Total pages in book: 46
Estimated words: 40403 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 202(@200wpm)___ 162(@250wpm)___ 135(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 40403 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 202(@200wpm)___ 162(@250wpm)___ 135(@300wpm)
Speaking of my girl. I pull into the driveway of my house and hurriedly pull my phone from my pocket. I see a number I recognize as most recent and call it back. When the VM is for her doctor's office, my hands begin to shake. If she is calling her gynecologist it can only be for birth control pills and that shit is not happening. Of course she could be trying to get in for a pregnancy test, but I know she hasn’t figured it out yet, so it is definitely for pills.
Calmly, I send a text to Royce telling him to also have the girl call in the morning, canceling her appointment citing forgetfulness of another obligation. At least when she shows up the appointment slot will be filled and they will have to make another one.
Do you see why I am fucking exhausted? It’s tiring trying to protect your reason for living. Even when she doesn’t know it.
Chapter 13
Mila
February-Month Three
“Ugh.” I look around as soon as the word leaves my lips hoping no one heard it or the relinquishing of my lunch just a moment ago. I have been sick for over a week now and it shows no signs of getting better. I chalked it up to maybe withdrawals from my birth control. That’s a thing, right? I mean as crazy as it sounds, every appointment I have made to go get more pills has been canceled and each time the doctor's office has no clue who canceled it.
Wiping my mouth I lean against the wall and collect myself, before grabbing mouthwash from my gym bag and swishing it around in my mouth. Once I feel marginally better, I lean to grab my phone but the conversation around the corner grabs my attention.
“Did you see that bruise on her side?”
“I did. It looks like it hurts. Milly asked her how it happened and she said she tripped.”
“Yeah okay and my name is Tori Spelling. What a weirdo.”
“I know right. I heard her boyfriend got sent to the alternative school because he almost killed a guy his junior year.”
“Oh my gosh. I didn’t know that. Well all I know is she is not peppy material right now and I swear she has gained like ten pounds.”
“Right! I mean when I had to spot her for that life, I was like oh my gosh do I look like a weightlifter to you?”
Having heard enough of them bashing Mari, I turn the corner and watch the color drain from both of their faces. “Are you two done?” They both nod. “Good. Food for thought ladies. The cheer squad is a community, a sisterhood. We don’t sitback judging and talking about one another. Furthermore if you suspect she is in danger or is being hurt, maybe you should try talking to her, finding her help. But, this is not productive. Thirty laps next practice.” They both huff and puss before exiting the bathroom.
Splashing water on my face, I dry it off and walk into the gym. Sitting off to the side with the face we have seen more often lately, is Mari. I have been trying to give her space and not be all in her business, but if I continue to do that, how am I any better than the other two? So, I release a breath and walk over to her. “Mari, can we talk?” She looks up at me and I can see her eyes brimmed with tears. Her once vibrant face is now pale and lifeless. I see the evidence of a healing bruise on her cheek and it makes my stomach churn.
“Sure. Yeah.” she looks so unsure when she scoots over so I can sit. “I know I haven't been my normal self. I;m sorry. I understand if you want to drop me from the team.” I begin shaking my head.
“No not at all but I do want to ask if you still want to be on it? I mean when I joined and became co-captain I thought I was going to build a team of sisterhood. One where we can be there for each other, share things that scare us and help one another overcome. Now looking at you, alone, obviously in pain, I don't think I have done a good job of that and I am sorry I let you down.” Even as I say the words, the inside of me is so sad and emotional for failing her.
“No please. It’s not you. I just..I’m so used to not talking to anyone that I am not sure I could.”
“Try. We all know something is up, Mari. Look, tell me whatever is easiest to talk about. Then the harder stuff will come right out.” She looks at me, eyes so full of trust and sadness. I can see her thinking about it and I know she is hoping she can trust me. I place my hand on her hers and smile at her.