Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 11

CHAPTER 12

I had a dreamless sleep. Still, echoing noise woke me up. ‘What time is it?’ I rolled over an looked at my phone. Dead. ‘Crap.’ I forgot to charge it last night. First plugging it in, I swung my legs off the bed, and sat there until my head stopped throbbing. ‘Man I wish I could have slept more. My head is killing me.’ Instead I pull myself up and head towards the meaning of life… the kitchen.

“Hello?” I yelled into the silent house. ‘Really?’ “Again I am home and no one is here,” I shook my head and continued my way to the fridge that held… food. There were three sticky notes plastered on the right handed door. ‘Smart. They made a point to stick them on the side with the milk.’

“Son. Had to go to the studio for the morning, and then I’ll take the rest of the week off. -Dad”

‘Okay. I assumed as much; especially since my trip was a spur of the moment.’

“George. I had some errands to do this mid morning to late afternoon. Text me what you would like for dinner. -Mom”

‘Sweet. I know what I want. I want her six layered mac n cheese dish!’ It’s heaven. Each layer has a different cheese and crumbled bacon… my mouth is watering just thinking about it. And the last note…

“Dude. Went for a fifteen mile run. Left at eleven fifty-nine. Come pick me up at the high school once you wake up. -Jeremy”

‘Wow! Jeremy is exercising without being told…weird.’ I put my breakfast dishes in the dish washer and glanced at the clock. Twelve ten…Jeremy only left ten minutes ago. Sweet! I ran upstairs grabbing our swimming gear. ‘Haha Jeremy thinks he is being good, but I’m about to give him a surprise.’

…

I did see Jeremy jogging to the school as I drove by, but I didn’t acknowledge him; instead I continued to the school and waited for his tired butt to get there.

Finally, the exhausted looking Jeremy arrived. I hopped out of the jeep and walked towards him. “You good dude?”

“You…are….already here?…” Jeremy was wheezing and coughing every other word. “I didn’t even see you drive by…”

“Of course. I wasn’t about to stop your one man endever. How was it?” I tossed him a gatorade as a reward.

Jeremy guzzled down the bottle before answering, “Not too bad, but man, it’s hot!”

“Glad you said that; I have a special surprise for you,” I turned and walked back to the jeep.

“Cool. Didn’t know you were this type of guy,” Jeremy followed me with a little pep in his step.

‘That pep is going to disapear in…three…two…one.’ I pulled out our bags of swimming gear, and threw his bag at him.

Jeremy spazily caught the bag but looked quizically at it, “What does this mean?”

I didn’t answer him; instead I locked the jeep and started walking towards the front building of the school.

“What are we doing?” Jeremy followed me out of curiosity.

‘Wow, he is slow today. I’ll wait for the oxygen to reach his brain again.’ I pulled open the front door, and I followed Jeremy inside.

“Ahhh…this feels amazing,” Jeremy hung his arms out to let the sweat dry from his armpits.

“Dude. You stink,” I shoved his arms back down to his sides, “keep your arms down!”

“Whatever. But seriously bro, what are we doing here?” Jeremy begrudgingly put his arms down, but continued to enjoy the freezing AC.

A petite mid fourities older woman approached us, “Do you need any assiastance?”

‘I know who she is. What was her name again…’ “Yes. Whom do I need to ask about renting out your swimming pool for the week?”

Jeremy let out a low groan; she looked at him before answering, “Umm…I don’t know if that is a possibility. I will have to ask my supervisor. One momment please,” and the woman disappeared through the door she had entered.

“Seriously!?! I just ran here, and now you want to kill me even more!?!” Jeremy sank to the floor.

“Stand up will you,” I yanked Jeremy back into a standing position, “Running is fine, but we need to swim. If this doesn’t work we will be heading back to the house, and we will die there,” I stopped talking just as the woman was coming back. ‘Who is she?’

“Well, I asked my supervior, and he said that you must be eighteen or older, show ID’s, one driver’s license, and prove you can swim unsupervised. Then we can talk numbers and proceed with renting. Do you approve?”

“Yes Mam. Do you want us to hand you the ID’s here? Or…” I started to dig my wallet out.

“Oh. No. Let’s head into my office; it will be better that way,” she turned and walked back through the door, and paused enough to wave us to follow.

Her office was more like a cubicle. It had photos of her grankids and I assumed kids. She had a small potted daisy plant next to her… and then, there was what I was looking for. The plack on her desk with her name. Mrs. Bradey. She was the older office worker that was there that day when Jenny was cornered by John. ‘Wow! That was so long ago.’

“Now. Your ID’s please. Whomever will be presenting their driver’s license, be last please.” Jeremy handed her his ID first. She quickly placed it on the copier and then handed it back to him. “Please sign and date this paper for me. Thank you. Now you,” she sretched out her hand for my ID.

‘I wonder if she will remember me?’ I placed the ID in her palm.

She didn’t seem to notice; instead she was in her efficient office mode and repeated the same steps as she did with Jeremy. “Okay. Since you are the driver license, I will need to see the bank card you will potentially use if you choose to rent from us, Mr. Matthe…ws…” She stopped talking and her head snapped up. “Are you really the George Matthews that went to this school?”

“Yes, Mrs. Bradey. I didn’t know if you would remember me or not,” I smiled, happy that I was remembered.

“Of course, I remember you. You are a celeberity here,” she was proudly smiling like she had something to do with my celebrity status. “Did you go to this school as well?” She doubled checked Jeremy’s name.

“No Mam. I went to the rival school. But I’ve been George’s roommate up in Montana these last two years,” Jeremy slapped my shoulder, trying to take credit as well.

“Wonderful. I am so happy to know that our pool will still be useful for you. Now let’s talk numbers,” Mrs. Bradey open her second drawer and pulled out a notebook. Flipping throught the pages until, “Alrighty…the normal price would be fifteen hundred for the next five days, but seeing as you were a student here…I’ll drop it to one thousand. I dropped it a bit more because it’s you George,” Mrs. Bradey smiled and giggled as she stowed the notebook back in it’s place. “Is it a deal?”

Jeremy whistled behind me; only loud enough for me to hear. ‘He was right. That was a bit steep for the five days.’ “If a few more old students would also like to come and swim, would they be allowed?”

“Yes. As long as they come into the office and give me their ID’s. But they would have to do it today. No later than six o’clock. Is it a deal?”

“Sure let’s do it,” I pulled out my wallet and settled the bill.

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 10

CHAPTER 11

-Present Day-

“Don’t even speak; I’m going to continue. But dude, calm down; you are going to cut of the circulation in your arms if you don’t let go,” Ken paused briefly.

I looked down and my arms were indeed turning purple, and my knucles were white. I relaxed enough to regain a feeling in my limbs. But only enough for that. Instead of
asking anything, I nodded to Ken to make him continue.

-After The Mall Incident-

The only reason we knew of the mall incident was because Brit heard it from Jenny a few months later. That summer was not a happy one. We would visit Jenny as much as we could, but she seemed like a zombie whenever we showed up.

She, along with her parents, agreed she should be homeschooled. She would not be continuing her senior year with us. It hit Brit really hard; she no longer had, her words, a ‘sane girlfriend’. We didn’t know she left until one day we came to visit.

-.-.-.-.-.-

“Ding-Dong” Matthew, Ken, and Brit stood at the front door of Jenny’s house. We knew someone was home because of the sound of footsteps.

“Coming!” Mrs. Brown answered the door. “Oh. Hello you three,” Jenny’s mom just stood there, like a deer in headlights.

“Mrs. Brown?” Brit waved her hand in front of Jenny’s mom’s face.

“Oh. Sorry. Come in,” Mrs. Brown stepped aside letting us enter into their home…

Everything was in boxes. “What’s going on?” We three yelled unexpectedly together.

Mrs. Brown jumped back from our explosive voices. “Wow! Did my husband not tell you? That man,” Mrs Brown sat down in the only avaliable chair.

“Mrs. Brown?” Brit went towards Jenny’s mom and crouched down to look up into her face. “Where is Jenny?”

“Jenny left,” Mrs. Brown brushed away a tear. “She accepted the offer from the Fine Art Insitute in Belguim. She will be finishing her senior year there, and then continuing into college.”

Brit gasped and looked up towards Matthew and myself. Her expression was identical to mine, and when I side glanced Matthew it was the same. Shock morphing into sadness. ‘She just left.’

“She just left us. Without saying goodbye?” Brit turned back to Mrs. Brown, and she was tearing up. “Why…how could she…”

Mrs. Brown reached down and embraced Brit into a hug. “She was depressed. You know. You saw it the last time you were here. She just kept staring at the walls…” Mrs. Brown pulled away from Brit and wiped her own tears away. “Until…one day she painted a beautiful painting on her bedroom wall. It took my breath away. I… would you like to see it?”

We all nodded. Brit stood up from the floor and followed after Mrs. Brown. Once we stepped into Jenny’s room we understood what Jenny’s mom meant. It was the six of us. Matthew stood next to Brit with his arm around her waist. Ken was next; one of his arms draped over Brit all the way to Matthew’s shoulder. While the other arm draped over Jerry who stood next to him. Next was Jenny, and beside her was George; George also had his arm around Jenny’s waist. It was like a memory was captured on the wall. We all pulled out our phones and took pictures of Jenny’s creation.

“I never knew Jenny was so artistic,” Brit said into the silence.

“Yeah. She painted me exactly. Where did she learn?” Matthew also asked.

“I knew she loved to doodle, but I never knew she could do this. It was impressive enough, that I sent a picture of it to my friend at the insitute and maybe a week later we recieved her acceptence letter in the mail. It was a God’s send,” Jenny’s mom ran her hand over the image of her daughter. “This is how I’ll remember my baby; radiant and carefree. After everything that happened I was not about to say no to her escape. Mr. Matthews helped expentially; we would not have been able to send her without his help,” Mrs. Brown stepped back to us, “so I hope you three can understand her descion.”

“Of course. I am excited to see what she will accomplish when she learns some new skills,” Brit said walking up to Mrs. Brown, pulling her into a hug. “Come on, you two.”

Matthew and I walked over and joined into the group hug before Mrs. Brown could protest. We stayed there until the front door opened.

“Dear? Are you home? Who’s car is out front?” Coach yelled from the living room.

“We are in Jenny’s room,” Mrs. brown yelled but stayed in her current position. As soon as coach came into the room, he too joined into the group hug.

-Present Day-

“Wow. I didn’t know Jenny was an artist; I thought I knew everything about her,” I was shocked that I never knew this. “Can I see the picture?”

Ken pulled out his phone and showed me.

It was fantastic. She captured us perfectly. I knew what day this day was. It was way before the almost confession; back when we had no concerns, and I loved her. Looking
at this painting, I remebered why I loved her. She was and probably still is as beautiful. She was radiant just as Mrs. Brown said. My old feelings were trying to resurface; so I pushed them aside and went back to the conversation at hand.

“Did Coach and Jenny’s mom move?” I asked remembering the part where they said everything was boxed up.

“Not really. They didn’t sell their house, but they did move into a rental in Northern California. Your dad really helped them out; they are actually renting from your dad,” Jerry had chimmed in now. “That’s why we said they were on a trip earlier; because we had to tell you the back story first.”

‘That’s just like Dad. I’ll have to tell him thank you tomorrow.’ “What about Coach and coaching?”

“He did finish coaching for our senior year; he stayed with your Dad for those six-ish months,” Ken looked away before continuing, “but he quit.”

‘Coach quit. No way!’ “Seriously!? Coaching is his life.”

“Well after what the vice principle said to him about Jenny, I was surprised he lasted his last year. The guy pretty much told Coach that he was a horrible father and that
he needs to discipline Jenny more so that she will make better lifestyle choices.”

‘I’m surprised that Coach didn’t slug him.’ “Coach has some good self control; if it had been me, the vice would have been on the floor.”

“Oh believe me. Coach said he wanted to slug him, but he thought of it this way… if he leaves on his own terms he could always return after all the nonsense dies down. Only unless the vice principle is no longer at the school. Coach said if he had to see his face again he would…,” Jerry smirked and I knew exactly what would happen to the vice. “So now Coach, Mrs. Brown, and Lily are just living their lives in Northern California.”

“Right. How did Lily take all of the nonsense and change?” Remembering about my important little helper. ‘I wonder how big she is now?‘

“Well…Lily is now almost a teenager, so she was and is in her abnoxious stage of life. She complained about leaving, especially after Jenny had already left for Europe. She didn’t understand why her life had to end just beacause her stepsister’s did. Man she is a pain,” Ken was beginning to yawn. “Well Jerry do you want to give your input or…”

I could tell that they both were exhausted. I totally forgot that Ken also had to wake up, to get to LAX, early enough to pick us up. “Let’s finish tomorrow. I’m exhausted, and you both look awful. I guess you and Ken are using the other rooms, beacuse,” pointing down at the still totally passed out Jeremy, “he is out, and I have no intention of moving him. You?”

“Nah. Leave him there,” Ken said standing.

“Wow. Not caring about your new best bud,” Jerry jabbed at Ken who did not avoid it because he was so exhausted he couldn’t move fast enough.

“Ouch… I’m too tired to care. Let’s go to sleep. I need to look somewhat human by tomorrow afternoon,” Ken almost left the room. “See ya tomorrow George, or I guess later today.” Ken left to find his room.

“Yeah, see you, George. If I get a call from my boss and I have to be on shift tomorrow, I will stop by at night and recap things,” Jerry gave my shoulder a squeeze and he too left my room.

I thought I would lay there restless because of all the new knowledge I had gained, but instead my brain shut off and I was out.

…

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 9

CHAPTER 10

-Back to Present-

I don’t know when, but Jeremy was passed out next to me. I guess he will be staying in this room tonight. I really can’t blame him; it’s…midnight. Wow, midnight…!? No wonder, we got up at three-thirty this morning. I would probably be out too except I was fuming. I got a surge of energy, hearing about what happened to Jenny. Now I understand their misunderstanding towards Jeremy. But I also feel bad for Jeremy; these past two years he has been labeled as scum without even knowing.

“So? What happened?” I questioned Ken. Looking to Jerry, who was just looking down and away.

Ken glanced at me, “You sure dude? You look awful. When did you wak…”

“There is no way I’m sleeping now,” I clenched my fists but sat there calmly.

“Just continue Ken. It’s almost to my part…” Jerry interuppted.

“Okay…” Ken began again…

…

-Six Months After The First Day Of School-

We thought that was the end of it. Jenny almost dropped out of school after the first day; she was planning to be homeschooled. However, Coach talked her out of it. He assured Jenny that, “No one will bring it up again; if they do they will deal with me.” Coach was pretty awesome. So Jenny decided to trust her stepdad and stay in school. All was back to normal. We went to classes, went to practices, swam at few invitational meets; just our normal everyday lives. Until…

The whispering began. I wouldn’t really call it whispering…it was more like hushed discussions; that would always seem to stop the moment Jenny came into a room. We as a group decided to just ignore them. The worst they were doing was being stupid and spreading gossip. So again we lived our normal lives. Then…

The whispers made it to functions, the grocery store, the outlet shops, etc; everyone would talk about the nonsense. But I think that day…is when it broke Jenny…

-.-.-.-.-

“Did you hear about that girl from the local high school,” a worker said to another.

“You mean the one that cheated on her current boyfriend with ten other boys?”

“Yeah, that one. But I heard it was twelve boys. But who cares about the number. She is a disgusting person. I am surprised she has the nerve to stay in this town… Where did you hear it from?”

“I heard it from my sister, who heard it from her neighbor, who heard it from a newcomer at church. It seems like it has spread past this city’s limits.”

“Good. We need to get rid of the trash in our city. I hope she leaves.”

“Yes. But don’t you wonder what she looks like? She must be pretty for being able to date all those guys.”

“You never know. She could look like anything; she could be horribly ugly,” she laughed.

“All the more reason to throw out garbage,” she chuckled along with the other woman.

“Excuse me?” a small voice broke up their conversaition.

Both women returned to their upright positions, “Oh yes, what can I help you with?”

“I…would like…” Jenny was trying to form a sentence.

“Are you all right? Do you need anything?” The women quickly handed Jenny tissues once they saw the tears.

She had been in the dressing room, next to the women talking. Jenny wanted to confront the women at the start, but she was also curious about what the rumor actually was. Brit, Matthew, and Ken had made junior year possible because I had not heard any of the nonsense being spread. It was great to have such awesome friends. So being in that dressing room, hearing the beginning of the rumor that was about her; she wanted to know. She was now regretting her decision; mostly because she now knew she could not, and would not stay in this city another year. But here she stood in front of the women that broke her, and they didn’t care one bit. ‘They even scoffed at my pain.’

“I….I…” the tears were coming tenfold. “No….thank you…” and Jenny turned to leave the store without buying the dress she loved.

Opening the door and hoping to disappear quickly and quietly, instead she heard another customer say, “You do know that was the girl right? I am happy she is gone. She was ruining this place with her presence.”

Jenny left. She could hear the gasps from people around her. She weaved through the crowds, and finally made it to the elevator. Tears burned on her cheeks. The doors opened, she was hoping it would be a safe haven; instead the elevator was full. Also the whispers began as soon as she stepped through the doors. However, this time it was crystal clear what they were saying about her. “That’s the girl…the cheater…the female… I heard she…she did this…this is what happened…” she couldn’t drown out the noise any longer.

‘Just make it to the car. You will be alone at the car.’ The elevator opened and she dashed out before everyone. ‘Get to the car. Get to the…car…’ Words of profanity were plastered all over her car. Red paint spilled down over the windshield. ‘My car…’ The tears came, and they were not about to stop. Quickly she walked away from her car. Instead she made her way to the stairwell and started to climb.

Digging out her phone and trying to regain her composure, “Mom. Do you think you could come pick me up?”

“Sure honey. What’s wrong with your car?” Mrs. Bailey seemed to be distracted.

Jenny couldn’t hold it together and started balling. “Mom…I…” Jenny just sobbed and was unable to talk to her mom.

“Honey. Honey!?! Okay…you can’t answer. Go to the fifth floor of the parking garage. Do you hear me?”

“Mmhmm,” was all Jenny could muster between to sobs.

“Don’t do anything rash. I’m coming my darling. Stay strong! I’ll stay on the line, I’m here. I’ll just listen…I’m leaving now!”

“Mmhmm…” the sobs were subsiding as Jenny finally made it to the fifth floor. Thankfully it was not the roof; knowing from experiences that many teenagers hang out up there. She sat in the empty stairwell and waited for her mom to come.

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 8

CHAPTER 9

-Same Day-

Jenny was still in the nurse’s office. Whereas, Matthew, Ken, and Brit stood in front of the Vice Principal’s desk. They were getting a thrashing for their behavior. The video evidence from various students were apprehended. Thankfully it was, because you were able to see what happened, but also hear what was said. Derek and Trevor were in the corridor outside. They would be on the chopping block next.

“I understand you were defending Miss Jennifer, but violence is never the answer; why is there always violence within your group.” The vice principal just looked down at his desk and the various forms he would have to sign due to this altercation.

Matthew, Ken, and Brit showed no remorse, they did not falter and continued to look forward. ‘I would have, and I’m sure they would too, done the same thing again,’ Ken thought to himself as he side glanced his two accomplices.

“Of all days for him to take a day off,” the vice president looked to his superior’s desk. “I’ll have to punish you three, you understand that don’t you?”

“Yes, Sir,” all of us said collectively.

The vice looked up, “Do you regret it at all? Like you,” he pointed his pen at Matthew, “if I make this a bigger deal Mr. Matthew’s you could lose your perfect record. Are you so willing to do that for Miss Jennifer?”

“I would. Bullying should never be allowed,” Matthew answered without hesitating.

‘I was impressed,’ Ken thought to himself, ‘I forgot about Matthew’s scholarships…’

“Yes, yes. Bullying is awful. Alright. Since we have evidence that the fight was somewhat expected based on what the new students said, you three will recieve the same punishment that George had recieved. Volunteer in other clubs for one month. I will now deal with those two. If they stay here, they will have a pretty awful two years. Now leave my office, and get to class,” the vice shooed us to the door. “You two,” he pointed at Derek and Trevor, “Come in.”

Glares were exchanged between us three and them two. But their face changed to fear as soon as the vice started yelling at them.

“You two go to your classes, I’ll go check on Jenny,” Brit yelled over her shoulder as she skipped away and off to the nurse’s office.

We watched her until she was gone. I turned to Matthew, “Matthew, I agree with you a hundered percent; I would have reacted the same way, but you have worked so hard to go to a great college… would you have done the same if you had a chance to undo what happened?”

Matthew just stood there silently. He wasn’t responding as quick as he did before. “I would,” Matthew said calmly. “My goals for life should not just be based solely on academic achievement. I should have morals and take care of the people around me. So yeah, I would have acted the same; no matter the consequences.”

‘Wow.’ Ken was amazed at Matthew’s confidence.

“My parents are going to kill me, though” Matthew quietly stated as he started making his way to our next class.

‘True.’ Ken sprinted to catch up to him.

…

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 7

CHAPTER 8

“So…about Jenny,” I said loud enough to end all other discussions.

Everyone was showered and just hanging out in my room. Jerry would be sleeping on my futon, while Ken and Jeremy were in the other guest bedrooms.

Silence. Jerry’s face changed from the laughing exprssion to seriousness. Ken just looked downward. Whereas Jeremy and myself just sat waiting for the big reveal.

Jerry cleared his throat first, “Well…where do you think I should begin Ken. If I don’t give enough back story it doesn’t quite make sense?”

Ken finally lifted his head, but only to ponder looking at the ceiling. It really seemed like he was attempting to make no eye contact. “Hmmm…maybe just start on the first day of school… maybe I should tell it since I was actually there. You can pick up when you came home. Deal?”

“Yep, all good,” Jerry gestured to Ken to continue.

“Okay…”

.-.-.-.

First Day Of School

“Hey Jenny,” Ken called to Jenny who was across the yard with Brit.

Jenny and Brit came running over, “Hey Ken! How is the first day being back without George and Jerry? Are you missing them terribly,” Jenny and Brit hugged each other and pretended to be sobbing.

“Not cool. But yes. I am missing them. It’s going to be a long two years if I’m stuck with just this one,” Ken pointed at the slowly apporaching Matthew.

“Hey Jenny. Hey Brit,” Matthew called to them as he approached, “You ready for these next two years?”

“Wow…no acknowledgement for your only friend here,” Ken tried to punch Matthew but missed and toppled forward; he was sprawled on the ground because Matthew had swiftly dodged it.

Matthew started to walk away, but paused by the girls, “Do you two hear anything? No? Okay, let’s head to our classrooms.” Matthew reached over a grabbed Brit’s wrist starting to pull her along with him. Jenny followed.

“Sure just ignore me; me on the ground. I know, you know I am here, or you would not have dodged me,” Ken picked himself up and ran to catch up to his leaving gang. “No love for me. Matthew only cares about Brit I guess…” Whack! Ken almost fell to the floor again. “What do you mean by…” Ken started to say but Matthew cut him off.

“Sorry you too,” Matthew apologetically waved to Jenny and Brit, who were quite shocked by Matthew’s sudden hit, “I was swatting away a giant bug. I really do hate bugs who keep pestering me,” Matthew carefully glared in the direction of Ken without actually looking at him.

Laughter erupted from Jenny and Brit. Matthew also chuckled. Ken did begrudingly, but he did laugh more as they continued to their own homeroom classes.

“What do you know… I was hoping to see her, but I didn’t realize I would meet her on our first day,” a voice came from behind us.

Ken paused, “Why does that voice sound familiar?” Turning around, he realized why. There stood Jerk Jeremy’s two best buds. ‘What do they mean their “first day?”‘

Matthew and the girls also turned.

“So…Jenny, right? How have you been? Now that your guard dog George is gone, do you think I could, you know…” Derek, the backstroker, walked towards Jenny with a smug smirk. Before anyone could move he was next to Jenny attempting to put his arm over her shoulders.

“What’s your problem?” Matthew shoved Derek away from Jenny; he took up his spot in front of both Jenny and Brit. “Don’t touch her!”

“What’s it to you? Jeremy told us about how she is…” the other one spoke, his name was Trevor.

“Shut up,” Ken had Trevor by the collar and was ready to retaliate if need be. “That was just a stupid rumor that died the day we schooled you at that swim meet.”

Other students who were originally ignoring what was happening, had changed their plans, and were now creating a mob around our exchange. We could see phones all around us, probably trying to capture, what was happening, as a viral video. Jenny was silent and cowering behind Matthew. Brit was somewhat stronger; she was trying to support Jenny, as Jenny was beginning to falter.

“How about this, you can date her first and then I will…THUD!” Derek was sprawled on the floor.

Matthew had done the honors. Derek wasn’t moving, but he was breathing.

Trevor threw Ken off of him, and ran over to the almost unconsious Derek, “Are you crazy!?! What’s so wrong about speaking the truth. Jeremy gave us all the facts before we switched schools. I don’t know why you are protecting her anyways.”

Matthew walked up to Trevor and squatted down to his level, “Do I need to silence you too?”

Trevor hesitated and seemed to lean away from Matthew.

“Good. Then shut up,” Matthew stood up just as Brit called…

“Help!” Jenny had collapsed into her arms; Brit was craddling the unconscious Jenny in her lap as she sat on the floor.

Both Ken and Matthew rushed to Brit.

“Give her to me,” Matthew quickly placed his backpack next to Brit and scooped up the limp Jenny, carrying her to the nurse’s office.

Brit grabbed Matthew’s backpack, and then both Ken and her ran after Matthew, weaving between the onlookers. Leaving Trevor and Derek still on the floor…

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 6

CHAPTER 7

Jerry was determined; he of course won. His reward was to throw Ken in the pool. I must admit it was hysterical. Ken splashed dramatically asking someone to “save him.” Jeremy was the one who reacted, but he used a floaty to fish him out.

“I was not about to get wet. It’s cold out here,” Jeremy pulled Ken up out of the water.

“I know now who my true friend is,” Ken attempted to drape his arm over Jeremy’s shoulder. He gave up after two failed attempts, because the moment was gone.

We were all walking back into the living room, as Mom and Dad came through the front door. “Wow!” Mom exclaimed, “It looks wonderful in here. Thank you so much,” and Mom once again was on her hugging spree.

We all just accepted them, except Ken who was still soaking wet.

“Oh, Ken,” Mom just shook her head.

‘She must be used to this happening.’

“Go shower and change like always. Who did it this time?” Mom gave each of us a questioning look.

Jerry proudly raised his hand; his smirk could be seen from outer space. “This was my doing; believe me he deserved it,” Jerry stood quite proud of himself.

‘I missed this. The guys. Mom. Dad. I will be sad to leave again.’ I looked over at Dad.

“Everything good?” Dad mentally asked raising his eyebrows.

“Yep. All is fine now,” I answered back. ‘Its cool that we still have that capability.’

“Well, am I taking you three home?” Dad picked back up his car keys again.

“Nah Mr. Matthews. I don’t know about these two, but I’m staying the night,” Ken said as he dashed up the stairs to probably go shower.

“What about you two?” Dad turned to Matthew and Jerry.

“I’m staying,” Jerry sat down on the couch. “You?” He asked Matthew.

“I wish I could, but my parents requested my presence. Probably wanting me to make a decision about my future again. So if you don’t mind Mr. Matthews,” Matthew swung his backpack over his shoulder.

“No problem at all,” Dad kissed mom on the cheek and headed back to the door, “I’ll be in the truck,” Dad left.

“I’ll see you tomorrow hopefully, unless my parents forcefully ship me somewhere,” Matthew gave me a quick hug. “See you Jerry,” Matthew waved. “Thank you so much for invinting me Mrs. Matthews,” Matthew called in the direction of the kitchen.

A loud, “Of course!” rang out; we all laughed.

“Tell the idiot I said bye,” Matthew, of course, was talking about Ken.

‘Ha. That’s fitting.’

“Bye Jeremy. It’s cool, one buddy came back and I gained another one,” then Matthew quickly disapeared out the door.

“He is a man of few words, isn’t he?” Jeremy said realxing down into a recliner.

“That was a lot of words for him,” Jerry and I chuckled.

“Well, let’s head up. Hopefully his majesty is done, and he didn’t use all the hot water again,” Jerry started towards the stairs as Jeremy followed.

I grabbed Jerry’s arm stopping him on the fifth step, “Jerry. If we are still awake do you think you can tell me what happened to Jenny?”

“Yeah. I was wondering when you would remember. Let’s get ready for bed first, and then I’ll finish her story. Without rattling this one,” Jerry thumbed at Jeremy.

“Cool. I would rather not be riled up again,” Jeremy shoved Jerry foward to continue up the stairs. “Come on, Geroge,” Jeremy said as he followed Jerry up.

‘I’ve missed this. The guys.’

…

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 5

CHAPTER 6

We still just stood there. I thought once my parents were gone and we were in an empty house, Jerry would just explode. “Well, until you all want to discuss things,” I grabbed some trash bags and headed to the nearest table, “let’s clean up the house. I have to actually do the excuse I gave to an extent.” At first it seemed like Jerry was going to start things, instead he too followed my pursuit and started cleaning. The other three did the same.

‘Fine. If they don’t want to talk I will at least get some help cleaning.’

…

I was happy for the help, but enough was enough. Jerry was helping, but purposfully bumping into Jeremy; causing Jeremy to fall and making things worse. “Enough! What gives? Are you really so unable to realize that everyone makes stupid mistakes when they were younger,” I walked across the room and helped Jemery stand back up on his feet. “That yeah, he was a jerk in sophmore year,” I paused somewhat to make sure Jeremy understood.

Jeremy regained his composure, “No arguments there. I was definitely an immature jerk back then.”

“Only back then,” Jerry said under his breath.

“Say it loud enough for everyone to here. I thought we were friends. We never kept things to ourselves, we would just say whatever needed to be said to the other’s face. Have you changed so much that you are a coward now?” I was done with the slide remarks. We needed to move past this. Jerry was about to speak but I cut him off; I was not done. “Did you hear what Jeremy said. “An immature jerk.” Immature. Meaning he has now matured.” I could see that Jerry was fuming, but I was too.

“So what if he has matured. Should he really be forgiven for ruining someone’s life? So what if he was…what was it again?” Jerry looked to Ken.

“Verbally abused,” it was Jeremy who answered instead, “and since you have luckily never experienced it before, I would prefer you not speak your mind like you know anything about it,” Jeremy answered calmly, but his body was on edge.

“Fine. I won’t assume anything about what you went through. But can you understand that what you were dished for so many years, you in turn, did it to another human being. A girl,” Jerry waited for a response.

There was none. ‘I’m guessing because Jeremy couldn’t refute that. He did dish what he was served.’

“Why am I the only one chewing him out? What about you Matthew,” Jerry swiftly turned to the silent Matthew. “You had more to say after I got back; what happened to all your opinions?”

I looked at Matthew. He looked down, and then away.

‘What happened?’ Silence…

Slowly Matthew lifted his head back up; he looked me in the eye. It was an apologetic look. Then he turned to Jerry, “I judged Jeremy based solely on rumors. I apologize to you, dude,” Matthew looked to Jeremy, “I apologize for talking behind your back without knowing the facts.” Matthew waited for a response from Jeremy.

Jeremy just nodded.

“Jerry. You have to admit that you were wrong in your assumption. The rumors were that Jeremy was just a spoiled rich kid that just wanted to ruin other’s lives. I’m just quoting the rumors,” Matthew threw up his hands claiming innocence. “But seriously dude, now you know what he experienced throughout his entire young life, how can you still dislike his guts this much?”

Jerry didn’t answer.

“What I am more curious about,” as I spoke Jerry’s head snapped up, “you went to school with Jeremy for the past two years. You moved past your differences quickly. Why did you completely flip your opinion of him after you got home? What happened that I don’t know about?”

“Do you actually care?” Jerry spat out.

“Of course I do. What’s your deal?”

Jerry stepped towards me, “You…” Matthew pulled him back.

“It’s not unreasonable that Jerry said that George,” Ken finally chimed into the conversation. “You haven’t actually been here, virtually or present, these last two years.”

“I…” I stopped and just looked at them. I knew what they were saying was true. But they should understand that there was no way for me to be more present, with my schedule these last two years. “I get it. I know I was not there these lasts two years, but I was so busy. I’m sorry.” We need to get back to the real issue. ‘I do feel somewhat sorry for not being there for the guys these last two years, but I am not sorry about my choice.’

Matthew and Ken both slugged me on the shoulder while answering together, “No problem bro. We weren’t the best at keeping in touch either. School was crazy.”

I let the slugging slide, because we were good now. ‘Now Jerry.’

“Yeah. Fine. We are good,” Jerry said, but didn’t move.

‘That was painful to watch. At least we were past that.’ “So, since we moved past that…can someone tell me what happened?” there might have a tone to my voice, but it was just exhaustion; still, I wasn’t about to end this conversation until I found out the details.

They just looked at each other. Jeremy was silent next to me, but Ken, Matthew, and Jerry seemed to be talking without actually speaking. “Out loud…”

“Jenny was harassed in junior year,” Ken blurted out.

‘What!?!’

Matthew sighed, “Yeah. A couple of your old buds,” regarded Jeremy, “transferred to our school in our junior year. They tormented Jenny for days, saying it was your idea. That you told them to continue your legacy while you were gone,” Matthew looked to me.

I wish he hadn’t. I was fumming. Not at Jeremy, but the thought of what Jenny must have gone through. I couldn’t speak.

“Now do you understand why I hate this guy?” Jerry pointed once again at Jeremy.

“Can you not do that,” Jeremy changed his stance; he was now prepared.

“What? This!” Jerry thrust his hand almost inches from Jeremy’s face.

I reacted. I stopped Jeremy before anything could happen. Jeremy slammed into my back sending me forward into Jerry; we both laid sprawled on the floor. Jeremy just stood there controlling his shaking. I had seen this once before… Jeremy was doing a lot better than last time.

I stood and helped Jerry up. Then I walked over to Jeremy, “You good?”

Jeremy didn’t answer, but the shaking subsided. Before, Jerry’s face would have been rearranged. Jeremy has really changed this past year.

“Is he good?” Ken asked. He had just watched what happened, but seemed glued to the floor.

“Yeah. Just one of the many aftermaths of being abused for years,” Jeremy huffed out, bending over catching his breath. “Sorry,” he was now speaking to Jerry, “the pointing is a trigger. My dad and old coach used to do that, so much that I associate the pointing to what happened to my mom…” Jeremy stopped.

‘A whole new can of worms was just opened.’ I looked at Jeremy; Jeremy seemed annoyed that he said those last words. Silence. All eyes looked at Jeremy; when they got no response, they turned their gaze to me. Again I looked to Jeremy, and he was staring at me. I couldn’t tell if it was a, ‘You talk and your dead stare, or an explain for me stare.’ “I can’t read your mind, dude.”

“Just tell them,” Jeremy sat down on the couch and dropped his head into his hands.

“Jeremy’s mom was almost killed by his dad,” I stopped. With good reason, because all of their faces showed true horror. “Thankfully, his dad was not successful,” I added because I could see the questions forming on their faces. They all sighed of relief. “I know that his dad is serving time now for attempted murder. But the important part is, his…” I looked over a Jeremy’s hunched body; I knew I needed to say the next part, but I didn’t want him to feel the guilt all over again… “after hearing his mom’s side of the story, pointing became a trigger. I guess his dad did it to Jeremy’s mom just before he was going to…you know…” I wasn’t about to say it. “So Jerry, no more pointing,” I sat next to Jeremy; he was still working on his breathing to stay calm.

Matthew and Ken were the first to walk over to where we were sitting. They gave Jeremy reassuring pats on his shoulders. ‘I think Ken smacked him a little too hard, but Jeremy didn’t seem to notice.’ Finally Jeremy lifted his head up; he was calm once again.

We all sat there waiting for the fourth one to own up to his mistakes and put in the effort. I looked at Jerry; his face was still stunned. He wasn’t looking at me; it seemed like he wasn’t really looking anywhere. Finally he moved. Jerry finally stood in front of us. He still looked like he was in a daze. Nothing…

I was about to help him along, but…

Jerry looked up, “I’m…I…” and he dropped his head back down. Silence.

Jeremy got up and extended his hand to Jerry, “We good now?”

Jerry’s head bolted up. He looked at Jeremy’s face and then his hand. He just stood there looking at Jeremy’s hand…

Again, I thought nothing was going to happen, and I was about to smack Jerry out of his daze…

“Yeah. We are good,” Jerry shook Jeremy’s hand. “And…I’m sorry, I…”

“No problem, but no more pointing. I don’t know what would have happened if George didn’t step in between us. Your face might have been rearranged, like the last guy,” Jeremy chuckled.

“Maybe you should have done it,” Ken stood up from his chair, and walked towards Jerry, “he might actually get a date if he had a scar.”

We all laughed. Including Jeremy.

“Sleep with one eye open Ken…one eye,” Jerry stepped towards the laughing Ken.

Jeremy was the one to stop Jerry. “He’s my bud now,” Jeremy said stepping backwards to Ken and swung his arm over Ken’s shoulder.

“I like this,” Ken smuggly nodded accepting Jeremy’s statement this time.

Again we all abrupted with laughter. ‘Good. All things were fine now.’ Looking around I notice that the house was still as messy, as it was when my parents left. “Well since we are good now, do you think we can do a little bit more cleaning before my parents get home,” I scanned the area surrounding us…

“No problem,” Jerry took charge, “let’s divde it up.” Jerry drew imaginary lines in the air seperating out our spaces. “The first to finish their area wins. He will get to have a free pass of anything. Anything,” Jerry smiled creepily at Ken.

‘Anything.’ That reminded me of Jenny. ‘What happened to Jenny in the end?’ Before I could ask I heard and loud, “GO!” and everyone started to swiftly clean their areas. I’ll have to ask later…

…

Life Of Two Best Friends: College CHPT 4

CHAPTER 5

Not everyone, I had hoped to see, was at the party. I was told that Coach, Mrs. Bailey, and Lily were on a trip. It was still a great party, but I was constantly drawn back to our talk from earlier. But I spent most of the party with Matthew, since Ken was off hanging with Jeremy for most of it.

‘It’s strange to be back.’

“So dude, how is it being back home?” Matthew and I were outside, taking a breather, by the pool.

“It’s good to be back, but it feels different. Like…” I couldn’t really put my finger on it.

“Like you are a vistor and not the resident,” Matthew answered.

“Exactly. Wait…how did you know what I was trying to say?” I glanced at Matthew.

“It’s pretty much what Jerry said when he came back,” Matthew took a sip cola. “I’m amazed you will be going back again. I know it’s your plan to continue swimming, but I thought you would have missed your life here, a little bit,” Matthew kept looking forward.

‘I understand what he is feeling.’ “I do miss it here. If there was a way to reach my dreams by staying, I would; but right now the only fesible way to reach them is to return back home…I mean Montana.” ‘Crap. I’m sure that doesn’t help.’ “But what are your plans for College,” I swung my arm over Matthew’s shoulders, “after all the straight A’s in high school I assume you got some prestigous scholarship?”

Silence. ‘Was I wrong?’

“Yeah. Well we will have to see. My plans are kind of up in the air due to various reasons,” Matthew shrugged and sipped his drink again.

‘What?’ But I decided not to push the issue. Mostly because Matthew’s posture told me he was done discussing it. ‘What have I missed these last two years?’

“Well we should head back in there. Your mom put in a lot of effort, and you should do your job as the main character at today’s party,” Matthew stood and pulled me up with him. “Let’s go.”

Matthew walked back into the house, leaving me wondering; ‘What on earth is going on?’

…

Well…the party lasted about six hours. I was exhausted; more importantly, I was surprised that Jeremy was still functioning. He and Ken had spent most of the party
together. Probably talking things out and figuring out how they would interact from now on. There was no Jenny today. Dad had mentioned that she might try to make it, but that it was a long shot; I guess she has been super busy. Hopefully I could catch her before I go back.

“Where were you dude?” Ken had walked up to me just as the last guest left the house. “It seemed like you disappeard the entire evening.”

I laughed. ‘It was more like they disappeared.’ “I was around. Matthew and I pretty much made our rounds several times these last six hours. More importantly, I am amazed you are still functioning,” I said to the half dead looking Jeremy.

Yawning before answering, “I have probably had about ten…,” first looking to Ken; Ken nodded, “yeah…ten coffees. I too am amazed I am still awake, and not having a heart attack.”

All four of us laughed together. It seemed like everything was fine between us, but I forgot there was one missing… ‘Jerry.’ Just as I thought it, Jerry came out from the kitchen, slowly walking towards us. The laughing died. Nothing was said. We five just stood there in the living room.

“So…” Mom and Dad also came out of the kitchen; they probably stopped talking seeing the weirdness of us standing around without talking.

“Everything alright son,” Dad walked towards us?

“No problem at all. Thanks mom for the wonderful welcome back party,” I walked to mom and scooped her up into a big hug. “But to thank you, why don’t you let us clean most of it up for you. You and Dad,” I paused giving Dad a signal to tell him to take mom out, “go out for a date night, and don’t worry about anything.”

“What?! We cannot leave you this huge mess…” Mom pulled away from me to head back into the kitchen.

“Hon. Let’s listen to George on this. Anyways, you deserve a break,” Dad understood and started pulling Mom to the front door. “Don’t rush Son. We will go out for a late night dessert,” they were in front of the door.

“Oooo…” Mom’s face lit up, “I can’t say no to dessert. Thank you George,” and before I could say anything Mom pushed Dad out the door.

I chuckled to myself, ‘that’s my mom.’