Tag Archives: Fiction

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 28

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 27

CHAPTER 28

Ken, Jerry, and Matthew came to pick us up from the airport. I was glad I would get to see them one last time before our flight at four.

“How was the trip? How was Jenny? How was Coach? Was the house like you remembered? Did you bring us back anything?” Ken talked a mile a mintue once again.

“Dude. Shut it. I’m sure they don’t remember your first question,” Jerry jabbed at Ken, who this time was in the back seat with us. Matthew was the driver; he needed to practice for his licensed test next weekend.

“Right. Sorry. Just happy you are back,” Ken settled down.

“What was the first question?” Jeremy asked.

Ken too had to think first before answering, “Oh. Right. How was the trip?”

“Do you just want the highlights? Or extensive details?” ‘I would rather the simple answer.’ I was still exhausted.

“Simple,” Matthew called back, “I don’t think I can pay attention to driving and listen intently.”

“Okay,” Jeremy cleared his throat, “Jenny chewed me out. Coach nearly killed George during a workout. Jenny wouldn’t listen to George. And no one was forgiven or given closure.” Jeremy looked at me if I had more input.

“And Coach is now coaching a city team up there,” I added to add some good news.

We were met with expressionless faces.

‘As I expected.’

“Bummer. I was hoping it would be a good trip, but I can kind of understand the outcome. It’s going to take time for her to get used to the idea of this one,” Jerry thumbed at Jeremy.

“Very true, and maybe you three too,” Jeremy draped his arm over Jerry’s shoulder.

“Why us?” Ken and Matthew asked simitaniously.

“Well, when I told her you all accepted me into your gang she was surprised first, and then probably disappointed in you all. That you could also befriend her great enemy,” Jeremy threw his hands up in the air.

“Wow. Thanks,” Jerry shoved Jeremy’s hand off of him, “I was hoping to visit them at some point. But I guess that is not an option.”

“Sorry. I thought it would help her see that I had changed enough that you upstanding people could accept me. But yes, it backfired,” Jeremy slump in his seat.

“Don’t worry about it dude,” Matthew said as he drove, “she would have found out about it sooner or later. Probably better she heard it from you then having to say she is disappointed in us to our faces.”

Jerry and Ken both nodded. “Ture,” they both agreed.

“Well on a better note,” I wanted to change the topic; the day needs to be more uplifting before we leave, “are you all staying the afternoon?”

“Right. Yeah. Your mom invited us over for an early goodbye lunch. She knew you would have been too busy to plan anything on your short trip,” Jerry said as we were almost to our exit.

That’s just like Mom.’

Lunch was delicious as always. Mom has a true gift at making one’s stomach happy. But as the lunch went on, I noticed that Mom was chippier than normal. She had a spring in her step as she walked through the dining room and into the kitchen. She seemed like she was in the clouds. Dad was happier too. ‘I wonder what happened
while we were gone?’

“I have an announcement; well maybe we have an announcment,” Mom said as Dad had joined her at the head of the table.

‘What’s happening?’

Mom looked at Dad; they seemed to exchange words without talking. “Okay,” Dad was the first to talk, “I guess I will be announcing the good news.” Dad pulled Mom to his side and rested his hand on her waist. Dad paused for a dramatic effect, “We are expecting.”

Silence.

It took me a second to realize what that meant, “You are pregnant!?” I blurted out with excitment.

Mom giggled and nodded happily.

The guys took longer, but after I answered they finally understood. “Congratulations,” the guys said in unison. Jerry and Ken both ran over to give Mom a hug and Dad fists bumps. Matthew and Jeremy followed their pursuit; even though Jeremy was not planning on hugging my mom. Still mom was not about to pass up on a well deserved hug.

“I’m going to have a sibling?” I hadn’t moved. I was happy but also stunned.

“Oh, George. I hope you are happy. I was worried you would think you are being…” Mom started to nervously fidget.

I was not about to let Mom feel bad for this happy news. I ran to her side and gave her the hug she deserved. I also whispered into her ear, “Thank you Mom; for giving me something I’ve always wanted,” I could feel tears coming so I just rested my head on her shoulder.

Mom’s body sighed with relief and hugged me a little tighter.

“Do I get a hug too?” Dad said as he placed hands on both our shoulders, “I did kind of help.”

“Hon,” Mom let go of me and jabbed at Dad.

Mom’s face was starting to redden, so she ran into the kitchen. I laughed. ‘Mom is so cute.’ I had gathered myself and I turned to give Dad his hug as well. I was ecstatic to finally have a sibling, but I’m sure Dad is happy to have another one. We just stood there in our embrace.

“Okay son, I’m hungry,” Dad slowly let go and pulled away.

The tears were back. They were happy tears of course, but here it comes…

“Oh…the eldest baby is crying,” Jeremy poked fun at my emotions.

“So what. I’m happy I will have a sibling. It’s what I’ve always wanted,” I wiped my tears away and stood a little taller. “And this time the child will have uncontrollable nice, sweet genes,” I yelled loud enough and in the direction of the kitchen.

“Thanks George,” a voice echoed from the kitchen. “Now for another surprise,” Mom exited the kitchen holding a platter with several colored cupckes.

“Wow!” We all said at once.

“I made them as cupcakes, because then you could decide how much sweets you want personally. I know you, George, haven’t been eating much,” Mom set the platter down in
front of us.

Even though we were all supposed to be watching our weight, maybe not Ken, we devoured all the cupcakes. I ate two; Mom was right, my sweets intake had lessened. So while everyone else was in a sugar coma, I decided to help Mom clean up. I took up my spot as the dishwasher; while Mom carried all the dishes into the kitchen. Then she took her spot as the dryer. I broke the silence, “Mom.”

“Yes, George,” Mom answered as she continued to dry.

“Can you call me Son, or something other than George. Even though we are not related by blood,” I stopped washing the dish and turned to face her, “You are the best Mom someone could ask for. I just want to feel closer to you.”

Silence once again grew in the room.

Mom had not looked at me, but as she slowly turned and I saw the tears spilling down her face, “I’ve been waiting for this day!” Mom whispered out as tears continued.

Soapy hands and all, I pulled her into a hug. Her tears subsided and we pulled apart. I wiped the soap off my hands before clearing her face of the tears.

“You don’t have to decide on the name now, you can think about it; but it would really mean a lot to me to fully be your kid too,” I turned my attention back to the dishes to hold my own emotions at bay.

“Sure, Son,” Mom gasped and threw the drying towel over her mouth.

I laughed at her reaction.

She laughed as well, “Well I guess, Son, it is. Your dad says it all the time, so I guess in my head that has always been your name. Son. I like it! Your sibling will have a great older brother to look up to; I think I’m most excited about that,” Mom warmly smiled as she grabbed the next dish from the rack.

We just stood there together as Mom and Son washing the dishes. But unknown to us, Dad was standing in the entrance of the kitchen, having watched our exchange. He too had tears rolling down his cheeks.

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 27

Life Of Two Beat Friends: College CHPT 26

CHAPTER 27

It was eleven o’clock at night. Jeremy was already snoring beside me in the queen bed. ‘We gave up on sleeping on the floor.’ We were both beginning to feel the workout this morning.

Lily never came home. Coach and Mrs. Coach told us that she was in her reblious stage early; When she wasn’t at school, she was off doing things with her new friends or at other’s houses.

I was just laying there in bed thinking about what happened at dinner. We had all sat down for the farewell meal, and Jenny excused herself. I was hoping that we all could be at least well mannered and have one last meal together, but I guess she is going to need more time. Maybe guys are more forgiving; whereas girls hold grudges. ‘Unknown to me.’ But as I layed there I thought about the days to come. One more day with Mom and Dad. Then college begins Monday. ‘My life will no longer be my own…’ and I was out.

“Beep! Beep! Beep!”

‘Whoever’s alarm clock that is better turn it off; I’m not about to get up. It feels like I just fell asleep.’ I heard movement around the room. ‘Fine,’ I sat up in bed. “What?!”

Crash! Whoever was in the room just crashed to the floor. “Dude. You scared the crap out of me,” Jeremy drugged himself up from the floor! “You were so still, that I thought you were already up. Man, my heart is going crazy.” Jeremy switch on the overhead light, flooding the room with a bright light.

“Argghh…” I draped my arm over my eyes. ‘That was too bright and too early.’ “Why are you up already?” I searched for my phone.

“It’s five-thirty. We have to leave the house in fifteen mintues,” Jeremy picked my phone up from the floor, and shoved the screen in my face.

True to what he said it was five-thirty. ‘Crap!’ I scrambled up and shoved my belongings in my bag. Changed into my flying clothes and then stood waiting for Jeremy at the door. “Really dude? I got ready in five mintues. How long is it going to take you?”

“I’m sorry; I’m not crazy fast on land like you. You looked like a tornado just now,” Jeremy laughed as he continued to gather his belongings.

“Knock, knock,” suddenly heard on the door.

We looked at each other, before I went to open the door. There stood a tangled mess of Jenny. She was not a happy person.

“Can you please remeber you are visiting and to keep the noise level down. Some of us need to sleep,” was what she blurted out before returning to her room.

‘Yikes. Not a morning person.’ I silently closed the door. I looked at Jeremy and he was panicking to pack his stuff while being stealthy at the same time. ‘I guess that works.’ I scooped up my bag about to leave the room, when Jeremy silently waved at me. I looked back and Jeremy was just still and shaking his head. “What?”

“I’ll be done in a mintue. Don’t leave me with the scary grump monster next door,” Jeremy continued to panically pack his belongings.

Just as I was going to give up and leave him, Jeremy finished and followed me out the door. We proceeded to the staircase to quietly walk down the stairs.

“What are you two doing,” Coach almost yelled at us as we made it to the first floor?

“Shhhhh!” Jeremey yelled at Coach.

“Excuse me?” Coach was amused but also annoyed at the remark.

“Sorry! But you are going to wake up the grump upstairs. We already got one scolding. I don’t need another,” and Jeremy walked quickly past Coach and into the kitchen.

“I didn’t know Lily came home,” Coach quizzically looked up the stairs.

“No. Not Lily. Jenny. I never knew she was not a morning person,” I said following Jeremy.

“That’s news to me as well,” as Coach too looked for breakfast.

Finally on the plane. Northern California airport is better than LAX, but man, I miss Montana’s airport. One security line. Six gates. I never thought I would become less of a people person after living up in Montana so long. I guess its only going to get worse as years go by.

“So,” Jeremy leaned over. We were on a smaller plane so Jeremy was the only person next to me, “How did your talk go?”

‘I really just wanted to sleep on this short flight,’ but, “If you could call it a talk, it went nowhere.”

“Ouch. I was hoping you would at least get to pour your heart out. It’s an understanding she hates my guts, but I thought she would be somewhat understanding to you,” Jeremy dug out some snacks from his bag.

“Yeah. I had hoped so too. But nope. She sees me as someone who first abandonded her, and then betrayed her,” I stole a few pretzels.

“Abandoned I get. You left. Not to leave her, but from my understanding girls are more sensitive. But why betrayed? Because you left?” Jeremy continued to munch as he talked.

“I befriended you,” I huffed out as I just looked forward.

“Oh, right. Yeah. You betrayed her by maturing and growing up; while she hit rock bottom and had life changing moments.”

Why did Jeremy have to say everything so logical. I know he is right, but for some reason, him saying it sounds so smug. “Yes, I matured, you matured, and she emotionally crashed.” ‘Which didn’t sound any better.’ “But I had hoped to have a converstion with her to maybe bring each of us some closure. But nope. After I told her we are going to agree to disagree about you, she left the room.”

“Wow. Your conversation went worse than mine. I felt like crap because of my past self, but she was making you feel like crap for your present self. Tough, bro,” Jeremy swung his arm across my shoulders and again offered me more pretzles.

“No thanks. I just want some water,” my mouth was parched, especially after all that salt.

Jeremy again dug out his hydro flask.

‘He thought of everything.’ “Thanks.” I took a long swig of water. ‘Much better.’

“No problem. Happy to help,” Jeremy put the bottle back after I was done.

We sat in silence a little bit.

“Is it just me or are both of us losers on this trip?” Jeremy broke the silence.

“Yeah. We both lost. You died on the run. I almost drowned. You got chewed out by Jenny. And I lost my future with her. We are definately losers,” Jeremy nodded as I listed these off. “I can’t find one good thing that happened on this trip. It seems like a fail.”

Jeremy sarcastically did his deep thinking face.

Silence…

Snap! “I got it! You found out what you needed to work on. I realized that I am still somewhat lazy in sets. Your coach is getting to coach again. And what did Coach say about your feelings for Jenny?”

‘True. All those things can be seen as good.’ Especially about Coach. I’m sure he is so excited to coach again. I thought back over what Coach said yesterday, “I didn’t actually tell him I have feelings for her.”

“What?! You could have gotten your future father-in-law’s approval ahead of time. Clueless. Your are clueless,” Jeremy shook his head at me in disbelief.

Remembering what was said, “Well he did find out that Jenny likes me, and he said he is all for us being together. So maybe he just assumed it is mutal.”

“Nice! That’s another big achievement. Approval from a future in-law,” Jeremy slowly nodded in smug approval.

Sure. I’ll take what I can get.’ Okay I was about to fall asleep during our talk, “Dude, I want to just sleep. You…”

“Say no more,” Jeremy grabbed his earbuds from his backpack and straightened in his seat and patted his shoulder, “this shoulder has your name on it if you want.”

I laughed. ‘There’s no way I’m doing that.’ “Thanks, but I good,” I relaxed into my seat. I was out in minutes.

As we landed, I woke up with my head on his shoulder. ‘Figures.’

Life Of Two Beat Friends: College CHPT 26

Life Of Two Beat Friends: College CHPT 25

CHAPTER 26

As we climbed into the truck to leave, Coach paused before zumming down the street. “George, do you want a milkshake? There is a great place just down the road.”

“Sure. I’m always down for treats; especially since starting Monday I will be saying goodbye to them,” I laughed relaxing into the seat.

The truck roared to life.

“So…did she talk to you?” Coach asked as we sat on the tailgate of the truck waiting for our milkshakes.

I didn’t even have to think about who he was referring to. Jenny. It’s going to be Jenny. “Yeah. If you can really call it that. It seemed more like a one sided commentary with a side a betrayal. Did I really betray her Coach?” I slumped my head down looking at my shoes dangling off the tailgate.

Coach didn’t answer right away.

‘Which probably means he thinks I did.’

“Yes and no. It’s all in her mind mostly. Before you went off to school, she revoled around you. You were her center. Once you left she lost that sense of security,” Coach paused as the waitress came up with our shakes.

My head snapped up to retrive the shake, and I decided to face this conversation head held high. I turned to look at Coach who had just taken a long swig of shake.

Coach nodded in approval before continuing, “She lost security. She had to face everything that happened, without her much wanted support. I don’t know if I should tell you this or not, but she used to have nightmares,” Coach stopped long enough to take another sip.

My head snapped in his direction and I was about to ask more as Coach began again.

“She would scream and scream. My wife and I would have to sprint to her bedroom to wake her up. She would fight us as we tried,” Coach ran his fingers through his hair. “Once she would finally awaken, she would misinterpret her awake state. She would call for you, George. She wouldn’t stop until I would hold her in my arms and she would
begin to settle. She would whisper, “Don’t leave me,” Coach set his shake down.

It was just silent. I had no words and no logical response. ‘She looked for me. I was her safe haven when she was struggling.’ I too set my shake down and dropped my head into my hands. ‘No wonder she feels like I betrayed her.’ I jumped as Coach placed his hand on my shoulder.

“Sorry for startling you, just didn’t want you to not take it too much to heart. When the first nightmare happened, I realized she liked you as more than a friend. I’m all for you two ending up together. You would have to call me Father-in-law,” Coach chuckled as he put me in a choke hold. “Move past it, George. This happened two years ago. I just wanted you to understand why she thinks you betrayed her.”

Coach was doing a good job of making me move past it, because if I didn’t, he would have probably strangled me. “Got…it…Got it. Let go of me,” I somehow shoved him off of me.

Coach released me and patted my back as I choked. “Sorry. Maybe not the best thing to do to you after today’s incident.”

I was gasping for air after being released, “Yeah, maybe not the best idea.”

“But yes, I do believe Jenny feels betrayed, and I before this morning thought she was in the right. But after seeing how Jeremy responded to you, and how he was panicked waiting for you to awake; showed me what an upright young man he has become. I was honest when I told him once Jenny heals he is welcomed. But until that day I think this is going to be the last time he is invited to the house.”

I understood. “Next time I’ll just leave him at my dad’s house,” laughing at the thought.

“No George. I mean, I think this is the last visit for you both until she heals,” Coach said as he once again picked up his shake.

“What?” I was shocked. ‘Why me too?’

“Jenny sees you as a betrayer. Until she heals more, I don’t think she will see you any other way. As much as I want that future, I don’t know if that will ever again be a possiblity.”

It took me a second. ‘Never a possibility. Unless Jenny heals. The future he is talking about, me and Jenny, will never happen.’ Me leaving two years ago might have ruined my chances at that future that I hoped for. “Well this conversation just got depressing. I understand your concerns. I will follow your instructions until you believe I can visit again. Any upbeat topics?” I devoured my shake; wanting to have something happy.

“I am looking forward to your future in the pool. You have improved greatly, even more so from two years ago. You and Jeremy are a powerful duo,” Coach once again clapped me on the back.

However, this time I had just take a huge gulp of shake, that I proceeded to spit it out all over my jeans and the ground. I hoped down and dashed off to the counters for some napkins. I cleaned my jeans, and then after running back to the truck, I attempted to clean the ground.

Just as a waitress rolled up in her rollerskates, “Don’t worry about it, Honey. We spray down the parking lot for exactly these reasons,” and she rolled away back to the counters.

I felt bad for the mess, but decided to climb back onto the tailgate.

But Coach got up at that moment, “Let’s head back. It’s already five. You guys have an early flight tomorrow. Hopefully Lily will be home tonight. She has been at a friends house most days.”

I jumped down off the tailgate and slammed it shut. I tossed the small amount of shake into the garbage can. ‘That’s enough sugar for me, for the rest of my lifetime.’ I climbed into the truck and we were back on our way to the house. I didn’t really know how I felt about our conversation. It still felt like a void was yet to be resolved. This visit I had hoped to clear the air about everything, but instead, it seems like I went negatively backwards.

Life Of Two Beat Friends: College CHPT 25

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 24

CHAPTER 25

After Jenny and I’s “talk”…if that’s what it can be called; I was sitting at the kitchen table finally eating my burrito just as Coach came in.

“George,” Coach stopped short in front of me.

I had, of course, just taken a huge bite; so I just nodded in response.

“I need you to come with me; just finish that in the car,” Coach cleared my empty milk cup to the sink, walked out of the kitchen, and out the front door.

I scrambled to hold my burrito and phone in my hand, as I rushed after Coach. ‘I wish he would have just said the something now.’

This time I was able to climb into the truck. Just as I was clicking my seatbelt, Coach roared down the street. In between bites I mumbled, “Where are we going?”

Coach didn’t respond; he was focusing on the road in front of him.

Instead of repeating myself, I just sat there gobbling down my food.

The truck came to a stop; the same spot as earlier this morning. “What are we doing here, Coach? Not another workout, right?” I glanced at the pool dreading my decision of following him without questioning Coach as we drove.

“No. Of course not. You are done with workouts until you get back to school. No. We are here…because this morning, during your almost drowning; the city team was slowly arriving, and many of the swimmers saw what happened. The lifeguards called me and told me that many of the swimmers were worried about you,” Coach just sat there in his seat looking forward at the pool deck.

Coach looked older. Older than when we first arrived yesterday. “I’m good now. Did you tell them that?”

“Yes, but the lifeguards asked if you could come to the pool and reassure the swimmers. Some of them are questioning their descions to swim after seeing you almost drown,” Coach rubbed his hand along his forhead. “I…feel so responsible…you almost…on my watch…I…” Coach broke.

‘Why do people keep breaking down in front of me. First my Dad, then Jenny, now Coach.’ “Coach. It wasn’t your fault. I wanted to prove myself to you; I was the one who did it. An athlete listens to their coach, but they are the one that does the action.”

“Because you believed my teaching. I gave you the material to follow,” Coach had controlled his gruff sobs; he was just occasionally huffing now. “I…almost died when you stopped moving. I was unable to move; everything just froze around me,” Coach shuddered remembering that moment.

“Coach. Please stop blaming yourself. Yes, it was a bad way to learn, but I now know that breathing in the no breath zone is better than losing limbs. I wouldn’t have known that without this experience. I also know now that I need to work on my air consumption. I now have things to work on,” I was trying to comfort Coach, but I was
also telling the truth. It was. ‘It was the honest truth.’ “Also, Jeremy learned that he still had energy; so, he was able to save me. If he had given it his all, he wouldn’t have been able.”

Coach cut me off, “First time, I am happy a swimmer still had some juice. If he hadn’t had been able to hold you up, I don’t know what would have…”

“Coach. Stop. Let’s move past this,” I wanted to end this never ending chit-chat. ‘What’s up with me having these types of conversations today.’

“Fine. Good,” Coach recomposed himself.

Coach was once again his almost grump self.

“Let’s head in. I don’t know what to expect, but maybe you will have to talk to them. Encourage them to continue,” Coach swung his door open.

I followed Coach’s pursuit, “No problem,” and we started to walk towards the deck.

‘Well this is not what I expected.’ There was an age range from six to maybe sixteen. There was no swim team at the highschool; instead there was a city team, the Rockets. Coach was off talking to the lifeguards and parents. Which means…he left me here. In front of maybe fifty swimmers. “So, I heard that some of you saw what happened
this morning?” I looked up at the faces staring at me. Nobody answered, some even looked away. “If you have a question just ask.”

It was silent, until a young boy, maybe twelve, stood up, “What actually happened?”

I chuckled at the question, but after my reaction the kids looked frightened, I waved off the laugh, “Sorry. It was just a new experience for me,” I cleared the air and waited for all eyes to be back on me. “My coach,” I turned and pointed at Coach’s back, and quickly returned to my audience, “gave me a hard set this morning. He
is notorious for giving you sets that will push you to your breaking point. The best kinds of sets,” I winked at everyone. No response. “Anyways…I followed his instruction completely, and I made a wrong call.” I would only go into more details if someone asked.

One of the older girls raised her hand before speaking, “What wrong call?”

“Good question. You all need to understand this. Your coach gives you the fundementals and building blocks to be great, it is your descion to follow them. I decided to not breathe in the no breath zone, even though my lungs were on fire. I decided. Not my coach,” I wanted them to completely understand what I was saying. ‘It was all me.’ “But it was definately the wrong call, and now I know that. I wouldn’t have known if not for this. That it is better to take a two tenths of a second breath than lose limbs.”

“What do you mean lose limbs? You were flying,” this time a young boy blurted out.

“It might have looked that way, but can any of you older swimmers tell me what limb I lost first?” I wanted the more experienced kids to be in this exchange.

“Your arm.”

I looked to see who said that, but they did not reveal themselves, “Which one?”

“The left,” the oldest looking guy said at the top of the bleachers.

I looked the guy in the eye. He seemed to be my age. “Correct. Then what?” I said directly to him.

He just looked back at me unfazed, “your left leg. You lost one whole side of your body. You started to slow down maybe five yards from the wall.”

I was impressed that this guy could see all that. It happened within less than five seconds. “Correct. What’s your name?”

“Bradley Mitchells,” he said out, but it seemed begrudingly. “Why?”

“I just want a name for the face when I compete against you in the future.”

“Me…me compete with you. There is no way,” Bradley looked at me baffled. “You are way out of my league.”

“If you had the right coach, you could be swimming against me in the future,” I was being honest. I’ve never seen this guy swim, but his knowledge of five seconds already told me all that I needed to know.

Everyone glanced up at Bradley in astonishment. Clapping erupted from everyone.

“Enough, enough,” Bradley tried to quiet them, but with no success.

“Okay. Any other questions?” I took the spot light off of the embarressed Bradley. If he wants to be a swimmer on my level he is going to need to become more confident.

“What was your set?” Another older girl asked.

“Pheew…I will start by saying it was killer. We did about twenty-four hundered yards warm-up. About one thousand yards heart rate warm-up,” I paused to see surprised but also scared expressions. “If that is scary to you, just wait. Then the main set: Thirty all out fiftys. With a one minute break in between each one,” I again paused.

The faces were not as suprised. They seemed to think that was a normal set. Even Bradley looked calm.

“Maybe you don’t understand. I was averageing about twenty-threes, while my bud was averging twenty-three mids,” again I looked into the faces before me.

Realization must have taken effect, because all the faces gasped. The girls all pointed at me and whispered together. As Bradley, and I assume his buds, glanced at each other in amazement. “You really went that in practice?” The guy next to Bradley asked.

I felt a smile begin to creep over my face, but I hid it quickly. I didn’t want to come off smug, “Yes. It was expected from my coach. He truly can bring the best out of me.”

“I can do what?” Coach’s voice came from directly behind me.

I jumped slightly at the sudden outburst. “Coach,” I stood next to him, “I was just telling them about the set we did, and how you can bring the best out of me.”

“Don’t brag too much about me, you will make my head swell with pride,” Coach stood a little taller.

“Did he really hold twenty-threes in the set he did this morning?” Bradley blurted out.

Coach looked at me before answering,” Yes and no,” all the kids in front of me started to laugh; because they thought I had lied to them. “Twenty-nine of them were averaging twenty-threes; however the last one was a low twenty-four,” Coach seemed unfazed by the laughter.

I think it took a moment for that to register as well. Once it did, everyone quieted down, and once again gazed at me in amazement.

“Wow. I went a twenty-four. Man that’s slow! I haven’t gone that time in a long time,” I turned my attention from the gasps to Coach. “I am definately going to work on my breath control starting Monday.”

“Well…the Rockets. Are you more at ease,” Coach turned his attention back to the still stunned athletes, “after hearing George’s side of the story?”

They all just nodded.

“Good. Because I was actually offered the job of head coach of this team.”

“What!?!” everyone in the stands yelled together.

“Hey. Be happy. You are getting the best Coach in all of California. Bradley, I will definately be seeing you soon,” I pointed at the still stunned Bradley.

“I’m excited to have this opportunity once again. I must say thank you to you, George, without your mess this morning I would have not been offered the job. The parents want me to take their swimmers all the way, or at least get them into your school in Montana.” Coach clapped me on the back.

“I’m looking forward to it, and I am excited that you get to continue coaching,” I draped my arm over Coach’s shoulder. We stood their like a perfect pair; a pair of crazy swimming enthustics. ‘These kids are going to get a wake up call.’

“See you all starting Monday. Enjoy your weekend,” Coach turned the two of us away from the stands.

As we were walking away the whispers started, which reminded me of something, I stopped and quickly walked back to the stands. “I forgot to mention when I was telling you the workout. We also began the morning by waking up at four-thirty and running thirty minutes to this pool. So tack on thirty mintues of death before that crazy
workout.” I saw the look of fear and bewilderment creep on all their faces. I laughed and walked quickly across the deck to catch up with Coach.

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 24

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 23

CHAPTER 24

We had Chipotle for lunch. Coach actually got us each two burritos. I was amazed that Jeremy actually ate both; since my throat was still sore I decided to pace myself and eat more later. Once we returned back to the house, Coach was treating me like I was a child; like I couldn’t function on my own. To make him stop, I decided
to go lay down for a bit to help ease the pressure on my chest, but also put Coach at ease.

I finally woke up and checked the clock, it was now one o’clock in the afternoon. I must have been asleep for almost two hours. I am starving again. I ventured down the stairs to the kitchen to find my burrito. ‘Jeremy had better not have eaten it.’ I came around the corner and ran straight into Jenny. I was unable to catch us, and I toppled over her and we both fell to the floor. ‘I tried to do the catch and roll action that most guys do in the movies, but that is only something that happens if the girl knows as well.’ But I still attempted it and instead she ended up landing on my wrist. ‘Pain.’

We just laid there on the kitchen floor for a quick minute. I got the wind kick out of me; probably because my lunges were still pressured from this morning. I still laid there, whereas Jenny slowly began to pry herself up from the floor.

“Sorry for running into you,” I said still sprawled out on the floor. I was waiting for the heaviness of my chest to be gone before moving. “I attempted to catch you, but of course I failed,” I tried to keep it light hearted, because there seemed to be tension in the air.

“No problem,” Jenny responded as she was fully standing now.

At first, I thought she was just going to walk off.

“Do you need some help, George?” Jenny turned and looked down at me.

Thankfully the heaviness was gone, at that moment, because I was able to start trying to get up. “No. I’m good. Just waiting for my chest to stop feeling pressured. You good?”

“Yep,” was all the response Jenny was going to give me.

I was once again on my feet and she started to walk away; I didn’t want to miss this chance, so I reached out and grabbed her hand. She didn’t respond. She just stood with her back to me. “Jenny?” Still no response, “Do you think we can talk now?” I thought she was going to keep ignoring me, but finally she turned to face me.

“Sure. Let’s talk,” her face showed no expression.

We had returned to the guest bedroom; we did not want to be disturbed by anyone; everyone was outside hanging out. I sat down on one corner of the bed, thinking she would sit on the other, but instead she took her spot in the office chair in the corner of the room.

Silence again filled the room. Seeing as she was not about to start the conversation I took the initiative, “How is school in Europe?”

That must have been the right question to start things off, because her face seemed to light up the room. She told me all about the school, her new friends, her new lifestyle, and her new discoveries in art. It didn’t seem like she would be stopping anytime soon, but she started to slow down. Finally to the point where silence had returned. I had hoped she would have asked me a question in return, but since that seemed like it would not happen, I once again emptied the silence.

“Montana is also a new lifestyle. Even though I’ve been swimming non-stop since Juinor year, the lifestyle up there is more slow paced. Thanks to school, I was able to know what day of the week it was,” Jenny was listening, but her expression seemed forced.

Silence once again.

‘I guess I’ll start the talk.’ “Jenny…”

“George…” Jenny said at the same moment as me.

She looked uncomfortable. I waved at her to continue. I was not about to stop her.

Jenny seemed to hesitate before continuing, “I… Why?… How?…Why?” Jenny seemed to be confused of where to start.

“Just go through everything one at a time. I will respond if you need me to, but if not, I will let you get it all out first.” I needed her to speak her mind first. So that I knew what her feelings were before I said the wrong thing.

Jenny looked at me and saw my honest acceptence; she nodded to herself and leaned towards me, “I’m better than I was. Juinor year was unbearable. I am surprised I survived as long as I did,” Jenny shivered and leaned back into the chair.

I offered her a blanket, but she declined it.

“I’m good,” she said relaxing once again, “I actually am good. Thanks to your dad, my transition was easy and painless. You will have to thank him for me. The pain and mental breakdown is still there, but I’ve been trying to work threw it. I have to,” Jenny seemed to squeeze the life out of her hand as she made a fist.

I know she must be in so much pain, but the look of determination on her face was vibrant and beautiful.

“But why…?” Jenny whispered.

Thankfully I had not stopped listening or I would have missed the whisper. I focused once again on Jenny’s face and there were tears starting to trickled down her cheeks. “Jenny,” I leaped up from the bed.

“No, George,” Jenny stopped me, “you befriend him. He ruined my life,” Jenny wiped away tears. “How could you?”

As I looked at Jenny I could see the anger growing. At first, I thought she was saying why did I leave her. Instead she was angry at me for befriending her enemy.

“Jenny. He is not the guy you think he is anymore. He has matured,” I said those words knowing they were not the right words but I needed to defend Jeremy.

Jenny, tears still falling, looked up at me. Her expression showed anger and sadness. “Even so. He ruined my life. I had to leave home. Yes, I’m in a better mental state, but how could you,” Jenny’s voice was getting louder and louder as she continued.

“Jenny. I don’t want to spend our entire time talking about Jeremy. We are, sadly, going to have to agree to disagree on this topic,” I stopped her from continuing. I saw no end to this conversation. “Tell me more about you these last two years?”

Jenny didn’t answer at first; I thought I had lost her completly from the conversation, but at last she turned her attention back to me and answered, “I can’t tell you about myself because it all revolves around your new best friend. So I believe there is nothing left to discuss,” Jenny got up from her chair.

“Jenny,” I reached out to try and stop her. I was not done talking to her.

She smacked my hand off of her, “No George. You have changed. Have a safe trip home. Goodbye,” and Jenny was out the door and gone.

I just stood there unable to move. This time she has left my world, and sadly I knew that it was not going to change.

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 23

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 22

CHAPTER 23

My eyes shot open. ‘Man it was bright!’ Everything around me was glowing. I only saw white and yellows all around me.

“He’s awake!” Jeremy yelled as he choked on food at the same time.

My eyesight was still unclear, but now a head appeared over me. This shadow blocked a good portion of glow.

“George,” it was the same voice from before, “respond please. Can you hear me?”

I tried to speak but only a squeak left my mouth. Instead I nodded.

“Thank God. You scared me for a moment there,” the head moved away and once again my eyes were flouded with the glowing light.

“George!?” Coach was now beside me, “Respond to me, son?”

“Co…a…ch,” was all I could muster. ‘Why is my voice gone?’

“Excuse me,” the paramedics had showed up. “Let us check him,” they moved Coach aside and took up the place next to my body. “How long has he been awake?”

“Just seconds before you arrived. He doesn’t seem able to register people yet. His voice is hoarse, but he did respond to me when he first awoke,” it was the voice again. It must be the head lifguard from earlier.

“How did this happen?” The paramedic closest to George asked as he checked his pulse.

“We were having an intense workout, and on the last stretch of the race, something seemed to be wrong,” Coach was the one to speak up, “then after he touched the wall his body seemed to collapse. He was submerged underwater for about ten seconds before his teammate realized and held his body up before the lifeguard reacted. Jeremy, saved his life,” Coach looked at Jeremy; he had just questioned him just the day before. Now realizing that Jeremy is actually someone to keep around.

“Du…de,” I tried to thank Jeremy, but my words would not form.

“Don’t speak. Your lungs took in some water when they desperately wanted oxygen. Your lungs might be filled with water; but since you are able to somewhat talk the amount must be very slim. I will do a quick procedure.”

The paramedic worked quickly; and just like that I was somewhat back to normal. My chest was no longer heavy and the faces around me became clearer. Jeremy was sitting and slowly eating another bar. Coach was standing, but was wringing his hands. The head lifeguard was standing off to the side talking to one of the paramedics. Micheal was coming back with Gatorade and more bars in his arms. The one paramedic was still beside me.

“I’m…hungry…” I said. Finally forming a complete sentence.

“No soild foods for you. I’m worried about your airway. Micheal,” the paramedic gestured for a gatorade.

‘Gatorade. That’s at least something.’ I tried to sit up but the weight on my chest returned and seemed to be holding me down. Arms seemed to help lift me up; putting me into a sitting position. The gatorade was delicious.

“He needs to rest for maybe one more hour. If any issues arise I would suggest coming to the ER. Anything. Shortness of breath, tightness of chest, wheezing, etc. Understood?” The paramedic said as he gathered his equiptment.

“Of course. I’ll keep watch over him. Thank you,” Coach shook the paramedic’s hand and walked him out.

“Dude. You scared the crap out of me,” Jeremy said as it was now just the two of us and Michael. “I thought….you…” Jeremy stopped talking and instead shoved the rest of his protein bar in his mouth.

‘I knew what he was going to say.’ “Thanks bro…for saving… my life,” I couldn’t move to truly show my appreciation to him, but I nodded at him.

“No problem. You would have done the same for me,” Jeremy returned the nod. “But I did realize something at the end of that set…I still had energy to save you. I thought I had given it my all, but I guess I still had something left. I know I shouldn’t say thank you for almost drowning, but thank you,” Jeremy chuckled awkwardly because he knew there was no other way to say what he just said.

‘It was a weird thing to say, but I totally understood. Every athlete needs to experience that moment at some point in their career.’ “I’m happy you got smething from it, because I will not be doing it again. But if something similar happens, act the same and save me.” I laughed but then shivered at the thought of experiencing it again.
Passing out in a pool is always a fear for athletes. Now understanding the importance of supervision.

“George. Are you alright?” Coach had come back onto the pool deck; just as Micheal went back into the office.

“Yeah Coach. I’m all good. Once again you pushed me past my breaking point; but I think this time it was beyond my breaking point.

Coach ran his fingers through his hair, and wiped his hand down his face. “Don’t ever push yourself that far again. You should have taken another breath. I knew something was wrong when your arm and leg stopped moving. It is better to take another breath, than lose functions of your limbs. Just think if that had been an actual race,” Coach had squatted down to be at my level. “Losing limbs would be slower than taking a two tenths of second breath.”

“I understand Coach,” I understood Coach’s concern but it was hard to believe he was telling me to breath in the no breathing zone. “Do we have to run home?”

“Please no. I don’t think my legs can hold me up. Especially now since my walking stick is broken,” Jeremy forcibly laid back down on his back.

“No. I would be reprimanded by the lifeguards and your parents if I did that. Also I don’t want to watch this one collapse again,” Coach thumb in my direction.

“Nice. I’ve become, this one and a walking stick in a short period of time,” as I attempted to roll my body up into a standing position.

“Easy George. You are going to lose your balance,” Coach stood up to help me stand on my feet.

I was grateful for Coach’s support because I don’t think I would be standing without him. “You need help too, Jeremy?”

“Nope. I’m good. Just a little lite headed because of lack of food. Can we get lunch on the drive back to the house?” Jeremy stood, but seemed a bit wobbly.

“Sure. The paramedics said once you can stand by yourself you should be able to eat solid food. Can you,” Coach instinctively let go of my body.

I had a momentarily panic that I was going to tumble over, but instead my legs held my body up firm. ‘Sweet. That means I can enjoy some food.’ “Let’s go eat!”

We three walked, slightly waddled, to the truck. Our limbs were so weak that Coach had to actually help us climb up into the seats. We were buckled up and we’re ready to go, but Coach was not moving.

“Coach?” I asked and Coach seemed to jump out of his skin.

“Sorry boys. but I need to say this before driving. Coach unbuckled and turned to face Jeremy in the back seat. “I apologize for being harsh last night. I now can see why George befriended you. One day when my daughter forgives you, you will be fully welcomed into our home,” Coach turned back around, fastned his seatbelt, and put the truck in drive mode.

I was amazed, but also proud of Jeremy. I looked into the rearview mirror to see a confused, but pleased smile on Jeremy’s face. I relaxed back into my seat and looked out the windshield to see what food would be our desitination.

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 22

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 21

CHAPTER 22

“You are not giving it your all!” Coach yelled at us as we both clutched the wall like it was a saftey haven.

“Coach…the run killed…” I said as I gasped for air. My legs were on fire.

“That is no reason. I’ve given you worse sets before. Have you really become so soft?” Coach sipped at his coffee.

“Dude. Talking is pointless,” Jeremy slapped my shoulder, “Let’s just continue,” Jeremy coughed out, as he climbed once again onto the blocks.

‘Yeah. What am I saying. Maybe the lack of oxygen was clouding my judgement.’ I followed Jeremy’s lead and once again climbed the block. “Let’s go again.”

“Are you sure. You seemed to talk back a moment ago. Do you want to quit?” Coach stared at the two of us.

“No. Continue. I’m not done,” I took my stance, ready for the Go!

Jeremy nodded and followed my lead now.

“Fine,” Coach pulled his stopwatch out again and put his whistle back in his mouth. “Take your mark…Go!” The whistle sounded and we left.

My feet left the block. This was my thirtieth fifty. Coach was pushing us to be better but my body was dead. I stretched my arms, trying to capture as much water to propel myself forward. My legs were moving but I had no idea how quickly; they were completely numb. I knew I was breathing way too much, but my lungs were on fire. Turn; feet exploded off the wall. ‘Keep going. You need to do this. Coach is watching.’ My arms were failing me; they felt more like jelly than limbs. Ten yards to go. I took my last breath and put my head down. I was going to finish this. ‘Finish…no…’ My left arm cramped up; I could no longer feel it. ‘No, keep going!’ Five yards. Lack of oxygen must be the cause of my body dying. As if planned, my right leg cramped enough that it stopped moving. ‘Go.’ Five, four, three, two, wall!

I could hear voices, but it was all dark around me. ‘What’s going on? Jeremy? Coach? Hello?’ I could feel someone lifting my body up and placing my on a hard surface. ‘Really! What is happening? And why can’t I see anything?’ Finally I heard Coach’s voice distinively.

“How is he? Is he responsive? Do I need to call an ambulance?”

‘Responsive? Ambulance?’ “I’m fine,” I tried to say, but it must have been subconiously, because I was ignore.

“If he doesn’t respond in one mintue I will have you call 911,” the voice right above me said.

“Dude!” Jeremy coughed out panically, but then choked on his next words, “…wake up…dude…”

Jeremy must have given up talking since it grew quiet again. ‘What is that? Air?’

“Call 911. He is still unresponsive,” the voice said above me.

The puffs of air continued, and I could hear a panicked Coach voice speak on the phone.

“Yes. Male. He is seventeen years old. He passed out in a pool after an intense swimming set. Please hurry. Nothing can happen to him,” Coach’s voice seemed…panicked. “Thank you. They will be here in ten minutes or faster,” Coach said back in my direction.

“Understood. I’ll continue CPR. Micheal,” the voice yelled away from himself.

“Yeah,” another voice answered.

“Come help me,” the voice said as he continued the puffs of air. “Also, keep an eye on the other swimmer. He doesn’t look so good either.”

“I’m good…Just… my stomach is screaming for food,” Jeremy melted to the deck. He no longer had the energy to hold himself up.

“I got it,” Micheal said as he quickly dashed away and came back quickly with, I’m assuming, food.

“Thanks,” Jeremy said.

“Control yourself, or you will choke,” the voice above me said. “Come on, George. Wake up. You need to wake up.”

‘Believe me. I am trying, but nothing I’m doing seems to be working.’ Jeremy was talking about food and I could feel my stomach grumble with jealousy. Pretty much yelling at me to feed it too. Sirens began to blare in the background. ‘I don’t want to be taken off to a hospital. God, please wake me up! WAKE UP!’

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 21

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 20

CHAPTER 21

“WAKE UP!…” Coach threw open the door of our bedroom. Only to find the bed stripped and the two of us on opposite sides of the bed. But on the floor. “What the? Why are both of you on the floor?”

I knew why, so I didn’t respond. I just ignored the unwelcomed vistor.

Jeremy groggily sat up from his position. I should say, he groaned is way up; because the noises he made were hilarious. “What?” he looked up at the bed. “Where is he?”

Coach pointed to the opposite of where Jeremy was sitting.

Jeremy begrudingy stood, crawled onto the bed, and gazed over the bed trying to see me. “You idiot. I gave you the bed last night. If I had known, I would have slept up here.”

‘I guess the thought of more sleep is out of the question.’ I hoisted my cramped body up so that I could look Jeremy in the eye. “Really? I thought you were on the floor for reflection?”

“Right. True. Neither of us deserved the bed. What’s for breakfast?” Jeremy expectantly asked Coach.

Coach stood there confused about what that exchange was just now. But he shook his head, “What do you mean breakfast? It’s only four-thirty in the morning. You need a workout before breakfast.” Coach grinned that grin that I know all too well.

“Four-thirty!” Jeremy exclaimed as he leaned back over to his side, digging around under the bed for his phone. Finally fishing it out he checked time; indeed it read four-thirty. “Are you crazy?” Jeremy reached back down the side of the bed and grabbed the comforter and drapped it over his body.

‘That’s stupid to do in front of Coach. I would have waited until he left the room.’ I sighed and got up from the floor. If Coach says it’s time to workout, you don’t fight it. Or it will be ten times worse.

“George,” Coach pointed at Jeremy to get up, “we leave in five,” and Coach left the room.

I could hear Coach quickly walk down the stairs. “Dude. Dude,” nothing. ‘Maybe he actually fell asleep.’ I walked over to the mound on the bed and lowered my head to where his head presumably would be. Sure enough a soft repetitve breathing was coming from the blanket. ‘Yep. The idiot fell asleep again.’ “Dude!” I yelled at the blanket and jabbed him in, what I assumed was his side, as hard as possible.

“Yyyyyaaaouch!!” Jeremy yelped and jolted up, falling off the bed.

I couldn’t help it, and I busted into laughter. ‘That was awesome.’ “Dude. We’ve now got, I check my watch, “two minutes until we need to be downstairs and ready. Move your butt,” I quickly threw on some exercise pants and a sport jacket. “One mintue,” counting down seemed like the only way to motivate Jeremy. He was at least trying to quickly get dress.

We both were putting our shoes on when we heard the loud, “Thirty seconds!” from Coach downstairs.

We bolted, even before our shoes were tied. We were down the stairs and quickly tying our shoes as Coach continued to count down, “thirteen, tweleve, eleven,…”

Finally finished with my shoes, I stood up ready for the torture to begin.

“Three, two, one, good. Not great, but good,” Coach glanced at the two of us. “I’ll be getting in my truck, and you two will be running until I get tired. Fair?”

‘Not fair. Not one bit.’ But there is no way I was going to say that out loud. I just nodded.

Jeremy looked shocked, but he too didn’t argue.

“Good,” Coach grabbed his truck keys and walked towards to his vehicle. “Well? You gonna start?” Coach waved at us, while pausing before getting in his truck.

‘Right.’ I left the porch and started the long trek on the road. ‘I wonder when Coach will get tired?’ I looked around to make sure the idiot was following me, and he was just to my right. I heard the truck behind us, and I was about to stop and let him through.

Almost instantly, Coach pulled up beside us, “Don’t you dare stop. I’ll see you in my rearview mirror. If you stop I will magically wake up more. Now get going,” and the truck roared directly in front of us. Just enough ahead, that we couldn’t catch up.

‘This is going to be a long morning.’ We continued down that never ending road.

“When…is this..going to…end?” Jeremy said gaspng for air as we continued to run.

‘I had no idea.’ The sun was just beginning to rise. Meaning it must be closer to five. ‘Thirty minutes! I knew coach was brutal, but I think this was a bit
excessive.’
Again I was not going to be the one to say anything. “Just keep… going,” I retorted back to Jeremy as I continued my pace behind Coach’s truck.

“Ahggg…” Jeremy grumbled, but he too continued.

The truck suddenly showed break lights. ‘Break lights?!? Awesome sauce.’ Our trek must be over. The truck pulled to the left and the engine shut off.

“Thank…you,” Jeremy wheezed out as he seemed to pick up his pace until he reached the grassy patch in front of the truck. He collapsed to the floor.

‘Idiot. His legs are going to be burning when he stands back up.’ I kept my pace and paused, standing next to Jeremy’s collapsed body. Coach was still in the truck. “Coach?…” ‘What is he looking at?’ I followed his gaze behind me…‘no.’ There behind us was the city pool. Turning my eyes back to coach I saw that smirk smile. The smile that meant death was coming. “Dude. I wouldn’t just be still. Stretch or you are going to regret it,” I whispered down, nudging Jeremy’s sprawled out body; just as Coach exited his truck.

“You two,” Coach stopped, looking down at the dead Jeremy. Coach chuckled and looked back to me, “Get him up and ready. He’s not too smart for collapsing. I’m going to enjoy this,” Coach walked past me and towards the pool.

“What does he mean not too smart?” Jeremy sat up quickly. “Ah…my head,” Jeremy grabbed his forehead.

The blood must have rushed back to his brain.’ “Exactly,” I reached down and pulled Jeremy to his feet. Or at least I pulled him up. As I expected his legs could not hold up his weight.

“Where did he go?” Jeremy clung to my shoulder as I turned him around to the direction Coach had left. “No. He’s kidding right!?” Jeremy had finially joined the situation.

“That’s Coach for you. You should have listened and stretched,” we started to follow.

“Your coach is crazy. Mine was a mean piece of work, but your’s is…” Jeremy thought for a good description.

“Hurry up you two!” Coach’s voice yelled to us.

‘Crap.‘ “Pick up the pace or I’m leaving you here,” I pretended to let go of Jeremy.

“Dude,” Jeremy latched onto me, “okay.”

We picked up the pace and reached the front gate; where Coach and, I’m assuming, the head lifeguard stood.

“Get ready. Suits and googles are in the restroooms,” Coach shook the lifeguard’s hand again and entered the deck.

‘Yep. Death is near.’

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 20

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 19

CHAPTER 20

Dinner was delicious; it had been over six months since the last time I had pizza. Thankfully we had ordered from a mom and pop type of place called, The Mrs’ Pies.

Jeremy and I were preparing for bed. It seemed like the night just flew by. My chance to talk to Jenny never came. The pressure was getting to me. Because we only have tomorrow, and after that we fly back to Montana and she to Europe. I have no idea of the next time we will meet.

I was showered and was sprawled out on the queen bed just staring at the ceiling fan. I was trying to clear my mind; by not thinking of anything.

Jeremy came out of the connecting bathroom; he shoved his toothbrush back in his backpack, walked over to the bed, and shoved me to the opposite side. “I don’t know what you are thinking; I’m definately sleeping on the bed.”

I threw his hand off of me. “Yeah, right! Sure you are. In your dreams.” But I was really thinking about how to pry into his and Jenny’s conversation from earlier.

“Just ask,” Jeremy laughed as he relaxed onto his half of the bed, “I know that’s what you are thinking.”

‘It’s creepy that he knows me so well.’ I decided to pause our fight for the bed, and asked the question that was hauntingly mind, “Well…how did your talk go? I didn’t hear any yelling or things being thrown so you must have kept your cool?”

“I will admit, there were times I almost lost control, but I kept it in… knowing you would probably kill me if I did anything to your girl.” Jeremy smirked.

“Not my girl, but yes, you would have died tonight,” I brushed off the, girl, statment because I didn’t want that phrase to drift to Jenny’s room. “Did you tell her everything? You guys talked for almost three hours.”

“Yes and no. I apologized for Sophmore year; turns out she found out later what I had said that day.” Jeremy grabbed the back of his neck, “Man, I was a jerk back then.”

I looked at him almost instictively. ‘Only then?’

“Oh, shut it. I don’t have to hear you speak it, to know what you are thinking. But you know what I mean,” Jeremy turned his head towards the mirror to look at himself. “I was a piece of work that day. Yes, my childhood was awful, but hearing her speak about what I did that day…I felt like trash in front of her.”

Jeremy looked like he collapsed in front of me. His body hunched over itself, and he seemed like he was admitting defeat.

“I think the guys let me off too easily. I’ll have to tell Jerry that he did the best. Jenny was shocked when I told her that I was accepted into the four of you,” Jeremy ran his hand through his still sopping wet hair. “I told her about growing up with a crappy Dad and coach. She acknowledged that aspect I think; probably out of pity. I didn’t tell her about my mom. I’m relizing that maybe my mom would rather me not telling everone about that night. I actually don’t know if she has told her friends; so until I ask my mom face to face, I’m going to keep that night to myself.”

I didn’t even think about that. That Jeremy’s mom might not want to talk about her nightmare experience. I felt guilty about telling Ken, and letting Matthew and Jerry find out. “Sorry dude, about…”

“Nope,” Jeremy stopped me, “I’m happy they know. I don’t know if Jerry would have moved past our issue if I hadn’t.”

‘True. Jerry would probably still be hating his guts.’

“I…apologized to her for being the cause of the rumors. What her dad said was right. What I said that day did initiate the rumors, but I can totally see those two idiots manipulating my words into something awful, but without being expelled. I just can’t believe that I was the cause…” Jeremy had recoiled his body from looking in the mirror.

“I understand that, but dude,” I clapped suddenly making him jump, but bringing him out of his zoning, “I kind of feel like the rumors were going to happen anyways. You changed, but none of your buddies did. They continued to be trash. You had no control over their behaviors.”

“But I did,” Jeremy said point blank.

‘What?’ I didn’t actually respond. How could I?

“How do you think that those guys became the way they did?” Jermery questioned without waiting for an answer, “I was the one to create the trash. They were actually pretty cool dudes before my family life got worse. They were all top notch.”

I couldn’t answer him. We were suseptible to change, but knowing this I understood how none of this would have happened if it were not for him…‘I really can’t defend him.’

“So…in the end I was the cause for Jenny’s pain. I…I have no words for myself. Just like you, you can’t even speak to me,” Jermey got up from the bed and sat on the floor. “I’ll take the floor tonight. I don’t think I could sleep comfortably anyways,” He reached up and grabbed a pillow; he then layed down in his new desired spot.

I still sat there stunned. ‘Jeremy is still my friend, don’t get me wrong, but how am I supposed to face Jenny. I befriended the person who destroyed her life. He destroyed my girl’s everything.’ I got up to shut off the overhead light and looked down at Jeremy; he was curled into a ball position. ‘Yeah he is still my good friend. Only a true friend would be sleeping like he is right now; someone owning up to his mistakes.’ I got back onto the bed, but somehow also felt guilty for sleeping there too. So I threw Jeremy the comforter first, before I too grabbed a pillow, a blanket, and slipped off the bed to sleep on floor.

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 19

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 18

CHAPTER 19

I walked upstairs, but before I could enter the bedroom, I heard voices. It was Coach and Jeremy talking.

“I don’t know how I feel about this. My daughter has been through so much because of y…” Coach caught himself, “because of the rumors. She hasn’t been in the best state of mind since being back. I saw the quick look she gave you.”

The door was cracked open, and I could see Coach standing across from Jermey, who was sitting on the bed. I would only help Jeremy out if it seemed like the flow on the discussion was going the wrong direction. Or if Jeremy was triggered. I texted Jeremy- ‘Outside the room. You talk. Control yourself.’

Jeremy’s phone beeped, he checked the screen and sighed. He shook his head and shoved his phone back inside his pocket. Thankfully Jeremy did not look at the door and reveal my precence to Coach.

“I understand your concern, Sir,” Jeremy sat a little taller on the bed, “I have no intention of ruining her progress. But please understand, my name has been smeared around to ruin her life. I had no control or knowledge of this happening. I…”

“I do understand, but know,” Coach held up a hand to cut Jeremy off, “I will always put her first. Even though it seemed like I did not care, I do know what happened at that swim meet Sophomore year. Also thanks to some parents nearby I know what was said,” Coach looked dead straight at Jeremy.

‘Oh crap.’ I craned my neck to look at Jeremy, who had scooted about a foot away from Coach, and was now slumped forward.

Still with his head down Jeremy answered, “I apologize for my behavior that year, Sir. I know I cannot take back what was said, but thankfully looking back, Jenny did not hear me that day. I really didn’t mean it. It just slipped…”

“Slipped!” Coach stepped towards Jeremy, Jeremy’s body bolted up in attention, but still he looked at Coach respectfully. “Did they tell you what was being said about my girl these last two years? Do you know how she suffered? You let it slip that day, and then next year your old buddies are starting a rumor…,” Coach pointed at Jeremy.

‘No.’ Jeremy was not reacting. But I could see him holding it together.

“You were the cause of the rumor. You said those awful words about her that day, and your buddies acted on it,” Coach was fuming.

I had never seen Coach respond in this way. Jeremy was still holding it together; thankfully Coach stopped pointing at him. I’m sure that helped.

Silence. Jeremy had no response.

‘What could he say?’ I hadn’t thought about this point of veiw; that what was said that day was actually the start of the rumor. Yes, the words were manipulated, and the outcome was way worse, but it was the initiator. I was still looking into the room from the hallway, when I felt someone besides me. I jumped, but only to see Jenny’s red hair sweep past me and swing the door fully open; exposing myself and her precence to Coach and Jeremy.

“Jenny,” Coach hesitated before stepping up to her.

Jenny held up her hand, stopping her stepdad before he could explain the situation. “I want to speak to him,” Jenny pointed to Jeremy. “Please leave us,” Jenny looked to her stepdad and then landed on me. “Leave.”

Coach looked worried, but he followed his daughters directions and walked past me and back down the stairs. I watched Coach disappear outside.

“You too, George.”

Her voice brought me back to the situation at hand. She pointed to me and waved me to follow Coach’s pursuit. I didn’t move, I just stood there frozen. It was a weird feeling. I was worried for Jenny, but I was more worried for Jeremy. Because if he acted on any impulse it could be over for him. I just stood there.

“I’m good dude,” Jeremy leaned forward on the bed so that his head could be seen from the doorway, “I will control myself.”

I looked at him, and he gave me a reassuring nod. ‘Okay.’ I could feel those green eyes on me; I slowly let my eyes travel up to her face. Her expression read confusion. I tried to give her a nod of acknowledgement, part apology, but gave up after her expression turned into annoyance. “I’m going. We will be outside,” I left the doorway and continued down the hallway, to the stairs, and out the door. ‘I guess this is their time,’ and I walked outside to join Coach and Mrs. Brown.

On the porch, it was just silent. The only noise was the breeze and the repetitve squeak from the porch swing. Coach was holding his wife in his arms; they seemed to leave this world. I didn’t know if I should talk, or if they just wanted to sit in silence.

The silence was killing me; I cleared my throat hoping that would initiate a conversation. No reaction. Again. Nothing. “So, how is it being up here?”

At first it seemed like they didn’t hear me, but Coach seemed to sigh and straighten himself out. “It has been nice to be away from the hustle and bustle but I do miss our life back home. Your dad though,” Coach paused to kiss Jenny’s mom on the forhead, and then realized she was passed out. He chuckled before pulling her closer and continuing, “has made our life easy; I don’t know what we would have done if not for him.”

‘Good job Dad.’

“But yeah,” Coach settled back into the rhythm of the swing, “life is just slow paced. I miss coaching, but I’m good waiting a couple years until its my turn again.”

I looked at Coach. He said that last part with a smile, but I could see it was all fake. ‘He probably misses coaching a lot.’ Coach seemed older. Like all his spirt had been drained away. Which being able to still smile, after everything that happened, is still an accomplishment.

“Well, how have things been up there in Montana? Still thriving and striving?”

“Of course!” That was a little cocky, but it was the truth. “I am looking forward to these next four years, but also slightly dreading the lack of life. It’s weird; the guys are moving on with their lives, and it feels like I’m stuck at the same place…Do you understand?”

Coach chuckled just enough to not distrub the woman in his arms, “Of course. All athletes go through this phase; and either they persevere or they give in to their wants and desires for a normal life. It is initally your descion, but remember this, ‘You are only young once.’ Which some athletes see that as, go explore different options when you are young. But no, that is not what a Coach is saying; they mean,”

“You are only young and in your prime once, you can grow up later?” I answered Coach for him.

“Exactly. It is your choice, but I do hope you continue. You will be one of the greats,” Coach smiled.

A true smile. The first one I’ve seen. “Thanks Coach. You are the one to get me started on this path. If I do become…”

“When,” Coach corrected me.

“Right. When I become one of the greats, you will be able to brag that you started my career. Make sure to put that on your resume from now on,” I laughed.

“True. And of course I’m putting that on there. There is no way I’m passing up the golden ticket to a new job,” Coach smiled but then sighed, “I don’t know when that will be. Hopefully I can. Maybe I should look up here,” Coach glanced behind him into the surrounding neighborhood.

“You never know. Maybe there is a small team that wants some volunteers. Find that next person. You found me. Find someone to continue your legacy,” I too turned to the neighborhood. “They are out there!”

“Good idea. I will probably do that after your visit. Speaking of visit how long has it been?” Coach pulled out his phone to check the clock.

I looked at my watch. ‘Almost six o’clock. Jenny and Jeremy have been talking for almost three hours.’ I couldn’t hear anything from all the way out here, so I quickly stuck my head in the door. Nothing. ‘I guess nothing is better than screams or thuds.’ I closed the door once again, and sat back down in the chair I had been occupying. ‘Hopefully they can talk it out.’ I know that Jeremy is probably telling her about his childhood. Most importantly, hopefully he is keeping his
mouth shut about other topics. Because I promised my dad I would not discuss things; I forgot to mention that detail to Jeremy… ‘Stop worrying, George. He needs this time to apologize and explain things.’

Suddenly the front door swung open, and out came Jermey and Jenny onto the porch. I couldn’t really read from their faces what was accomplished, but they were at least standing next to each other. ‘That’s a good sign at least.’

“Dad?” Jenny spoke, breaking the silence, “I’m hungry. Can we grab dinner out tonight?”

“Sure. What you in the mood for?” Coach quickly regretted his words, because he forgot that Jenny has not been able to make decisions. “Nevermind, we will have…”

“Pizza. I want pizza,” Jenny said. “You good with pizza, George,” Jenny looked at me.

I, like everyone else was shocked, but I regained my composure quicky, “Of course. I’m always down for pizza. Especially since, when this school year starts I won’t be allowed to eat it anymore.

Jenny smiled at my words. “Okay, I’ll go call and place the order,” Jenny started to open the door but stopped, “Dad, where is your wallet?”

Coach was still shocked. I coughed to bring him back to the conversation.

“Right. On the kitchen table,” Coach answered but was still dazed.

“Okay. Jeremy, come help me order,” Jenny pulled Jeremy back into the house.

It was silent once again. Leaving only Jenny’s mom soft hums from sleeping to fill the silence.

“Thank you, George,” Coach finally said breaking the tension.

My snapped in his direction. ‘What does that mean?’ “I didn’t do any…”

“You brought closure to my daughter. I didn’t realize Jeremy would have been the solution, but thank you,” Coach turned to wife trying to wake her form her deep slumbers.

I just sat there unsure of what I was feeling. I was happy and proud that Coach thought I had helped Jenny in some way; but at my core I knew that this wasn’t over. Call it a gut instinct. Like maybe Jenny was pretending, but I have no way of truly knowing. Not until it’s my time to talk.