Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 21

CHAPTER 22

I have skipped my mental breakdown for you all. To summarize, it consisted of me trying to figure out how much Jenny and Brit had heard; about Jenny’s situation, about my parent’s, or about my shame for my mom… I guess I had been staring at them for the first thirty minutes which came off too weird; Jerry told me I looked creepy and I needed to stop. So instead, I just decided to enjoy the evening. Coach and Lily had arrived before Jenny and Brit. Lily was dancing in the living room; Coach was helping Dad with the barbequing outside, but always glancing towards Lily. Jenny and Brit were sitting on the couch watching, while complimenting Lily’s twirls. The guys had taken up residence in the kitchen, snacking on all the chips Dad had gotten.

“Don’t eat too much of that. You won’t have enough room for the meat,” trying to seem like I have self control; even though I could totally be stuffing my face, especially after the workout I did this morning.

“Okay mom…” Ken blurted but then went silent, probably remembering that is a touchy word in this household.

Matthew and Jerry took care of it, with a few good smacks to his back.

“Ouch,” Ken yelped.

“Don’t be killing our breaststoker until after the big meet,” Coach had come inside for some tongs.

“No problem Coach. Just giving him a nice massage,” Jerry said as he clapped on Ken’s back.

“Sure. Not my house. Not my rules. Take care of it George,” and Coach went back outside to help my Dad.

“See its not just us. Coach also said to let you ‘live until the big meet‘. Meaning after the swim meet you are free to die,” Matthew laughed directly at Ken, Jerry and I just added to the laughter. As our laughter died down we heard ‘Let It Go’; Lily must have been watching a movie on a phone. I looked towards the living room, Lily was singing and dancing along. Jenny and Brit were sneaking away, towards the kitchen.

“So what’s up with the little girl,” Brit questioned while grabbing some chips, “we were not officially introduced?”

“Oh that is Coach’s daughter, Lily. Initially, George was her favorite, but Grandpa Matthews stole her heart away,” Ken answered adding more info than needed.

“Wow. I assumed as much, but she is so sweet that I am surprised she is not more like your coach,” Brit looked back at the small body dancing and singing. “And George…how do you feel about the rejection?” Brit held up an invisible microphone in my direction.

“I’m good. Seeing her in my Dad’s arms made me happy. However, I do miss my little cheerleader,” laughing out the last part.

At that Lily came gleefully yelling towards me, “Geooorrrge!“

I squatted down to her eye level not knowing what to expect. She jumped and clasped onto my neck; I almost fell over, but I stood with her in my embraced.

Lily, arms still around my neck, looked towards Jenny and Brit, “Uncle George is mine. You can’t take him from me!”

The guys erupted with laughter; Jenny and Brit also chuckled, “Don’t worry little Lily, these two,” Ken thumbed at Jenny and Brit, “would never take Uncle George from you. He is all yours.”

The guys once again burst into a laughing fit. Lily had accepted Ken’s response and snuggled her head back down into my shoulder. Just for a split second, I thought Jenny and Brit’s expressions changed, but it was gone quicker than it was there. I must have been mistaken.

“Okay guys,” Dad yelled in the slider door, “meat is done! Come eat!”

I glanced through the glass windows and saw the marvelous spread of various side dishes, and various meats: ribs, steak, bacon wrapped chicken, brisket, etc. ‘We are going to eat well tonight!’

“Let’s go!” I said as Lily and I were there first through the slider door.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 20

CHAPTER 21

You know when someone calls you on something and you know that they are right, but you hate their guts at that very moment…Coach was right as always. I didn’t give my all; and I had enough fuel in my system to do more when I finally finished. I wanted to do another round to make up for my mistake but Coach, who had been on the phone the entire round, would not let me.

Coach’s exact words, “No. You messed up by not giving it your all. I want you to have to live with that little extra amount of energy. I design sets for you with a purpose. Like in a race, if you touch the wall and you still have more to give, you didn’t swim it correctly. Just like how you are feeling now. Your done today. Go shower and enjoy your day,” Coach hung up after his last words.

‘Crap.’ I do feel that way. I went all that distance but only to feel awful after finishing, and not because of sore muscles. I had showered and was eating a small lunch at the table when Dad came in.

Grabbing an apple, Dad sat next to me, “So, do you feel it? Did I do a great job? I really did enjoy pushing you and watching you put in the effort. You are one talented young man.”

“Thanks Dad. And yes, I am definitely feeling it. Be prepared for cooking a lot of meat tonight, but I did like having you around for the workout. Especially that one round, I was trying to make you proud. Good job Coach Matthews,” giving Dad a soft punch to the shoulder.

“Maybe I should switch careers. Maybe today, I have found my new calling…?” Dad made that iconic thinking face.

“Don’t quit your day job just yet. I’m looking forward to your new album,” cleaning up my plate and heading to the stairs.

“Fine. Don’t worry, Son. You will be mentioned in a song,” Dad said with a large smile.

Dad’s hooting and hollering followed me up the stairs.

…

The guys showed up around two in the afternoon. I know they were expecting my mom to rush them when they came through the door, instead they were shocked when she wasn’t there. “Is today not a mom day?” Jerry asked for the three of them.

Dad had thankfully walked away. “I’ll explain, but let’s go to my room.”

Ken and Matthew’s expressions made me laugh; they were desperately worried. “It’s never good when you have to explain in your room,” Ken murmured as we headed upstairs.

In our normal positions, I begin the long explanation, “My parents are divorcing. Maybe I should say my mom is demanding a divorce and my dad is agreeing. I won’t go too deep into their personal reasons, but Mom told me it as because Dad didn’t show her enough respect.”

“Are you okay with it?” Matthew was shocked and now sitting; he had sat up from the floor as I spoke.

“Yeah. That day my mom wanted to spend time with me, she threw a crazy party expecting me to mingle and make connections. She was sadly mistaken; I slept most of it in a corner. Then we had the wonderful talk of ‘her divorcing dad’ and ‘I need new friends’.”

That statement caught Jerry, “What!?! I though your mom liked us?”

I hated that I had to say my next words, “I didn’t know if she did or did not like you. I thought she liked you but wanted me to expand my friend circle, but clearly after that talk she thought you all were pulling me down. I’m saying what she said, not my own thoughts,” I added making sure that they knew I did not share my mom’s ideas.

They were silent for a minute. “No worries bro. We don’t worry about you. You would have, long ago, told us off if you shared her ideas. It’s just, at least for me, difficult to hear this from a lady I always though of as my second mom,” Jerry hunched over in his chair.

Ken and Matthew nodded in agreement. It was silent for a moment. “Did your mom comment on your dream of swimming too?” Ken sputtered in to break that silence.

“Yeah. She told me exactly what she thought about my decisions. That I would be seen as ‘worthless’ in her eyes. Also, if I did not choose to live with her she would to quote, ‘I will no longer see you as my son’.” That last part still stung; just like the day she said it to me. I can’t believe she sees me that way.

“Wow. Your mom is…wow,” Ken couldn’t complete his thought; which is amazing because he never shuts up.

“What do you mean live with her?” Matthew chimmed in.

“Oh yeah, Mom had told my dad that I had decided to live with her. ‘That I choose’. Which is complete nonsense; I would never choose to live with a parent who would never accept me as I am,” laying down on the bed and staring up at the ceiling; I relived that moment with my mom. Speaking at the ceiling, “After pretty much walking away from my mom and losing her as a parent, I came home to a completely drunk Dad. The house looked like a tornado came through. He was broken,” those words stung more.

“Bro,” Jerry said as he came to the bed. Ken and Matthew followed pursuit. Instead of just chilling with me they instead dog piled me. Matthew, Ken, then Jerry; I guess this was their way of comforting me.

“Dudes! Get off,” I muffle out into Matthew’s leg.

“Instead of a hug! This is way better, “Jerry sang out as he was enjoying being on top of the pile.

I have to ignore them until they believe the dog pile has done it’s job.

“Okay he should be good now. Let’s assume our positions,” Jerry yelled.

I don’t know if they could have gotten off any faster. They were off and back to their original positions; however, a smidge farther from me. “You guys are lucky Coach killed me earlier or I would return the favor.”

“What was the deciding factor? What made this all suddenly happen?” Jerry asked scooting a bit closer.

“Right. Yeah, Mom actually wanted to use Jenny’s incident to further my dad’s career. Dad found out about her plan and thankfully stopped it in time,” feeling ashamed for being that woman’s son.

“Dude…I don’t know what to say. I…I really don’t…” Matthew said completely shocked at what my mom could have possibly done.

Understanding how they are feeling; I too had been completely shocked when my dad told me. “Don’t worry about it. I felt like you guys when my Dad told me yesterday,” looking each of my friends in the face; they all shared an expression, disbelief. “I am ashamed to be related to my mom. Thankfully Dad and I are nothing like her.”

Suddenly Jenny and Brit burst through my door with Dad following in behind them. “There you guys are. More people,” Dad gestured to Jenny and Brit, “have come. Let’s all head to the kitchen and start the barbecuing.” Dad turned and left. Jenny and Brit followed pursuit. Ken and Matthew slapped me on the shoulders just before they left.

Jerry sat on the bed next to me and swung his arm over my shoulders, “You good dude?”

“Yeah, but how much did they hear?”

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 18

CHAPTER 19

“Dad…” We had finished our food, and we were sitting outside with our feet in the jacuzzi. “Mom lied to you; I never said I wanted to live with her. You are the one I would and did choose to live with.”

“Son. I am happy you are choosing to live with me, but I don’t want you to think or act too rashly. Your mom…she…yes, she choose selfishly. I never expected her to demand for a divorce. It was huge surprise for me as well,” as Dad spoke his face slowly turned back to the emotionless state of yesterday morning. “She is still, however, your mother…you should try and work something out with her. I am sure she said some things that were harsh or belittling, but you should go to her office tomorrow and try and talk it out.”

“Dad, she said I would become worthless if I stayed with you. She said if I was going to be a worthless son, then she doesn’t need to keep me as her son,” frustrated just thinking of what my own mother had said to me.

“Oh that woman! Believe me, there was a time I was head over heels for her. We had been growing apart. I think what really sealed the deal was the incident with Jenny. That morning, that you walked into us fighting, it was because she had written up a story trying to “help” my career, as she said,” Dad huffed out. “I found out just in time to threaten the news stations; that I would sue the piss out of them if they slandered our family friends.”

I was shocked. I knew my mom was self-centered, but I never though she would actually use gossip about someone we knew, to inflate my dad’s career. “Did the Baileys know?”

“Yes. After I caught the piece before it was published, I went to Mrs. Bailey. She was furious with me; someone who worked for your mother was sent prior, to collect details and pictures. She thought I had been the one to write the fluff piece. It took some time, but I was able to calm her down and convince her that it was your mother’s doing. Jenny had come home as we were talking; she seemed hurt that your mom would use her personal hurt for my own personal gain. I must reaffirm, I did love your mom, but when I found out about this, my love died,” Dad ruffled his hair with his fingers, “She changed from the woman I first fell in love with. I will say it was a gradual change; she wasn’t always like this.”

Shocked is not the right word. Anger. Anger is a better way to describe my feelings. Jenny’s experience with John was terrible, only to come home to a caring dad, and to find out a woman she had known for sixteen years was willing to use her hurt for self-gain. I feel so disgusted with the part of myself that is related to my mom. “Jenny…”

“Son. I need to confess another thing. I overheard you talking to your buds that night about what happened with Jenny. I know I totally broke the father-son code,” throwing his hands up in the air in surrender. “I heard that you…that she…”

“Yeah. It happened. It’s all good that you overheard. I wanted to tell you about what happened, but I was trying to move past it first. I have. We are just good friends now,” finally truly believing my words. “Now that I am for sure friend-zoned, I have been focusing on my studies and practices. I have to admit I’ve been more like a zombie robot than a person; I’ve been completely unaware to your issues with mom.”

“I am sorry about Jenny. I feel somewhat responsible. I’ve been treating Jenny like a daughter; probably so much, that she truly sees you like a brother. I am sorry for that,” Dad squeezed my shoulder in a apologetic manner. “Now looking back, I wish I had lighten up on the unofficial Dad role so that she could have been my true daughter-in-law instead. Since that will probably never happen now, I’ll be better with the next girl.”

I only smiled. I had no words to contradict or argue with him. I knew it and he knew it too; that he probably was the cause to the friend-zoning or more like brother-zoning.

“Regarding your mom and I. I am extremely happy you were oblivious to our issues. Yes, it was difficult to experience and not show to you, but I am glad that your studies did not falter during this time. Also your swimming. Your swimming is what is going to make your life a success. No matter what happens, you must always live doing things that make you happy. Or you really would be a zombie robot,” hanging his arm across my shoulders as we sit looking at the water rings.

Almost chocking up but holding it together, “Thanks Dad. Mom never accepted my true calling. That’s one thing Mom said, that won’t leave me be…she said ‘she would abandon me, however, if I did choose to stay with her she would give my life meaning with all the things she wants me to be’. Why can’t Mom understand me. It’s not like I’m a mediocre swimmer. I will be somebody in my future. Why can’t she see my potential.”

“Your mom loves you in her own way. Controlling way, but a way. Hopefully in the near future she realizes she made a mistake and come to apologize to you. We will have to wait and see. I am taking back what I said before, don’t go see your mom. We will wait for her to come to you,” Dad had gotten up and was waiting for me. “You coming in? I’ve got to hit the can. Have we talked about all we need to?”

“No more alcohol,” standing up and facing my dad. “You are my role model. If you drink yourself to passing out, I won’t be able to strive to be a man like you.”

Dad’s hand grasped his neck again, “Yeah, I know. I really lost it after I picked up your jeep from school, and saw our wedding picture. The drinking didn’t start until then. Still, I will be throwing out all the alcohol.” Chuckling he added, “I now have some inspiration for some new songs; heartbreak and drinking always make great content for country songs.” But he also pulled me into a hug, “thanks Son for viewing me as your role model. You should know how much that makes your old man proud. I can now also write some songs on father-son bonding too; another great source of song ideas. God bless me for having a Son like you.”

Patting his back before pulling out of the suffocating hug, “No problem Dad. Well, it seems like you need to go do some productive work, and use that inspiration. I’ve got homework to do anyways.”

“Thanks son. Also I was planning on inviting Jenny and her mother tomorrow for the barbeque. Just wanted your ‘okay’ before I did,” Dad pausing at the slider door.

“No problem Dad. As I said, I’ve made my peace. It will be nice to have her over,” I must have truly moved on; I have no feelings towards Jenny except friendship.

Dad only nods then disappears into his studio. I head to my room. I text the guys about the barbeque still on for tomorrow; also, letting them know that a few more would be coming. Giving them an open invitation to invite their parents or any additional people. The more the merrier! Now, for that homework I skipped last night.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 17

CHAPTER 18

Practice was great again. However, the tone of the practice was lighter than I’ve ever experienced. The appearance of Lily completely changed Coach and his normal attitude towards us swimmers. Where as, he wouldn’t yell at us. However, we all knew the ‘you know you can do better’ look. Due to Lily watching us swim, Coach didn’t want to be angry or harsh to us in front of his daughter. However, Lily is truly Coach’s daughter. At one point in practice Coach stopped Ken and mentally chewed him out for his terrible performance. Lily just giggled while pointing at his expression; she might have toppled over if she wasn’t standing next to her dad.

So over all, practice was good. We were all in the locker room changing. Ken was a sloth; maybe more like a dead sloth. He was sitting on the bench attempting to put his shoes on; he was slowly pouring over his body to reach his feet.

I guess Matthews couldn’t stand it anymore because he squatted down and put Ken’s shoes on quickly and quite roughly. “I am never staying up with you again. I’m good with being labeled as the stick in the mud. Never again,” Matthew finished as he stood up.

“Thanks dude, and me too. I won’t be staying up late the day before practice. Maybe school; school isn’t as killer.” Ken said slowly standing up. He swung his arm up and around Matthew’s shoulders, “But please be my walking slick, I don’t think I will make it otherwise.”

Ken and Matthew limped out of the locker rooms, but were going to wait by the doors for us. Jerry and I had to wait until the rest of the team left before leaving the locker room.

As we came through the door from the gym Little Lily came running towards me, “Uncle George!!” She screamed just as she threw herself into my outstretched arms. “You did so good today! Are you the best swimmer on the team? Can you teach me how to swim? Do you want to meet my stuffed animals? Can I come home with you?”

Her questions flew out of her; I was unable to keep up with her.

“Lily if you talk too fast he won’t be able to answer you. Ask him one at a time,” Coach stepped between me and the guys, locking the gym doors.

“Thanks Coach,” I sighed with relief that I didn’t need to remember everything she just asked, “what do you want to know?” I ask Lily looking into her eyes.

“Son?”

I looked away from the little body and off to my right, there stood my dad; he looked a smidge better than last night, but not much better. “Dad.”

Lily was still in my arms, but she was looking from me to my Dad and back to me. “Hi Grandpa George!” Lily let out a squeal of excitement and waved towards my dad.

‘Great‘ I was going to lose my new little person once she met my dad.

“Who’s this little lady?” My dad came up to us, “Aren’t you a pretty little thing.”

Lily reached out to my dad, and he gladly took her from me. “Wow, I was replaced so quickly,” I exaggerated a sigh out; the guys snickered at my response. Lily snuggled into my dad’s arms. I liked the look of my dad with a small little person in his arms; he was smiling more than I’ve seen in a while.

“Hello Matthews. You’ve met my daughter, Lily, already,” Coach said stepping towards my dad.

“Hey Brown. Yes, she is a sweetheart,” Dad said still holding the snuggling Lily.

Matthew, Ken, and Jerry were standing still and quiet behind Coach’s and Dad’s exchange. “It seems like they will be talking a while. I really need to head home to help my parents out with moving some things,” Jerry said to all of us.

“No problem bro. You can head out. Any of you can leave as well. I need to talk to my old man.” I said to the guys.

“Yeah, I’ve got to go home and sleep. I’m dead,” Ken said still hanging onto Matthew.

“I guess because he was my ride and I am currently his walking stick I’ll be leaving too. Is the barbeque hang out still happening tomorrow? Should we bring anything?” Matthew was still holding up the limp Ken.

“I’ll let you know if it’s still a go. I’m not so sure what my plans or days will be like the next few days. I’ll let you guys know,” waving off the guys as they headed to Ken’s parked car. I walked up to Coach and Dad still speaking. Coach was probably pouring out all the details of Lily’s situation. Lily had fallen asleep in my dad’s arms. “Dad? I don’t mean to interrupt, but we had plans today.”

“Yeah, sorry Brown we do have things to do today. Is she asleep?” Dad turned so that Coach could see her.

“Yep. She is out. You have gift Matthews; she never falls asleep for me. Before you go do you think you can attempt to put her in her car seat? It would be a big help.” Coach seemed to plead for this to happen like it was some sort of treasure.

“No problem. I fully understand. It was a pain getting this one to stay asleep,” Dad said in my direction as he walked toward Coach’s parked truck.

After Lily was buckled up into her seat, Coach drove off, but not before Dad invited him to the barbequing tomorrow; so I am assuming it is still on. “Dad. We need to talk, but I’m starving after practice today. Can we get food to go and head home?”

“No problem Son. Sounds like a plan,” Dad said as he swung his arm across my shoulders, pulling me towards his Dodge truck.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 16

CHAPTER 17

I tugged Jerry away, and we walked back over to the stretching area. Ken and Matthew arrived; they both looked ragged. “What happened to you two?” I hollered over to them as they approach us.

“Too many video games. Not enough time. No sleep…” Ken said as he dropped to the floor laying on his stomach with his arms spread out.

Matthew looked a smidge better than Ken, but only a smidge. “I got some sleep, but this one,” Matthew thumbed towards the dead Ken, “said it would be fun, and that I’m no fun. I proved him wrong, but I’m severely paying for it today. You don’t look so well either, Bro.”

“Yeah long night. I’ll explain another day,” I cut that topic short.

“Yeah, there is some new news…but I won’t spill the beans,” Jerry started his statement strong, but regretted saying anything after.

“Typical Jerry. Setting up for something big and crushing expectations,” Ken said muffled from the ground.

In response, Jerry pretended to stomp on Ken’s shoulder blades; instead, Jerry only slightly stepping on Ken’s back as our teammates came onto the deck.

“Looks like Ken’s day is off to a great start,” Tom, a lower lane teammate, chimed in, “are you portraying how Coach will be treating us today?”

“I hope not,” Ken and Jerry answered collectively.

“Everyone here?” I scanned the faces and they all nodded in agreement, “Good. Lets begin stretching.”

…

Just as we were finishing up a loud giggle escaped from Coach’s office. All heads turned towards the door, just as Little Lily came sprinting out of the door; only to fall over and face plant onto the deck. I quickly scrambled up to go to her, but Coach beat me to her. He must have heard the sudden yelp of pain, because Coach darted out of the office to scoop up Lily; she looked so small against Coach’s massive body.

He started towards us, all the soft whispers began, ‘Who is that?’ and ‘Why does Coach have a small girl in his arms?’ More of the same comments were continued to be whispered among them, up until Coach’s ears were in range.

“I can assume all of you can see the little girl in my arms?” Coach said point blank and no hesitation.

Looking around I just saw dumbfounded expressions or slight nods. “Say hello, Lily. These swimmers here,” looking at us, “will be your new uncles. Especially since you will be spending a lot of your time around them, you should just see them as your family.”

Lily’s head slowly lifted and looked around to the new faces. She did not look thrilled. Then her eyes found mine, she scrambled down out of Coach’s arms and came to stand by me. I guess our previous meeting was forgotten. She grabbed at my hand and looked up at me. “Uncle…what’s your name?”

She was so small looking up at me; her small hand was swimming in mine. I squatted down to her level, “I’m Uncle George.”

Lily smiled and jumped up and wrapped her small arms around my neck giving me a tight squeeze. I stood up while cradling her; her small body relaxed in my arms.

“Once again, George has been selected as someone’s’ favorite,” Jerry snickered, while other teammates chimed into the laughter. “Dude, do you every get tired of being the ‘chosen one’?”

With Lily still hugging me, “Nope I’m good with being the one for her. I think I found my new favorite person.” I hugged Lily back.

“Okay, okay, Lily,” Coach stepped towards me and the latched on Lily, ” Your Uncle George needs to lead the team in warm-up. Come back to me,” he said reaching out to pry off the clinging body.

“Nope. I want my Uncle!” Lily said into my shoulder as her arms clung tighter. She popped her head up and looked at me. “I love you Uncle George,” she kissed me on the cheek and snuggled back into my arms.

I must have been smiling because everyone erupted with a sarcastic, ‘Awwwww.’

“Make fun all you want, but I’m good.” I was quite content with being Lily’s new person in her brand new world. “Lily, as much as I would like to stay with you I do need to do as your Dad said,” I pull back from her. Her eyes are screaming a ‘no.’ “He is counting on me to be a leader. How about you get down and be the leader to all your Uncles. You will stand with your dad behind each lane and tell us one by one to ‘Go’! Do you think you are big enough for the job?”

As I finished speaking, Lily’s eyes lit up with excitement; she almost jumped down out of my arms. She ran over to her dad and tugged his arm until he moved behind my lane. “Okay Uncle George, Go!” she giggled as she spoke.

Getting an approving nod from Coach, and following her command I jumped into the pool to begin my warm-up. I could hear splashes of other teammates jumping in the pool. I stopped a distance away, and looked back to the wall. Lily was squirming with joy as she pointed at the other swimmers, and then she would giggle as they jumped at her command. Coach was standing tall behind her. Jerry was slowly catching up to me, so I turned back around to continue my warm-up. Feeling happy that I was able to include Lily into the world of swimming.

Life of Two Best Friends CHPT 15

CHAPTER 16

Jerry was parked on the street. The music was blaring so loud that I could hear it as I walked towards the car. He just got a black dodge challenger for his birthday; it was his dream car. I believe, he believes, he has more game with it. Anyways, I pull open the door and I almost fall over from the stupid loud music. “Dude. Turn it down!” I yell into the car, as I sit down.

“What?” Jerry questions me. He finally turns down the music, “What did you say? I couldn’t hear you?” Once we were buckled up, he started driving towards school.

“Exactly, I said to turn the music down. I could hear it as I walked to the car. You are going to drown out your eardrums so much you won’t hear the starting beep at a swim meet. Well now as I say that out loud, it sounds like a great idea; you should definitely do that so that I can beat you off the start as well.” I say grinning to myself.

“Haha very funny, but no problem, Dude,” Jerry said as he put the music to a relative lower volume, “I could always turn on some classical music; that might be your style instead. I wanted to get into the mood for practice with the head banging tunes. It gets me in the mood to die.” Jerry said as he pulled into back parking lot, behind the gym. “You ready to die?”

“No, not really. My head is killing me. But knowing coach he won’t care; he will still expect one hundred percent from me,” I say as we gather our gear and head to the gym.

“Yeah, you don’t look so good. You feeling okay, Dude?” Jerry said as we head into the quiet locker rooms; we were usually the first ones to early morning practices.

“I’m good. Just a long night,” remembering Dad was hopefully still asleep at home, “let’s get changed and go talk to coach about his plans for today.”

Walking out onto the pool deck I almost trample a young girl. She looked about six or seven years old; she was pushing around a baby stroller with a small plush puppy in the seat.

“Daddy?” the little girl let out a sharp shriek. “Daddy!?!” She said again as she ran away from us, but leaving her stroller behind. She disappeared into Coach’s office.

“…Coach?” Jerry uttered but didn’t finish the thought.

I grabbed the stroller and walked quickly to Coach’s office; Jerry trailed close behind me. At the entrance of the office, we were suddenly stopped by Coach, who was carrying the little girl in his arms. He didn’t look so tough with a little girl latched onto his neck.

“Coach. We ahh…” I stopped speaking as the little girl lifted her head and look at me.

“Daddy, he almost stepped on me,” she said accusingly and pointing at me. “Look, he even stole my puppy,” she said as she instead pointed at the puppy.

“…Coach. We didn’t. I mean I did almost step on her, but I’m not stealing…” I was trying to form complete thoughts but end up letting go of the stroller so that it rolled towards Coach.

“Little Lily. George wouldn’t take your dog, and see he gave it back to you,” Coach sighed deeply answering the little girl clutching onto him.

Jerry had been quiet. I side-glance him and he is just dumbfounded. I was too, but I wanted to be somewhat sane, “we were going to ask about your plans for practice, but..?”

“Yes. We can still do that. Lily, Daddy has to speak to his swimmers a moment. Go sit on my chair and draw me a picture please,” Coach said as he let the little girl down; she skirted off to the desk chair. “Let’s step out a little bit.”

It was silent for a bit; we three just stood outside the office. “Coach. The rest of the team are going to start showing up,” not really wanting to be the one to break the silence, but I knew Jerry was not going to speak.

“Yeah…the little girl is my daughter. My leaving practices early was due to that little thing,” Coach sighed towards the girl sitting in his chair happily drawing. “Her mother didn’t tell me about her, but since Lily’s mom died in a car accident, I am the only one able to take her. Since I don’t know anything about parenting I decided to bring her to practice more; also, my babysitter couldn’t come. Look at me babbling like a idiot,” Coach said combing his fingers through his hair.

“So…Lily…?” Jerry finally spoke.

“Her full name right now if Lily Rose Grant; I’ll be adding Brown onto the end as her legal name; we will call her Little Lily or Lily as her mom did. Anyways you don’t need to hear anymore about this. Instead, I need you two to be a little more aware of the team today; mostly because I need to keep an eye on my daughter. She gets into everything.” Coach said looking back at the small body in his office chair.

“No problem Coach, I would suggest though that maybe you look for an assistant coach or a student baby sitter; that way you could still Coach, but have your daughter around. On the other hand, before everyone else arrives what’s the plan today?” I wish I could help Coach more; he seemed at his wits end.

“I’ll write it on the board, and I’ll give them an explanation during stretching. Just go over to the stretching area and wait for your teammates.” Coach said as he walked back into the office. We watched as he walked up to Little Lily and began quietly talking to her. Lily’s face beamed with happiness, as she was held up her drawing.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 14

CHAPTER 15

I was just walking away. It felt like I was walking away from a part of me. What just happened. I just left, and now my mom is going to disown me. How could she selfishly divorce…Dad! No wonder Dad looked so strange this morning. He had been grieving from Mom’s stupid decision. I need to get home to him; but I suddenly remember I have no car. Looking down at my phone, dead. Of course, taxi it is. Hopefully Dad will be understanding towards the expensive taxi bill on the card.

‘Could this car ride be any slower?’ “Could you find a faster route?” I asked the driver who seemed to be taking the longest way possible.

“I can, but it will cost extra. I won’t be paying the bill for you kid. You got the green?” The taxi driver yelled over his shoulder not really giving a crap about me.

“Sure whatever. I’ll tip you twenty bucks if you get me there in twenty minutes or less,” I said because we are currently at snail speed; I was hoping the bribe would entice the driver to pick up the pace, at least to car speed.

“Your words, and I’ll hold you to them,” he said as he stepped on it.

Yeah, we got to my house in seventeen minutes; It was the most terrifying seventeen minutes of my life. I gave him twenty-five bucks in tip because he did, surprisingly, got me home in one piece and quickly. He tried to get me to pay more. Maybe, because he saw the house and thought I was one of those well of kids. I told him, ‘I can drop it back to twenty,’ at that he rolled up his window and darted off.

Remembering the purpose of all this, Dad! I pull out my keys and open the door.

Their wedding picture was laying on the ground, the glass shattered all over the ground. Mom’s face was scratched. Walking carefully around it, “Dad!? Where are you?” Continuing throughout the glass maze house, I search for him. All their pictures were all broken and shattered. A few empty bottles of whisky were scattered on the buffet; the same place where dad had been sitting when I left this morning. ‘Did he start drinking when I left.’ Hopefully that last thought was not true. I started up the stairs and there was strong smell of liquor.

“Hmmm, bghmmm, balaaaaa,” a mumbling voice came from my parent’s room.

Of all places why did he end up there? Opening their door, there sat the man I’ve always looked up to. My dad was sitting on the bed, close to the side table. He was hunched over looking at a family portrait. A half drunk bottle of whiskey sat next to the lamp.

“Why’d you ta…ke ev..erything frommmm me,” Dad said sluring his words. “You,” he sobbed, “you…took my on..l..y preciousssss thing. Why did you…havvve to take himmmmm.”

“Dad?” No response. My dad had gone off the deep end. He was pouring his heart out to this picture. I finally knew why he was drinking. My mom must have told him some crap about me choosing to live with her. “Dad?”

“I must…be dr..uuunk. Thisss pictttuure iss talkingg to meeee nooww,” he said as he grasped the picture to his chest. “I lovvveee you sssson…”

He was out before I could get to him. He fell back onto the bed; still grasping the photo. “Oh, Dad. Don’t worry I won’t be leaving you anytime soon. You’re stuck with me. I love you too,” taking his shoes off and swinging his legs up onto the bed. I make sure he is sleeping on his side. ‘I know this from the movies; see teachers, movies can be educational.’ I tried to take the photo away, but I guess Dad is determined to sleep with it as he latches onto the frame tighter. Lastly, I cover him with a blanket, and I leave him to his drunken slumbers. I decide to leave the door cracked; just incase he needs me.

‘Shower?’ I decide to clean the house first. I don’t want Dad to worry about anything when he wakes up tomorrow. Before starting, I check on him and he needed to puke; yes, some of the puke got me, but thankfully most of it went into the toilet. Also thankfully I hadn’t showered before cleaning. Once he emptied his stomach, he fell back asleep soundly. As I cleaned up, I could hear his snoring. It was going to be a long night. Shower time.

I’ll do the homework tomorrow; I’m pooped. One more check on Dad; he was completely out of it. It’s two o’clock… sleep time for me. Hopefully I wake up on time for early practice tomorrow. ‘Goodnight those who are reading; I’ll talk more tomorrow.’

…

My alarm went off at some point, but I must have turned it off. The second one…off. The third…off. The fourth…”FINE!” I yell pulling myself into an upright position, as I turn off the blaring alarm. I have to get up. I have to go. Get up. Get up! ‘Yelling at yourself only works so much’; so I throw my body off the bed and into a standing upright.

Dad?! I ran to his bedroom; he was still out of it. Lucky him. I wish I could still be out of it. I close the door quietly, go back to my room, change, and grab my gear for practice. Heading downstairs, ‘Woops’, I forgot about the empty bottles. Initially thinking of throwing them out, I stopped suddenly. Instead, I line them on the buffet. I also put the half opened one from last night there too.

As I got my breakfast together, my phone went off; it was a text from Jerry saying he had arrived. With my current headache, I didn’t want to think about driving. Before leaving for practice, I wrote a note for Dad and quickly stuck it to a bottle. ‘No more of this. I am not leaving. You are my dad. So get rid of all of this. If you are awake by eleven-thirty come to the pool and pick me up. -George.’

Another bleep from my phone, “Cool it Jerry, sheesh.” I grab my gear and leave. I’m not going to discuss what happened, with anyone, until I talk with Dad.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 13

CHAPTER 14

Small party…yeah right. When Mom plans a “small get together” it never means small; her events are always extravagant. Because of her occupation of being a manager to celebrities, it gives her many connections; which in her mind must mean, parties must go all out. I’m more worried about what she has told these people about me; more than likely, nothing about my swimming achievements.

As we weaved through the herds, various people stopped us occasionally to say small hellos and quick goodbyes. However, one middle aged woman stopped us suddenly and would not let us pass on quickly, “So George, your mother has mentioned this is your sophomore year, any new discoveries in your academic studies?”

These are not my kind of people. Wishing I could vanish, “My studies have been steadily progressing, however, my swimm…” I wanted to share my actual interest but as I expected my mom cut me off.

“George has be excelling in his studies; he is just unable to pull one great lesson out because he has too many to choose from,” my mom answered frantically and ended her statement with a stern side glance at me.

“Oh, I am glad to hear it. Your studies are the most important for your future,” the woman interjects.

Again I’m zoning out from the conversation; I don’t want to hear it, and believe me, neither do you. Looking around, I spot a dark secluded space, somewhere I might be able to disappear. First I’ve got to slip away, “Mom I have to use the restroom. Please excuse me.” I add hoping my polite response will help reduce my scolding from interrupting the woman’s rant about education. I don’t wait for my mom’s approval and I make my way through the crowds to the restroom. I didn’t need to go but I thought it was the only way she would let me go without questioning me.

The dark space was vacant. I’ll just hang out here until the party disperse; I’ve probably got about two hours to kill. Napping sounds more inviting than this party. Mom is definitely going to kill me. Oh well, I lay down on a bench, next to the wall, in the pitch dark. I only planned to close my eyes for a few minutes, but that constant beat from the music is quite relaxing…

…

“George.”

Well I must have been found out. There goes my quick napping. Opening my eyes, my dark corner was unbearably bright, causing me to quickly shut them again. Man that hurt!

“George!”

It was my mom’s voice. Yep, I was in trouble. Slowly I opened my eyes and sit up; probably revealing my hiding spot.

“George!!”

“What!?” I said standing up. Realizing the party was long over, and my mom had been looking for me. ‘Great.‘ I wasn’t in trouble, but now I am; because, I have to reveal that I was hiding. ” Mom.” I said as I stepped into her eyeline.

“George Jacob Matthews!” Mom met my eyes. “What are you doing back there? Why weren’t you at the party? You have completely embarrassed me and yourself in front of your future friends. I had wanted to introduce you to some huge modeling managers. They wanted to recruit you, instead, you went a blew it. I can’t believe you are so selfish. Just like your father. I should have never married him. I should have divorced him long ago, so that you would not be influenced by him. You…”

“Wait… What?” I stopped her. ‘Did she just say divorce?‘ “Mom. What did you do?”

“Don’t use that tone with me. I did what needed to be done. Your father is a selfish man, and should not have a role in your life. He is only thinking about himself or children who aren’t even in our family. He would ruin your future, and he did not show me any respect. So I divorced him. I also decided that you will live with me. I am the far better choice, after all,” she spoke proud of her decisions.

“Are you kidding me? I’m not living with you,” I said as I grabbed my phone and keys, heading towards the exit.

Grabbing my arm, “George Jacob Matthew. You ‘will‘ be staying with me. Your life will be in total ruins if you stay with your father. Also I can help you, to be the better version of yourself. I have connections; without me, you will never accomplish anything.”

“Mom, have completely lost it? Why would I stay with a parent who doesn’t even know what I want in life. One who doesn’t know anything about me. I am a swimmer. A great swimmer. My future…do you even know my goals in life. Next year, I’m transferring to a school in Montana; a school that specializes in swimming achievements. Why would you even know this? You’ve never cared about what I want.” I remove her hand from my arm, “this…,” gesturing to our surroundings, “this is not me, and will never be; unless through swimming, I will never be part of this world.”

Stepping back and away from her, “Mom, I do love you, but I will live with the parent who knows and supports my dreams.”

“George Jacob Matthew. If you walk out that door you will no longer be my son. I refuse to have a worthless son who will not amount to anything. Think about your decision. It will be the deciding choice of your future,” she crossed her arms and sternly looked back at me. She just threw the gauntlet down…

I was stunned. She would throw me away. She truly believes if I reject her I will become worthless. Still…knowing all this, I know it is pointless to stay with a parent who could threaten their children with abandonment. Also, I know she would forever be trying to mold me into someone I will never be. I look back at a woman that I couldn’t recognize anymore, “Goodbye.” I turned and left. I left the building. I left the woman I had always called Mom. I left half of my family behind. I left.

Life Of Two Best Friends CHPT 12

CHAPTER 13

Weeks have flown by, since I told the guys about the Jenny news. My focus towards school, Jenny, and practice have changed. I’m focusing more on school and practices. I have had more time and brain space; now, that Jenny isn’t my main focus. Jenny…Jenny had taken a new role in my head and heart. She was now just my first crush turned good friend.

Believe me, a couple weeks ago I was not like this. Earlier, in the moving on process, the guys had to slap me a few times to snap me out of it. Classes and practice were my only escape from my crush depression. Which is why now, I have prioritized my focuses: Swimming, school, the guys, and then Jenny. After last week, of me still acting weird around Jenny, the guys insisted that I move on; as they said, ‘I was embarrassing them and myself.’ I spent a whole week focusing on keeping Jenny in the friend-zone. When she asked me to hang out I would answer ‘no’, and instead do something with the guys. Whenever she smiled, I would acknowledge but then quickly turn to someone else and start a new conversation.

Just like now, as I’m getting ready for school, I’m only worrying about what my mom will say if I don’t wear this tie today. She told me a few days ago she would picking me up today and that I needed to be presentable; so for no criticism, I will wear the tie. This is a new feeling for me; my first concern is not first what Jenny might say. I’m not even worried about what the guy’s will say. As I finished that thought, I realize I might have brainwashed myself into an emotionless robot.

Whatever I grab my homework, backpack, and phone, and then I rush into the kitchen to grab my breakfast. Dad is sitting on a bar stool, at the island, with his head in his hands; he didn’t look too great and he didn’t respond to my entrance. “Dad?” No response. “Dad, you okay,” I said placing a hand on his shoulder.

He jumped at the touch and quickly lifted his head, “Oh, George. Sorry I was lost in thought. What were you saying to me?”

He didn’t look so good; he looked like he had aged ten years since the last time I stopped to look at him. He wasn’t the carefree singer songwriter he was a week ago. Maybe since I had been in my funk of changing, I hadn’t been paying attention to anyone except myself. I’ll have to add family to that list from earlier: Family, swimming, school, and the buds. Oh, and Jenny. “You sure your okay, Dad? You don’t look too good. Have you been sleeping alright?”

“Yeah, don’t worry about it. You should be heading out. I’m proud of how you have been so focused on school and swimming; don’t let your efforts falter. Your old man will take care of himself,” Dad said, as if he mustered up every ounce he had, trying to seem okay.

“Okay, I’ll be heading out. Don’t forget. Mom is taking me somewhere after school today; I’ll be late because I will have to drive the jeep home,” I saw a small hint of something flash over my dad’s expression, but I am unable to name it.

“Thanks for the reminder. Don’t worry about driving home; I’ll go over to the school later and drive the jeep home for you. You, uh, just enjoy your time with your mom,” he talked as he got up to search for the spare key. “Got it!”

“Okay Dad. See ya later,” I said as I grabbed my keys and headed out the door. That was weird. Dad is acting strange today. Wanting to stay, I instead jump into my jeep. My mind was still on Dad as I pulled into the school’s parking lot; after spending time with Mom tonight, I’ll make sure to check on him when I get home. First school and practice, second Mom, and third Dad. Begin list now.

…

Where is she? Mom was supposed to be here close to thirty minutes ago. I was standing in front of the school lobby doors. The school door were locked. Dad had already taken my jeep home; or I would taken just driven myself to wherever my mom was.

Well, I guess I’ll recap the day with this new found time: Jenny was absent today; the rumors hadn’t gotten any better; instead, the rumors were morphing into horrible gossips. Midterms are coming up so teachers let us self study today; which entailed most of the students to mess around and not study. Coach did a ‘you choose‘ day; we choose the stroke and he chose the yardage and intervals. I thought I was clever and choose breaststroke. ‘Yeah, Coach saw through my idea, three thousand breaststroke straight. All you non swimmers, one hundred and twenty laps non stop.’ I shudder still feeling the burn in my muscles. Never again. However now, I’m waiting for my very late mom…speak of the devil, she just pulled up.

“I’m so sorry my sweetie. I was getting our evening event ready and I lost track of time,” Mom said frantically.

“No problem mom. Just next time, I’ll drive myself to the venue. What do you mean our evening event?” Realizing what she meant and rolling my eyes, “not another party? I thought it was just going to be the two of us.”

Mom didn’t hesitate, “Don’t worry sweetie its only a few people. You should know most of them. I see you are wearing a tie; thank you so much for dressing up. I know you are not a big…”

I stopped listening to her for myself, but also your sanity. It’s difficult to listen to my mom when she begins her various rants. She is still going. I’ll just summarize the key points for you.

‘You look so handsome, which comes from my beauty genes… I have great sense of fashion; at least my son knows I choose great clothes… The people at this party are on the upper level of success; you should try and use these people to replace your old friends… Your current friends will never be on our level… etc.,‘ directly from my mom’s mouth. I’m sorry, but I can’t listen to her nonsense or comments anymore. Instead we will ignore her and sit in silence; as we drive towards a night filled of people spewing their own opinions, and everyone else fighting for the spotlight. ‘Great. Wish I had stayed home.’