I narrow my eyes, “Get the fuck out of my face.” She just raises a brow in surprise.
“Um, I think I’ll leave this scene. See ya later, Jackson.” I nod to Nick, completely forgetting he was there, but keep my gaze on Amber.
She huffs, “Why are you being so rude?”
I start walking off…and then see her. I wait until Amber has stormed off, out of sight and then approach Skylar. “Hey.” I shove my hands into my pockets.
She looks around, probably for Amber. “What are you doing talking to me?”
I chuckle lightly, “Relax, Amber’s not around.” She crosses her arms over her chest. “Look, I’m sorry for her behavior. Just try to stay out of her way and I’ll keep her out of yours.”
Her eyes narrow, “You think I’m getting in her way on purpose? Umm, yeah, trust me, there’s nothing I want more than to stay off her radar. But she always seems to find me.”
I run my hand through my hair, knowing she’s right. “Okay, I’ll make sure she knows to stay away from you unless she wants a pissed off guy on her ass.” The right side of my mouth quirks up, and I’m hoping she believes me. I force my legs to walk away from her. “See ya later.” I throw that last bit in, surprising myself. Being this close to her brings back so many memories and good times of our friendship, how comfortable and easy it is to be around her.
I find Amber later and she apologizes, though with attitude. “Sorry, I just thought you were on her side, and that really hurt.” She sticks out her bottom lip like she always does. I just roll my eyes and say nothing. We walk to my car. I look around and see my brother’s truck parked in the lot.
“Well listen, do me a favor. Stay away from Skylar. You’ll bring nothing but drama, especially with Jared being around her.”
She makes a face. “Does he not have friends his own age?”
“It doesn’t matter; he’s not going to just ditch her.” Not the way I kind of did. “But whatever, stay away from her. You’re not gonna fuck up this year for me because you love drama so much.” She mumbles something like “whatever” as I throw my bag into the passenger seat. “Nick says there’s a party this weekend? Wanna go?” I’d go with or without her, but I thought I’d ask and be the sweet and thoughtful ‘boyfriend’ she expects me to be. Which I hate that term.
She looks around the lot for a second, “Um, I’ll let you know.” I put on a smile, barely and take off.
Later on, “Hey son,” my dad enters my room and I look up from my homework. “I’m going out for a bit, be back before dinner.”
I sit up and set my book aside. “Who is she?” He leans against the doorway, crossing his arms.
“Now, how you gonna go assuming I’m seeing someone just because I’m going out?” Because he never goes out. He’s like a hermit, aside from work; he’s always at home.
I shake my head. “Just curious, dad. If you want to date, I won’t stop you. But don’t hide it either.” Not that I care either way. Okay, that’s not true. He deserves to find someone that won’t run off and leave him just because she found someone better. I hope my mother’s happy with her new family.
No. I don’t.
He steps out into the hall outside my door, “Maybe we can go out for dinner tonight, if you want to join me?”
“No thanks, I’ll cook something while you’re out.” I send him a genuine a smile. “Have fun.” He leaves the room and I check my phone when it lights up; a text message.
Amber: Hey, wanna come over for a little bit?
I look at the message, conjuring up a reply or an excuse.
Me: Not tonight, too much homework. And I’m tired. I’ll see you tomorrow.
Amber: Fine, but you’re missing out.
I toss my phone on my nightstand, not bothering to reply and head outside for a smoke. It’s weird, when I’m not with her, I’m not missing her. I don’t care what she’s doing, or if she’s thinking about me. I wish I could say the same thing about Skylar. She fills up my constant thoughts, but I’m too much of a coward to give in to my feelings.
I sit on the porch swing, taking a cigarette out of the pack and lighting it, laying my hands in my lap as I lean forward. I close my eyes as I take a long drag, before letting it out. I can’t shake the feeling, noticing my brother’s absence. He’s probably at Skylar’s house and it bothers me.
I think back to a time when we hung out every day, her long dark hair blowing in the wind when we went to Six Flags, the smile on her face as we went down the tallest rollercoaster. We loved rollercoasters. I still do. I love heights. I love the rush I get when the bottom drops out from underneath me and I feel like I’m flying. I take another drag.
I’m dating Amber, a hot cheerleader, as shallow as that sounds, and I’m going to play pro ball. I should be happy. It’s every guy’s dream, but maybe this isn’t supposed to mine anymore.
I stomp my foot, irritated with myself. The neighborhood is quiet; few cars pass by and even fewer people loitering the streets.
I smoke another cigarette before returning to my room to study. But my mind is on other things, so I shove my school work aside, leaning back on my bed.
Jared storms into my room, “Hey, where’s dad?” Waking me from a supposed nap I was in. When did I pass out?
“Went out.” I answer shortly, keeping my eyes closed.
He sniffs the air. “God, you smell like an ash tray.”
“Fuck off.” My words are clipped.
“Whatever, what’s for dinner?” He crosses his arms.
I sit up, glaring at him. “Why don’t you go to the kitchen and make something? You’re a big boy.” Jared and I always were at each other’s throats. It’s not that we hated each other, but I always felt inferior to him. He was smart and always made good grades-serious about his education, having a good future ahead of him. I had…well football. And girls, going for me. Not that I’m complaining, but…well yeah, I guess I am. It was fun the first couple years. But now’s the time to think about the future.
Jared sighs, frustrated. “You know, you’re such a douche. I asked a simple question, you don’t have to attack me.”
I blurt before thinking, “Why are you hanging out with Skylar?” I hope he doesn’t read too much into my curiosity. “I mean, why don’t you hang out with people your age?” He had a lot of friends growing up, where are they now?
He raises a brow, smirking. “Does it bother you that much?” I look away, my jaw clenching, trying desperately to keep my expression neutral. “Look, we’re friends. I like looking out for her. She needs a male figure in her life, in case you forgot she doesn’t have one anymore. And yes, I do have other friends. But we’ve known her forever, so just because I’m a couple years older, doesn’t mean I’m just going to ditch her. Unlike you.” I look back at him, attempting to say something but I know he’s right and I can’t deny it.
“Well, I’m trying to focus on my future, and that’s all that matters right now.”
“Look, I don’t wanna fight with you. But you should really treat Skylar better. She’s worried for you. You’ve changed and it bothers her.” He just doesn’t get it.
I text Amber to let her know I’m coming over. I need to get out of the house. She’s my escape from reality; God, that sounds so bad.
Amber opens the door and I walk in, “Hey, you look like shit. Are you okay?”
I avoid her question and sit on her couch, suddenly really tired. “Yeah, just sibling rivalry shit.”
She sits beside me, and coos in my ear. “I’m sorry, baby.” Her hand slips under my shirt, rubbing up my chest. “I’ll make you forget about it.” I flinch, feeling my dick twitch. I catch a whiff of her strawberry scent and a moan slips out.
I lean forward. “Hey, let’s go to your room.” I don’t feel like having her parents catch us, if they’re even here. She stands up reaching for my hand and pulls me up. I chase her to her room, she’s squealing and laughing. “I’m faster, I’ll catch you.”
She falls back
onto her bed and when I quietly close her door, I sexily stroll up to her. My eyes show need and desire. I lean over her, an inch away from her face and smooth her hair over one shoulder. Still looking at her, I kiss her bare skin on arm. Her hands rake over my chest and stomach. My mouth trails kisses up her arm to her neck. A moan escapes her throat as I trace my tongue along the goosebumps that appear on her skin.
“Jacks.” She breathes, her eyes closed.
I push away the annoyance and let my male ego take over. “Shh.” I tell her, lifting the shirt over my head and tossing it to the floor. Her eyes light up, taking in my naked chest. I bend down and kiss her. A part of me loving the smile on her face, loving that I make her feel good when I stick my hand up her tank top and drag my nails across her upper body. She’s got a nice one too. My breaths become ragged as I bend down to kiss her belly, up to her chest. Her hands grab a fistful of my hair, spurring me on. I quickly pull her pants down, followed by her panties.
Shit! I don’t have a condom with me.
“What’s wrong?” She asks, noticing the muscles in my jaw tighten.
I lean back and close my eyes, irritated with myself. “I don’t have a condom.” How did I forget that?
She smiles. “It’s okay, I have one.” I get off of her when she reaches across her bed and takes one from her night table drawer. I take it from her grip, peel the wrapper away and rip my jeans off. There’s nothing but hunger in my eyes now. I need this. Do you love her? A voice in the back of my head asks. No, no I don’t love her. I answer back.
Chapter 7
Skylar
It’s Friday, finally. Not that I have a fascinating weekend of plans or anything besides my birthday, but at least have a couple days away from drama. I’m still trying to make sense of Jackson’s actions. He told me he’d keep Amber away from me. He talked to me, nicely. And then he actually smiled. It’s so weird. Maybe it doesn’t mean anything.
When I get to school, my phone alerts me of a text.
Jared: Have a good day at school. We’re going out for your birthday!
I smile. Jared always thinks of me, remembering my birthday. He’s the best!
A knock on my window pulls me away from my thoughts. I look up and see Randa, giving me a puzzled expression.
I roll my window down. “Hey,”
She stands there with her hands on her hips, “Are you coming inside, or are you gonna sit in your car all day? Because I’m all for skipping if you want.” I roll my window back up and open the door.
I give her a half-smile. “Sorry, I sorta zoned out.” I grab my bag from the seat and lock my door.
“So what’s up, you look like hell?” I contemplate on telling her about Jackson.
I cover my mouth when a yawn slips out. “I’m just tired. I stayed up late, watching reruns of One Tree Hill.” I say. “Oh yeah, Jared wants us to go out for my birthday. Not sure where yet.”
She smiles, “That is a given. We always do something fun on your birthday. How ‘bout a nice dinner at a fancy restaurant? Jared makes a bunch of money, let him pay.”
I do like that idea, and I doubt he’d complain. I accidentally hit her when I blurt out, “Jackson actually talked to me yesterday.”
Her eyes widen as she rubs the spot on her arm, “What did he say? He was actually nice to you? Has the Apocalypse happened?”
I laugh at her, “I know. Amber wasn’t with him. He just said that he’d keep her away from me and that I should stay out of her way.” I was a little annoyed about that statement. It’s not like I enjoy the confrontation with her. Whatever, I’ll do what he says, anything to get her off my back.
“Well, that’s interesting. Maybe Amber is getting on his nerves, finally. Maybe he’s starting to see you as more than just a nerd, or whatever.”
I mock glare at her. “Thanks, I’m glad you think I’m a nerd.” I stick my tongue out.
She laughs, “It’s okay to be a nerd. You’re a cool nerd. And you do read so. Yeah, nevermind. I love you.” Her shoulder bumps mine and I bump it back. “I’m out, see ya at lunch.” She walks away.
I continue walking to my first period History class when I’m pushed from the back into another student and all my books fall to the floor. I really need a backpack.
I already know who it is before she says, “Oops!” Amber smiles, and walks away.
I feel embarrassed while picking up my items. I look around but don’t see Jackson anywhere. I guess I should feel grateful.
Once I get my stuff off the floor, I find the nearest bathroom and wash my face. I will my tears to stay away. It’s what she wants, and I can’t give in to her. I fix my hair and breathe in and out before walking back out into the hall. That’s when I see him, alone, walking toward me. Why is he all of a sudden paying attention to me? Or maybe he’s just in the same hall as me because it’s where he needs to go. I shouldn’t complain I miss him, but there has to be a hidden motive.
I walk past him, but he turns and falls into step with me. I glance straight ahead. “Better watch it, Amber will see you talking to me.”
“I don’t care if she sees me. I’m a grown fucking man, she’s not my keeper.”
I stop short; Jackson bumps into me. “What do you want?”
He briefly appears hurt but I don’t relent. He doesn’t get off easily. Before he answers, he glances around us in the halls. The bell is due to ring any minute. “Are you dating my brother?” Stunned and surprised, I laugh at him. He doesn’t find it funny but I keep laughing anyway. What does it matter if I was? Not that I would; I don’t see Jared in that way. But still, it’s none of his business. “Are you?” He asks again.
I stop laughing and glare at him. “You know, you have some nerve to treat me like an outsider and then ask me a question like that. I don’t bother you about your life, so you should pay me the same respect.” I walk away, irritated. The bell rings and I’m late. That puts me in a worse mood. Thanks a lot, Jerkson.
“Okay, so this is just crazy. The second day in a row and he’s being all nice to you.” Randa helps me with my hair and makeup, getting ready for my birthday dinner. I picked out a pair of skinny jeans and an orange and white striped tank top. Simple; just like me. I throw my light jacket in my purse, because even though it’s hot outside, it’s always cold in the restaurant. I nod. “Wow, and then he asks if you’re dating Jared? That’s hilarious. You should pretend to date him, or go on a date and see if he gets jealous.”
Appalled at the idea, I look up. “What? That’s a crazy idea.”
She fixes my hair, “I’m just saying, that way you’ll know, if he gets jealous then it’s because he likes you. If he doesn’t say anything, he doesn’t care. Wouldn’t you want to know?” I don’t answer. On the one hand, it would be ideal to see if my dating his brother would bother him. But going on a date with Jared Cruz is just weird. “There.” Randa sets the curling iron down and combs out my hair. I turn my head to the side, admiring her work on both my hair and makeup.
“You look great, Sky.” She says with a smile. “You should take a picture and post it on your page. I’ll bet if Jackson saw it, he’d go crazy.”
I smile in response. “Thanks, but seriously. Enough with this Jackson talk. He doesn’t like me that way. Tonight is a night of birthday fun and I won’t let him or anything else ruin it.” I’m determined to forget about him and his sexy smirk. Gah!
Jared is supposed to pick me up at seven. I check myself out in the mirror, happy with my appearance. I turn to Randa, “When are you going to meet us there?”
She checks her phone, “Shit, I’ll go now and get ready and meet you at 7:30.” She puts away the curling iron.
My mom appears in the doorway, “Oh honey, you look beautiful.” I smile back. “You should invite Jackson to join you. He always loved your birthday.” Um, he hasn’t come since middle school, mom, I almost say aloud.
I glance at Randa and she just shrugs. “Nah, it’s better he doesn’t come.”
“
I think Jackson is starting to notice your daughter again, Rose. He’s getting friendlier. But I think Sky should make him jealous and ‘pretend’ to date Jared. That’ll get a reaction out of him.” She wiggles her brows.
I glare at my best friend, who just ignores me. “Shut up. I will agree to no such thing. I hate those stupid childish games that guys and girls play to get the other to notice them.”
My mom raises a brow, “I love Jackson and I think he still cares for you. He’ll come around.”
I shrug. “Of course you’d say that. You’ve always adored him. He’s the son you never had.”
“Okay, I’m out of here. I’ll see you in a bit, Sky.” She waves to me. Her and my mother hug. “See ya later, Rose.”
My mom comes inside, touching my hair. She smiles at my reflection. “Honey, you know those boys have been family. I’d do anything for both of them. After Cheryl left, I filled in for her when I could. They needed a mother-figure in their life. This is a hard time for teenagers, especially boys.”
I tell her I agree, just so we can stop talking about them and then she goes downstairs. I get it; he’s gone through crap, abandonment. I can’t imagine what that’s like. But then he should’ve reached out to me more. We were so close for so long. I wanted to be there for him. I lost my dad, so I can relate in a sense. Still, I wouldn’t push my best friend away. When things get so bad, that’s when you need them the most.
The doorbell rings and I take a deep breath. “Honey, Jared’s here.” My mom calls from downstairs.
I walk out of the bathroom, down the steps and into the living room where Jared is waiting, in khaki pants and a nice blue dress shirt, no tie and black shoes. His blonde hair is slicked back in place, perfectly. He’s handsome. Maybe not as handsome as Jackson, but he’s still nice looking. They take after their father; all three men are dashing. Wait, does anyone actually use that term anymore?
He sees me and stands up, smiling. “You look very pretty, Sky.” I’m not wearing revealing clothing or dressing any differently than normal, But my hair is curled and my face isn’t bare like it normally is. So I guess it’s different to him. I stopped dressing up when Jackson stopped noticing me, which makes no sense since that’s when girls would normally dress up-to get the guy to notice them. But like I said, I don’t play the silly games. Maybe if I had more confidence in myself like Randa, I would.
Torn (Torn Heart) Page 4