Page 76 of Run Away Home: Tempered

“You didn’t even hear the condition!” he yells.

“I’m not that desperate,” I call out without turning around.

“Yeah, you are.”

I am.

“What’s your fucking condition?” I turn around quickly and slap my sides.

“I’ll give you the Oxys free of charge...but only if we can take them together and just chill.”

“You know I’m with Peter now, right?”

He’s quiet for a little while. “I didn’t know that. That makes me want you even more.”

“That’s low. That’s really fucked up.”

I’m kind of into it. It sounds...exciting. I slowly approach him.

“What? He hates me. I hate him. Spending time with his girlfriend behind his back? Sounds very appealing to me.” He licks his lips again like a hungry predator. “Tell me, what is it about him? Is it the big nose? Oh! Maybe the gigantic-ass forehead? Or the small man complex? I think it’s the free room and board.” He smiles maniacally.

“All of the above, jackass,” I say, leaning closer.

“Hear me out. Just one night. Me and you. We’re friends, Hals. You don’t miss me at all?”

“I do miss you...”

Or maybe I just miss the Oxys? Or the thrill? The spontaneity? Or maybe all of it? I don’t know any more.

“Good girl.” He lifts my head up with his pointer finger, shows his teeth, and clicks his tongue. “I missed you too, Hals. It’s been too long. You free tonight?”

“Yeah, I’m free tonight. Peter’s working until around midnight.”

“Cool. You wanna meet up in that park?”

“That’s twenty minutes away from here.”

“Okay, then we can Uber together. Like I said, I have money now.”

“Fine. I’ll come back at six o’clock.”

I turn and walk away.

“Tell Peter I said hello!” He cackles.

I feel all of the blood in my body rush to my face. I feel so ashamed...and excited? Turned on just a little? Confused is probably the best word to describe me right now.

I get back into the car and take a few deep breaths.

Peter

AFATHER’S GUIDE TOThe High School Transition. I still have quite a few months... Might as well be prepared ahead of time.

The door opens, and I look toward the stairs. Hayley comes in, carrying a single bag.

“Did they have milk?”

“Yes. Only a small one, though,” she answers.

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