Life Of Two Best Friends: High School CHPT 34

CHAPTER 35

Silence. It was a different kind of silence. Like she wanted to talk, but was holding herself back… Maybe since this is the first time, it has been just the two of us in the jeep, since my almost confession. ‘Wow! That was so long ago.’ Or maybe she was uncomfortable? Which I don’t understand. We are now just good friends, even family; I don’t see the issue. “You good? You seem uncomfortable.”

“Yeah. I’m good. Just trying to adjust to my new…title…but I’m fine. Really.” She answered while looking out her window.

‘Sure.‘ “Okay, good,” is all I could think of to say. So once again, silence began. Thankfully my phone started ringing bringing some noise into the jeep. “Can you hand me that?”

Jenny laid back to reach my bag behind me and dug out my phone.

Seeing the name as my dad I answered, “What’s up Dad? I am driving at the moment; I’ll put you on speaker,” placing the phone into the hands-free stand. I looked to Jenny, but she was already staring out the window. ‘Nevermind.’

“Son. Would you like to accompany me to a music party at my company? Some people I know have been asking about you, and I would like to introduce you to them if possible?” Dad paused.

“I would, except I have a mountain of homework. Also finals is in two days. I wish I could though; I would have liked to meet new people.”

“No problem Son. I must confess, one of my coworkers has a daughter, and they wanted to introduce you to her,” Dad chuckled.

“Oh. So now you are a matchmaker for me,” I laugh, “I know my dating life as been a bit nonexsistant, but I didn’t realize I needed a blind date.”

“I’m always looking out for you, Son. Maybe in my future I can expect to receive a daughter-in-law?”

Hopefully dad was not expecting one soon. Still, he did seem to use a honest tone. “Not now, and not today. Sorry, I’ve got to keep my grades up for my transferring. But please extend my apologies to my expected date. I’m almost to Jenny’s house; I was pretty much told by Coach to take her home,” laughing and turning onto Jenny’s street.

“Okay. No problem Son. I’ll relay your excuse. Bye Jenny. Bye Son,” and he hung up before either of us could answer.

Silence. ‘Silence is so boring…’

Putting an end to it, I pull into her driveway, “well, here we are; ask anytime, if you need a ride. You aren’t out of my way. See you at school tomorrow,” I had tried to say when she was in the car, but she exited as quickly as possible. ‘I wonder how much she heard?’

Jenny turns and smiles through the windshield and then walks towards her front door.

I was about go in reverse, when I noticed Jenny had stopped and was starting to walk back towards my window. Rolling it down, “You forget something?” I search the seat she was just in.

“No. Are you…really…are you…?” Jenny mumbled and then she let her head droop down looking at the ground.

‘Huh?’ “I didn’t get any of that? What’s up?” I reach out and touch her shoulder trying to get her to look at me. Jenny’s head raised and met my eyes; there “was” something bothering her, but I had no idea what. “You…”

“It’s nothing. Thanks for the ride George,” she stepped back letting my hand fall, “I’ll see you at school tomorrow,” and with that she walked to her door and went inside without looking back.

‘I still don’t understand girls. I don’t know if we guys are ever supposed to?Whatever…’ “Homework here I come!” pulling back onto the street and heading to my house.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 32

CHAPTER 33

I did not want to wake up this morning. Still, I had to because Dad got a text late last night from Coach telling me I had an early morning practice today; also that I had to give Matthew a ride. So here I am sitting in my jeep at five-ten in the morning, waiting for Matthew to come out and join me in the freezing air. It was dark but I saw the silhouette of Matthew exit his house and dart to my car.

Throwing open the door and jumping inside, “Dude turn up the heat! It’s freezing in here.”

“Why bother,” I grumbled as I started towards our death, “we will be jumping in a cold pool in a little bit, anyways.”

“Still. I want to be a smidge happy before I die,” Matthew reached across and turned the heat up to an unbearable temperature as we headed toward the school.

…

Practice was not what I expected. I assumed it would just be Matthew and I, but instead Jerry and Ken were waiting for us on the pool deck as we entered. Coach said he wants us to do a long recovery after our meet yesterday. So pretty much practice was lots of yardage and not speed. It was actually awesome. We four were floating in the pool waiting for practice to be over as Coach approached us. I was expecting a, ‘Gotcha! and some unwelcomed pain.’

“So how do you all feel? I apologize for leaving the meet so quickly without allowing you to cooldown completely, or give you your splits from that last relay. My daughter,” Coach paused and rubbed his forehead, “was perfect the whole day until the last hour, Mrs. Bailey said. She can be a real brat sometimes. I love her, but sometimes,” a frustrated huff came out to finish off his thought. “Anyways, you all good?”

We all nodded. I was surprised that this was actually all that this practice was going to be. I felt refreshed and ready to go.

“Good. Because other than relay exchanges, and maybe a bit of freestyle work for you Ken, your remaining practices will be somewhat similar to this one. I was deeply impressed by your last relay. Even with all the torment and craziness of your previous practices, you four were able to drop so much time. I am very pleased as your coach.”

That was a shock. I don’t think Coach has ever said anything similar to that in all the years I have swam for him.

“Okay for your splits. You should all, including Ken, be impressed,” Coach paused, “Matthew 49.56.”

“Wow. Dude! That is amazing!” Ken smacked Matthew on the shoulder. In return Matthew shoved Ken underwater. Ken came up sputtering.

“Enough you two,” Coach gave them the look of behave; they both separated and focused on Coach again, “Ken, 52.96.”

Ken was silent. Forgetting about what Coach just said, we all lunged at Ken and gave him a congratulatory hug, knowing he would be submerged under the water again.

“Blaaa…Wh…y..blah…did…” Ken surfaced again sputtering trying to compose a sentence. Realizing or mistake, we helped keep him afloat as he gained his composure, “I had my mouth gaping open as you shoved me underwater. I thought I was dying just now.”

Remembering where we were and who was probably annoyed, I slowly turned back to Coach. He was indeed quite annoyed. I jabbed Jerry in the side to shut him up and to hopefully bring his attention back.

“What was that for…” Jerry stopped mid sentence as he too saw Coach’s face. He in turn waved to Matthew and Ken, who both zipped their mouths shut.

“I apologize Coach. We will be better behaved now,” I said as we all turned and treaded water giving him our full attention.

“Good. I understand congratulating each other, but do not make me repeat myself again. And be happy the rest of the team is not here to witness this spectacle. Understood?”

Still treading water we all nodded silently.

“Good. Jerry 47.98. George 45.50. Over all you four did extremely well. And because you were able to do this amazing with no rest is why I have decided to slowly rest you until finals. Because I believe that you can go even faster by finals. And Matthew,” Coach stopped a moment, “since you were lead-off, your time will count as an official individual time. I will be updating your finals entry to this new time. Get prepared.”

We were all still silent. I was so proud of my teammates as Coach talked, but there was no way I was going to be the first to start talking.

“Okay. Enough chit chat. School will start in one hour. Do a five hundred cooldown and you all are done.” Coach walked away and entered his office.

“Let’s do the cooldown and go into the locker rooms to discuss your times, I don’t know about you all, but I don’t want Coach to take back all he just said,” Matthew said quickly before leaving the wall to begin his cooldown.

Ken followed his pursuit. Jerry nodded in agreement and looked to me before he left too. I needed no more convincing. I moved to another lane and left the wall just like the guys.

…

“You didn’t notice?” Ken said before devoring his breakfast burrito.

Instead of talking smack in the locker rooms, we decided to go get breakfast a few blocks away. It was a food truck called the Hot Moo. They had the spiciest, but most delicious breakfast burrito. I was about half way into mine.

“You noticed too? I thought I was seeing things. She was acting funny on the car ride home,” Jerry murrmered through chewing.

“Brit?” I asked quickly before taking another bite.

“No. Jenny. After your declaration of family and the awesome demonstrations of homeschooler side hugs, she was quiet the entire drive to her house. She just kept looking out the window. Brit was normal as usual. She tried to include Jenny into our discussions of swimming and coaching, but she ignored her and continued to stare out the window,” Ken said in between bites.

“Bro! Please, choose to eat or speak! Don’t do both. But yeah. Jenny was acting unusual. She said a quick goodbye and ran to her door; not looking back to say goodbye before shutting the door,” Matthew was disgusted with Ken’s eating habits, but was not fazed enough to hinder himself from finishing his burrito.

All this talk was news to me, “Nope. I didn’t notice anything before you guys left. But also remember, she had the great showdown with Jeremy and actually stood up for herself,” I paused to let that sink in. “Also, if you remember after the John incident, Jenny seemed to shutdown as well. Her way of dealing must be to put up wall and figure this out at her own
pace.”

“That is true. Except for the awkwardness between the two of you she did become a completely different person before she figured it out,” Matthew said as he gathered up our trash and was throwing it away. “But seriously dude, what was with the side hug? She was obviously going for a normal hug?”

“I really didn’t think anything of it. I really do see you guys as my brothers, and now I do see Brit and Jenny as family. After Brit’s hug, I guess it was a reflex,” feeling exasperated that I was being questioned for good behavior. Heading to the jeep to head back to school, I paused, “I really don’t see the need to question me, and honestly I don’t really want to think about this. We should and will just focus on our swimming and prepare for finals. Sound good?”

“No worries, but I’m going to sleep on the drive back. I really can’t afford to fall sleep in another math class,” Ken said climbing into the back seat.

“If you wanted to sleep you should have skipped the breakfast and slept,” Jerry chuckled as he too jumped in the back.

“And miss out on the Hot Moo…yeah right,” Ken’s faced showed true disbelief and shock, “especially when George is buying. No brainer,” in a split second, Ken’s expression disappeared and change to smug confidence.

“Whatever. Let’s head to school,” I say as I pull out on the road.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 31

CHAPTER 32

Turning onto my street, my phone buzzed from my bag behind me. Turning down the music, “Jenny can you dig out my phone and hand it to Matthew?”

“Sure,” Jenny said as she found the phone and stretched to hand Matthew the phone.

“Next time we all pile in the jeep, I get a primo spot; one without this fat idiot,” Jerry grumble as Matthew was showing me the phone.

“Be nice or I’ll let the cannon go,” Ken smirked sarcastically leaning.

Unable to focus on driving, reading a text, and listening to Jerry and Ken bicker, “Will you shut it. I can’t pay attention with you two talking nonsense. And Ken, don’t you dare. Not unless you want to walk to my house.”

Silence.

“Thank you. Okay Matthew,” Looking at the message finally.

‘Credit card on island. Got inspiration. Sorry.’ -Dad

‘No problem Dad.’

…

We ordered the food as soon as we got to the house. Pizza, chicken wings, soda, etc. The normal healthy food that high schoolers eat. As we waited for the food to be delivered we decided to swim. I lent Jenny some exercise clothes while Matthew did the same for Brit. They looked hilarious in our baggy clothes; I think Brit more so because Matthew’s shorts looked more like pants. Jenny and Brit were chilling in the hot tub, while Jerry and I were finally finishing our cooldown. Jerry and Ken were
trying to mess with us underwater. The food arrived just as I started to feel relaxed. ‘Perfect timing!’

…

It was almost ten o’clock, “It’s amazing how fast time flies when you are having fun,” Jerry swung his arm over my shoulders.” I already called an Uber. It will be able to take all of us. We will take Jenny and Brit home first, and then we will be dropped off. You guys ready to go?” Jerry called to the living room as the rest headed towards us.

“Hold your horses. We have to wait for the driver anyways,” Ken said sitting down and leaning against the wall by the front door. “But I will say, I am happy to be going home. I am exhausted.”

Jenny and Brit were leaning against each other, while Matthew was leaning causually against the same wall as Ken.

“You all looked kind of awful. It is a good thing you all are heading home now; you all need your beauty sleep,” I said while Jerry laughed with me. Ken and Matthew completely ignored me as I expected; whereas Jenny and Brit fidgeted and stood more upright to seem more alert.

‘Beep beep, beep.’ Jerry pulled out his phone, “The driver is here.” He sent a message back, “I told him we would be out in a few minutes.” Taking his arm off of me, “Well see you tomorrow dude. Only one week until our future takes off. Let’s go, you four,” Jerry walked towards the front door.

“Yeah. See you all tomorrow,” Ken and Matthew gave me a fist bump. We were outside now, and they were heading towards the Uber; I watched as my friends walked away and I decided I would say what I was thinking. “I will say,” everyone paused, “it is a great feeling to have great friends. I guess I can call all of you my friends for life. Thanks for being my unofficial family.

Jerry came towards me with open arms, “Is this where I do a cheesy hug?”

“I think he definately needs a hug!” Ken ran up and squeezed the air our of me. “Come on Matthew, George needs a hug.”

Matthew slowly walked over and patted me on the shoulder. “I don’t think you really want a hug from me, because my arms would go around your head. You know because you are so short.”

Jenny and Brit who had moved closer laughed at Matthew’s statement. “Do you also need a hug from us, your new sisters?” Brit laughed as she walked up and gave me a crisp homeschooler style side hug.

I laughed, “Thanks Brit,” giving the side hug back.

Jenny had also came up to give a hug, probably not wanting to be left out of this cheesy hug fest. I accepted her approach by giving her a side hug as well. Jenny stiffly smiled and returned the side squeeze. Dropping my arm and moving away I shooed them towards the car. “Stop all this nonsense. The driver is waiting. See you all tomorrow.” I walked back to front door and was closing it just as they closed the car door. ‘Tonight was a strange, but great night.’

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 30

CHAPTER 31

I had another out of body moment. I had held my breath the last lap so I was unable to see straight as I held onto the wall. I could hear screaming; however, I couldn’t tell you the tone. ‘Come on head! Clear up so I can see the result.’ I ducked my head underwater to clear my mind; surfacing I could see the guys hugging and dancing around behind the block. Jeremy was also hanging onto the wall, but he had his head down and was not saying anything. ‘That’s a first. Must be a good sign.’ Looking at the board it read, lane 4, 1st, and 3:15.00…

“What!?!” I was shocked. That is our best time by about five and half seconds. “Wait?…” I searched for Coach; two big thumbs up were waiting for me. ‘Wow’ I think that is the first time Coach showed any encouragement publicly. Jenny and Brit were hugging and and jumping behind Coach. Wow they were identical to the guys. ‘The guys.’

I dragged my body out of the water and into their laughing embrace. ‘Ouch’ I didn’t realize how bad my muscles hurt until this moment.

“Dude you did it! And almost by one and half body lengths!” Ken had latched onto my shoulders and was screaming in my ear.

“Really?” I knew we won but I didn’t know it was that much, “turning my attention back to the board and saw Mountain High’s time…3:16.89… Wow almost two seconds behind. “That’s awesome!”

Jeremy had pulled himself out of the pool; he teammates had already left him behind.

“A deal is a deal. You will uphold your end.” Talking to Jeremy’s back, because he was trying to leave and would not face me. “Uphold…”

“Whatever. Fine. Just later,” and Jeremy huffed out, still with his back to us, he walked off.

‘Oh he will be upholding it later. I will make sure of it,’ walking towards the cooldown pool.

…

I didn’t realize how much tension I had in my body until I jumped into that cooldown pool. Matthew and Ken only did about half of what Jerry and I did. I needed more. I was hurting. As coach said you cooldown until you don’t hurt. ‘I don’t think the pool will be open long enough for that.’

Jerry flagged me down, “Come on George. Brit just came and told us to hurry up. If we need more cooldown he said to do more at your house. Coach has to go get Lily; I guess she has been, as Brit said, ‘an angry pickle today’.”

“Okay. I will probably be swimming more when I get home. I am still so tense,” I said as we clambered out of the pool. “Is it like now? Or do we have time to shower off?”

“I think its now. I guess Mrs. Bailey is about to lose her marbles; and Coach doesn’t want to lose her as a back-up person who babysits. Since you are going to swim again, just skip the shower. Anyways we need to hurry to catch the apology.

“Right. Let’s go,” I was not about to miss my early reward.

…

I was going to include all the entire team to watch Jeremy’s pathetic apology, but Jerry stopped me, “He won’t apologize in front of many people. If he is humiliated too much he won’t be sincere. Let’s just wait until the rest of the team leaves, and I already told Ken and Matthew to get Jenny and Brit.”

“Why are you always right Jerry. Fine. But it would have been great,” gathering up my gear as we head to where the apologize would go down.

People reading, I wish you could be here to watch this. It is perfect. Jeremy was behaving almost identical to John. Cowardly standing in front of us; none of his buddies were present. They probably all left right after he lost the race.

“So you gonna talk? You were all talkative earlier?” Ken was the first to speak in the silence.

We all chuckled.

Jeremy looked up.

I don’t know why his discomfort makes me so happy. He looked like he might start swinging before apologizing.

“Dude. Just man up and admit your mistake and apologize; or your wimping out might become the new gossip to talk about,” Ken interjected again. “Let’s imagine, ‘Did you hear about the captain from Mountain High who talked to much and chickened out when’…”

“Fine!” Jeremy walked towards Jenny.

I stopped him when he was close enough. “You can apologize from there.” I stepped off to Jenny’s side; the guys and Brit took up their places behind her.

Jeremy stopped right where I wanted him to. “Wow. Even now you are going to deny she is your girl? Man, I bet your real girlfriend is jealous of how…”

“Jeremy. This is not the time for your nonsense. A bet is a bet. Apologize,” I was done with him. ‘Why do I have to keep handling jerks who can’t apologize.’

“I’m sorry for what I said to you,” Jeremy said clearly.

‘Okay. At least it was loud enough to be heard.’ “Is that it? All that bluster for a pathetic apology.” Jerry called him out on it; thankfully it was not me.

Jeremy glared at Jerry, and then at me, “I should have never bet a… fine,” turning back towards Jenny, “I am sorry for my rude behavior and my rude words. I will be better behaved the next time we meet. You good?”

“Yes I’m good. I accept the apology,” Jenny finally spoke, but her stance showed that she wasn’t done; “however, I hope we never see each other again. As my friend says, ‘Ignore.’ Ignore me in the future. I want no part of your childish behavior to effect my swimmers.”

“Mic drop. Enough said,” Matthew said while Brit leaned against him giving an agreement nod.

Not waiting for more, “On that note, let’s leave. We should always ignore the people not worth acknowledging.” Jenny grabbed onto my arm and started walking away from Jeremy. “George do you think we can catch a ride? I realize Coach was my ride home.”

“No problem. But let’s head to my house for some celebration food. I’ll let my dad know,” pulling out my phone, letting Dad know what was up. I got a quick response. ‘Okay will have food ready!’ “We are all set. Let’s go. But it will be a tight fit,” pulling out my keys and unlocking the jeep. “Pile in!” Completely ignoring Jeremy’s presence.

Matthew who is the tallest claimed the front seat. The other four scrambled and squeezed to fit in the back. They finally settled with the idea of Ken sitting on Jerry’s lap while buckled. It was already exclaimed that this experience will never leave the jeep, said by both Jerry and Ken glaring, or we will have to eat our shoes. We all just laughed as we drove to my house. Looking in my rear view mirror, Jeremy was no where in sight. ‘Good. Hopefully he learns something this time.’

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 29

CHAPTER 30

The meet went pretty much as planned. Our B and C relay teams did the first relay. They did as Coach said earlier, “Home Pride,” and defeated the B and C teams of Mountain High like it was nothing. Jerry and the guys were actually beginning to believe their sarcastic words from earlier; believing we would actually win. As individual events go, today’s meet was different than most; the events were our off events, because Coach didn’t want us to use up or great race at this meet. So Matthew and I exchanged events, while Ken and Jerry exchanged.

It was weird to be swimming a backstroke event, and it will probably be my last time based on what Coach said afterwards, “That was interesting? It’s a good thing that it is not your normal race.”

‘I am good never swimming it again’; Matthew is crazy for liking that race. Still, this exchange did make it well worth it, to see Ken struggle and die in Jerry’s normal five-hundred event. It was priceless.

Jenny and Brit were doing as I had suggested; they would help Coach in anyway he needed. This was the first meet where I’ve seen Coach so relaxed.

Our medley relay had been in the middle of the meet. That event was piece of cake to win. Even though Jeremy’s gang talks a big talk, they don’t have enough to beat us at our specialty strokes. But that wasn’t the relay that decided my fate; the four-hundred freestyle relay did. Each person, four laps, racing to the end. And naturally it is the last race of the meet.

Since my last race was not too long ago and the relay is coming up, I’ve been staying in the cooldown pool. Jerry and the guys had jumped in with me a moment ago, but they did a quick warm-up; now they were stretching behind our lane. Normally this was where the pressure would be beginning to build, but instead I know I cannot lose. My future, Jenny’s reputation, Coach’s pride, the guys, my dad, anyone I care about is depending on me. That pressure is motivation. ‘No one is stopping me. No one.’

I decided enough was enough, I’m as ready as I’ll ever be. Climbing out of pool, I see Jeremy and his gang were about to enter. ‘Good’ I don’t want to be anywhere near him; just because, he knows he is screwed and would try anything to stop me. ‘Ignore them. They aren’t worth it. Walk away.’

“So you really do believe that you will be winning?” snickered Jeremy as I walk by him.

‘Ignore.’

“I don’t know what you see in her. She is just a mediocre girl. Is she really worth throwing your future away for? Are you so desperate to be her boyfriend that you will attempt to prove your feelings through trying to defend her.” This time is was Brian.

‘Fight the urge. Settle it in the pool. Ignore. But maybe walk faster.’

“Yeah maybe he likes girls like her. Maybe his type is…”

Turing around. Thankfully I was a distance from him, so I could not do anything damaging. “Shut up Jeremy. Let’s settle this in the pool. You game? Or afraid?” I turned away and headed to my guys. Not wanting to hear his stupid comeback. ‘It’s on.”

…

It’s time…The order was as always, Matthew, Ken, Jerry, then me. I was always last; the anchor. Which means I am handed all the pressure of winning. I like the pressure!

“Beep, beep, beep,” the ref blew his whistle to signal us to the blocks. Jeremy and his gang were in lane next to us. It was fitting that Jeremy was also anchor; I will be leaving him behind with only his bad attitude as company. Continuing to stretch and warm my muscles up, I search for Coach; finding him I see the nod of approval. That is what I must always see before a race. To his right stood Jenny; she looked hopeful but also worried. Hopefully my reassuring nod gave her some hope. ‘Don’t worry Jenny; I won’t be losing this one.’

The long whistle brought me back to the race. Matthew had stepped onto the block. We knelt around him. Silence filled the deck.

“Take your mark….BEEP,” Matthew was off!

…

Matthew did his job. He gained a small lead. Touch…and Ken was off. Ken was the one to be nervous about; he only swims freestyle on relays. All he had to do was keep up with our competitor or only fall a little behind…No…’Come on Ken!’ I yelled in my head conserving my energy.

Touch…Jerry left. Thankfully we were only two arm lengths behind, but that distance could be the difference. However, all the motivation I have built up inside me, no distance can defeat me. Stepping onto the block. ‘Come on Jerry. Catch me up.’

One stroke. Two. Three…touch…GO! I was only a smidge behind Jeremy when I dove in. One lap at a time. ‘I WILL win.’ At the fifty mark we are tied, but sadly for Jeremy I am not done yet. Time to leave Jeremy behind. ‘See ya after the race.’ Flip-turn. One lap left. This was no longer a race against him, but myself. One. Two. Wall…

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 28

CHAPTER 29

“Dude!?…what…?” Jerry yanked my arm turning me around, the morons had walked off, “Do you understand what you just did? You agreed to drop the race, that would for sure secure you a spot at the Montana school. What are you thinking?”

I could tell Jerry was pissed. I also realized what I had agreed to. A second ago I had no hesitation if there was a possibility of an apology, but now I am slightly regretting making a bet with that jerk. But I wasn’t about to show it, “If we lose. Will we lose? No because all we have to beat is that lot. So don’t fight me on this; we will win.”

Before Jerry could pursue the topic, “Of course you will win,” Coach had come back to us, “but what was happening a moment ago? George?”

“Nothing Coach. It was handled, and without a possibility of being thrown out of the meet,” lying my butt off to Coach but I didn’t want to explain what was just said about Jenny. ‘Jenny?’

Coach interrupted my thoughts before I could think about anything, “Good. I can’t have any of my swimmers being labeled as a bully. And you three,” Coach said turning to Jerry, Ken, and Matthew, “do you have so little confidence in yourselves? In your team? George believes it, and so do I. What about you?”

“Of course Coach! We will be on top. No one can beat us,” Jerry laid the pep on a little thick. Ken and Matthew came to Jerry’s sides and draped their arms over his shoulders in agreement.

“Kiss up…but keep that mind set. Let’s head back to the rest of team and relay details. The meet will start soon,” as Coach walked away Jerry and the guys followed. Brit next. Then I fell into step with Jenny.

…

“Are you okay?” we were a distance from the others, but close enough that they wouldn’t stop to see if we were following, “We will be there soon. If you don’t want to discuss it now we can wait. We only have a few minutes.”

“Why did you do it? Was what he said really that awful? Did you have to risk your future for my reputation?” Jenny stopped us and spoke as quietly as possible.

I kept us walking, “Yeah, Jenny. It was bad and, as I said to that jerk, I stick up for my friends. Don’t worry too much about it. They have no chance, they are just hoping to scramble us in hope they could beat us. But they have nothing.” I was adamant about it now. I was no longer worried about my decision to stand up for her; it was the right thing to do, “I’m also a bit excited to see him grovel out an apology. Don’t expect much, but he will be giving you one.” I wanted to keep this upbeat vibe up, but I needed to know, “did you hear him?”

“No. Thankfully. Seeing how you reacted it was probably awful. Should I know?” Jenny stopped me.

“No. It’s not worth repeating. But we should really keep going; I don’t want you to be the center of everyone’s attention again. Also don’t worry about it again; I will tell Coach what happened tomorrow,” I started to pick up our pace to catch up to the group. “I will be focusing on beating their butts and making him regret talking. You will just follow Coach’s instruction and help him.”

“Sounds like a plan. Thanks George,” Jenny said as she held my forearm as we walked.

“No problem. It’s what I should do as a Captain, but also a friend. Let’s go,” gently shaking her hand off as I increased my speed to a speed-walk; finally catching up to the group just as they reached the rest of the team.

“Here are the details,” Coach rambled off rules and changes to some events schedule.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 27

CHAPTER 28

The captain meeting was as expected. Jerry and I were respectable to the coaches, refs, and the rude competitors. Jeremy and Brian, the breaststroker of Mountain High, were as usual not respectable. Which really shouldn’t be a shock, since their coach is a real piece of work as well; he would be labeled as a screamer. Still, as our coach directed us, we were on our best behavior. After shaking hands…if you could call it that, it was more like a slap than anything, we walked over to Coach to relay the details before his meeting. Jenny and Brit were behind Coach, but they would not be going to the Coaches meeting.

“Stick with these two, will you both?” as we approached, “I don’t need them getting lost, or being tormented by their already fans.” Coach turned and looked towards Jeremy and his gang hovering off to the back of us. Thankfully, Ken and Matthew both walked up to us at that moment, “Good more people will help keep the idiots at bay. Once my meeting is done we will go back to the rest of the team and distribute the details,” at that Coach headed over to the meeting.

I quickly explained to Ken and Matthew what the deal was. They nodded in agreement and took up their positions in front of Jenny and Brit, creating a wall between the jerks and us.

“I’m sorry we are more of a problem than being helpful,” Jenny said as she moved to hide behind Matthew’s body.

“Don’t worry about it,” I said touching her shoulder, “those jerks are always awful; they have been that way since Freshman year. Just do as Brit said, ‘Ignore them’.“

“I like it that my advice is being used!” Brit said with a smirk, but then folded her arms in front of her, as I assume extra layer of protection.

I guess the ignoring was getting to them, because Jeremy, Brian, and the other idiots were coming towards us. ‘Great. Coach won’t be done for another ten min. A lot can happen in that amount of time.’ “Get prepared,” I said stepping in front of Ken an Matthew, taking my stance in front of everyone. Jerry also stepped in front of Jenny and Brit sending them to the back of the half circle barrier.

“So, I see you have some new helpers on your team. Hot ones at that,” Brian was the first to speak, “Are they for your pleasure or are they for us as eye candy?” his group snickered.

“Shut up, Brian. They are coaching assistants,” cutting him off before more lued words would come out, “show them some respect.”

“What’s it to you, George? I heard that you beat up a guy for her. Is she yours?” Jeremy paused a moment but not actually allowing me to talk; “but on the other hand, I heard that she rejected you. So you must not be her type; maybe I am,” Jeremy snickered and stepped in Jenny’s direction.

I just held up a hand to stop him in his tracks. Of course the news traveled to this school. I was annoyed that Jeremy thought he had something over me, but more so that he will probably taunt Jenny with her baggage. “What’s it to you? She is one of my good friends. I will always stick up for my friends. Just drop it,” stepping directly in front of Jeremy. “Just walk away and prepare for the racing.” Secretively, I waved behind my back telling the guys to step away and keep the girls at the back. They did.

“Yeah. Maybe you are right. I don’t see her as my type anyways, seeing as she is a…”

I grabbed Jeremy’s jacket and brought him closer to my face. “Apologize! Now!” I was furious. Jerry and Ken rushed towards me trying to pry me off of Jeremy. I was glued to Jeremy’s pretentious smile, this was his goal all along. To get me to react, to his foul mouth, and punch him; then be thrown out of the meet. I let go of the moron , but still allowing Jerry and Ken to hold me back. I look behind them and see Matthew keeping Brit and Jenny away from it all. ‘I hope she didn’t hear what he called her.’

“Well seeing how you responded for your girl,” Brian hollered behind Jeremy, “…”

“She is not my girl! But you should still show some respect for other people,” I was all riled up now.

“Dude. Calm down,” Jerry was continuing to hold me back, probably because he knew I definitely would be riping Jermery’s smuge smirk off his pretentious face.

“Fine!” I huffed and shruged off Jerry and Ken’s restraining arms. “Apologize.”

“Okay, but you have to agree to a deal; more like a bet. If your measly pathetic team wins the relay, I will apologize for speaking the truth.”

Jerry grabbed my arm before I could begin my punch. He just shook his head.

“But if we win, you have to give up swimming the hundred freestlye at finals. Take it or leave it,” Jermey held out his hand.

Without hesitation, “Deal,” and I shook the jerk’s hand.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 26

CHAPTER 27

Some days have passed; I’m not the best at keeping up with my thoughts. I guess I should summarize…Our lawyer took care of everything. Dad gave me a short recap of what happened: Dad is my only legal guardian now, and it is on record that I do not wish to see my mom until I decide otherwise. Jerry did not receive a ticket for driving my jeep, incase any of you were worried; and he was not late to the practice. However today, we as a swim team have died. Coach told us we would be doing a long recovery before our final big meet; which means we would back off in practices and slowly be well rested before our finals. Instead, he recanted that statement, after remembering we had our one last duel swim meet with our rival team. Which happens to be now.

It is a home meet. Which means home pride is a must, especially against our rival school. We are currently in our stretching area preparing for warm-up. Jenny and Brit are in Coach’s office discussing with Coach what to expect; these past few days they have been nervous about their first meet being coaching assistants. Mrs. Bailey agreed to watch Lily; knowing Coach needed one less distraction at this busy meet. Jerry and I were leading the stretching routine as our competitors showed up.

There he was. The star jerk from Mountain High, Jeremy Michaels. He was a real piece of work. I’ve been racing against him since my childhood club days, and he is still the same stuck up moron he has always been. He was with his usual gang. Our rival relay. All those guys are jerks. If I’m calling someone ‘jerk’ know that they truly are. As if hearing me, Jeremey looked in my direction and gave me a “slice your throat”. ‘Yeah. Sure,’ I gave him a confident nod in response to his idiocy. Jeremy just scoffed at me and then they all walked off to the opposite corner of the pool deck to get ready.

“When will that moron ever learn? If he couldn’t beat me when we were young, and he hasn’t won since, what makes him think I will be intimidated by the stupid slice the throat gesture?” I say to Jerry who just snickered in response. “Okay everyone. Let’s begin our normal warm-up. Lower lanes stay away from the other team. Don’t give them any of our space, but don’t let them “accidently” beat you up under the water. Remember what happened to Geoffrey last meet with them?” reminding them, even though it is not hard to forget.

Everyone nodded in agreement. Geoffrey is no longer on the team. At our last swim meet against Mountain High, he was given a black eye and a severe concussion. Nothing could be proven because swimming can occasionally be a contact sport in warm-up situations. Geoffrey’s parents removed him from the team afterwards.

“Okay then, let’s begin,” I jump into the cold water, knowing that this meet will be different than the rest.

…

Thankfully no one was hurt during our warm-up. When we were on our interval quick sets, the other team got into the pool with us. At least they stayed in their lanes, and didn’t try to bully the slower swimmers into moving. Coach was behind our lanes waiting for us to get out and start our dives. Jenny and Brit were there behind Coach; they looked stunned and also confused. Swim meets are a completely different type of crazy than practices. There are almost double the amount of bodies in the pool and probably twenty more people behind the blocks preparing to be the stopwatches. It is mad chaos if you don’t know what to expect.

I climbed out of the pool first, “Get out! Let’s go! Everyone needs to do at least three individual dives and those doing relays, practice two relay exchanges.” I knew what Coach was going to say, and since he was “babysitting the co assistants” I just took over. Everyone followed my lead and began their dives.

The teammates who were not doing relays needed to do a short cooldown and were done. They exited and the rest of us lined up for our relay exchanges. There is a logic to lining up; you have to be in the order of your relay race. Everyone’s exchanges are different; you have to get accustomed to your person as much as possible. Because in a relay if you leave the blocks before your person touches the wall, you disqualify the entire relay. Which sucks! We did that twice in Freshman year; never again after Coach gave us an earful, and non stop relays for two hours.

After a short cooldown we were finally done. I looked over to the other team, and they were sitting there watching us. ‘Lazy’ is all I could think. ‘Whatever. If they want to slack off that’s their deal.’ “Let’s go guys. We should relax before our races,” I beckon to Jerry, Ken, and Matthew who were still floating in the water.

“A swim meet is completely different from practices. Is it always this chaotic?” Jenny said as we came towards Coach.

“Jerry and George, make sure to be at the captains meeting at the beginning. Make sure to be respectable. Even if your opponents are not,” Coach said as he turned to look at the group of swimmers goofing off in the pool. “GET OFF THE LANE LINES!” Coach screamed at Jeremy and the others, and they begrudgingly removed themselves from the lane lines. “Ugh. I really dislike this team. Home pride,” looking us in the eye, “Remember…Home Pride,” Coach said before walking off to his chair.

“Sorry about that, yes Jenny, they are always like this. But I would say this one is probably the worst, because of them,” I thumbed behind me to the other team, “they are notorious for being rowdy and jerks.” Jenny attempted to look around me, “Don’t give them the time of day. Just give all your attention to your team,” blocking her view with my body, “they will just try to make your life miserable if you let them.”

“No problem. I am an expert at ignoring people,” Brit said quite proud of herself. “Well if you think about it…all the idiots at school; I’ve gotten good at ignoring them. So much so, that they think I am snooty.”

We all laughed with her. “We should head back over to our area and relax, the meet will be starting soon,” I said trying to usher the group away from the blocks. Jerry helped me by instigating conversation with the girls to get them walking. Once more I looked back towards “the enemy” and they were looking past me; following their gaze, they were staring at Jenny and Brit walking away. ‘Great.’ I knew the girls would get the jerks’ attentions. Turning my gaze back to him, Jeremy switched to me and smirked. Finally giving me a sarcastic salute and then engaging in a, probably awful, conversation with his gang of friends. ‘Whatever. If they try anything we’ve got the girls’ backs. Plus they are on the coaching staff. I they do anything they could be in huge trouble for disrespecting a coach.’ I, do as Brit said, “ignore them” and turn to catch up to my gang. The better gang.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 25

CHAPTER 26

Finally clean and looking somewhat human, I head to the kitchen. To find Jerry scarfing down some cereal and a banana. “What’s your deal, worried your food will be stolen?”

“I got a text from coach this morning, telling me I have a short but intense practice before school today. Since I slept in late I’ve got to jet,” he said gulping down the milk and placing his dishes in the sink. “Oh. Crap.”

“Now what,” startled by his sudden outburst?

“Ummm…can I borrow the jeep? I had planned to go home last night, but you know…” Jerry stopped, probably because he didn’t want to drag me back to last nights events.

“That should be okay. Do you know where my Dad went?” I ask as I get up to find my keys.

“He took a call as he was making his breakfast. Do you need to ask him first? I could always call an Uber if it doesn’t work for you,” Jerry quickly pulled out his phone in response.

“Don’t worry about it Bro. Just drive somewhat carefully. If you get a ticket we’ll deal. You better head out. Coach will be harder on you if you are late,” throwing my keys to him and pretty much ushering him out the door.

“Thanks du…” all Jerry got out before the door was slammed behind him.

‘He will thank me later.’ I’ve only been late to an early morning practice once; because, once was enough torture to last me a lifetime. ‘Cereal sounds good. Cereal it is.’ I grab a bowl and the cereal from the shelf and sit my butt down to enjoy my breakfast.

…

Dad somberly walked into the kitchen, phone in hand. He didn’t look so good, “Dad? What’s going on?”

“Nothing for you to worry about Son,” Dad said walking past the kitchen into the living room.

“You are kind of terrible at deals, if you go back on your word the next morning. We agreed to talk about everything. This divorce is not only happening between you and Mom; I am apart of it,” I sighed and headed into the living room, while sitting on same couch from last night’s occasion.

“You are right,” Dad rubbed the back of his neck, “I apologize Son. I just didn’t want a repeat of last night,” gesturing to where I was sitting. “Okay. I got a call from our lawyer. He received the finalized report from the police early this morning; he rushed them a bit. He says with this report it will allow me to gain full custody,” Dad stopped speaking and looked at me.

I tried to hide my true reaction but I failed. Sadness and relief is probably what Dad saw. “Don’t get me wrong I am happy that I won’t be an object to be fought over. I just…I’m…”

“I know Son. I know,” Dad raked his fingers through his hair.

“Continue Dad.”

“Okay. Well he mentioned you will be the deciding factor of visitation rights. Since you are older, you may decide for yourself. He did specify that if you change your mind in the future, and want to switch to a new agreement you can. So to put it simply, your choice is not life sentencing,” trying to be clear and precise with his words.

I get it. I now understand why Dad didn’t want to discuss this with me. I have to decide on my future with my mom. Me. “I’m not sure. I know one hundred and ten percent I want to live with you. At this moment, the thought of running into Mom…that woman…what do I call her?”

“She is and will always be your mom. Just call her Mom. Until you figure out what you want to call her,” Dad answered me blantly.

“Okay. Mom. The thought of running into her at this moment makes me annoyed. So I assume for the time being I would rather no visitation, but I don’t know if I want it indefinitely,” Knowing right now, I would probably walk away if my mom came anywhere around me; meaning I answered correctly.

“Sounds good Son. I’ll let the lawyer know. Once you turn eighteen, things will change anyways. You will be a legal adult and you could just choose to not see her without making it legal. But Son, it is almost school time. You heading out? Don’t forget the project.” Dad paused and grinned, “I feel accomplished now; Jerry specifically told me to remind you, and I just did,” he gave himself a pat on the back.

“Right… about that Dad. I let Jerry borrow the jeep. He had to get to school quickly, and it was my fault he didn’t make it home yesterday.” I totally forgot to mention Jerry and the jeep earlier.

“Oh. Okay. Next time let him borrow my truck. Since your jeep is in your name, and you haven’t had your license long…just next time my truck.” Dad grabbed his keys and headed towards the door. “I’ll get the truck going. Grab your stuff and let’s get going.”

“No problem,” running through the house to grab everything, including the project; ‘Jerry would kill me if I forgot it.’ Then I was out the door and into the truck.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 24

CHAPTER 25

Echoing nothingness…I can’t hear anything. My vision is blurry, but also clear. I was like a ghost watching my body stand in front of me.

“………..” Jerry standing beside me, “……..Du….de….?”

What was happening? Dad was sitting on the opposite couch with his head in his hands. Jerry was motioning to my Dad to get his attention back on me. Now Dad was looking at me, a look of panic was glued on his face. Dad was shaking…me…I could feel it, but more like an after shock. Then somehow I was sitting on the couch. Dad was pulling out his phone and was urgently calling someone. Jerry was pacing in front of me. Mentally I was stretching out a hand and stopping Jerry, but my arms didn’t move. My vision was beginning to blur and I felt like closing my eyes… should probably go to my room…laying down would be nice…

…

Opening my eyes, I am blasted with brilliant ceiling light. Moving my head slowly looking around, I see a Jerry asleep in a seated position on the table, and Dad was sitting on the floor next to the couch I was currently laying on. Blinking and looking around I finally realize I am still in the living room. ‘What happened in this living room was just an awful dream right? It didn’t actually happen?‘ Wow, my limbs are burning; I twitch trying to move my stiff shoulder muscles.

Dad jumped at my movement, “Son? Are you okay?”

Jerry had also sat up startling and rushed towards the back of the couch, “Yeah you good Bro? You almost gave me a heart attack collapsing in front of me. You suddenly were standing, and then wanted to lay down in the air!?!”

“Yes, thankfully Jerry was by you; he caught you mostly and placed you on the couch. Are you feeling alright? Doctor Mark came by and said, due to emotional stress and shock you fainted,” Dad was gripping my hand.

‘I fainted? Emotional stress…shock?’ “What are you talking about? Why would I be emotionally stressed?” Completely confused at what Dad and Jerry were saying.

Jerry and Dad exchanged worried glances. “Son, your mom was just here and she…” Dad finally answered me.

It wasn’t a nightmare. It actually happened. I actually said those words to her; I thought it was just something I dreamt up. No, it actually happened…

…

Opening my eyes, I realize I am in my bedroom. Last night was crazy. First my mom tried to forcibly make me stay with her and ruin my dad’s life in the process. Now, realizing our exchange of words were real, I feel empty. Like my mom was actually gone; I felt partly hollow now. My dad’s terrified and worried expression is still drilled into my brain; I never want to see that expression again. Also after realizing I was okay, Jerry went to the guest room to finish the project himself and let me rest; Jerry is awesome like that.

“Son? How are you doing?” Dad was standing in the door frame.

“I’m better. What aboout you?” I sat up in bed, my muscles were not as sore as last night.

Dad came into the room and sat on the bed, “…are you really good? You scared me half to death when you fainted. I was already shocked from your mother’s selfishness, to then meet your collapsing body.”

Dad looked haggard. As I really look at my dad, I see the worry lines in his face. Since the start of the divorce process, Dad hasn’t aged well. Unexpectedly Dad grabs my shoulder and then brings me into a big bear hug. “Dad…”

Still squeezing, “I know you can’t, but I hope you can not be stressed about anything. I really do hope you can just forget what happened last night and focus on your swimming and school. Do you think it’s a possibility?”

“Dad…I…ugh…” Dad probably didnt notice he was sufficating me.

“Oh sorry,” Dad said letting go of me, “I guess I don’t know my own strength,” then sarcastically showing off his muscles.

“Haha, sure Dad. But I don’t know if your request is possible. To be honest, I feel partly hollow. Will this emptiness ever go away?”

“Son. I too feel the hollowness. I assume overtime that hole will be filled with something new. Our hearts will heal and become whole overtime.” Dad began the statement confidently, but as he continued it wavered to uncertainty.

“Well…I will try. Because knowing Coach, if I am not giving practice my everything he is going to kill me. I think it will be best if you tell me everything that happens; because, I think it would be better for me to not be surprised anymore.” Looking up into my Dad’s face, trying to believe my own words.

“Okay Son. Well, we should start the day. Jerry is still asleep in the guest room. He stayed up late finishing the project. I helped as best as I could; Highschool science was a while ago for me. I’ll make sure to write you a note for your teacher. But let’s get going,” Dad stood up from the bed and stop just before the door, “and you might want to shower before school; you look awful.”

“Thanks,” rolling my eyes and swinging my legs off the bed. “But Dad…”

Dad paused in the hall and came back into veiw, “Yeah?”

“You too. Don’t stress too much. I also want my dad to focus on what makes him happy. All things will work out in the end. Also, let’s be up front with what we are dealing with. Let’s not be stereotypical guys and keep it bottled up. I will promise to tell you what’s up with me, but you have to do the same. Deal?” Giving Dad the ‘no crap’ stare.

“Sure thing Son.” Dad said smiling, “You’ve grown into a great young man. Thank you Son,” Dad left and continued down the hall.

Getting up and walking to the bathroom, I look myself in the mirror; for once, Dad was not lying to me; I looked awful. Laughing to myself, I begin my shower.