Waiting for Something (6 page)

“Jake, let’s just go,” the girl tried to move him but he stood right in front of me.

“No, I’m not leaving yet,” he held my gaze.

“Whatever. I’m going.” She got out of his hold and went downstairs.

“What’s your deal, Jake? You’re being an ass,” I crossed my arms.

“Well sorry. I’m a little stressed, ok?
Mentally and sexually. I feel like I’ll never get any from you. It’s not even worth the bother,” he slurred and brought himself closer to me.

“Get away from me,” I shoved him back.

“Don’t shove me,” he grabbed my wrist a little too tight.

“If you don’t let go, I’ll scream,” I spoke through gritted teeth.

“I like a screamer.” His voice was filled with vileness.

“Jake, what’s going on?” Carter walked out of his bedroom and looked down the hall.

“Nothing, we’re just talking,” Jake let go of my wrist.

“I
gotta go.” I looked at both of them and slid down the steps.

I walked out to the garage where I found Justin surrounded by three blonde bimbos.

“Justin, where’s Marlie?” I pushed through the girls.

“Ask him,” he rolled his eyes and pointed at a spikey-haired boy.

“Excuse me, do you know where my friend Marlie is?” I tapped the guy on the shoulder from behind.

“You mean the prude? She left.” He turned his body too close to me.

“Are you sure?” I backed up.

“Positive. I’m Brad by the way,” he looked at me.

“Yeah, not interested,” I turned and texted Marlie.

Marlie
? Why did you leave? Are you okay?

I’m fine, some senior hit on me to the core and Justin didn’t even stand up for me.

I’m sorry. The party is lame.

Shit, you don’t have a ride! I’m sorry! I wasn’t even thinking.

No it’s fine. I’ll figure something out. I’ll see you tomorrow! Xoxo

Sounds good.
Xoxo

I put my phone back in my pocket and started back to the main part of the house when Justin stopped me.

“Is Marlie ok?” He looked concerned.

“Yeah, she is. But you should have stood up for her. You two have things to work out. Don’t put me in between them.” I was just overall pissed at the entire night.

“I know and I’m not trying to put you in the middle. I’m sorry.” He backed off and I didn’t stop him.

I went right for the keg and put one back and then some guy came by with shots so I took two. Before too long, I was the life of the party. The music blared from the speakers and I danced along with the crowd. Once the clock struck 1:00 I didn’t want to go home. I kept drinking and dancing and everything was so fun. I finally pulled away from the crowd and went upstairs for some air. I sat on the top step looking down at the craziness and ignoring the mess in my head. I was about to get up when Carter came out of his room and sat by me.

“Having fun?” he smiled.

“A bunch of fun.
I really shouldn’t have drank that much.” I already felt a headache coming on.

“Well lucky for you I’ve sobered up.” His smiled stopped me in my tracks.

“I’m supposed to be home in like less than a half hour,” I groaned.

“I’ll take care of that. Give me your phone.” I handed him the phone.

“What are you doing?” I felt my head spin.

“Taking care of it.
Here you go. You’re staying at Marlie’s,” he handed me my phone and dropped his hands between his knees.

“I’m sorry about leaving like that earlier.” I really did feel bad.

“Let’s talk about it in my room.” He helped me up.

“Wait, I need to take these dumb things off,” I pulled the pumps off and followed him to his room.

“I need to lie down.” I plopped on his bed and he followed in pursuit.

“I do have feelings for you, Ali,” he got serious.

“Why?” my mouth blurted out.

“You’re funny, smart,
gorgeous. You care about people, you’re easy to talk to, you’re a total sweetheart, and there’s more.” He turned his head toward me.

“I’m really not used to this sort of thing, Carter,” I looked at him and felt my heart stop when his eyes poured into mine.

“Baby steps. We’ll just take baby steps.” I saw a hint of his dimples.

“I don’t know. I’ve just never thought about it, I guess. But I do have feelings for you. I mean, once I think about it,” I sighed.

“Well good. That makes this all the less scary,” he reached for my hand but stopped, inches away.

“Baby steps?”
I closed the distance between our hands.

“Sounds perfect,” he squeezed my hand.

We stayed up well past the party and heard Jake take two girls to his room. Carter and Jake were so different. Carter told me everything about himself and I told him everything about myself. He played baseball and football. He loves biology and wants to become a vet. Just all sorts of small, interesting things. Like his favorite band is Blink 182 but he also loves country music. He made me laugh and he listened to me and cared. Carter was a total sweetheart. He made me feel special. At around 4 am or so we must have dozed off. When the sun rose, I heard footsteps from outside his door and realized that we had slept together and I freaked out just a little. I got up and peeked my head out the door. Jake was walking the girls to their car and saying goodbye. I slipped downstairs and started to leave from the back door.

“Ali Cat, what are you doing here? Wait. Did you and Carter? Nice,” he shook his head and laughed.

“We didn’t do anything. We just stayed up and talked,” I stopped in my tracks.

“Sure. Look, I’m sorry about last night. I feel terrible,” he brushed his hands through his hair.

“It’s okay. You were drunk,” I shrugged.

“It’s not okay. But yes, I was drunk, very drunk. You want some coffee? Your head has to be killing,” he walked passed me and into the kitchen.

“I’d love some. Do you have a hangover?” I sat at the island.

“Not too bad. I’ve had worse. It will die off soon enough.” He started some coffee and sat across from me.

“So where are your parents?” I tried to make small talk.

“I think
it’s Ireland. They “needed” a vacation. They’re gone for like two weeks,” Jake slouched over the island.

“You say that like they do it a lot,” I rested my chin on my hand.

“That’s because they do.” He got up and finished getting the coffee.

“
Mm, smells good. Why do they leave so much?” He gave me my coffee.

“Because they can.
Try the coffee. I make the best coffee.” He sipped on his and I did the same.

“Wow, you really do. I’m impressed,” I raised the mug as if to cheer.

“Thank you, thank you,” he did a little bow from his seat.

“Carter and I didn’t do anything by the way.” I felt myself get defensive.

“Trust me, I know. I’m the snake in the family,” he smiled and I saw that he had dimples too.

“Don’t say that.” I drank more of my coffee.

“It’s true. I had two girls last night and believe me, I’ve had more. You were right when you called me a pig,” he looked down.

“I didn’t mean it. You’re a good guy, Jake. Hey, you have some cereal? I could use some cereal,” I changed the subject.

“Yep, what do you want? We have it all.” He went over to the cupboard.

“Raisin Bran?”
I smiled.

“You’re one of those healthy eaters, aren’t you?” he shook his head and grabbed the box.

“No, remember that sundae I ate? Not healthy at all.” I looked at him and he turned and grinned.

“You’re very right. Here’s a bowl and spoon. Let me get you some milk,” he went to the fridge.

“Thank you.” I poured the cereal in the bowl and some milk too.

“So what’s with you and my brother? You two like a thing now?” He cut some of an apple off and ate it.

“I guess I don’t really know. We stayed up talking last night but I’m not really sure as to what we are.” I felt dizzy just thinking about it.

“Ah, I see. Well I’m sure he’ll have you over later. He always did that with Chelsea,” he said nonchalantly, leaving me with a bit of sting.

“Gee, thanks,” I cringed.

“Shit, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean anything by it. Let’s change the subject. So I’m about to drop a bomb on you, I’m going into the Marines in February.” He acted completely normal and I felt my heart fall.

“Wait, it’s December. When did you decide this?” my voice was a little high pitched.

“Last week. I have no future in anything. So I’m graduating at midterm and then going to basic training.” He ate his apple in silence.

“But what if you have to go and fight?” The worry in my voice was overpowering.

“Then I go fight.
It’s okay, Ali, I’ll be fine. I didn’t think you’d actually care about me leaving,” His eyes caught mine.

“Of course I would care! You’re my friend.” My heart panged.

“My own parents didn’t even really care,” he scooted closer to me.

“Well you’re important to me.” I felt the mood shift.

“That means a lot actually.” He took a drink of coffee.

“Can I tell you a secret?” I didn’t know what I was going to say but I had to say something.

“Go for it,” he smiled.

“I’ve sort of broken the whole ‘don’t fall for you’ rule.” I held my breath waiting for his response.

“I’ve noticed,” he grinned.

“Nu-uh.
I’m not that obvious, am I?” I filled with embarrassment.

“It was inevitable,” he shrugged and I hit him playfully.

“Oh whatever. You think you’re so hot,” I rolled my eyes.

“I am,” he squared his shoulders.

“Well it’s good to know you had your slice of humble pie today.” My voice was thick with sarcasm.

“Well, aren’t you sarcastic?” he stuck his tongue at me.

“Shut up, are you like three? Put your tongue away,” I acted disgusted.

“You want to suck it, admit it,” his voice got low.

“Ew gross. Nice try.” I tried to focus on not falling for his game.              

“Why won’t you fall for me already?” He looked serious.

“I want to but I can’t.” I felt my hands shake.

“I make you nervous,” he got closer, almost letting our lips touch.

“Jake, please,” I was weak.

“If you weren’t Carter’s already, I’d make you mine.” His words stung with truth.

“If I weren’t his, I’d gladly let you take me,” I whispered.

“Jake, you’re up early.” Carter walked in shirtless.

“Sure am and you’re half naked,” he got up and headed over to the coffee pot.

“Shut up. Ali, you want some more coffee?” Carter stood beside Jake.

“I’d love some.” Jake poured me a cup and handed it to me.

“Well I’m going to surf. I’ll see you two around.” He took a drink and then handed the rest to Carter.

“You’re going surfing?” It looked freezing outside.

“He’s going to get high,” Carter rolled his eyes.

“I resent that. I’m going to pick up some weed for a friend. You know I quit that shit after Dad beat the shit out of me,” he patted Carter’s back.

“
Touche. See ya later.” Carter walked over to me and sat down.

“You two really have no filter,” I laughed, a little shocked at the latest discovery of the Thomas boys.

“Not with each other,” he shrugged.

“Well I like it.” I took a sip.

“Well then get used to it,” he grinned and took a sip, too.

Four

“Thanks for the ride home,” I laid my hand on the door handle.

             
“Of course. Let me know about tomorrow.” Carter’s smiling was melting my insides.

             
“I will. I had a great time today,” I felt my hand fidget a little.

             
“You have no idea,” he grabbed my hand and kissed it.

             
“So we’re official. This is so, wow.” I felt myself blush.

             
“Definitely. No doubt in my mind.” He brushed his lips gently against my hand sending shivers down my spine.

             
“I should get going. It’s almost supper time and Marlie has been covering for me all day. I’ll text you later.” I started to get out of the car when he grabbed my arm, pulling me down and kissing me again.

             
“I’ll never get tired of kissing you,” he pulled back gently.

             
“If you don’t stop kissing me like that you’re going to start doing other things to me,” I winked and he turned beat red.

             
“You impatient little girl. Go home. I’ll text you.” He smiled and I got out of the car. About half way to my house I turned back. He was just smiling at me like he’d just won the lottery and it made me feel incredible.

             
“Where have you been all day?” Dillon was playing the Wii when I walked in the front door.

             
“With Marlie and Justin. Where are Mom and Dad?” I took my shoes off and ignored him.

             
“In the kitchen making supper,” he focused back on his game.

             
“Alice, is that you? Where have you been all day?” my mom dried her hands and hugged me.

             
“I’ve hung out with Marlie and Justin all day. Sorry. I texted you a couple times,” I sat at the table.

             
“I know. Thank you for letting us know.” She went back to her food.

             
“So any plans tonight? It is Saturday,” my dad asked from the stove.

             
“No, I don’t think so. Last night was a late night for me. Marlie wouldn’t shut up about stuff,” I fake laughed but they bought it.

             
“Alright, that’s fine. Mom and I are catching a late movie so you and Dillon are on your own,” Dad washed his hands quickly.

             
“Okay, well I’m going to shower.” I got up and headed upstairs before I got caught in any lies.

             
I showered for the first time all day and let myself completely relax. No one was around to tell me how to think or what to say. How could I just drop Jake like it was nothing? Maybe because it was nothing. He wasn’t going to want me tomorrow. He was leaving in February anyway. Carter was sweet and safe. Jake was daring and passionate. But obviously Carter was the safe choice for me. I liked being safe. I hated surprises and I hated not knowing where life was going.

             
I got out of the shower and dressed into an oversized sweater and leggings. I cleaned all my makeup off and I felt like I could breathe again. I walked down the steps and went to the living room where Dillon was still playing the Wii.

             
“Come on, loser. It’s time for supper.” I stood in front of the TV.

             
“Who made you boss?” He tried to look over me.

             
“Dillon, supper time,” my mom came in.

             
“Enough said,” I turned on my heel and went into the kitchen.

             
We said grace and then started in on the meatloaf my mom made. We had baked potatoes and asparagus with it. One of my favorite meals. I decided to tell my parents about me and Carter tonight instead of waiting.

             
“So Mom.Dad. I have to tell you something.” I ate a piece of meatloaf.

             
“You’re on drugs, I knew it.” Dillon’s voice was incredibly annoying.

             
“No, shut up,” I shot him a glare.

             
“What is it, honey?” My mom looked a little concerned.

             
“Well there’s this boy. His name is Carter Thomas and we started dating.” I have never had to say that before in my entire life and it came out extremely awkward.

             
“Do we get to meet him?” my dad eyed me suspiciously.

             
“Well we thought it would be nice if he came over for dinner tomorrow.” I watched my parents exchange glances.

             
“That sounds wonderful, sweetheart,” my mom spoke smoothly. She was excited. My dad not so much.

             
“Wait, I heard about him! He’s a big deal!” Dillon seemed stoked.

             
“Really? How?” My dad wanted all the information he could get.

             
“He and his older brother Jake are the most popular guys in our school system.” Dillon was intrigued.

             
“Interesting,” my dad didn’t seem too impressed.

             
“Dad, Carter is a good guy. I promise,” my mouth was suddenly dry.

             
“John, that’s enough now. Everybody eat up. Your dad and I have to leave soon,” my mom checked her watch.

             
“That’s right, we do,” my dad let the topic drop for now.

             
We finished supper and Dillon and I were in charge of clean up tonight. I put the food away and he put the dishes in the dishwasher. My parents left shortly after and it was just us two.

             
“I’m going upstairs. Don’t break anything,” I dried my hands and started for the stairs.

             
“I’ll try not to,” he rolled his eyes.

             
Once I got to my room I checked my phone for the first time in an hour. No phones at dinner time. I had three texts from Carter and two from Marlie.

             
Hey I hope you don’t mind but I changed my relationship status on facebook
.


             
If you don’t want to change yours that’s okay.

             
I’m sorry I’ll leave you alone… Are you sure you want this?

             
I quickly responded to his texts.

             
Of course I want this! Sorry no phones at dinner time! I’m changing mine right no
w


             
I then read Marlie’s texts.

             
Oh my gosh! You and Carter! Eek! That is amazing
!

             
I need all the details. What are you doing? Answer my texts. Btw I have news too
!


             
I texted Marlie and turns out she and Justin hooked up last night. He came over after the party to apologize and they ended up making out. She was so excited about me and Carter she didn’t even care about her and Justin. Marlie was an amazing friend and I don’t know what I’d do without her.

             
I laid around texting Marlie and Carter for about an hour when I heard a tap on my window. I ignored it at first, thinking it was just my imagination. But then I realized it was someone on my little patio taping on the door. I froze for a second before getting off my bed to see who it was. My heart sped up. What if it was a murderer? Okay, I was probably overreacting. I looked out of the curtain and it was Jake. I opened the door, letting him in.

             
“Jake, what are you doing here?” My face had to look super perplexed.

             
“This,” he grabbed my face between his hands and kissed me, knocking my knees out from under me. I felt him carry me to my bed and continue kissing me while I kissed back, caught up in the moment.

             
“Jake, what are you doing?” I pushed him back.

             
“I’m kissing you,” he gave some space.

             
“You can’t do that. I’m dating Carter. Jake, I really like him.” My heart felt strained.

             
“I was coming here to change your mind. There’s something about you that intrigues me, Ali Cat.” He brushed his fingers through his hair.

             
“I’m going to miss that,” I looked at his hair.

             
“You’re going to miss what?” His face was smooth.

             
“Your hair. They buzz it in the service. I’m also going to miss you calling me Ali Cat,” I forced a smile, holding back tears.

             
“You can’t be messing with me like this.” He wouldn’t look me in the eyes.

             
“I’m not trying to, Jake. You’re an amazing guy. You’re one of my best friends. I can’t lie and say I won’t miss you,” I reached for his hand and held it tightly.

             
“You picked him. I thought maybe that kissing you would stop you.” His voice was scratchy.

             
“I didn’t pick anybody. I just I don’t see you the way I see Carter,” I lied through my teeth.

             
“You know that’s a lie,” he made eye contact with me.

             
“You’ll find someone else. You don’t need to worry about me when you’re in basic training. I’m doing what’s best. I already said yes to Carter and I really do like him. He makes me happy,” I forced my voice to sound audible.

             
“You make it sound like you’re getting married. But you’re right. Friends then. I’ll write you letters while I’m away. Like my little pen pal.” I could tell he wanted more but he was honorable to his brother.

             
“Sounds perfect.” I grinned.

             
“So what are you doing stuck in your room on a Saturday night?” Jake hopped off the bed and looked around my room a bit.

             
“Well Carter is with some friends and Marlie promised to help her mom with stuff at home,” I stood up next to him.

             
“You in the mood for ice cream?” he smirked at me.

             
“Yeah, but I’m going like this.” I probably looked like a hobo with my messy bun, no makeup, large sweater and leggings.

             
“Beautiful. I’ll meet you out front.” He gave me one more look and then left out my tiny patio just like he came in.

             
I slipped on a pair of Sperry’s and went downstairs.

             
“Hey, loser, I’m going to get ice cream with a friend,” I grabbed my purse and Dillon whipped his head around.

             
“Can I come?” he paused his game.

             
“No,” I went for the door.

             
“If you leave me here alone you’ll get in trouble,” he piped up.

             
“Fine, put your shoes on and grab a jacket. Hurry,” I rolled my eyes. Jake would just have to understand. 

             
“Jake, I’m bringing my brother,” I walked to Jake’s car while Dillon tagged behind.

             
“Wait. We’re getting ice cream with Jake Thomas?!” Again, he acted like they were godly.

             
“Alright, that’s cool with me. Go ahead and hop in back, dude.” He walked around his car and opened the door for me.

             
“You’re Jake Thomas,” my brother’s eyes were wide as he buckled up in the back.

             
“No, you don’t say?” Jake said sarcastically, holding back a laugh.

             
“Sorry.” Dillon turned red.

             
“No, it’s fine. That’s me. You must be Dillon. Ali has told me about you,” he saved Dillon’s dignity.

             
“I’m not as annoying as she makes me out to be.” I heard him try to act cool.

             
“Of course not. She’s the annoying one,” he nudged me.

             
“You have no idea. It’s dance competition after dance competition. She has one this Friday, too. Hey, you should come!” Dillon was way too excited about this.

             
“Dillon, maybe he wants you to shut up,” I snapped at him.

             
“No it’s cool. Yeah, sure. I’ll come. Is Carter coming?” he turned and looked at me.