“So let me understand. You want to be co captains?”
I looked to Chad and he nodded to me. “Yes, Coach. We both want to be captains simultaneously.”
“I had hoped there would be only one leader. However, what is your plan for this arrangement.” Coach settled back into his chair.
“Well Coach. As you know I did not choose my friends wisely these last three years,” Chad had wanted to explain our reasonings.
Coach nodded.
“So you giving us the chance to choose a captain; made me think about if I could actually do the job. Believe me, I didn’t want to listen to George when he told me that he thought I couldn’t do it to the fullest ability. But I didn’t want to blow him off, because that’s what Bryan would have done. I don’t want to be anything like him. So I heard George out. He wants us to co captain. Because then the rest of the team will slowly begin to respect me again. It will help to be working with the person they see as their leader already. George will co captain with me to show that things have changed; that the bully side to the upperclassmen is gone. That things will change.”
It was my turn to bring our proposal home, “so Coach we will co captain until closer to finals. Then around that time we will decide who should be the lead captain. But this seems to me the only way that Chad could possibly be the captain. That he needs to gain the respect of everyone else first.” Now it was Coach’s choice. He could say no and make us decide.
Coach didn’t answer. He just sat in his silent stance.
I can never read what he is thinking.
“Well it’s not what I expected, but I must say I’m proud of both of you. That fact that you didn’t just want to cover up everything; that you actually want to change things for the better is quite impressive. This is why I made you both discuss it. Because at this moment in time I didn’t think Chad would be able to gain the respect of his teammates. That there would be more chaos than leadership. But I also didn’t think that you George were quite ready to fully lead. You partially lead, but to be the full time leader is more work. So I approve of your decision. I think this will work out quite well. Maybe this way will help change everything, because then it is never just one with all the power. It will be kept fair. I do quite like this,” Coach smiled before taking a sip of his coffee.
‘It’s eerie to see Coach smile.’ “So should we announce it officially at the mock meet tomorrow? Or should we just start spreading the word?”
“Go ahead and spread the word. I actually want things to change on this team. I think that’s the only way for great swimmers to come out of this program again. That it’s less about the official roles on the team, but that the environment is more relaxed for you swimmers to focus on what matters. The pool. This is great. I’m excited for tomorrow. It will be interesting to see who will be the A stringers. Anything can happen. Especially if there is no intimidation from Bryan and his gang. Okay. Go back to your dorms and prepare for tomorrow.”
I let the breath I was holding in, out slowly. Relief flooded me. He accepted our proposal, but he seemed very interested in the outcome of this change. That was my initial intention. I wanted things to change. To do what Coach had asked of me. To change this team. And to do that, it doesn’t have to just be because of a new leader; but because of the whole dynamic of the team. That any string athlete can an A stringer. That not one person has all the power and control. That not another Bryan would happen. That swimming would be the focus! How it should be. I too was excited for tomorrow. Anything could happen.
Chad and I sat in the cafeteria. I don’t know why Jermey decided to stay behind, but his words were, “I’m going to be the referee. Incase any funny business begins.”
I didn’t think Chad would start anything. Now that all his buddies were gone; he only had himself. I had my buddies behind me, but I wouldn’t start anything. “So. What do you think?”
Chad shifted in his seat; he had been shoveling his food in his mouth a moment ago, but now he was just pushing corn around on his tray. “I don’t know what to think. With Bryan being suspended, college has been actually quite normal. I’ve been able to get into a better flow. But that’s probably because I didn’t know that Bryan and all my so called friends were going to leave. Leave me behind. There was no way I was going to move schools, but it would have been nice to be at least told. But instead I looked like an idiot standing in the normal spot that the upperclassman stood. Like a mindless follower.”
I understood what Chad was saying, but what did he expect. Did he want to be treated like a follower, or should he be proud of himself that Bryan didn’t see him as a follower. “I meant about what coach wanted…”
“Right,” Chad shoved is tray off to the side, “I would like to be captain. I know I can do it. What are your thoughts?”
‘I had hoped he would have said he had no interest. Because I didn’t want to call him out.’ “Well,” how do I phrase this? “Believe me. I don’t think I’m ready for the role, but coach has asked me to fill this role in the past. But I know you are a senior; this is your last year. But because of who you were associated with, I don’t think the rest of the team will respect or listen to you.” Brutal honesty. That’s the best way.
“Wow George. Thanks for not sugar coating it,” Chad shrugged and sat back in his chair. “I can understand where you are coming from, though. But you are right; I’m a senior, this is my last chance. But you saying that Coach wants you to be…”
“We are deciding. If Coach had insisted I fill the role he would have just told us I was the new captain. But instead he left it to us. We are choosing. Not him.”
I have prided myself on being that person that always accepts the outcasts. The people that don’t fit in. The people that are socially awkward or loud or alone. Not the people that are quiet and alone to be stalkers, but the people who try to be accepted but always fail. I like those types of people. I’ve always gravitated towards those people.
But this guy was killing me. I knew he was nervous. I knew he was probably not this socially awkward, but seriously. Cheesy pickup lines for the last hour.
“Are you a camera? Because I could smile at you all day long.”
Or
“Do you want to check the tag of my shirt? I think it’s made of, Boyfriend material.”
Or
“My new favorite numbers are one and four. Because you are the one four me.”
These were the few that stood out to me. And I thought they were sweet. Sweet enough to continue to sit at this table. But about thirty minutes into this date he completely changed. His pickup lines were becoming inappropriate. But I had missed my window to leave the table.
I decided I would just stay and be polite. I haven’t really been listening to him speak for the last few minutes. But I wanted to leave a good impression to the other blind date couples around me. Also the hosts. I really wanted to meet someone, and start a life.
I work in an office. I’m the secretary to the CEO. So as you can imagine; I have no life. All my time is spent working or sleeping. But I got invited to this speed blind dating meeting. So I decided to try it out.
Which had been fun in the beginning. I was meeting new people. Learning about different hobbies. But no one was standing out for me. Everyone seemed so sure of themselves and what they wanted in a partner. Whereas me…I had no idea.
I knew I wanted a God fearing man. I wanted someone attractive to me. Not handsome, but someone I found attractive. Handsome people are always caught in the middle of gossip or scandals. I wanted a quiet romance. I would prefer someone my height or taller, but that wasn’t a necessity. As long as my height never came into question of why I was with him. But a big one, for him to have a stable job. He didn’t have to be well off or climbing the ladder of success. But I wanted him to have a stable job that he enjoyed. I didn’t want to have a kept man. Also not a man who would quit his job once we were married; thinking I would be the money maker. My dream was to be a mom. Not especially stay at home. But where I could work half days and spend a good chunk of my day with my kiddos.
But alas, no one really stood out to me tonight; and unfortunately the guy in front of me just won’t stop yapping. He just goes on and on about his gym life. Which tells me we are not a match. I go to the gym maybe twice a month if I feel inspired, or when I know I’m going to be pigging out the next day.
I checked my watch to see if I was near the end of this nightmare of a man. Which was the wrong move. Because when I looked back up at the man across from me he showed annoyance, snobbery, disgust; which was very unattractive on his face.
“Really? You are checking your watch?! I’ve been talking this whole time and you’ve said maybe a sentence worth of words. Are you really that inconsiderate of people’s feelings that you need to check your watch in front of me?”
He was almost shouting at me. Which caused the host to stop speaking and the whole hall grew silent. All eyes were now on our table.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t want to be rude. I…”
“If you didn’t want to be rude you wouldn’t have checked the time in front of me. You wouldn’t have been ignoring me this whole time. You wouldn’t have stayed at this table when the host called for a switch. Something drew you to me. Is it really gone? Or did you just come here to find a quick hook up?”
My head snapped up at that last part. I was not here for a hook up. From my experience, the person who brings up that topic is usually the one trying to accomplish it. That they are trying to throw shade at someone else to cover up their thoughts. “Why would you think that? I’ve been trying to be polite this whole time. I stayed at this table because I thought originally you were just socially awkward, which doesn’t bother me, but I liked your corny pick up lines. So I stayed. But about fifteen minutes into our talk you changed. Your pickup lines became inappropriate. Referencing the bedroom more than anything.”
He flinched at that. Yep. That’s what he had been after.
“I haven’t tried to speak since I discovered we have nothing in common now. I want a God fearing man who wants to find love, not an easy night,” I made sure to speak that last part slowly. To let it sink into the man across from me, but also the people surrounding us now.
“I should have gotten up. Or at least excused myself from the table. But I wanted to be polite to you and the surrounding couples. I wanted to just wait my time and then leave quietly when I could. I apologize for glancing at my watch. But why did you not read the table, and realize that I was no longer communicating with you. Maybe you should have changed the subject or tried to engage me. But instead you just kept saying uncomfortable lines and talking about your gym life. Talking about all the women you meet there and how women should always be fit and active.”
I had planned to be neutral in this outburst, but he was irritating me. The fact that he called me out in front of everyone. He deserves to be put front and center.
I stood from the table. I looked from the other couples to the hosts, “I’m sorry I ruined the atmosphere of your event. I really was here to hopefully meet someone. But I should take my leave and allow the successful couples to finish meeting. Thank you again,” I gathered up my coat and purse and walked from the hall. Not allowing the rude man to say anything more. Tonight was a flop.
.-.-.-.
Instead of heading straight home I decided to sit at the bar area for a bit. I wasn’t going to drink the night away, but a fruity drink sounded delicious. Also, I already needed to get an Uber home , so having one drink was not going to affect my night.
As I had almost finished my drink, a person sat down beside me. I didn’t think anything of it. I turned to have a cheers moment and regretted turning. It was my unfortunate match from before. But he was wasted. He reeked of alcohol.
“You…you…” he stammered. “You ruined my chances of finding someone for the night. I thought you were going to be that person. But I was dead wrong. Instead you made them throw me out. And now I’m blacklisted. Do you know what that means? It means any event of this kind I’m not welcome. They will send my information and pictures to the other agencies. How am I supposed to find someone now. I wasn’t just going to sleep with someone and throw them away. Intimacy can bring people closer. You know about all their faults before you get fully invested.”
I was a little stunned that he was able to have a coherent conversation. But he was indeed scum. The worst kind of scum. I’m happy I spoke out against him. Now he would never be able to tarnish another girl; a girl looking for a fairytale but getting a nightmare instead.
“Maybe you should do your duty and come home with me,” he reached for my hand.
I yanked my hand away. He was entering the dangerous phase of drinking. I got up from my stool and backed away from him.
But he followed, “you are the one who ruined my night. You should feel obligated to fulfill my needs, right?”
He was truly delirious. A screw was loose in his mind. I looked around to see if anyone would be a feasible helper to me in this situation. But the bartender was off on the other side flirting with two girls. He had missed our exchange. There was another man at the bar, but he was snoring. So I was alone. I continued to back away from him. Once in the lobby I would probably find a worker and ask for some help. I wasn’t super tipsy, but I didn’t trust myself to be able to escape seamlessly.
Almost to doors as I backed up, I backed into a body. I turned my head to see my boss was behind me. Henry Halls. I didn’t know if he would help me, but I was going to try. I scampered around Mr. Halls and hid behind him. I latched onto his arm and looked up at him resting my chin on his arm.
“He’s saying I ruined his chance to find someone easy. And that I should be willing to fulfill his needs. Can you get rid of him for me?”
Mr Halls said nothing. He just looked down at me. I probably looked ridiculous. But I was tipsy now. Monday at work I would just surrender my mid year bonus. I continued to look up at him. But his face was still emotionless.
I let go of his arm and stood up beside him. I guess he wasn’t going to help me. I would just get out of here myself. I looked at the wasted man; he was still standing there, but he seemed hunched over. He was starting to enter the downhill spiral of drinking too much. This was my chance.
I looked once more at Mr. Halls and still nothing. So instead I just turned on my heels and sprinted to the lounge doors. But an arm grabbed mine and held me in place.
I was worried it was the drunk man so I turned with a strong fist formed first. It made contact with a hard chest. I peeked open my eyes only to see I had just punched my boss in the chest. I was too stunned to say anything but I tried to back away. But Henry Halls pulled me back into his embrace.
His embrace?! Yes. I looked down at his hands; they were holding me in place in front of him. I was just inches from his chest. He smelled of pine or cedar. It was nice. It was comforting. It was…I rested my head on his chest. That fruity drink was hitting me too hard.
“Kelly Marshall. Look up at me.”
I heard him but I also didn’t hear him. But still I lifted my head to look up into the eyes of Henry Halls; only to be met with a strange look on my boss’ face. Was that a smile…but my boss doesn’t smile…he just…
And he bent down and kissed my mouth. ‘Wait!!!! What??!!!’ He was kissing me. I was kissing him. What’s happening right now. His mouth moved from mine to find my ear, “close your eyes Kelly Marshall or he will know.”
Know what? That this was fake. That my boss was kissing me without permission. That I lost my first kiss…! I stepped out of Henry Halls embrace and slapped him. How could he do that to me. I wanted to be saved, but with words not by stealing something important to me.
Henry Halls looked stunned. I backed away from him. I shouldn’t have hit him, but I was so mad at him, that all I could do now was sprint from the bar lounge. I needed to get out of there. I needed air. Air!
The cold breeze hit my face. I felt a smidge better; like that I could see clearly again. My mind was swimming still; a throbbing headache was in the works. I walked up to the valet attendant only to have my hand grabbed and myself yanked into a black car.
I fell onto the seat. The car door slammed behind me. ‘Where was I?’ The opposite door swung open and in slid Henry Halls in the seat next to me. I turned away from him and tried to escape, but I was pulled away from the door and back into Henry Halls’ arms. “Drive,” he called to the driver and kept a hold on my shoulders.
I was confused what was happening. Why was I here? Why is he here? Why is my head swimming still? Why is he holding me? Why am I letting him? ‘Yeah…why!?’ I tried to get out of his embrace. “Let me go!”
“No.”
“Let me go. The other guy was drunk. And gone. I’m safe now. You can stop pretending. Let go!”
Silence.
I wriggled trying to be freed. I didn’t want anything fake. I wanted something real. And now, I would know that it wouldn’t be one hundred percent real. That kiss was gone. “Let me go!!” I almost screamed.
“Stop fighting me, Kelly.” He pulled me to his chest and hugged me, “I’m not pretending. Can you not see that?”
‘What was he saying. Not pretending. Can I see it?’ In all these years this was the closest I had been to anyone. But with Henry Halls you don’t get this close, you don’t see smiles, you don’t feel anything but criticism or disappointment. “You’re kidding right? I should know?? I should have seen it? You’ve got to be kidding,” I started laughing. But I suddenly stopped when I saw his face. I saw hurt. I saw embarrassment. I saw…sadness… ‘Wow. That fruity drink was making me fantasize things.’
“Seriously, Mr. Halls, I don’t know how I was supposed to see this? If I’ve seen anything from you it’s been disappointment or disapproval.” Again my boss showed hurt on his face. ‘What’s going on?’
“Jeffery, please take Ms. Marshall home. Drop me off here.”
“Wait. Henry. What are you trying to say?” However Henry Halls stilled exited the car. And he was gone.
The car began to drive away, “Wait! Stop the car!”
“But Miss, Mr. Halls said,”
“Stop the car!” And I opened my car door. Before the car had stopped I was out of there, and running back to where we left Henry.
Mr. Halls stood his back to me. I don’t know if it was my imagination or not, but it seemed like he was hunched. Defeated? ‘What was I seeingor thinking about? Henry Halls didn’t care about me. I would have saw it; wouldn’t have I?’ I was just behind him. I don’t know what I was doing, but I needed to know what just happened. “Henry,” I reached out to tap his shoulder.
But instead, Henry swung around quickly startling me too suddenly that I was falling backwards towards the sidewalk. I clasped my eyes closed waiting for the painful thud coming. Nothing. No pain. I opened my left eye to only see Henry’s face. ‘Was that concern I saw?’ He was holding me. Holding me up. In his arms. His arms held me so easily… “Mr. Halls?”
“Henry. I prefer you to call me Henry,” Henry smiled, pulling me back up into a standing position. “You just called me Henry, so it shouldn’t be hard for you to do again.”
‘Henry had a charming smile.’ I couldn’t help but smileback at him, “okay. Henry,” I smiled gleefully. Probably the alcohol hitting me again. My silliness phase was coming out. “Henry?”
Henry turned towards me. His smile still apparent on his face.
His face was glowing. I had never seen this side to Mr. Halls. Henry. Henry was becoming more and more human to me. “Henry.”
Again Henry looked at me. his eyes searched my face this time. What was he looking for? “Kelly Marshall…do you think you could ever see me as your future?”
“No. Future. Like boyfriend? Or husband. Your future. Do you understand?”
I didn’t. What was he talking about? Boyfriend?…I shook my head.
“Can you consider me to fill the role as your boyfriend and eventually your husband?” A red hue was engulfing Henry’s face and ears.
‘Boyfriend? Boyfriend!?!’ I looked at Henry. He was no longer looking at me. He was actually hiding his face from me. I could only see the red on his ears.
“Do you even like me?” I surprisingly was not against the idea, probably the alcohol talking; but it still seemed unrealistic to me. Like why would he choose me. I was just his secretary. I was a nobody.
“Yes. Of course I do! Why would I be asking you this if I didn’t have any intention towards you? I’m not a jerk. Just think about all this time? Have you made mistakes in work? Yes you have; normally you would have been fired but I let it go because it was you. Whenever you have asked for days off, I’ve given them to you; even if it’s been inconvenient to me, because I wanted you to see me in good light. I’ve paid huge sums of money to get rid of your rumors with various people we have had to meet at social gatherings. I thought you knew all this. I thought you were just being discreet. When I kissed you earlier I thought you wanted it too. That you hanging onto my arm was you being cute and asking. But then you slapped me. I was confused, then you vanished. And now we are here. And you are looking at me like I’m the crazy one. That I’ve been imagining everything before this.”
This was too much for me. He liked me. He’s been thinking I liked him back. He wanted to kiss me. He seems so hurt. I wish I had known. I should have known. Other office workers had mentioned that I must be a super lucky person since I still had a job. That others had been fired over what I had done. I should have known. He was right. I was the one who had been confusing him. “I’m sorry Henry. I wish I would have known. Had I known I would have…”
“Don’t say anything you don’t mean. I apologize for stirring all this up. Please excuse me,” Henry waved down a taxi.
“No!” I jumped up, swung the door of taxi open, and yelled, “no need. Drive on,” and I slammed the door shut. The taxi roared off.
“Why did you do that?”
I was sober now, but I don’t know why I chose this to stop him, but I hooked my hand behind his neck and stood on my tippy toes to kiss him back. I wanted him to know I was serious about what I wanted to say, but instead of saying it with words I would use actions; like he had earlier.
“Kelly. Do you know what you are doing?”
Henry had yanked me off of him. At this moment I didn’t know what I was doing. Was he not into this anymore. Was I being too rash; should I be more reserved? I just kind of stood there frozen. Maybe I should just leave. Maybe the window was closed. I didn’t speak. I was just going to leave and probably quit my job via email. I would just disappear from this life all together. I backed away from him. “I’ll just be going…”
“Oh no you don’t,” Henry grabbed my outstretched hand and pulled me back into his embraced. “You’re not running away. You kissed me back so this is your fault.”
He pulled me back to his body and kissed me.
“And this.”
He kissed me again.
“And thi…”
I shut him up before he could finish. ‘Just kiss me.’
School yesterday seemed to be better. Maybe without the constant stupidity of running into the upperclassmen, my days were becoming less stressful. I was actually able to focus on my classes; I even was able to complete homework assignments in classes. Which in turn, allowed me to catch a nap in the afternoon before practice. So I was able to be refreshed, and ready to go again.
After the day of helping Chad, the upperclassmen left me alone. Chad had told the other guys to leave me alone; at least until Bryan returns. So hopefully I can figure out college and be better situated for the mock meet.
…
“Everyone gather around,” Coach called out to everyone as we did our stretches.
We all walked over confused at the sudden change. Maybe it was another one of coach’s last minute changes that means death or learning. I’m hoping for learning.
“Bryan has switched schools. He is now leading the Eagles team in Helena. Our rival school.”
‘What? He left?’ I looked to coach but he did not look my way.
“I am guessing Bryan used his family’s name to be able to pull such a stunt. And as you can see a few other A string teammates are gone as well.”
I checked over to where the upperclassmen usually stood, and only Chad stood there. ‘What is going on? Bryan was not the type to run away. He seemed more like the type to be kicked off the team before leaving.’
“I’m telling you all this, just to let you be aware. Not that it changes anything. The mock meet will still tell me who will be the A string athletes. But now there are more spots open, as long as you want it enough you have a chance. Now get in the pool.” Coach started off to his chair. Like all was back to normal.
“Coach,” I had caught up to him. “What’s going on?”
“George. Set an example and listen to your coach. We can talk after practice. Now go.”
Coach was right. No sense in arguing. I walked back over to the top lane. Chad stood there too. The lane beneath me looked to me for the warm-up set. ‘Lead George. You are the leader now.’ “Eight hundred freestyle warmup. Let’s go!” I leapt into the pool.
…
“What happened Coach?” I stood in Coach’s office. Jeremy and Chad had both stayed behind.
“Bryan tried to get you kicked off the team.”
“What! Why and how could he try to do that?”
“Oh, believe me George. If I had not been the coach, Bryan and his father would had succeeded. Had I not been notified of their last minute meeting with the headmaster you would have been probably expelled.”
Coach cut me off before I could respond.
“They I were trying to twist the truth about why Bryan was suspended from the team. That it was all your fault, for manipulating and falsifying what really happened. They painted you in such poor light by the time I arrived. Luckily I had the video on my phone and I killed their scheme. Which in turn made them look bad. And before the headmaster could give them their verdict they exclaimed they quit this school and left the office.” Coach rubbed his forehead and seemed to stare into nothingness.
‘Wow. I knew Bryan was coward. But I never thought him to be a quitter. Really I thought he would be someone to be kicked off the team before just running away. What a disappointment of my rival.’ “What now Coach?”
“Between the two of you, you must decide who will now lead this team.”
I looked at Chad. He seemed determined. But I didn’t know if the rest of the team would listen to him. Since he was originally part of the upperclassman group. Not that I wanted the role. I didn’t think I was ready for that, but everyone listened to me already.
“I don’t want to be the referee on this decision. Go back and discuss it among yourselves. But starting tomorrow this team needs leadership. Now go back to your dorms.”
Chad dove again into the water! This time I ignored everything, instead I searched for that thing. ‘What was it?’ Head bobbing? No. Shoulders rotating wrong? No. Maybe legs? No. What was I missing? Then I saw something. There in his strokes. Nothing wrong with his technique, but a habit that needed to be nipped in the butt. ‘How did Coach see that?’ I glanced over at Coach Jones. He was sitting in his chair staring at me. I held up my hand to ask without words if that was what was wrong. Coach nodded in agreement. I was right.
Chad had came into the wall.”Well…?”
“Coach was right. It’s nothing wrong with your technique. You just have developed a habit of swimming with your thumb out. It’s nothing big, but it you think of it as in terms of drag it is something you are going to want to fix, before it becomes a bigger issue.” Proud of myself, for figuring out the issue.
“My thumb? You’ve got to be kidding me,” Chad climbed out off the pool. “I don’t believe you,” Chad tried to walk away.
“Stop. You know I’m not like Bryan. I’m not out to get anyone. I already confirmed it with Coach Jones. Do you realy not want to get better?” I could have blown him off; I could have not tried to help.
“Cool your jets dude,” Chad held up his hands in defeat. “I’m sorry I’m cautious. Swimming is important and I don’t want to waste my time. I’ve got so much going on, that this is my only escape.”
I paused, “Then why do you hang around Bryan? Until right now; I thought you just did swim to be popular and stay in shape.”
“It’s…” silence. “It’s not that I’m scared, but its better to be on Bryan’s side, than against him. And you may think I’m fast; I’m unable to keep up with Bryan in a race.” Chad tore his cap off. “I just can’t let anything get in the way of my chances in swimming. And if you are on Bryan’s bad side then your college life is going to be impossible.
I laughed. “Yeah. I would know something about that wouldn’t I?”
Chad chuckled, but then it trickled off because he knew it was true. “Yeah. Sorry about that George. I know that you have been having trouble. How has college been?”
“No offense Chad, but I don’t really trust you. Especially since you pretty much admitted to still being Bryan’s guard dog,” I held up a hand, “Sorry. Not dog, but bodyguard. So, instead of telling you anything that might make its way back to Bryan; I’ll just stick to talking about swimming related stuff.” Good thing I changed my word, I think I probably would have left practice with a black eye. “Deal?”
“Deal. Okay so how should I fix my thumb issue? I can’t even feel it?” Chad looked down at his thumbs.
“I don’t know. Maybe tape it? Then at least you will get used to the feeling of how it show be.”
“Sounds good,” Chad nodded and started walking off to the office for some tape. “You should start working on your lung capacity. Do 12x25s of shooters on the 40sec. You should be able to not breathe on all of them.
I rolled my eyes, “That’s an easy set. I don’t think that will actually help my problem. Got anything else?”
“Yeah. Do them freestyle kick. That is going to kill your legs as well as your lungs. Get ready for 12 laps straight,” Chad laughed as he lefted and walked to Coach’s office.
‘You had to speak George. You just made this set impossible.’ But I wasn’t about to back off from Chad’s set. When the 60 rolled around I left the wall.
“A high school reunion? Sounds like fun!” Sharron squeaked as she pulled dinner from the oven.
“Would you really like to go? I don’t know anyone anymore. I haven’t seen them since graduation. I would be surprised if we have anything in common with them,” David was sitting at the kitchen table.
“What does that matter? It’s not like I’m going, expecting to make friends. I’m going to support you. Do you not want me to go?”
“Of course Sharron, I want you to go,” David stopped what he was doing and came to hug his wife from behind. “You would be the only good part about that event,” he kissed her on the neck. “It’s decided we are going. I need to show you off anyways; letting everyone know I am the luckiest man alive.” David walked back over to his phone and sent out a quick text.
‘I guess I’m going to a reunion.’ Sharron return to getting dinner ready.
…
Sharron
The reunion was not at what I was expecting. I thought it might be a relaxed restaurant, maybe thirty to forty people. No it was at their high school, which I should have assumed, and it was packed. Cars were spilling onto the side streets. A large crowd was gathering outside the gym doors. Us included. There was a loud thud coming from behind the doors. ‘I should have brought some earplugs.’
Looking around I felt out of place. David had insisted I wear a classic black dress. Nothing revealing or tight. Just classic. He assured me that I would not be the only one dressed up, but looking at the women around me I felt way overdressed. Like a few of the women off to my right, were wearing skimpy bedazzled mini dresses. They were dressed up in a sense, but they seemed to be barely wearing anything. Or they were all falling out of their tops. I would never wear something like that in public; and it’s not like I felt beneath them, but that I was uncomfortable for me. Also, for David to be exposed to their scantily clad clothing. I didn’t want my husband to see that. I didn’t want to be having these thoughts of worries.
But David’s hand moved to my waist, he pulled me closer to him and whispered, “I only have eyes for you. And be careful, you are staring.”
I glanced at David. His eyes were glued to mine. He was beginning to get that look, and I broke eye contact with him and blushed while glancing away. David chuckled at my rosy cheeks. ‘Not helping.’ Finally the doors opened.
Even though the night was not what I have expected, the food was delicious. They had Famous Dave’s catering. David and I rarely went out to eat, but if we did we went there. I loved the ribs; I could put away so many. But tonight I was being a little reserved since I was in public. ‘Maybe I could bribe a worker to bring me a large zippy and I could bring some home?’
David was off with his friends. He told me I could stay with him if I wanted, but that the guys are not very clean with their speaking. David knew how I felt about language; so instead I let him go off with the guys and I am still standing by the food. I wasn’t going to try and attempt to talk to anyone. The women I saw before were “dancing” by the DJ, if you could call it that. I’m sure there may be some people I could relate to, but I didn’t want to go and search for them. I planned to just stay in this general area the rest of tonight. But right now, I had to go to the dreaded spot. The restroom.
In the movies, the bathroom was the place that most of the backstabbing and ridiculing happened at reunions. And I’m devastated to say that it was indeed true.
“Did you see the woman that David brought? I knew he got married, but I assumed he would have married someone at least close to his level. She was such a plain Jane. Like did you see her dress?”
“I know right. Ugly. She may have a decent figure, but you would never know in that bag dress. It looked like a black trash bag tied at the waist. Hideous!”
‘Wow. The mean girls could really be mean. So thankful I was homeschooled and I didn’t have to go to another reunion.’
“Trixy, are you just a little bit more against her since you had a major crush on David in high school?”
‘What?’
“No. I just assumed he would have married someone like Liz. She and David were the most popular at school. He deserved a Liz as his wife, not a sad Susan.”
“I think her name is Sharron…”
“Susan, Sharron. Same difference. Okay let’s adjust ourselves. Better. Maybe I missed my chance with David in high school, but I can always try now.”
“Don’t do anything drastic. Based on what I’ve been hearing, is that David only has eyes for his wife. However, showing him you exploding out of your top might be the only way to get him to glance at you. No guy can resist that.” They laughs together. “That looks perfect. Let’s go and break up a marriage!”
‘They were truly awful. I wanted to go home.’ I exited the bathroom stall and checked my reflection. My eyes were a little smudged by the tears kept at bay. I cleaned up my face and ventured back into the lions den. I no longer wanted to be at this ridiculous reunion. David was right, I shouldn’t have come.
…
I had planned to march over to David and demand we leave, but as I glanced over at him he was laughing and smiling with the guys surrounding him. I couldn’t bring myself to be that wife. Instead, I decided to just go sit alone outside. The warm air was enough company for me; I needed some peace and quiet, to calm my flustered heart.
…
David
“Dude, I can’t believe you are married. You were the last person I ever assumed would get hitched,” Jeremy smacked me on the shoulder. “I thought you were all about that bachelor life. New chick every night. No strings. Freedom. What happened?”
‘I knew this conversation was bound to happen. I was a different type of guy in high school. And now looking back I wish I hadn’t been that guy.’
“I grew up. I matured. And it’s a good thing I did or I would never been good enough for Sharron.”
“I don’t get it,” Jeremy shook his head.
“Well I do. David found a diamond in the rough. There aren’t too many Sharron’s left in the world. Especially in today’s world. David is lucky that, that caliber of woman decided he was good enough for her.”
Looking around to see who said that, my eyes came to Devan. Devan and I were never friends in high school; but I decided in that moment that he would be a good new friend to make. I nodded at him.
“Thank you, Devan. Means a lot.”
“Why are you even standing here, Devan? You should be off in the library or stalking unattractive women,” Jeremy and several of the guys huddle around snickered.
Devan turned away and left.
“Enough,” I stepped out of the center. I was a different person now. I guess these guys will never understand. “When will you guys ever grow up? You know become mature? I’m different now. I don’t enjoy breaking people down and belittling them. I’m not proud of the person I was back in high school. I’m proud of who I’ve change to be. And my wife. She is the best thing that ever happened to me. I am lucky to have her as Devan said.”
I was just met with blank stares and some annoyed faces. They would never understand, because most of these guys still wished to be back in high school, and I’m the person that now wishes they could forget those four years. ‘I shouldn’t have come.’ “Forget it. None of you will understand until you decide to leave the past as the past. It was different to see you all again, but I think my time here is done. Good seeing you all,” I raised my beer to them and started away.
“Hey David! Do you remember me?”
A woman stood before me. I only kept my eyes at her eyes, because of her posture I’m sure she wanted me to look lower. But I wouldn’t do that. Not to my wife, but also because I’m not the same guy; and I’m ashamed to say that younger me would have looked. Which made me sick to my stomach. “Nope,” and I walked away from that group. I was done with them. Instead, I wanted to be with that special one.
“Hey David,” Marleen called over, “I know where your wife went if you are looking for her.”
Marleen was a safe person. Her husband was Tomas, a man I worked with occasionally. If she could help me end this night quicker I would take it. I headed off in her direction.
…
Sharron
The night air was warm and soothing. I could only hear a soft thumping from the gym. I was sitting on the bleachers by soccer field. I wasn’t too far a distance from the gym, but I was far enough that I knew I would not be disturbed.
Tonight had been something I needed to experience. Next time I’ll listen to David, if he is not one hundred percent in support of me going somewhere then I’ll just stay home. Being homeschooled saved me from ever experiencing this type of thing. Like I could go to a swim team reunion, but would I really want to? I’m probably also the only one to be married, stay at home wife, wanting a family, and so on. I think one reunion is enough for one lifetime.
David
Marleen didn’t just tell me where Sharron had disappeared to, but also what had been said in the bathroom. Marleen had been in one of the stalls as well. She summarized what was said, and I’m not surprised Sharron disappeared outside.
There Sharron sat. Back to the gym doors, hunched over on the bleachers. I don’t know if she was cold or what, but her shoulders were shaking. She had better not be crying. Or I was going to knock some heads together. I quickened my pace until I was just inches from her. Then I heard her.
Laughter. She was laughing hysterically. I shook my head and smirked. ‘That’s my Sharron.’
“Anything good?” I tapped her on the shoulder.
She yelped, throwing the phone into the air, and started to fall backwards off the bleachers.
I caught her in my arms, but sadly the phone was thrown in the opposite direction. She was more important than some phone.
Sharron had her eyes still closed. Thinking she was still falling bracing herself for the painful thud. I laughed, “you are not going to fall. At least not when I’m around.”
Her eyes opened in a flash and then searched my face.
I could see happiness of recognition, but I also saw the hurt. She tried to mask it, but I knew her all too well to know when she was hiding something from me. It pained me to see her hurting. I pulled her closer to me and kissed her. A deep kiss. A I love you with all I have, kiss. A kiss that should tell her that whatever was said before meant nothing. A kiss at wasn’t just for her, but for me as well.
I pulled away from her to see a rosiness rising in her cheeks again. Oh, how I loved the rose color; especially when it was because me. “Do you want to head home?”
She looked at me, “you sure you have talked to everyone that you wanted to? We don’t have to leave just because I’m hiding out here.”
I loved her. Even though she was feeling miserable, she still cared about me first. “Yeah, I’m good. I realized a bit ago that I don’t have much in common with those people as I used to. Also I’m happy I can’t relate to them anymore. But I did sip on a beer, are you good to drive home?”
Her face lit up! “Sure I’ll drive.”
She scrambled to get out of my arms, gathered up her purse and jacket, scooped up her surprisingly fine phone, linked arms with me and headed back towards the gym. Her face was beaming.
‘There she is. My Sharron was back.’ I allowed myself to be towed by the woman I love.
As I entered the gym once again, I could feel glares in my direction. I knew these people were petty but I didn’t realize how much. Good riddance. I’m just bummed that I only hung out with those people, that I didn’t get to talk more with Devan and Marleen. They seemed like they would be more like my type of people.
We only paused a moment in front of the food. Sharron was eyeballing something. And I knew instantly what she was wanting. I kissed her on the cheek and left her there, walking towards the food buffet. Returning to her with a large foiled brick in my hands. She looked at me quizzically.
“Ribs. I guessed this is what you wanted, right?”
The rose color resurfaced again. This time accompanied by a small embarrassed grin. “How did you know?”
I interlocked my fingers with hers and whispered into her ear, “because I know everything about you.”
She let out a giggle deepening the red in her cheeks.
‘Man, I love her.’ I was about ready to kiss her once again, here in the middle of everyone, but I knew that would only embarrass Sharron. I wouldn’t, but I wanted to. I wanted to let everyone know that I was proudly and happily married to my wife. Instead, I let her hold the packaged ribs and placed both hands on her hips guiding her through the crowd. That touch alone would tell the other woman they had no chance and tell the men to keep their distance. I knew I was protective, but I didn’t realize I was this protective. But as Devan said, she was a diamond. I needed to keep her by me so that she wasn’t snatched away.
After nodding goodbye to a handful of my old teachers we were finally outside again. Only to almost run into Devan.
“Whoops. My bad,” Devan said as he side stepped out of Sharron’s way.
“No problem at all Devan. Sorry. Wasn’t really paying attention,” which was true. How could I with my beautiful wife in front of me.
“Totally understand. With this one as your partner, I’m not surprised. Maybe more surprised that you thought to bring her somewhere like this,” he gestured his drink around, “not a very classy place for a classy lady.”
“Yep. My mistake. But good seeing you. We are headed out, but I hope to be able to meet up with you again.” I handed him one of my business cards. “I put my cell on the back. Really. Good seeing you.” And I started to guide Sharron past Devan and towards our car.
“You too, David.”
…
David
Finally we were home. I think I’m going to stop drinking, because that was the longest, most stressful hour drive I’ve ever experienced. I love Sharron but she can’t drive. Ha!
…
Sharron
I was clean and in our bed. That shower helped wash away all the negativity and mean words that were said today. I had nothing to worry about. Because David loved me. He loved me so much that he got me a huge amount of ribs! More than I was going to ask for. He loved me. I knew it. And I also knew, that I loved him unconditionally. He was my wonderful husband. Mine. Forever mine. As David climbed into bed, I knew it would always be like this. He would always be the one next to me. I snuggled into his side. That was my spot. Forever and always.
David
She was beautiful. This lovingly woman in my arms. Especially after realizing how much of a terrible person I must have been in high school. That it amazed me that this wonderful woman chose me. I just held her in my arms, listening to her sighs in her sleep. I pulled her closer to me, kissing her forehead, and closed my eyes. Breathing in pace with her, savoring this woman, as I too fell asleep.
“Come on. Get up! Stand up for yourself. Are you stupid? Can you not understand me? Get up!”
I tried to push myself back up into a standing position, but they shoved me back down to the ground. Pain. I could feel the warm blood begin to seep from my knee.
“Never mind. Stay down there. That’s where you truly belong. Where the trash and scum live. You are just pure garbage.” The girl above me snickered and the others chimed in too.
‘Please help me. Someone. Help me.’
“What are you all doing!?” An alarmed woman’s voice called out behind the group.
“Run!” the group of girls yelled at each other as they all ran away from the scene.
“Ouch!” A few of them crushed my hand as they fled. Still not caring for my existence. ‘I can’t move. I don’t think my body will do anything for me.’
“Oh no. Sweetie. Are you alright? Do you need help? Here let me help you.”
The woman helped get me into a sitting position. I finally could look her in the face. She has a warm smile. Rosy cheeks. I knew I was safe for a moment. I looked down at my body to see the damage that was done. I gasped because it was worse than ever. Both knees were gushing blood. My elbows were beginning to bruise. My skirt was torn. My shirt was smeared with grime. I can’t imagine how my face looked.
“Come with me,” the woman carefully pulled me up into a standing position. “I’ll help you, but come with me.” She walked me to the entrance of the supermarket. Everyone was staring, pointing, gasping. I wanted to disappear, but my hero wasn’t backing away; so neither would I.
I pretty much hobbled all the way to the bathroom. The woman was a big help. Once in there I collapsed onto a small bench. I thought the woman would leave me but she stayed. She didn’t just stay, but she started to clean my face. Looking at the used paper towels I saw so much red. But my face felt so much better. She also cleaned my elbows, my knees. Magically she had bandages in her purse. So not only was I cleaned up, but I was healing.
“Than…thank you.” I choked up. No one had ever helped me. They always passed by while I was being bullied; or avoided me like the plague when I had to walk home after the beatings.
“Of course my dear. It’s what any decent human being would do,” the woman smiled warmly.
‘That’s probably why…no one had been decent.’
I glanced in the mirror and I was shocked that she had helped me at all. My face was turning black and blue. I had a cut over my eye; also one on my chin. But everything was bandaged. The woman didn’t stop there. She brought out a comb from her purse and proceeded to brush my mangled hair back into a normal state. She pulled it back into a half pony tail. She checked my reflection before nodding. Then she pulled out a bottle of foundation.
“Is your purse a Mary Poppins bag?”
She laughed. That made her smile even warmer. “You could say that. Do want some of this? Just for your face bruises. I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable around people when you head home later.”
I nodded. Anything to help the stares would be great.
She must have done some else’s makeup before. Because before I knew if she was done and I looked one hundred and ten percent better. “Thank you.” I was surprised she wasn’t asking any questions. Most people don’t help, but they think their own wisdom is the best help they can give.
“Of course honey. Well are you hungry? I’ll buy you a sandwich from the deli. I’m a bit hungry myself.”
“Yes please!” Wow. Help and food. I am getting spoiled today. But would happen tomorrow…
…
After lunch the woman walked me back to the front of the store.
“Do you think you can make it home okay?”
I nodded. I didn’t know if I could, but I shouldn’t take up any more of this woman’s time. “Yes. Thank you so much again.”
“Of course,” the woman waved goodbye, grabbed a cart, and once again entered the supermarket.
‘Of course. She had been here to shop. Well now what am I going to do?’ The bullies had shoved me into their car after school and brought me here. But after being spooked, I’m sure they all left by now. How was I going to get home? I’m miles away.
…
Mrs. Holler
Gathering up my groceries, I headed back to the front of the store. I’m happy I was able to help her. I hope she got home alright. ‘How could there be such terrible people everywhere…’
The girl was sitting on a bench to the side of the entrance. ‘Poor dear.’ I walked up to her smiling. This girl deserved the biggest smiles. “Did your ride never show up?”
She jumped at the voice behind her. Her arms came up in defense. She relaxed as she saw it was me.
‘I’m so sorry.’ I’m sorry, my dear. Do you think you could help me carry these groceries to the car. And I can give you a lift home. Or at least give you a lift to a bus stop if that would be better.” ‘She must be bullied non stop.’
She nodded.
I handed her a few bags, but the lighter ones. I’m sure her ribs were in some pain.
Once in the car it was discussed I would just drive her the whole way home. She didn’t have money for the bus fare. I sent off a quick text, to let my daughter know I would be a little late, and then gave my full attention to the girl in my passenger seat.
‘Should I bring it up? Or leave it alone. It’s best to talk about it…’
“Will you tell me what happened earlier?”
She shifted in her seat.
“You don’t have to if you don’t want. I just can sometimes be a help to people. If you want to, I’m all ears.”
She shrugged and looked out the window.
That was probably a no. I should just drive. ‘Focus on driving.’
“It happens everyday. For some reason I’m their choice for a target. I’ve never done anything to be on their radar. Just randomly one day I was tripped by someone, and after that I’ve been tortured everyday.”
I knew that was just the opening. But already I was so sorry for her.
“The torments kept getting worse and worse. I thought they might stop if I stood up for myself. But instead that just set them off more. They started shoving and beating me down. They wouldn’t stop. Why wouldn’t they stop!?”
Ginny was choking back tears. “Just cry my dear. You will feel better.”
“How do you know? Why did you help me today? You could have just walked by. Everyone always just walks by. Those girls might torment me even more tomorrow. What’s the point? Maybe I should…”
“No! Don’t finish that sentence,” I pulled off to the side of the road. I turned to look at her. I didn’t know what she was about to say, but I needed her to know. “I stopped because I wanted to help you. I wish someone would have stopped for my daughter. She was like you. She was the target of bullying. For no reason, but they decided she was the fresh meat. They tormented her everyday, and she of course kept it all from me. She didn’t want me to worry.”
“One day she didn’t come home. I got so worried that I went out looking for her. After about four hours of searching, I had almost given up hope until I spotted her. Standing on the sidewalk next to a busy street. It was the first time I saw my daughter looking broken. I don’t know why I knew, but I took off running in her direction. I made it to her, just as she took her first step into the street. I said nothing to her, but hugged her. She collapsed into my arms. We both broke down on the sidewalk. That day I discovered that I was not doing my job as a mom. That day I made a promise that I would help someone else who needed help! I would be the one to make a difference in their life.”
I realized it had been silent in the car the whole time as I spoke.
I looked over at the fragile girl beside me and she just had a look of shock.
“Your daughter tried to…?”
I nodded. She did. That was the most terrifying day of my life. When I realized that my daughter wanted to end everything. That she was in so much pain that she forgot all about me. But that wasn’t her fault. I was so wrapped up in my career at the time that I’m sure she thought she couldn’t turn to me. That she had been all alone in the world. ‘My poor baby.’ “Yes. So I will stop and help someone if they need help. I will always stop! Not another child will feel alone and lost while I’m around!”
“Just so you know I wasn’t going to say anything like that. I was just going to say something like run away. Go back into the system. Change to a new family in a new district. Running away from here seems like my only option.”
‘Foster…? So she no one.’ “I’m glad to hear that you weren’t thinking that way. No child should. So I’m assuming your foster parents don’t know?”
“They know. But they are fostering about twelve kids right now. Some of those kids need special care. And sadly if the state finds out I’ve been receiving beatings they will just assume my foster parents are doing it. They would lose everything. They truly are wonderful people, but they can’t risk everything for me; when those little kids really need them. So I’ve just been suffering by myself. But since the bullies aren’t going away I think I’ll just go back into the system.”
‘I wonder.’ “What school do you go to?”
“Marshall Haven Heights. Why?”
“Okay. I know some of the kids that go there. I could introduce you to a few. They are stand up kids and probably would have your back. If you would like that kind of thing.”
‘Friends? No. Charity friends.’ “I don’t want people to be around me because they are told. My one true friend bolted the moment I started to get bullied. She didn’t want to be a victim as well.”
“Don’t worry about that. My daughter is four years older than you. That’s actually the school she went to too. The kids I know there, are the siblings of the friends that rallied around my daughter after everything. Her friends are what got her through high school. They are a good group of kids. Do you want an introduction?”
‘What have I got to loose. Anyways I don’t think this woman is going to leave me alone now. “Sure. Why not.”
“Good. Let’s do it tomorrow!” I knew I was beaming, but I’m so excited to help!
…
Ginny
I knew these kids. They were the popular but non popular kids. If that makes sense. They were popular in the scholar parts of school. I guess you could call them preppy…or nerds. Something like that. Not really my type of people. But I couldn’t say that with Mrs. Holler next to me.
“Ginny. This is Nathaniel, Stephen, Sarah, Kevin, and Melanie. All of you, this is Ginny.”
Mrs. Holler kept looking at me, then back at them, then back at me. She probably wanted someone to initiate a hello. I didn’t want to, but I could also see that they were wary of me as well. Probably because my face was still heavily bruised. ‘Whatever. Just get this over with.’
“Hello,” I stepped forward, “my name is Ginny. It’s nice to meet you.”
“Good. Good.” Mrs. Holler was nodding excitedly. “Well I’ll be off. Hopefully,” she stepped up to me, “things will get better. I hope if I see you again it’s under better circumstances.” She gave me a quick hug, “goodbye.” And she left.
I watched as Mrs. Holler walked away. No matter what happens I am so thankful to her that day. I turned back to the group still standing in front of me. “Look, I know you don’t want to be here. I can read it on those two faces,” I pointed to Sarah and Melanie. I must have been right because they shifted on their feet. “So we can forget this. I’ll make do. I don’t want people in my life, that don’t want to be there. That’s pointless. So if Mrs. Holler asks I’ll say you have been great. You can lie too. I don’t need charity. If anything happens again, I’ll just leave.”
They just stood there. Not answering. Stephen and Kevin looked at each other. Nathaniel just kept staring at me. Nothing. I wasn’t expecting anything, anyways. “See ya,” I turned and headed towards the doors that would offer knowledge, but also a beating. Probably one of the worst kinds. If so, I will just be done.
Surprisingly the bullies stayed away. They didn’t even look at me. They didn’t speak to me. I was grateful, but I was also worried. Because that usually meant the beating would be away from adult eyes. ‘I could just leave. Right now. Before school is over. Just gather up my belongings and leave.’ It was tempting, but I did want to graduate. If I was gone all the time, then high school would take forever.
Clang! Clang! Clang! School was done for the day. Instead of waiting until everyone was gone, I decided to exit with the crowd. To disappear within the faces. ‘Maybe the bullies would miss me. Maybe I could get away. Maybe I could just do this the rest of high school. Maybe….’ That thought died on my tongue. Because waiting right next to the bus was the group. They were stopping everyone before they entered the bus. They were searching for me. Sweat started to trickle down my back. I could hear my heart beginning to speed up. My mouth went dry. I stopped walking, which is what tipped them off. A girl pointed at me; then the whole group looked up to see me and sneered. They left their perch at the bus, and started towards me. I started to back away. I don’t know why I didn’t run, but instead I stupidly backed up until I was back inside the school lobby. There was no where to hide. ‘I could run to the teacher lounge.’ But that would get linked back to my foster parents. I can’t do that.
Instead of hiding I just dropped my backpack to the floor. I too, slowly sank to the floor. Sitting in the position that they usually push me to when the beating begins. I would just take the beating. I wouldn’t try to fight back, be strong, or hide. I’ll just take it.
I waited for the group. As they finally circled around me, Ashley, the girl from yesterday, squatted down to my level.
“What’s this?” She grabbed a piece of my hair, “ you are all ready for me? All I need to do is crush you, until you are part of the floor. You know. I really think I could stomp your body flat until you are new kind of rug. That’s all you are, something for someone to stand upon. This is going to be fun!” Ashley dropped my hair and stood back up.
Just as the first stomp should have made contact with my back, a voice called out, “ what’s going on right now!?”
I lifted my head to see Principal Jessica and Nathaniel standing in the outer ring of the lobby. Nathaniel had his phone up, probably recording.
‘How humiliating.’ I dropped my head back down. Actually wishing I could disappear into the floor.
The groups started to panic and attempted run away. “Stop right there! I know each of your faces! If you run now you will definitely be expelled!” Principal Jessica and Nathaniel were walking up. “Get up my dear.”
How was I suppose to know they were talking about me. Until I felt a warm hand grab my shoulder, I looked up and see it was Nathaniel. He didn’t say anything. He just shook his head and helped me stand up. My knees felt weak and I almost fell, but Nathaniel caught me and held me up. ‘I’ll just go with it for now.’ Leaning on someone felt so strange but also nice. I don’t really know what happened after that. My head started to spin and I just felt my body collapse under me.
…
Few Days Later
Ginny
Well. A lot of things happened in these few days. And for the first few days, I was unconscious in a hospital bed. But after I woke up, I discovered that Ashley was arrested by the cops after more testimonies came. Several students that had witnessed my bullying came forward to share what happened in the past. Mrs. Holler added what she had saw. What Nathaniel had recorded was evidence too. The school actually search through their security feed to discover not all the beatings were done in complete secrecy. The bullies from the posey that were caught on camera being physical, were expelled. The others were suspended, and would not graduate this year; they would have to repeat.
So being back at school felt strange. I didn’t have any more to fear. I could just go to my classes; go and learn without being worried about what would happened after the bell clanged. I felt relaxed for the first time in a long while. This feeling was all thanks to the one woman who bravely stopped that day.
Mrs. Holler had helped so many students that day she helped me. She not only stopped my bullying, but now bullying had severe consequences. I don’t know if I would ever be able to thank her enough. She was the person that I would never forget. She has inspired me to be that person who stops and helps someone in need. I will always stop too!
,,,The End…
My son’s art. I love it so much!! My brain could write a story today, but couldn’t draw a picture… probably my art brain needs a rest. My daughter and I just finished painting all of her Christmas presents. I love my babies! 🥰
‘I need a job. Any job. Anything will do. Just something so that I can put food on the table. Please anything. Anything. Wait, was that?!?’
I didn’t hesitate. I just went. I was throwing my bag to the ground and dove into the pond in front of me. ‘I need to get there. Five…three…one…’
“Thank you! Oh my goodness! Thank you so much!!”
I sat catching my breath as the frantic mother clutches onto her sputtering child. ‘I made it. I made it.’ “Not a problem. Just always make sure to have an eye on your child at all times. It doesn’t always end like this.” I gave the mother a reassuring nod and then started to walk back to my bag. Hopefully it was still there; my whole possible livelihood was in that bag.
It wasn’t just where I had thrown it; it was neatly placed upon a bench, but also a small hand towel and a card placed next to my bag. The card read, “Mr. Stone. CEO. Juniper Aquatic Center. Always hiring.” ‘Is this really happening?!? I desperately needed a job and I’m handed an opportunity just like that…?’ No matter how this happened; I am so thankful. Not that the kid almost drowned, but that I was offered a job based on my efforts.
.-.-.
Well safe to say I was hired. Mr. Stone was there that day at the pond. He was amazed and surprised that I just went. I dropped everything and saved the kid without any real reason to do it. But I didn’t agree with that statement; saving a life should always be done without a reason. You should just do it. But not everyone knows how the family feels if they loose a loved one.
Working here was a job. And it wasn’t the best paying job, but I was able to put food on the table. That was all that mattered. I was told that when Summer came I would get a raise, because more heat means more kids.
I would show up at five in the morning and leave around six at night. Mr. Stone knew of my situation, so he allowed me to work two extra hours a day in the off season. Those two hours made a huge difference.
Life began to just blur together. Every day bled into another. Summer was almost here. The long hours would stop, but the raise would make up for those extra hours and give me an additional two more. I had plans for that extra money. Life was becoming good.
“Hey Stella?”
“Yeah?” I set the trash bags I was carrying down and turned.
Mr. Stone stood in front of me with a guy maybe my age. First impression: confident.
“This is my best employee, Jacob. He will start tomorrow. You both will be on rotation together. Stella, you’ve not connected with any of the other employees so I decided Jacob would show you the ropes for the Summer season. It’s been extremely mellow lately; that will change in the pool and on deck. Probably tomorrow. The crowds will probably be on the heavier side of females, with this one showing up again.” Mr. Stone thumbed at Jacob. Jacob smirked.
‘Yeah. Definitely confident. Maybe even cocky.’
“No problem Mr. Stone. Nice to meet you Jacob. Let me finish this task and then you can go over the changes I need to know,” I didn’t wait for a response. I just turned back around and continued with my trash run. ‘I’ll need to keep a distance from that one.’
“She’s a hard worker. It will be easy to work with her,” Mr. Stone said just as Stella left the building.
…—-…
Mr. Stone was not lying. It seemed like the moment Jacob stepped on the deck, a swarm of girls came out of the cracks and engulfed him. I kept my distance. I didn’t want to get in between a girl and her meal. That’s what it seemed like, anyways. I couldn’t read if Jacob liked all the attention or if he was annoyed by it all. But I knew his eyes were not on the water around us. So I kept my eyes peeled open and watched every spec of that pool.
No kid was going down on my watch, and just like that, I saw arms flaying. I whistled before diving into the pool. The kid was maybe three years old. No where near old enough to be swimming alone. The tiny arms clutched onto my neck as I carried him over to the deck. But no one came to him. Breathing a little hard, “where’s your parent? You’re not old enough to swim alone.” The boy pointed off a distance to a mom sunbathing.
I don’t know how or why, but before I could march over there and give that mom a piece of my mind, Jacob showed up and took hold of the kid. “Go back to your post.”
“But…she…”
“Go.”
I didn’t argue. I just bent down to the child. “Please be careful in the future. Only one lifeguard was watching the pool. If you are struggling, ask for help from some closer to you.” I stood. Patted the kid’s head, and stared at Jacob for a split second to let him know I was criticizing him, and went back to my post.
“Good work today Stella. You saved that kid. You have a knack for getting to the kid in time. I’m so glad I was there that day at the pond. More kids lives will be saved this Summer.”
“Thanks Mr. Stone.” I felt all the glares from the other employees. I didn’t feel anything from Jacob, but I didn’t really care. I wasn’t here to make friends. I was here to make money to buy food and daily life necessities. Nothing more.
Walking home always felt weird. I always felt like I was being watched or followed. Maybe since I watched a followed everyone every day, that maybe I deserved it when I was off the clock. But it was extra eerier tonight. I could sense someone coming closer. I don’t spook easily, but I was spooked. So I turned and started to hightail it back. But I ran smack into a shoulder of someone. The stranger caught me before I tumbled backwards.
“Thank you. Sorry. Sorry,” I walked around the stranger and quickly walked back to the closest bus station. One bus ride wouldn’t hurt the bank once. I didn’t even glance at the stranger I had bumped into. But their presence probably made my stalker retreat.
.-.-.
Being stalked took a lot of my energy these days. I would leave as soon as possible and I would run about three miles before getting on the bus. Shorter bus ride was cheaper. I needed to save every extra penny.
“Why do you run everyday? Was work not hard enough for you?” Jacob was waiting for me.
‘Great. I didn’t know what he wanted. But I didn’t have time for this.’ “I don’t have time for this. I need to get going.”
“Why don’t you just take the bus?”
“I do. Just three miles farther down. Two dollars is still two dollars.” Why was I telling him this. He didn’t care.
“I guess that makes sense. Can you walk today? I’ll walk with you too, I’ve got to go this way anyways; and some company would be nice.”
I didn’t want to talk to him. I had nothing in common with Jacob. This job was everything to me, whereas to him it seemed like this job was an easy way to get girls numbers. “Fine. I’m tired today anyways. But in three miles you are on your own.”
“Cool.”
We walked in silence. I didn’t want to talk to him, so if he didn’t talk I wouldn’t either. That eerie feeling was here again. The stalker was getting braver; they were watching me with Jacob around. I started looking around. Checking over my shoulder, searching around.
“What are you doing?”
“Nothing.” I didn’t want him to think I needed saving.
The three miles was over, and I waited at the bus stop. Jacob was still staying with me.
“You can go now. The bus will be here soon.”
“Oh. Okay. See you tomorrow,” Jacob walked off.
Why did it seem like he didn’t want to leave. Was he expecting me to fawn all over him like how every other girl did. I didn’t have that luxury.
“Why was Jacob with you?”
I turned to see a few of Jacob fan girls. Also a few of my coworkers. They were silent fans. This is why I wanted to stay away from him. “No reason. We were walking in the same direction. But he just left that way.”
“Why would he be around you. You are pathetic. Ugly. A waste of space.” The girls all chuckled together.
I didn’t want to answer back. What was the point. Where was the bus?
“Answer me!”
‘Just ignore them. Don’t react.’ SLAP! Punch. Shoved. Falling. Kicking my ribs, shins, arms. ‘Stop!! Please stop!!’ Pain. Then all I heard was people scattering. I couldn’t seem to pull myself up.
“Sweetie, you okay?”
Arms were lifting me up. I was still clutching my bag, that was the only strength I had.
“Let’s get you on the bus. I know your stop. You just rest.”
…—…
Today was going to be miserable. I could barely hold myself upright. I had taken two days off after the incident. Mr. Stone had come to my house to see what was wrong the second day, he knew why I worked so hard. So me taking a day off was strange. When I had opened the door he knew why in an instant. He had given me the two days as paid vacation. Which I’m grateful because I couldn’t actually afford those two days off. And today I wasn’t on lifeguarding duty. I was answering the phone in the office. Being in a chair was more bare able. Jacob kept glancing at me when he would walk by the office. ‘This was all because of him. Leave me alone. Give your attention to your fans. Not me.’
Break time was now my peace time. It was no longer a time for me to try and work more. I just leaned against a wall and closed my eyes. Letting my body slowly melt into a comfortable position.
“What happened to you?”
I jumped. And then I was in pain again. Big burning pain in my ribs. I grasped them.
Jacob saw that movement.
“Nothing. Please, just leave me alone.” Just then a group of Jacob fans came into view. ‘No. It was them.’ “Please go. Leave me alone. I can’t be seen with you. Please.” I’ve never begged anyone before. I think I felt worse now because of that.
Jacob looked in the direction of girls, and stood.
‘Yes. Please leave.’
But Jacob didn’t leave. Instead I looked around and more people had showed up. There were people everywhere encircling us. ‘No.’
I tried to stand to leave, but Jacob grabbed my wrist. “She is my person. Anyone who messes with her is no friend or fan of mine. People who beat or pick on another are disgusting to me. Don’t ever let me find out about this happening again.” Jacob turned to me and asked quietly, “can you walk?”
I nodded.
So Jacob walked with me in tow out of the building. I didn’t know if this was going to help me or hurt me. But at least they wouldn’t bother me today.
After that day Jacob had kept his promise. He made it very known to people that I was his person. Not a girlfriend, but his friend. I didn’t realize how nice it was to be his friend. No one bothered me at work, after work, or ever. I guess people were more worried about pissing off Jacob than worrying about my relationship with him. Which there was no relationship. I couldn’t think about anything more. I had too much on my plate.
Once again the days blurred together. Days bled into each other. But I think my days were easier and filled with more laughter now that Jacob walked with me. Only to the bus stop, but it was nice to chat about random things for that short period of time.
But today, those days changed. The bus fare raised in price and I could no longer afford the bus. So I had to walk the whole way home. Again I was walking with Jacob. He was rambling on about something. I needed to ask him a question. ‘Just do it!’ “Jacob will you walk me all the way home?”
He stopped. “What?”
“I can’t take the bus home anymore. Will you walk me home?”
“Umm…no. I’m not your boyfriend. We are just friends. I’m just walking with you everyday because this is on the way to my girlfriend’s house. We good? I’m gonna get going now. See you tomorrow.”
‘Wow. I didn’t realize I was just a person of connivence. That we actually weren’t friends. I thought we had at least become friends.’ But instead I was probably just a way for him to get away from all the other fan girls. Keep his girlfriend happy. I didn’t know what I was feeling…
“Maybe I can help you…”
The eerie feeling was back. But this time I could feel the presence behind me. Turning I knew it was over…
…
Jacob
Why did she have to throw me off guard? Why did she have to ask me to walk her home? Why did I have to lie to her about having a girlfriend? I wanted to walk her home everyday. Why did I have to be such an idiot? I’ll tell her the truth tomorrow.
“Beep beep beep” I checked my phone. ‘What? No…!?’
Everyone was in black. I only recognized Mr. Stone and a couple coworkers. I saw a business like woman at the front; next to a young woman and a child. ‘Strange to bring a kid to a funeral.’ Strange to be at a funeral. Strange to be at a funeral of a girl you missed your chance with.
“Hello Jacob. I didn’t know if I would see you here. Especially after your last conversation with Stella. I accidentally overheard your conversation. I had driven up to offer you both a ride when I got a smidge of what was said. So instead I just drove off; I wish I had offered her a ride.”
“What are you talking about? Why would that have made a difference?”
“You don’t know. After your conversation with Stella, is about the time she met her stalker. Apparently the stalker had been following her for about six months. He had backed off a bit when you started walking with her more and more, but he confessed to hearing your conversation and he ramped up his stalking to meeting her in person. He says he didn’t mean to hurt her, but that she wouldn’t listen to his reasonings for watching her in the shadows.”
‘Wait what? She was stalked? For months. He backed off because of me. But then he acted because of me. Because I lied to her that day. I left her there. I left her on that street. I left her…’ I had no words. I didn’t know how to respond. To the revelation that if I hadn’t been a coward that day, Stella would still be here. She’d be looking at my under scrutiny. She would be ignoring all my failed hints of hitting on her. She might have given me a chance. She might have…
“Don’t beat yourself up too much Jacob. If anything, you should feel sorry for that little girl over there.”
The little girl was still sitting in the front pew. She hadn’t moved this whole time. ‘Why feel bad for her?’
“That’s Stella’s whole world right there. Her daughter.”
“What!?!”
“I’m not surprised you didn’t know. She didn’t even want me to know, but she had to give me a good enough reason to give her the extra hours in the beginning. It being that she was trying to hire a full time nanny for her kid. So that she didn’t have to be in daycare every day of her life. I thought that was a good enough reason.”
“What? Why? How? What?” Stella had a kid. A daughter. A daughter that looked to be about three years old. She’s had a kid this whole time. That’s why she never had time. Why she always pinched pennies. Why she was so cautious around me. “Is the father still…”
“No. Sadly Susie has no other family. At least any family that wants her. Her father is just that. A man that brought a kid into the world that didn’t want her. And Stella’s family has nothing to do with Stella after the fatal incident when Stella was young.”
“Accident?”
“Stella’s twin brother drowned when they were six. The parents were not paying attention and Stella was too small to hold her brother up. But it still all managed to be Stella’s fault. At least that’s what the parents told everyone at the time. Stella truly had a difficult life. But she managed to keep herself afloat. Even when she became a mom. She persevered. But Stella’s poor kid. She’ll probably be put into foster care.”
I don’t know what came over me, but I walked over to the business dressed woman and started the conversation that would change my life forever.
…10 Years Later…
“Dad? Where is my softball jacket? I can’t find it anywhere!”
“Umm Susie, look around your waist,” I chuckled as I saw the realization come across her face; realizing that the sweater was tied around her. “Please tell me you do this just to keep me on my toes.”
“Of course, Dad. I knew it was there the whole time.”
‘Liar.’ “You got everything you need for camp?”
“Yep! All packed and ready to go. Just waiting for Lisa and Jen’s mom to…”
‘Honk! Honk! Honk!’
“That’s them Dad. Got to go!”
“Wait a second. Didn’t you forget something?”
She ran back into the room for a big squeezing hug. “Love you Dad.” And just like that she was gone.
It’s been ten years since that day I told the agent I would be applying for custody of Susie. She was not impressed that day, but was on the day I was approved. All my friends thought I was crazy. Taking a kid in, that wasn’t related to me. But I had to. Because that little girl needed to be brought up with love; not just any love, unconditional love. Just like her mom had done for her. Stella’s world was Susie, and now I can say that Susie is mine.
He ran away. He actually ran away. I told him we’re pregnant and he ran away. Like seriously. I told him, and he didn’t say anything; he just walked to the door, picked up his car keys, and left the apartment. It’s been four days and he’s not been home.
What does he think of me? Does he really think I’m a gold digger? Yes, I knew he has money but that’s not why I’m with him. Does he not remember he pursued me. In the beginning, I didn’t want anything to do with him. Money scares me; money can make people act funny. So I actually avoided him in the beginning.
But he pursued me until there was no escaping him. So we started dating. In secret. It was my idea; I didn’t any of my coworkers to know I was dating the boss. Rumors never helped anyone. Then we moved in together. It wasn’t planned; I got evicted from my apartment suddenly and he offered his place. In the beginning we stayed separately. Everything was fine. It was hard to be strong when he was only a few feet from you, but I knew it was right to be separate.
Until one night he made the first move. It seemed so sudden. But one thing led to another and…no. I stopped him. I wasn’t going to sleep with him without a proper engagement. I needed to know that he wanted all of me forever. I thought I had ruined it for us; that he was going to leave me, because I barely saw him the next two days. But to my surprise I came home to a romantic apartment. Rose petals, candlelight, crooner love songs; all the things he swore were cheesy and he would never do. He got down on one knee and asked me the important question, “will you marry me?” Of course I said yes! I loved him, and now I knew he loved all of me. I initiated that night. But I knew it was going to be the first of our future.
Or so I thought, until next month I saw the two little pink lines on the test. I was pregnant. We were pregnant! I was so excited that I rushed out into the living room and said it loudly and proudly, “Honey! We’re pregnant!”
I was met with silence. Utter silence. His expression didn’t change, maybe his face went paler. No smile, no hug, no nothing. Just shock and silence. Then he left. He left me standing in our living room all excited about our child, all alone. He was gone.
It’s now the fifth day and nothing, I’ve decided to leave too. If this was how he was going to react then he shouldn’t have wanted to take out relationship to the next level. I know I initiated it. But I thought it would be forever. Not that his proposal was just a method to move things along.
So I was packing. Realizing that I didn’t have much more to pack from when I moved in initially. He had given me a few gifts here and there, but I had no desire to keep something from a man that didn’t actually want me. Maybe those were just meant to buy his way into my bed. There were a few items in the room that we had purchased together. A mirror big enough to see the both of us. Our bed spread; now I know why he was willing to buy the fluffy pink one I insisted on buying. All the picture frames around the apartment…but I didn’t want anything. They would stay in the apartment that they were bought for.
I packed up my suitcases and was ready to go. Glancing at the door I hesitated. Maybe he’ll be back tonight. Maybe I should give him one chance. Looking down at the phone on the side table I dialed his office number. Miss Jean his secretary picked it up. She was probably the only one who knew I was dating Justin. Mr. Marshall to her. “Hey Jean. Is Mr. Marshall in his office?” Silence. I couldn’t handle the silence again! “Jean. Please answer me!”
“He’s in the office. He’s told me to not to disturb him. Ms. Abigail is in there with him.”
‘Abigail.’ The woman that had been pursuing Justin the entire time he pursued me. She was also wealthy. But he had assured me that he didn’t like her. “Hold the phone up to the door.”
“Miss. I don’t think that would be proper.”
“Just do it. I need to know.”
Then on the other end I heard giggling. And noises. I knew the noise. It was when he kissed your neck. You couldn’t help but giggle in that way, because that’s what I did too. So he wasn’t just hiding from me or our child, he was ending his relationship with me and his child in the most harmful way possible. I had my answer. “Thanks Jean. I needed to hear it for myself. Please don’t tell Mr. Marshall I called. Goodbye Jean.”
‘Goodbye.’ That’s what this relationship has come to. A silenced goodbye. A one sided goodbye. A goodbye to an empty apartment. A goodbye to a cheating man. A goodbye to everything in this life, but a hello to a new loved one. Goodbye.
…5 Days After The Pregnant Scare…
Justin
She’s gone. She left me. Was I really nothing to her? Yes, I didn’t respond in the best way possible. I just left her there in the living room. She said she was pregnant and I panicked. I panicked that this was her plan all along. Get pregnant and then I have to marry her.
But no, she stopped us the first night. I knew she wanted something more concrete; a more stable standing in the relationship. And I had given it to her. I did all the cheesy gestures. I had even got down on one knee and proposed. Then she initiated everything. To her defense I was going to if she didn’t. But it shocked me that she got pregnant after only our first time. Hadn’t she been on the pill? No. Right. She had mentioned that the pill had made her sick in past so she wasn’t using anything. I didn’t think to use protection that night because I was a little distracted by the woman I loved in front of me.
‘I loved. Did I really just say that? I knew I liked her. A lot. I knew the only way to go to the next step was to propose, but I had planned on us having a long engagement so that I could figure out if this was truly what I wanted. Realizing that makes me sound like scum. I loved her. No. I love her. I still do. But she was gone.’
I had gotten home that night. I had decided I needed to stop hiding at the office and face our problem. Also, Abigail had shown up with her new boyfriend. And they were being too lovingly in front of me, that I had to get out of my office. I just left them there. I hadn’t realized why their shows of affection bothered me so much. Because I wanted to be doing that with Ally. I wanted her. So I had rushed back to the apartment to grovel and beg for forgiveness, but instead I was met with an empty apartment. Not that she had taken all my belongings, but I knew she was gone. The warmth was gone. Everything was left though. The diamond bracelet and Ruby necklace I had given her were still on her dresser. All the dresses I had bought her were still hanging in the closet. The bed spread she had insisted on was still on our bed…no; I guess now my bed. But everything that had came with her that first day was gone. She was gone.
…5 Years Later…
Justin
I was no longer a happy guy. Instead I’ve turned into a bitter person. Five years. Five! And nothing. No letter. No call. Nothing. After I realized that Ally was gone I searched for her. Everywhere! But nothing. Non of my PI’s could find her either. She had hidden herself well. It’s not like I could even find where her parents lived. Ally had mentioned before that they sold everything and began traveling the US. Never staying in one place too long. And all I knew about them was their names were Mr. and Mrs. Howard.
However I did find out, on my quest for answers that Ally had called my office that day. And Miss Jean swears to it that Ally forced her to let her listen to what was happening in the office. Not knowing that I had actually left my own office about twenty minutes before. And luckily for me I left while Miss Jean was away from her desk. I didn’t agree with it, but I could understand why she never contacted me again. Why would she contact someone she thought had cheated on her.
Did she not know me? Did she not know that Abigail is the last woman in the world I would ever like? Did she not know I loved only her? I’m guessing not, seeing as she left.
I wasn’t this guy. I was a happy go lucky kind of guy. Go with the flow. But ever since I found out that the girl I loved, thought I abandoned her when she desperately needed me, and left. She wasn’t after my money. She didn’t seem to care for any of it. Instead she wanted me to be the man she had always wanted. ‘And what did I do?I fled. I ran.’
So instead, these last five years, I’ve had to live with the constant questions. Did she have the kid? Did she not? Am I a father? Am I not? Is she married? Is she still pinning for me? Does the kid know about me? And if so what did she tell them?
Constant!! And they never stop. I’ve got to find something out or I’m going to go crazy.
Ring, Ring. Ring, Ring.
“Hello. Yes, this is him. Really. You found them? Where? Wyoming? Really Wyoming? Okay. Thank you.”
‘Ally. You can’t hide forever.’
…
Justin
Wyoming was completely different from New York. There was no hustle and bustle. It was very low key and very country. Not somewhere where I would have pictured Ally living. But I guess it worked, because I had never thought to look here. Pulling up outside of a small house I saw kid toys scattered in the yard. That’s promising. But it could be another kid’s toys. I knocked. Nothing. Again I knocked. This time I heard a scurrying of little feet. Then…
“Jason Henry Howard, get back here and take a bath. You are filthy.”
I knocked once again on the door. I needed to see who was yelling and whom they were yelling at. I needed to see Ally. I didn’t realize how much I missed her. I needed to…
The door flew open and there stood an older woman. Maybe late forties. She was holding a young boy who was not a fan of being held. Instead of fighting him, she let him down and told him to do get Gpa. A shirtless little boy ran through the living room and into a hallway. Yelling the whole way, “Gpa! Gpa! Gpa!”
“I’m sorry. Is there something I can help you with? My grandson is a handful. You are?”
I was just standing there on the porch. I knew, that kid was my son. I could see a lot of Ally in him, but I also could see hints of myself. He must be about four. I can’t believe I missed four years. The woman before me was still standing there waiting for an answer. “Sorry ma’am. I’m Justin. Ally’s ex fiancée. And that handful must be my son.”
She stood there stunned. Mouth gaping open. But then her face turned to pure horror. She just started backing away from the door. So I took the initiative to come inside and close the door behind me.
“Gammy. I broot Gpa fuur oo.” Jason had come running into the room and stopped suddenly when he saw me.
Now looking at him more closely I could see we had the same eyes. Same smile. But I could see Ally too. His skin tone, his hair, his laugh; all screamed Ally. How I missed her. “Hello sir, I’m Justin Marshall,” I extended my hand out to Gpa as my son had said.
He didn’t shake the hand, instead he bent down and whispered something to Jason. A loud, “Yipee!” rang out from him as he disappeared down the hallway again.
So they’ve sent the child away. This was not going to be a good talk. They we’re getting into their defensive mode.
They sat. So I sat. They were silent. So I was…yeah right, “where is Ally? Maybe she should be here for this conversation.”
They both looked at each other. Tears were forming in the woman’s eyes. She turned and looked out the window. “Ally,” Mr. Marshall began, “Ally passed away about two years ago today.”
‘…no…what…no…’I looked at the woman and her back was now to me, and her shoulders were shaking. “How? Why? How?”
“She had cancer. It was unaware to anyone. Even her. She was already at stage four before anything could be done. So she entrusted Jason to us before her passing.” Mr. Marshall started to choke up. He covered his mouth to help cover up the sobs coming from it.
‘I didn’t know. No one knew. So not only did I hurt her five years ago, but when she desperately needed someone to help her through her tough times I was no where to be found.’ “I’m so sorry, I…”
“You should be. Do you know how our baby felt? We know all about your infidelity. How you got scared. How you were a coward. How you cheated on our baby with another woman not even a full week after you found out she was pregnant. How can you even live with yourself. How can you…?”
“Sherry that’s enough,” Mr. Marshall now stood and placed a hand on his wife’s shoulder. Her sobs started up again. “I’m sorry, Justin. For you to find out like this. But I must ask you to leave.”
“But what about Jason. Shouldn’t he know I’m his father?”
“No. I don’t think now is the best time. Jason was only two when Ally passed, but he still cries for her at night. I don’t want him to get attached to another adult, that will only leave him again. Not saying Ally left him purposefully, but she did leave. And to Jason that’s all he knows. That mama left. He doesn’t understand that she is up in heaven watching him.” As if in habit Mr. Marshall glanced up. “So please leave for today.”
This wasn’t going to be the end. It can’t be. “I’ll be back. I’ll come back everyday. I want to know my son. Ally misunderstood that day she called. I was not in the office. A woman and her boyfriend commandeered my office. Long story. I was on my way home to her that day. I know I screwed up. I know I was a coward. I’m so sorry I wasn’t there for your daughter when she needed me most. I panicked that day, but I’ve been searching for these two since. Please don’t cut me out of my son’s life too. I’ll be here for him. Please just give me a chance.”
They just looked at me. I probably looked crazy. Maybe I was. I needed to be in my son’s life. He needed to know that his Dad wanted him. That I loved him. That his Dad loved his mom very much. That I wasn’t going anywhere.
“You’ll have a chance. It was Ally’s wish if you ever came looking for him. But that you are to understand. He lives with us. To him we are his only family. You have never been mentioned. Just take it slow. Let him warm up to you first. It will take time. However, I’m sure you don’t have unlimited time?”
“For my son. He has all my time.”
…1 Year Later…
It did take time. But slowly Jason warmed up to me. He eventually called me Dad. Not officially I think, but it was a start. It warmed me to know that’s how he saw me. I was living in Wyoming now. I had sold everything that week, one year ago. My house, my company, all my real-estate. Everything. And moved down here to be closer to my son.
I’m not one hundred percent accepted yet, but at least Mrs. Marshall doesn’t give me the eye anymore. She may be willing to forgive me now. Maybe. It’s fine. I’ll wait. I’m always going to be here. Here with my son. Ally’s son. Our son.
‘Why did I come out tonight? Why am I out here with people I haven’t seen in over two decades? Why did I think I would still fit in?’
My husband let me out for a night, solo. He’s at home with the kiddos. This is my first night in years being away from my little ones. My old tennis team was having a reunion, and I desperately wanted to go. But now that I’m here I’m confused why I desperately wanted to be here.
The venue was chosen as Roberta’s. A line dancing club and bar. I always wanted to come here again. I used to love the dancing, the atmosphere, and the social time.
Well the dancing is different to me, or maybe I’ve become too domesticated. It was just people getting as close as possible without getting intimate.
The atmosphere was fine, except the music was so loud. Like too loud!! I didn’t realize I had become such a prude; but I guess I am. Also I’m not used to the type of music. With my kiddos I’ve had to be careful what kind of music I listen to, because my kids mimic. Answering questions like, “what does this song mean?” And the song is about getting in the backseat of car…I don’t want to explain that to a seven year old. So I try and stick to Christian music, clean country, and crooners. The opposite of tonight.
Then there’s the socializing. For the past eight years I’ve been with my kids and husband. But the people who were once my good friends are drowning themselves in alcohol. Some of the married couples are off dancing close to other people. While the single friends were trying to hit on everyone in the bar.
“Come on, Sarah. You should come out and dance!” Jared slurred out while pulling me towards the dance floor.
“You go on without me. I’m not feeling too good.” Which wasn’t a lie. I was starting to feel dizzy. Maybe it was the air. I had only been drinking sparkling water all night, so I can’t be feeling dizzy due to drinking.
Jared shook his head and mumbled under his breath, “waste” before walking off.
I saw Chelsea and Katherine walking over in my direction, but instead I gathered up my jacket and purse and headed to side door. I needed some air. The cold air, burned my cheeks instantly, but it felt amazing. ‘What is this feeling?’ I was stumbling and fumbling trying to make it to the outside gazebo. Only a few people were there.
Safety. I felt safe as I stumbled onto a bench. It felt sturdy.
“Miss, do you need some water? You don’t look so good.”
Someone was handing me a water, and without thinking I took it and started chugging it down. It tasted like clean water. It was pure. Telling me that my drink must have been spiked tonight. “Thank you.”
“No need to worry about me miss, but you need to be careful accepting water from strangers.” The elderly man sat down beside me.
‘That’s true. I should have been more careful. I miss Charles. I miss my little darlings. My youngest is only two; how could I leave her at home?’
“Oh please miss, don’t cry. Here,” a handkerchief was handed to me.
I accepted it. I didn’t realize I was crying. I dried my face and finished the water. I felt better. Looking up I saw the gentleman beside me. He was an elderly gentleman; maybe seventy. He was nicely dressed, and he seemed calm and content.
“Is there a restroom nearby?” I wanted to wash my face and become a little less disheveled in front of my helper.
“Off to your right. Are you coming back or heading back inside?”
“I’ll be back. I think I’m done for tonight. Thank you.”
Looking in the mirror, a crazy looking person was looking back at me. I hadn’t seen this girl since my early twenty days. Not my best side. I washed my face and I felt much better. I tried to think back over the night; trying to figure out who and when my drink was spiked. Must have been Jared. He had been trying to get to me all night. Good thing Charles is not here, or Jared would be waking up in a hospital.
Finally seeing my normal self in the mirror I heading back to the gazebo. The gentleman was still sitting there waiting for me. “Sorry for my crying display earlier, someone from my company spiked my drink and I haven’t had alcohol in about ten years.”
Shock then anger was on the elderly man’s face. “Your drink was spiked. How could anyone do this? I’ll ask the bartender if someone from your party did it at the bar.” He waved over a man and whispered into his ear. The other man went off, back to the inside.
‘Who was this man?’ My face must have revealed my thoughts.
“Haha, sorry miss. I’m the owner here. I just want to know if a bartender saw anything. And if so I want them to be more aware and report these types of situations.”
The owner? The owner! Oh. “Strange. You don’t seem to look like the owner of this place?”
He raised an eyebrow, “what does that mean?”
“No offense. You just seem so classy.”
He chuckled. “I understand. No harm done. But you would be surprised that this place was once a classy place. We would dance the foxtrot, waltz, and even the east coast swing. We would have a live band and everything. My wife and I would host every night. The people who came would be there to dance and have fun with friends. We were all a big family back then.”
That sounded wonderful! I wish there was a place like that nowadays. I would go all the time. “That sounds wonderful, why did you…” looking at his face I knew why. “Where is your wife now?”
“She passed about thirty years ago. About that time the world started to change. People didn’t want to dress up and dance the night away; they wanted a louder atmosphere. You know, what it was like in there. Not something my Annie would have enjoyed. I’m happy she isn’t here to see what this place has become.”
I could see the true sadness on his face. He was missing her. Which is comforting to know that true love still exists after passing.
“I’m not quite a fan of this type of place, no offense. I was. But now that I’m a wife and mama I don’t really fit in to this place. Before it never bothered me; but now that I know someone is waiting for me at home, it’s hard to not think of them. Especially my little Lily. She’s only two years old, and I’m not with her. It feels weird to be away from my kids. I’m always with them. Everyday…”
“You remind me of my Annie. She always wanted to be home with our children too. I was the one who always wanted to be here dancing.”
“I would say I’m the one always wanting to be out dancing, whereas my husband is happy just being home. Every once in a while I want to go out ballroom dancing. I enjoyed learning to dance when I was younger. That now when I want to dance, I scoop up my son and dance the waltz with him in the living room. So coming out tonight has cured me of my desire to be out dancing. I’ll just dance with my son. Unless there was a family friendly classy place to go, I don’t think I will be coming out again.” I stood from the bench. Gathering up my jacket and purse. “Thank you again Mister,”
“Wesley.”
“Thank you Mr, Wesley. You saved me tonight.”
“Could you do me a favor? Since I saved you.”
“Sure.”
“Could you dance a quick waltz with me. I can’t do all the crazy tricks like before, but I would like to feel that feeling again.”
I smiled. I knew he wanted to feel close to his wife again. “Of course. And don’t worry about dancing fancy, I’ve not danced with a partner in a long time.”
“Ma’am, may I have this dance?” Wesley held out his hand.
“You may.”
…
Mr. Wesley had taken me back inside the establishment. “Are you off my dear?”
“Yes. Thank you for everything.” Wesley nodded and walked off.
The bartender stopped me before walking out, “Miss. You need to pay your bill?”
“My bill? I didn’t realize sparkling water cost money. How much do I owe? Ten dollars?”
The bartender coughed and handed me the bill…
“Two thousand dollars!?! That’s impossible. I don’t have that kind of money. Also I didn’t order anything. Is there some kind of mistake?”
“No mistake miss. Your party said that you were covering the bill. They all left about an hour ago.”
‘My party? What party? Oh. Them.’ “I never said I would pay the bill. Especially since I’m the one that ordered only sparkling water. Why would I offer to pay? This is all a mistake. I can’t pay this.”
“I’m sorry miss, but I will have to detain you and call the police, then. Please step aside.”
“But…” I was devastated. This was probably Jared’s idea. Since his plan of spiking my drink didn’t work for him, he thought leaving me here holding the bill was probably his retaliation. Never again. This really sealed the deal of me never hanging out with this lot ever again. “Fine.”
“Mrs. Dawely, why are you still here?”
I looked up to see Mr. Wesley standing beside me. “Mr. Wesley, my so called friends left me with the bill. I can’t afford to pay it. The police are being called. I’m sorry, but I can’t pay the bill. It’s probably Jared’s fault. He’s the one who spiked my drink. And since his plan foiled he probably leaving me with the bill would be a great revenge. I’m so sorry, Mr. Wesley.” I was holding back the tears.
Wesley walked over to the bartender. They discussed something. Mr. Wesley was just nodding while listening.
“Well my dear. You have been put into a bit of a pickle. I want you to tell the police everything when they show up. Also if you have a picture of the people who were here tonight. They will be banned from this place forever. I’m sorry that this had to happen to you. But now you know what kind of people they are. I would suggest getting new friends.”
“But Mr. Wesley. The bill. I can’t just let you loose two thousand dollars. I could help to pay it off if you would like?”
“No problem at all, my dear. I’ll settle it with the police. But if you could pay for your portion. You owe six dollars and thirty-eight cents.”
The tears came down in a gushing waterfall. “Thank you…Mr…” I couldn’t get the words out but I paid the bill. Just as Charles ran through the door.
“You have a keeper there son,” Mr. Wesley told Charles. “Keep her close.”
…2 Years Later…
I was holding my little Jeffery Wesley in my arms. We actually got to have another baby! I never forgot Mr. Wesley after that day. So much so that when this little guy grows up I will tell him who he is named after; and honorable gentleman. A man who saved Jeffery’s mama.
“Hey hon. You got a letter in the mail. More like a package.” Charles called from the kitchen.
Before I could even get to the kitchen all the kids were zooming there. Wesley didn’t just save me that night, he saved my family too. ‘Thank you Mr. Wesley.’ I don’t think I would ever stop saying thank you to him.
I handed Jeffery off to Charles. ‘Who would have sent me something?’ “Hey Hon. Do you know Hawthorne Attorneys?”
“Never heard of them.”
‘Huh.’ Probably a wrong address. Or a misspelled name. I’ll open it to find a mail back address. “Wesley! Wait what? Charles what does this mean?” I handed the paper to Charles and sat down on the chair beside me. ‘Did I read that right?’
“Mr. Wesley left you a large sum of money. This is part of his will. So it means that Mr. Wesley has passed away.”
‘He was gone. I had been planning a surprise visit to see him next month. I wanted him to meet little Jeffery. I wanted Mr. Wesley to know his help that day saved more than just me. He’s gone.’
“Hon? Hon?”
I didn’t speak but I looked to Charles.
“He left you thirty million dollars. What are you going to do?”
I wasn’t thinking about the money. A man that I had hoped would be an honorary member of my family is gone. I scooped up little Jeffery out of Charles’ arms and walked out of the kitchen. I needed some time.
…
It took some time, but I figured out what to do. I opened up a dancing place called Wesley’s. There was a dress code. The dancing was ballroom or swing only. The music was always a live band. It was always a swinging place. Full of families having fun, also laughter and smiles. This place was for Mr. Wesley and his wife Annie. They deserved a legacy they would be proud of.
emily2jane 