Finally...One Summer (Just One of the Guys)

by Kristi Pelton

  When I rounded the corner, my heart plummeted when the driveway was empty. I

  pulled in and stared at the front door. My heart found an odd rhythm in my throat. As my trembling finger aimed for the doorbell, the door opened and Mrs. Owens smiled at me.

  “Dear sweet Emma. My son knows you well.” She gestured for me to come in.

  “Why do you say that?” My voice squeaked.

  “Please sit down. He said you’d be here by 10 this morning.” She smiled.

  I sat on the sofa and glanced at my watch. 10:15. “He knew I’d come?”

  She nodded.

  “Why did he leave?” I didn’t even get the question out before I broke down. She moved to my side wrapping her arms around my shoulders. I didn’t care that it was her. She was an extension of him.

  “Oh. Emma. I’m so sorry you’re hurting, but I need you to listen to me.”

  I tried to stop the relentless flow of tears and looked at her.

  “A couple of weeks ago, Zach was taken into custody by Eugene police.”

  I gasped and she squeezed my hand.

  “He’s lived with me long enough to know not to answer any questions without me present. They found his DNA on Mr. Talley. He’d provided DNA in California when he was arrested so they had his match. They found no other matches and Zachary refused to offer any names.”

  Of course Zach would give no names. That was so him. Take the burden on himself.

  “The same night Mr. Talley was found, a young rape victim was seen in the E.R. in Eugene, though she didn’t claim it was rape. Her story was that things got out of control. Well, that hospital report was sent to the police, the DA…long story short, her boyfriend has been arrested for the incident.”

  My fingers lingered over my upper lip as she talked. “So Zach, he’s fine?”

  She made a clicking sound with her mouth. “Well. The prosecution doesn’t want him. That’s a good thing. But now the defense does. They want his testimony.”

  “What’s that mean?”

  She walked over to the front window and looked out. “They want your name and he won’t give in. The defense wants to prove that this was a pattern of Mr. Talley’s and that their client wasn’t the first to go after him. They want Zachary to testify that you were hurt by him as well.”

  “Will it work?”

  She shrugged. “Probably not. The prosecution will object. Say his testimony is hearsay. But it will still be heard in open court.”

  “I’ll testify,” I whispered.

  “No, Emma. That would upset Zachary even more. He’s doing all of this for you.”

  I stood up, my eyes pleading. “But don’t you see? Then he could come back.” It still didn’t make sense to me why he left.

  Her eyes fell to the ground.

  “He isn’t coming back regardless,” I said flatly.

  Her shaking head confirmed my words. She walked over to the end table and picked up an envelope. “He is a very strong, stubborn man who has made up his mind. He’s hurting horribly right now but thinks it’s for the best. Believe me, his father and I tried to talk him out of leaving.”

  “He won’t even take my calls.”

  She touched my cheek and as I closed my eyes, I pretended her hand was his. “That doesn’t surprise me. It would take very little for him to turn that car around.” She handed me the envelope.

  I sighed. “Thank you for talking to me,” I said as the tears welled up. This goodbye was just as painful for different reasons.

  “Emma. Things will get better in time.”

  Everybody kept saying that…but I didn’t feel it. I didn’t feel like things would ever get better.

  Her arms felt good as they wound around me. “Will he be home for Christmas?” I asked hopeful.

  “Time will tell. I don’t know what he’s going to do.”

  I wanted to run past her, up the stairs to his room, crawl in his bed and stay there until he came back. He would come back…some day.

  I held up the envelope. “Thank you.”

  She opened the door. “We love you, honey.”

  Tears fell as her words came out and I nodded. “I love you guys too.” I blinked to clear my vision so I could drive, the envelope sitting in the passenger seat. Once I turned the corner, I shifted the car into park and opened the letter.

  Dear Emma. Thank you for coming by the house. This decision has been a difficult one for my mother as well. I know seeing you brightened her day. Please forgive me for leaving. I owe so much to you. And I know you don’t see it through my eyes. But, when I met you, I was in a very dark place. A place I wasn’t sure I could come out of. Like any darkness, there is a tiny flicker of light. You were my light at a time I desperately needed it. Over the past year, you’ve been more like a beacon to me. But I’ve been selfish. I only looked at what you brought to my life. Not what I had brought to yours. I came to you on probation for drugs and alcohol. I came to you with a questionable past, having made poor choices. You, forgave all of that and accepted me for who I was, only making my love for you stronger. Then, when you finally trusted me enough to tell me about what happened this summer; at first chance, I selfishly took matters into my own hands…once again…letting you down. I’ve hurt you repeatedly. The probation, the website and the most recent incident. I will testify to help out someone who could so easily be me. Please know, I will do everything within my power to keep your identity protected. I know you’re hurting right now and for that I am truly sorry. I pray for your forgiveness. You deserve so much and I continue to hurt you. Please find happiness. You will forever be in my heart. I love you, baby. Zach

  My soundless tears hit the bottom of the letter as I clutched the paper to my chest.

  Chapter 42—The trial

  A computer searched revealed that Cooper Lynch was arrested for the murder of Paul Talley. He was a twenty-two year old fifth year senior set to graduate in May. His eighteen-year-old girlfriend’s name still wasn’t being released. The trial date was set for February 17 following a preliminary hearing on December 12.

  There was a tap at my door and Ryan peeked in. I closed off the Internet.

  “How are you?” he asked.

  I looked away. “You knew, didn’t you?”

  He nodded. “Yes. I got the mail the day his USC envelope came. He told me he’d been questioned by the police. Asked me not to say anything.”

  “Thanks for your loyalty.”

  “Runt. I tried to talk him out of it.”

  “Why didn’t you tell me?”

  He blew a long slow breath out. “I kept thinking that he’d change his mind.”

  I glared at him. “He didn’t.”

  As Ryan popped his knuckles, I could tell he felt guilty.

  “I don’t blame you. He needed you and you were there for him. I appreciate that.” I leaned into his shoulder, and he pinned me under his arm tickling me.

  “I’m leaving. I gotta go.”

  This news made me sad, but I knew it was coming. I nodded as my eyes became congested with tears. “I miss you so much,” I cried and he lay his head on top of mine.

  “I miss you too, Sis.”

  “Things aren’t the same. Everything’s changing.”

  “I know. The next few years will bring lots of changes.”

  I smiled at him then we walked downstairs.

  Chancing looking pathetic and desperate, I called Zach daily for several weeks, if only to listen to our message that he hadn’t erased. Sadly, it gave me some comfort. I texted a couple of times basically begging him to call, but he was resolved on this decision. Deep down I knew he wouldn’t.

  The tears gradually lessened with each day, unless I heard a song or something that reminded me of him…of us. But the pain hadn’t diminished like everyone assured me it would. It was a dull ache that I was always aware of. Talking to Austin sometimes made it feel better, but he too had stopped calling to check on me.

  Ali was heading up to Eugene this weekend
…her dream still coming true, and I decided to tag along. Mom and Dad gave little argument; in fact, I think they would have insisted I go had I decided to spend one more weekend in my room.

  When we got there, Seth, Grant, Josh and Ryan were watching football. The ducks hadn’t made it to post season play this year. Ryan wasn’t starting QB his freshman year, but he was hopeful for next.

  Ryan greeted Ali with a kiss and a hug, which was difficult to watch. Grant noticed because he got up and gave me a hug.

  “Feelin left out, are ya?” He smiled and embraced me in a tight squeeze. “You doin OK?”

  I shrugged and nodded simultaneously which confirmed the mixed feelings I was feeling.

  He laughed, smacking me harder than I’d have liked in my back. “It’s cold. Want to go hit a movie or something?”

  “Sure,” I smiled.

  Grant grabbed his jacket glancing at the clock. “If we hurry we can still make one. I’ve got plans tonight so this is the only one we could hit.”

  He and I bolted out the door.

  When the movie was over, we came back and the house was empty. Grant jumped in the shower and I went to Zach’s room, which was empty. It didn’t smell like him anymore. There was nothing left to indicate that he’d even been there.

  “Hey. I’m outta here for a bit,” Grant said peeking his head in.

  “Hot date?”

  “Em. I could cancel. It’s not a big deal?”

  I glared at him. “Absolutely not. You’d break her heart if you cancelled.” I spun him around and shoved him to the front door.

  He kissed my forehead. “Call me if you need something.”

  I gave him a long nod and he was gone. Alone again.

  In the kitchen, I rummaged in the cabinets and found some chips. I’d lost weight since Zach and I had…whatever. I was eight pounds down. I ate a few of the salty chips then went to get a cup. In the same cabinet with the glasses was a variety of liquor bottles. I fingered through them reading the different names and pulled out the clear liquid, Vodka. After untwisting the lid, I smelled it…no real odor. In the fridge, I found some grape Kool-Aid and mixed it…hearing Zach’s words in my ears, ‘I drank to get rid of the pain.’ I swallowed first dryly then followed with the liquid.

  After the third glass, Zach was right, the pain was gone…if only temporary…in fact…I couldn’t even feel my fingers. I giggled to myself at the table as I touched my thumb to each tip, the normally easy task getting more daunting. Laying my heavy head on the table, I pulled my phone from my pocket and texted him.

  I am so drunk! Send

  I waited fifteen minutes and Zach didn’t respond. Knowing I shouldn’t, I texted Austin.

  Someboyds drunk skinny dipping? :) Send

  Where are you

  Ryans Where are you? send

  I don’t know how long it took for him to get there, but when I heard his comforting voice come through the front door, I breathed easy.

  “Em?”

  I don’t know why I didn’t answer, but I knew he’d find me. As he rounded the corner, he looked amazing in dress slacks and a white starched shirt. His hair was gelled and he looked older. He looked freaking hot! Not good…

  “What are you doing here?” I asked, sitting in the middle of the kitchen floor.

  He chuckled coming over to me and another guy followed him dressed the same.

  “Someone’s here,” I whispered pointing to the guy.

  “Danny. This is Emma.”

  I raised my brows. “You brought a friend?” I asked surprised.

  “It’ll keep me honest.” He winked.

  “Honest? Why haven’t you called? You schtopped calling.”

  Austin’s eyes flickered to Danny, who was laughing.

  “Where’s your brother?”

  I fluttered my hand in the air. “Probably scroggin Ali somewhere.”

  Danny moved to the counter and twisted the top onto the bottle. He shook what little was left in the bottle. “Vodka,” he said. “How do you know her?”

  Austin groaned. “Long story. She’s a family friend.”

  The hair on my neck stood on end. “A family friend?” I glared at him.

  He glared back.

  “She’s hot,” Danny said.

  “She’s sixteen,” Austin clarified.

  Danny surrendered. “So. She’s still hot.”

  I smiled. “Thank you, Danny.” I batted my eyes. “Some people…” I pointed at Austin laughing. “Don’t think sho. In fact, I basically threw myself at him this shummer and he pushed me away.”

  Austin’s jaw was clenched tight as his eyes narrowed.

  “Watch.” I swayed over to Austin, grinning, shoving him against the counter, then leaned into him.

  “Stop, Em,” he ordered grabbing my wrists before they could circle his neck.

  “See.” I turned to Danny. He chuckled.

  “I won’t tell you no, baby, come here.”

  The word baby stopped me for a second until I refocused, then I glanced over my shoulder at Austin as I walked toward Danny.

  “Ryan. It’s Austin. I need you to get home.”

  I spun around losing my balance and Danny caught me. “You called my brother!” Danny’s hand slid around my waist.

  “I sure did. Danny—please, head out to the car. I’ll be right there.”

  I took Danny’s hand in mine. “Good night, Danny. It was snice meeting you.”

  He kissed my forehand. “You too Emma. Hopefully, I’ll see you again.” He let go. “You’re a fool,” Danny laughed as he walked past Austin.

  “Why do you look so snazzy?” I asked.

  “An annual fraternity fundraiser.”

  “What is it?”

  “An auction.”

  “What’s up for auction?”

  A slow smile crossed his naturally tan face and his white teeth glistened.

  “YOU?” I asked shocked.

  His smile broadened.

  “Who buys you?”

  “Sorority girls.” His eyes danced with laughter.

  I twisted around, once again off balance, and decided to sit on the floor again. “And you scrog them? You get paid to scrog them? Isn’t that illegal?”

  He extended his hand down to me and I swatted it away. “You’re being shockingly immature.”

  “Why don’t any of your friends know about me?”

  He ran his hands over his face, “I’m sure they will now,” he said scratching his head.

  “You’re embarrassed.”

  He slid his hands in his pockets. “Maybe. Especially when you do shit like this.”

  An intense hurt expression shot across my face. His face softened.

  “I’m not embarrassed of you. Never. But of your age. You and I are barely legal,” he explained pacing. “It’s a little odd to tell my frat brothers that my best friend is sixteen.” His face distorted into a disgusted grimace. “They don’t know you. And it would make me feel like some freaky sexual perpetrator.”

  “Well. If the shoe fits…” I laughed scratching at the shiny linoleum.

  He grinned then squatted next to me, his hand brushing over my cheek. “Emma. You have been little Emma forever.” A horn honked and he glanced at his silver watch. “Always smaller, shorter, skinnier. Inside you still feel like that little girl who so desperately wants to be accepted, wants to be loved. But sweetheart, your body has caught up with your intellect.” He swallowed. “You no longer look younger. You’ve turned into a beautiful young woman while we all watched and suddenly noticed.”

  I blew a raspberry with my lips.

  “So for us to just hang out, it’s not appropriate anymore. It started getting inappropriate at the end of summer. That’s part of why I left.”

  “We can’t be friends?”

  “Austin?” Ryan shouted.

  “In here.”

  “What’s going on?”

  “Your sister raided your liquor cabinet.” Austin’s eyes were filled
with disappointment.

  I giggled. “I had a couple of drinks.” Ryan lifted me up off the ground and carried me to the sofa.

  Austin stared at me. “I gotta go.”

  Ryan snickered. “Have fun. Maybe you’ll be the high seller again this year.”

  Austin laughed. “Yeah. I don’t know.”

  Ryan walked him to the door and Ali sat next to me. I heard them whispering.

  “Sorry I had to bother you,” Austin apologized.

  “No big deal. I’d already gotten a text about it. See ya.”

  Ryan closed the door and took a deep breath, positioning his hands on his hips. “What are you doing?”

  “Who’choo get a text from?”

  “Don’t worry about it. Why are you drinking?”

  I rolled my eyes and the room spun. “Oh. Like you don’t. Was it Zach? Did he text you.”

  Ryan shook his head. “Em. You aren’t the first girl to have a guy break up with her. Come on.”

  I laid my head back on the sofa and closed my eyes.

  Chapter 43—Austin

  “Dude? What the hell are you doing?” Danny asked from the passenger seat in the Rover.

  “What are you talking about?”

  “You have a drunk, hot-ass sixteen-year-old girl wanting to fuck you in that house?”

  “Yeah, right.” My head shook off his words but my crotch reacted in a way that I’d been fighting hard to get over.

  “Seriously dude. A redhead? Why would you not hit that? Redheads are fucking crazy bed,” he chuckled.

  Before I realized it, my hand grabbed his white starched shirt and yanked him within an inch of my face. “Don’t bro. Don’t. Don’t go there with her.”

  “Easy, Falsone,” he said digging his thumb into the pressure point in my wrist to force me to let go. Once I did, he laughed.

  “And you’re laughing because?”

  He adjusted his shirt and smoothed the wrinkles. “Because my buddy has a boner for the redhead. Who is she? How do I not know about her?”

  I couldn’t believe this conversation was happening. The guys knew I hadn’t engaged with a girl all year. Sorority girls throwing themselves at me nightly…obligatory functions like tonight…and they had all noticed that I continued to go to my room alone. Thank Jesus that guys were different than girls; so outside of a few questions, most of them kept their mouth shuts. Now, Danny knew. The blessing of this nightmare was that I outranked him at the sorority…I could tell him to keep his pie-hole shut and he didn’t have a choice. Rarely did I have to pull rank but this might require it.