Page 41 of Shattered

it’s going to be a good day

Because it is. I can feel it.

As I gaze at my reflection, a smug smile creeps onto my face because I posted that picture on my story for a specific reason. To hope that one particular man sees it.

I think I spoke too soon about it being a good day. It was unrealistic to expect that, of course. I’ve been in a heated argument with Bexley for the past half hour, attempting to discover the cause of his black eye and cut lip. I have a feeling I know who it is, but he’s not willing to say.

“Just fucking tell me Bexley.” As he gets dressed, I maneuver around him.

“It was a stupid bar fight. Forget about it.”

“You can’t lie for shit. Now tell me.” He ignores me. Carrying on with getting ready.

“I came here with some good news to share with you. I was in a good mood before fucking coming here.” I sigh, sitting on the end of the bed.

“Then go, I didn’t ask you to come here, did I.” I rear my head back, turning round, staring at him wide-eyed as he puts on his sweater.

“Sorry,” he huffs. “I’m tired.” Next to me, he sits down and reaches down the side of the bed, pulling out a Nerds Rope for himself and offering one to me. We both open it and start eating them. I have my preferred rainbow flavor while he has his preferred berry flavor.

“I’m going to a support group on Saturday,” I rush out. I wanted to tell Bex and after the other night, I know he wants to help, but I don’t really know how to approach it. The best way to handle this is to rip off the band aid and say it. “For those with a family member struggling with addiction.” I take another bite of my Nerds Rope. He remains silent, and the awkwardness intensifies rapidly. I glance over and he stares straight ahead. “Bex?”

He continues to nod to himself, his gaze fixed on a specific spot on the floor. “I need out of here.” My heart breaks as I listen to his raw, vulnerable voice.

“I know. I’m trying, I really am. I think this group is going to be a good start.” He agrees by nodding.

“Where did you find it?”

“Ahh, through a friend.” I don’t know how to tell him a teacher is involved in this. Despite witnessing Mr. Stiles knocking out Karl, I don’t believe he would be pleased.

I frown at Bexley, who continues to scratch at his arm. He seems considerably more agitated than his usual self.

“Hey.” I lay my hand on his arm. “Fuck you’re ice cold.” His hand trembles slightly as he pushes my arm aside.

With a downcast expression and drooping shoulders, he sighs. “I’m tired. That's all.”

“Bex, don’t lie to me. What’s happened?”

“I—I’ve.” He sighs. “I’m trying to OK, Bray. I’m really trying.”

“Hey, hey I know you are. Has something happened?” I scrutinize his appearance. He seems even more worn out than in his usual state. There’s a noticeable shimmer of sweat clinging to his skin and he appears paler than usual.

“I’ve been trying to stop.” With a shy demeanor, he glances in my direction. “The d-drugs,” he stutters. My heart swells. He’s never made an effort before. Am I finally going to get my brother back?

“This is great, Bex. Trying is everything, and you’re doing just that!” I exclaim, pulling him in for a hug. He embraces me gently, encircling me with his arms and resting his chin on my shoulders.

“I let Karl know I was stopping, and the situation became heated.” I’m quickly overwhelmed by searing anger.

I move away, observing his face. “I had a hunch that it was him who did this to you.”

“I can’t stop selling. I need the money, but Dax is holding on to the drugs for me, so I don’t have it around me to be tempted.” I embrace Bex tightly and plant a kiss on his head.

“You don’t know how much this means to me, Bex.”

“I can’t promise, but I’m going to try.” With a smile, he leans on my shoulder and whispers, “This is for us.”

“BB for life,” I mumble, my eyes fixed on the photo booth snapshot of us.

Good days are coming.

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