

"I've noticed how he doesn't seem to treat himself… or take care of himself. So I get all that you're saying Alex… and from what I have seen. I just know you mean it… and I can't help but love him for it too. He is not mean, even after being harassed or beaten by his parents or his troubling past. He can be intense if someone says the wrong thing or just brings up anyone he cares about in vain, but it shows how much he can care for someone even if they just met. He's not as mean as people think, and his past is his past, he owns up to it, and doesn't let it hold him. His resolve, kindness and his soul are all priceless. He spares no effort to make those close happy. It's honorable and admirable." Marlen even went on and both Marlene and Alex held one another's hand thinking of Drake.

"All we can really do is watch over him.. and help him" Marlene said. And Alex continued. "To be with him in his time of need… to save him when he's in his worst."

And together. "Because we both love Drake"

Akane had a grasp of Drake's character. He didn't feel jealous anymore, for the fact he has two girlfriends, or envious of this guy who has people helping get over hurdles and problems, Or that he had friends at all. If anything, Now, Akane felt grateful for talking back to him just once when drake asked for help. To be here now out hanging with others to call friends, to see him as someone he can look up to. "I think I get it… he really is something isn't he" he replied to them smiling. He liked meeting them. They were people, who can trust one another. And he could be a part of it.

Sarah let go of Drake to then sprint ahead. "Come on draky, I'm hungry and let's get ice cream too please, I've always wanted to try it!"

"Hold on Sarah, you'll bump into someone" Drake told her quickly catching up to her.

Sarah was a bit too excited, and did then run into someone, stepping and twisting her shoes on the person. It was John, and his only other companion. They looked down at her. "The hell…? Watch where you're going kid…" John went off, while the man with him looked at the girl and felt something familiar about her.

"I'm sorry" Sarah spoke up at them a bit startled and scared from his raised voice.

"Sarah!" Drake went over helping her up and dusted off her clothes. "Are you okay?" He ignored who she ran into.

"Oh crap…" Alex said and with both Marlene and Akane all hurried over. They noticed John and the larger man with them. 

"Hey punk, is that your sister?!" John told him. Not aware it was Drake yet.

"I'm fine, I said I was sorry but…" she cowered a bit when he yelled at them.

Drake then turned glaring at him. "She said she apologized…" his voice deepened and his glare at him was fierce and narrow.

"We apologize…" said the other man who was with John. He knew now why she was familiar. "We didn't help her up, forgive us… the young sir also forgives the little lady… let us go now…" he said politely.

"Like hell, the little brat is gonna clean up my shoes" John insisted on making a scene.

Drake got up. Looking pissed as he kept his sister behind him. The three Alex, Marlene and Akane didn't interfere just yet. "It's been a while, Mickie… I'll take your word for it… you may leave" he then picked up his sister, walking past them. Ignoring John entirely.

"Thank you sir…" before John made another outbursts, he was grabbed by Mickie. And hushed with his hand over his mouth. "Not a word from you boy…" even now he was pissed at John.

They saw the scene was defused. And Alex explained. "That was Mickie… one of the lower members who worked with us…"

"What do you mean?" Akane asked confused.

"Including myself,  he worked under Drake. Back then. When we were with that gang… he must have noticed it was Drake. In any case, let's catch up." The three of them hurried to meet with them.

"Big brother… I'm sorry I should have listened" Sarah felt bad and held his shirt a bit panicked for her brother.

"You did nothing wrong okay… but, yes you should have listened… cheer up okay. We're getting you ice cream." He told her as she made his mood quickly change. At least on the outside. Inside he was very alert and aware now of everything around him, he felt angry and on edge of who he just saw. He hated that his guard was down. It seemed like he never could relax.

When John was led away, he asked. "What the hell man! Why did you take us away, didn't you say you weren't gonna interfere huh?!… and that bastard's little sister ruined my damn good shoes.'' he only complained and thought of himself.

Mickie spoke up. "That was his sister, and you wanted to fight him in front of her? Boy that's a death wish… you saw the look he gave… did you not… think for once you fool. He would have killed us if you even touched her…" he warned him and even his look was serious. "That was my former boss, And let me just say this once to you boy, that man is one you do not want to piss off… especially if it means his little sister is in danger or nearby. If you value your damned life. Do not fight him. Or threaten her. Even the King and Queen wouldn't dare or the Ace. Do I make myself clear? Does this all fill that head of yours or just leave it?"

"Tch… fine… whatever. Well leave them alone… damn little bitch still ruined my good shoes… and we missed out on food dammit" he was now annoyed and bothered. "Why the fuck are the head Cards afraid of him?" He asked, finally thinking.

"That's a long story kid… and they're not afraid. They have his respect. And he has there's" Mickie told him as they both left the mall.

"Drake, are you alright?" Alex asked him.

"Yeah of course, Sarah just bumped into a mean guy, but they left without a problem…" he told her.

"I see…" Alex was still concerned about him. But it was something they could talk about later.

"Sarah, are you okay?" Marlene asked, getting closer to them.

"Yeah! My brother said he'd get me ice cream, I'm excited to get some ice cream, have any of you had it?" She asked them and the mood with her energy and excitement lifted the tense air and gave a change of subject.

Akane helped by adding his input. "Oh yeah, it's really good… if they have Strawberry you should try it" He recommended and like that, the mood was lifted and Alex relaxed talking with them about Ice cream. With Marlene including herself.

'I'm gonna need to make a call...' it was one thought Drake had, while in line with his sister and his friends. he didn't show it, but he was more than upset. someone who hanged with Mickie didn't know there place before him, and dared to make his sister pay for something so small as bumping into them.