Stepping into FYE now-a-days wasn’t my favorite thing, don’t get me wrong – it wasn’t just the fact it was my 9-5 now, it was something else. Taylor; a girl that had just been hired had turned it upside down. I had gone to school with her, well when I showed up that is … and let me just say, she wasn’t my favorite person. She was one of the girls that wished her childhood away – you know – the group of girls who are all of 17 or 18, but attempt to act like they are 40 years old. They were always looking down on anything that even remotely resembled child-like behavior or fun for that matter. So, obviously with me being the smart ass who has to at least state his opinion – whether anyone agrees with it or not. So, we’ve had our scuffles over the years, well – maybe only one … but that’s good enough for me.
It just so happened that my beautiful Sunday was tied up with her from 9 am until 5 pm, not something I was dying to rush to. My usual morning activities took me 45 minutes instead of 15 and the whole drive over there I thought about taking a mass murder’s perspective & fleeing the country. Well, maybe I was making this a much bigger deal than I should, but for anyone who knows me – doing something I didn’t like, was almost impossible for me. But, if I ever wanted to get enough money to leave the state so I could stop bitching for once, I needed to work. So, with all that said … well thought, I entered the mall taking the last few sips of my coffee & taking a hook shot for the garbage can from the front entrance of the store … BRICK, the little coffee left in the bottom exploded out of the Styrofoam cup on impact, spraying the freshly cleaned windows. Oh yeah … that was definitely an omen for the rest of the day, great.
Taylor’s lovely face was the first thing I saw upon entering the store, lovely; I made sure no eye contact was made as I headed for the back room. That was the first rule when dealing with rabid animals, no eye contact … and I was dead set on not angering the beast. I dropped off my coat, letting my self stand there for a minute … my mind drifting as it did so often, but of course … it couldn’t last long, especially not with Satan clocking me.
“Do you plan on working, or would you like me to get your 8.50 an hour too?” Taylor asked, her voice like a bullet – puncturing any “good guy” organs I still had left; her facial expression doing the same.
I tried that whole – ‘if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all’ approach, saving her from an unneeded session of crying & me my job. I gave her a half-smile and turned around heading back to the front of the store where I’d get to stock CD’s & run the register, oh boy what fun!
The first half of the day was thankfully uneventful, but still included such gems as – “Jesus, do you ever do anything right?” - Which of course I responded back with “Thanks for calling me by my first name, but is all this hostility really necessary?” – That didn’t go over well, oh well – she’ll live. I didn’t understand why she was like this, no one (aside from serial killers) are this mean, without a little good hiding under the service. But for the life of me I couldn’t find it, and usually my personality or dumb jokes would at least poke a tiny hole in the person’s tough exterior – but not hers, she must’ve restocked her closet full on ***** spray. It was a pretty corny thought, but it worked for me. I figured over the course of the next few days, I’d try something new. Instead of coming back with a smart ass comment or just ignoring her harsh comments, I’d just be nice. What bad harm could come of that? Honestly …. I knocked on the wooden-ish type thing that stood next to the counter on my way out of the storeroom, just incase. Well, one half of a day down - 5 more full ones to go, I couldn’t wait.
I looked at the clock, oh sweet noon – sweet, sweet noon. My mind said this over & over again, it was my first official break from Taylor & a chance to go grab some of the unhealthiest food known to man; McDonald’s. Taylor had herself firmly planted behind the cash register, where she had been all morning – leaving me in the back room doing all the slave work. I mean, half the fun of this job other than the free games & movies, was to interact with the people and check out the girls. The first one I had only recently been fond of, but the latter I was nearly a professional at.
I dared to step into the “dragon’s lair” and take the first steps into my ‘be nice’ plan. This was most certainly not going to go well. “Hey, do you want me to pick you up something to eat?” I asked, a cool & calm face showing my exterior – inside I cringed like a little girl who just saw the boogeyman.
“I’m fine, thanks.” Was all that came swiftly from her lips. Damn, that had to be the meanest “thanks” I had ever heard in my life. And if you knew my mom, you’d be just as shocked as I was. I probably would’ve laughed to myself at that joke, if I wasn’t literally staring death in the face
“You sure, I can always pick you up a Big Mac?” a smile came across my face as I said the last part, since I was willing to guess this chick was a vegetarian, I mean – she already sucked might as well pile that **** on.
“My boyfriend is coming up soon and is bringing my something much better than that.” She said and rolled her eyes. I felt like I was in prison, I was almost afraid to talk – or move for that matter. But if she wanted captain dickwad to bring her something, then that was fine with me – I was too hungry to try and be nice anymore.
Without another sound I turned and headed out of the store, and drove towards McDonalds. The music was a great touch, finally none of that Britney spears **** that was forever coming out of the display speakers in the store. The heavy bass of Sticky Fingaz was almost soothing, just as I was getting to a good part of his verse – of course – the phone rang.
“Hello?” was all that came out of mouth as I saw the heavenly arches in my view.
“Hey sucka, what’s up? Are you at work?” Christian’s voice came through the speaker of my cell.
“Yeah, luckily got myself a few minutes to grab a little food, that crazy ***** Taylor is working with me for the week.” I said, the first time I could complain to anyone but myself and I wasn’t going to waste the opportunity.
“Oh, that’s shitty … ha-ha… yeah, I gotta go into work soon, just ******* around with the PS2 … what are you doing tonight?” he asked, I could hear a combination of grunting and button mashing going on in the background. I laughed, mostly out of jealousy that I wasn’t there – with people that were friendly.
“Nothing, but hey – give me a call at like 6 or something, I’m at the drive through. I’ll talk to you later” I said, I heard him say “peace” and I clicked the phone, throwing into onto the passenger’s seat and ordered my food.
I managed to make it back to the mall; 10 years shaved off my life within 15 minutes. I figured I’d run into meat-head as I stepped into the store, but luckily – he was no where to be seen. I figured I’d test my foot in the water once again, since I was such an obvious glutton for punishment.
“You missed out on some good-unhealthy food … where’s you boy-toy?” I knew humor with her was like poking a bull in the eye with a muddy stick, but go with what you know … ha-ha.
“He … ugh … had to leave. And that food isn’t good, it’s disgusting. Now take the register so I can piss, thanks for taking all day.” Her words a little less cold this time and it almost seemed like there was a small bit of energy put into that conversation. If nothing else, I at least knew she disliked McDonald’s because it was “disgusting”.
There were about 5 whole words and maybe a mumble or two between us for the last 5 hours of work. But with the entire time spent dead silent, I managed to get a lot of the week’s work done, which meant I wouldn’t have tons to do during the week – making me a prime target for her angry out bursts. And for a quick moment, I almost through about trashing the store – so that couldn’t happen, but thought against it.
5 o’clock finally came, about 8 hours too late but it was finally here. I helped her close the store, while still maintaining a safe distance and then gave her a half-assed goodbye. At least I couldn’t be told I wasn’t trying, I might have been even trying too much.
I pushed the mall’s side door open, the cold wind hitting my face was beautiful, well not really – it was cold as hell, but soon enough I’d be sitting home, with no Taylor within 5 miles of me. I smiled at the thought as I walked across the parking lot towards my car. I had the key in the door, only seconds away from escaping when I heard commotion from behind me; and as much as I would’ve liked to ignore it – it’s just not in my nature. I looked behind me to see Taylor and Scott (Taylor’s douche bag boyfriend) walking towards his truck. They weren’t fighting loudly, but the parking lot was almost empty – so it was almost as if they were speaking into a microphone.
“Where in the **** were you? You were supposed to bring me lunch – I was ******* starving, you ass.”
“I forgot, get off my back – I had to help Dave fix his car. So shut up.”
“Don’t ******* tell me to shut up; you are such an ******* …”
This time I saw him quickly turn around acting as if he might hit her, she cowered like a scolded dog. Oh that was great, she’s not only evil, but with each beating she takes from him she grows a little more evil. I tried making a joke of it, but it wasn’t funny – even super bitches didn’t deserve to be beaten by someone twice there size & strength, this time more like triple. Scott was huge and that was one of the things keeping me from saying something, that and the fact even if I helped her, she’d find a way to make some cruel remark. I just shook my head and got into my car, still hearing them bicker like an unhappy married couple as I shut my door.
Well, luckily it was all behind me for at least another 16 hours – I thought, as I drove past the domestic squabble. I’d be home sweet home in less than 20 minutes. With that last thought, I clicked it to track number 13 on my CD player and zoned out to some brain cell killing rap music.
But of course, I got no time to relax after a stint in the joint. Almost immediately as I stepped in the door, the phone rang – it was Christian, apparently instead of lounging on my uncomfortable couch & watching some cliché filled TV show – I’d be getting drunk with a lot of people I didn’t care for. But, it was an excuse to get trashed & maybe if I drank enough, I’d be too sick to go to work tomorrow – giving me a reason not to have to face her. God damn, why was she even still on my mind, I was free …. That was like thinking about how terrible the mashed potato was in prison while you’re sitting at home, recently paroled. I guess the party was right off, who the ****** started a party at 6:30? No one would even be making it until midnight, oh well – better if it started early that way I could be home before 4 am. I agreed and hung up the phone, I had about twenty minutes until he got here – might as well grab something to eat and take a shower … I had plenty of time, not.
“Yo man, where you at?” I heard coming from the living room. I had timed this pretty good. I slid my shirt on and stepped out of the bathroom.
“Where the **** is this party at? I don’t want to be going to no queer’s house.” I really didn’t, the last time we went to a party it was full of gothic people, I ******* hate those kind of people. It almost ended in a lot of bloody pale kids, but luckily a couple of girls caught my attention before it got out of hand.
“Well … I got some good news & some bad news.” This was never the thing you wanted to hear out of your best friend’s mouth, just before you were heading out to get drunk -- never.
“Good news … tons of booze, nice house & Katie will be there.” He tried suckering me in on the Katie thing, hoping this would soften the blow of the bad news. “And the bad news, it’s at Brianna’s house.” Yeah, the Katie thing really didn’t help, at all.
“Whaaaat? Dude, **** that – that ***** is crazy and you know Taylor will be there.” Once I was drunk it probably wouldn’t bother me – because, let’s face it … when drunk I loved everyone. But showing up sober was a little tough to swallow, but **** it … I’d be drunk in no time, maybe even start on the way over.
“Fine, let’s go – but if I have to hit a girl, it’s your fault.” I said and we both laughed, stepping out of the door back into the cold. But at least Katie would be there, that chick was cute as hell and something I’d been kind of chasing after for a while. The lone good girl out of the millions of bad chicks I was fond of.
The party was a bad idea from the beginning. I started drinking on the car ride over and about 15 minutes into the festivity; I was wrecked. I managed to stumble from room to room; the party was in a big farmhouse. It was actually a really nice house, or at least through my drunken eyes it was. I had been there about 45 minutes before I ran into the crowd of people I was hoping to miss. Brianna, Rain (yeah, that ***** was named rain … scary stuff) & Vanessa sat in almost a half-circle around Taylor; who didn’t look her normal bitchy self. She actually looked sad and if I was sober, I might of felt bad – but I was drunk – so the only that went through my mind was “good.” And it also happened to come out of my mouth; luckily everyone was too busy to notice. I couldn’t stand looking at the group of leaches; I decided to head out back, where people were piled around a grill – the only source of heat out in the November night. Why the hell weren’t people inside? Just use the stove or something, at least I was somewhat prepared; I had some sort of a spring jacket, 2 seasons too late – but better than what some of these assholes were wearing.
I was on a mission; almost as if I was walking a marathon really fast after just being hit in the head with something heavy. I was almost ready to topple down the stairs when I felt an arm grab me by my jackets and steady me. I was about to turn and hug whoever it was, for saving me from what would’ve been a pretty rough fall – until I saw who it was.
“Oh great, did you save me so you could still get another week of slave-labor out of me?” my words were pretty slurred, I wasn’t sure if she even understood a word I said until …
“No, I just don’t want blood on my friend’s steps. Shouldn’t you be hooking up with Katie, or making an ass out of your self with Christian?” Even with a little alcohol & an upset expression on her face she still could bring the zingers. All I did was laugh and walk away; at least that’s what I thought I did. I did take a quick look back to her just standing there, her eyes were just kind of staring blankly , no where in particular. That was my last clear thought.
“See dude – I told you you’d have a good time …. You didn’t even make it until 10... Ha-ha” was the first words I heard, waking me up from – apparently a drunken stupor. My mouth tasted horrible, like a bag full of dead babies or something of that nature.
“Was Katie there?” came randomly out of my mouth, still trying to get that awful taste out of my mouth. I opened my eyes, looking around the car for something to drink – even the warm soda sitting between the seats looked good. I cracked one open and took a sip … yummy.
“Yeah ... ha-ha, she came there just to see you & by the time she found you, you were sitting on the couch in between two older girls watching Judge Judy … it was some pretty rough stuff.” I cracked up at this, that’s awesome – I’d be marking that down on funny things I’ve done while drunk.
I took another sip of the piss-warm soda “Was she pissed or say anything?” maybe she hit me in the head, because it sure felt like it. Ha-ha.
“She just said she’d call you later; you were obviously busy.” She didn’t seem to mad, well – I lie – she was kind of pissed, she didn’t even stay after that. But she’ll live; good thing is you’ll get to wake up bright and early with a hangover for work. That should make a day full of Taylor awesome!” His sarcasm made me sick, what an *******.
*ERRnnGGHH – ERRnnGGHH – ERRnnGGHH*
Oh dear god, it sounded like crazy screeching birds were pecking at my brain. I flailed wildly until I heard the alarm clock shatter against floor, oh thank god … wow, who would make something that loud? Sick, sick bastards. I cracked open my eyes and looked around, well – lovely, at least I had made it to my room. Only bad part is the whole “passed out” thing didn’t quite last long enough. I pushed myself off the bed, slamming to the floor, yes – loved it. I grabbed some clothes and threw them on; shower was the least on my worries at this point. I looked down at my vomit encrusted watch, to see I had about 10 minutes. I rushed down stairs, grabbed the keys & bounded out of the house. I felt like speed racer on the way to work, 10 minutes flat. I’m so close to being God, it’s not even funny.
I stepped into, well hobbled sort of into the store. I saw Taylor at the register, how come she is always on time – god damn it, always adding ammo to use on me. I waited for it … waited … waited, nothing. Wow, something was wrong, I took another look over & saw the same expression on her face that she had on at the party, before I blacked out & watched a sarcastic old lady.
“Hey, you okay?” I asked from across the store, I stood there in half-stride. I must’ve of looked like a retard, but still no zinger.
I saw her mouth half open, almost as if she was gonna take down the bitch-wall and explain herself and then, nope – not gonna allow that. She closed it for a minute. “Yeah, I’m fine – but I have Laura coming in for me today, I gotta go home.” Her words weren’t like smothered in depression but the perkiness was surely gone.
“Are you coming back tomorrow?” I asked, not insinuating that I might be pleased if she wasn’t planning to come back or anything.
“Yeah, I should be … so don’t get your hopes up.” she responded with, her expression cold – not the usual one that accompanied a little joke like she had just made.
“Okay, well I’ll see you tomorrow – hope everything is okay.” I said with honest sincerity, which I saw catch her off guard. Not all that surprising, I mean … look at how her boyfriend treats her. I walked off to the back room, where I may be able to get another 35 seconds of oh so needed sleep. I took a second to lean up against the wall, then thought – what makes me feel better when I’m down, and even though I didn’t exactly know if she was down or if she was just skipping out on work, I figured it was worth. What did I have to risk? I figured even if she appreciated the gesture, she’d still stab me in the neck with a verbal spear. I grabbed the CD from my “locker” and headed back out.
I stepped out of the back room and saw her heading for the door, “Hey – Taylor – wait, I got something for you.” She looked back, bracing her self for a dropkick, which never came. I stuck my hand out, the new John Legend CD in it. She stayed hesitant for a second, and then cautiously took it. I almost felt like a sick child, ha-ha. “Have you heard it yet? I figured if anything was wrong, that type of music helps.” My words came out, kind of trailing off in the end; partly because I thought I might have been stepping out of my bounds, the other part in sheer terror.
“No I haven’t thanks. I’ll give it back to you when I see you tomorrow “she didn’t smile at the end, but she didn’t still have the evil look on her face. She stayed in her position just for a second, before turning and heading out into the morning air.
I stood there, watching her leave. Damn it, she was cute – my first thought was ‘bad Justin’, we’ve seen first hand how bitchy girls are … good in bed (sometimes) but anytime spent away from the bed and/or kitchen table was horrible. Like trying to tame & date a wolverine, just a bad idea. Plus, she was still with Scott ………. WHOA, just stop thinking about it – you have lost you mind.
“Fantasizing about a taken woman will only lead to trouble …” Laura swooped in with Monday morning’s words of wisdom. I broke the trance I had formed on the mall’s side exit and brought my attention back into the store.
“I wasn’t fantasizing about her – I’m scared of that whole situation.” I stuck my tongue out and walked towards the counter she stood behind. Laura had been working at the store for almost 6 months; she was a bit older than me at 31 but still pretty good looking. She was the one to introduce Katie to me; one time when they were in the store. She was Katie’s mom’s best friend. I don’t, I think that was right – gets so damn confusing sometimes. I try and just think of her as ‘cute blonde older chick’ and that seems to be working for me.
‘You know, I’ve been around a little longer than you, so I know some secrets … and that’s how it starts. Right now you’re scared of her but give it 2 months & you’ll be making her mix tapes & singing out front of her bedroom window.” I had to cut her off, that was just creepy to think about.
“And I didn’t mean she scares me, well she does kind of – but it’s ‘Andre the giant” that does. I wasn’t kidding, I wasn’t a sissy – I’d fight if I had to but not with him not even joking around – he’d break me like crusty underwear.
“Ha-ha, you just watch I’m telling you – huge boyfriend or not, you’ll fall for her.” The scariest thing of all, she seemed so convinced – I actually had to think about it.
I’d get to date a beautiful, shallow, somewhat crazy girl – who shows no emotion, has never once said a nice thing to me & seems to share not even a single interest with me. Yeah, that actually didn’t sound half bad. I’d do it.
That was all the thinking I could do, I needed to get to work – well, at least look like I was – I mean it was Laura, not dr. grim. I headed into my favorite spot of the whole store; the store room. I mean what else could a small town boy ask for? Shoved into a dark, dingy box filled space. It has always been my dream, I didn’t know about anyone else. Looking around, I saw little pink sticky notes – with today’s date on it. Looking through them, there was some horse **** being released tomorrow. A U2 CD (people still buy that ****?), a new Christina Aguilera CD – but best of all a new Fitty Cent CD. I would be staling one of those before the day was out, maybe even two. Even thought it was a Monday, a few video games & movies were being “released” today – so at least I had about an hour of work to do in the 8 hours I’d be stuck here. I guess I could use the other & to flirt with Laurie. That was always entertaining, damn her and her husband loving ways. Ha-ha.
“So, Laurie – do you know why she was skipping out on work today?” I asked her, my nosey side getting the better of my usually ‘don’t-give-a-fuck’ side. Not a habit I wanted to get into, probably just a phase anyways.
“I can’t tell you silly, what do you think I am … a gossip well?” she said giving me a goofy smile, which pretty much told me she’d give the answer away faster than a fat kid with cake waved in it’s face.
“Come on … I’ll make it worth your while” using a whiney voice, I tried to make it seem like a little kid trying anything to get his way, but it came out more like a sexual proposition. Oh great, I’d finally fulfill my life’s goal of being fired from a job for sexual harassment.
“Oh really, It’s worth that much to you? You’d put yourself through all this torture.” She said cocking her eyebrow up & motioning up and down her body. I must’ve turned red, because before she could say anything else she burst out laughing.
I gave a small, forced laugh …. That actually turned out better than I thought. But maybe this whole flirt with the older co-workers wasn’t such a good idea, I could barely keep up with the ones my age – she was probably out of my league. Plus her boyfriend looked a little like Dahmer – I wasn’t gonna test it.
“I’ll be right back, want some lunch?” I asked, hoping this time around someone would accept & appreciate all my “hard” work.
“Yeah sure, I’ll take a salad – doesn’t matter what kind, thanks tootz.” She said, stealing a line from me. First time had anyone had spun my tootz back on me, ha-ha – awesome.
I gave her a little joking wink and headed down the packed mall, the place to get food was near the end – and the food sucked, but a man could only take so much McDonalds before he collapsed. And I wanted to at least wait until I was 40 to do that. I looked at my watch, I couldn’t think of what holiday it might be – none – but there must’ve been 800 people in the mall, little kids tugging a long on their dad’s pant leg. Mom’s gritting their teeth and telling everyone near them, that “if they didn’t knock it off, they weren’t gonna get a damn thing for Christmas.” Wow, I thought – a little early to be bringing out the Christmas threats. I got past most of the mob, with the coke-n-puke in sight when I was interrupted.
“Hey … look who it is, good to see you sober!” the pretty voice said, her voice had a little “joking anger” if that made any sense. I looked over to see Katie’s cute face, damn – I had to take a moment to look at her. She was dressed nice, like she was getting her pictures done – her dark hair pulled back in a bun – an evil smile on her face. I knew she wanted to be mad, but couldn’t - the girl liked me way too much – which also went vice versa, but I surely wouldn’t be admitting to that. That would be strike one, and I suck at baseball enough – I don’t need any help.
“When have you seen me drunk? I didn’t finish the question before I laughed. She gave a small little giggle. “So, you bringing that cute little ass over to my place for a movie & some food?” I didn’t know how this would go over with a girl like her; she wasn’t the usual crude girls I was attracted to. She got good grades, stayed away from hard drugs. It was almost as if I had lost my mind, well – I did …. But that was a different story.
“Sorry buddy, you missed you chance with this.” She said, sticking her tongue out slightly. “Nah, I’m kidding. I can’t tonight, what are you doing tomorrow night; besides hanging with a beautiful girl such as me?” She took it better than expected & could actually give it back a little - that was worth a good 15 “Justin points” - she was now clearly in the lead.
“Well, I’ll let you go – so you can get back to the loveable Taylor, I’ll call you later.” She said and motioned like she was blowing me a kiss.
“Okay, bye dude.” I said and she scrunched her face up, before laughing and then she was off – lost in the crowd. I turned my attention back to the menu, which was much less appealing now, after seeing Kate. I figured, a salad sounded good too. I ordered 2 large chickens salads & 2 medium cokes from a rather large man with what had to be the biggest nose I had ever seen. He must’ve lied A LOT as a young wooden boy. I laughed to myself once again, but settled down before I caused a scene … all by myself.
“Here you o ma’am, a fresh chicken salad ... a little light on the fresh.” She took from me with a little laugh. The day was going a lot faster than it had with Taylor, though for some reason she was at the very back of my mind. I had totally forgotten to get that out of Laurie.
“So, again … why would Taylor be missing today? Hmm?” I asked, taking a bite from my horrid salad. At first she didn’t pay attention to my questions, she just continued to eat.
“Ok, I’ll tell you – but you can’t say anything. Okay?” she took another bite of her salad & then looked up at me, obviously checking if I was going to say anything – even though I don’t think she cared either way.
“Of course, I don’t want her to have another reason to torture me. Ha-ha.” She laughed a little but I could see it in her eyes. She didn’t trust me with this news as far as she could throw me, but she obviously loved me …. So she was gonna spill the beans.
She hesitated for a minute before fully giving in…” okay, well – ugh, I’m not sure why I’m telling you this – but Scott dumped her after some huge fight. I guess he beat on her a little. She had a doctor’s appointment to go to, and needed to rest up.
I stood there; my mouth was actually dropped to the floor. Wow, I guess I didn’t really wan to know after all. I wish I could go back to my simple little thoughts; she disliked me and would rather be off with her evil friends than spend 8 hours with me. I tried to process it, that she actually had to go to the hospital – but her face was fine …. I was a smart kid though, so he must’ve obviously hit her below the neck. It made me feel horrible for some of the stuff I had thought or said when she was here this morning.
“That’s too bad … that’s why I’ve always hated that cocksucker. Oh wait, that’s his father.” Her eyes widened a little “Sorry for my language.” she smiled softly and nodded. “I wish she didn’t hate me, that way I could try and help.” But I knew there was nothing I could do but what I had been for a few days; just being nice.
“Oh she doesn’t hate you; she’s just a little shy.” As I listened to those words come out, I wanted it to make sense, but it didn’t, shy? She was crazy and mean, those weren’t signs of shyness. “She just shows it in a different way; I think she’s embarrassed so she lashes out.”
“Wow, she must be really shy, because she lashes out on a pretty regular basis; almost too much for her own health.” I knew it seemed kind of far fetched, but she was a woman, so anything was possible. I wrestled with the whole abuse thing as much as I could before it started to get under my skin and I had to let it go. Part of me (the dumb side?) wanted to call her or stop by her house … unfortunately and to some extent fortunately – I didn’t know her number or where she lived. And although I knew Laurie would have the answer, I bit my lip and walked off. As I’d been learning over the past few months was that some people can’t be helped, not even if you think you can do it all by yourself.
My mind went a good solid rounds with a few different opponents. Obviously the Taylor thing bothered me – even if I hated her or vice versa, I severely dislike domestic abuse – and as I was well aware of, I had a habit of trying to help girls who didn’t like me or were near the end of liking me. Luckily the main thing on my mind was Katie, which was a much needed break from stress. She looked cute when I had seen her earlier, well she always looks cute – but there was something different today. Maybe it was the fact she didn’t really have any deep emotional issues or an abusive boyfriend; she didn’t have a huge urge to **** everything on the planet, and the fact that she was still a virgin at almost 18 years old proved that. ****, I don’t think I’ve ever dated a girl that was older then 16 when they lost there virginity. Some even dangling around the 13 or 14 year old mark, no wonder they **** anything upright with a penis.
I figured I should maybe cut down on the partying and the random hooking up the parties, I wasn’t a complete expert but I was pretty sure that’d be a killer for any type of relationship with Katie; even friends would be tough after too many of those. I guess I could cut down on the drinking, but she better be a GREAT ******* girl for her to come in between me and my beloved alcohol. And with that thought, Laurie said the most beautiful things I had ever heard come out of that wise, wise mouth.
“Well, it looks like we’re done here. I guess I’ll see you sometime later, bye bye.” I almost wanted to hug her, but we all saw how the accidental proposition had me reeling. I better keep it safe and try to act professional or at the very least; my age.
“Yeah, tell Katie’s mom hi for me. Bye Laurie” I watched her stepped out of the store and off to her car. I grabbed my jacket, looking around to make sure I had everything I needed. I did, so with a quick tug the metal security gate came down & I was ready to go home – and since I had partied last night & Katie was busy – I could probably grabbed some much needed rest and some Monday night wrestling, YES!
The blinking light on the phone as I stepped into my apartment assured my egotistical side that I was still loved, even if it was only by telemarketers – hey, they were people too. I checked mom, mom, mom, Christian, Kristen and Tina. All of them I loved very much, but I only had like 3 hours to nap before wrestling was on, they’d just have to wait another few hours – they’d be okay. I plopped myself down on the couch, took me a few minutes get comfortable – even though I was on the verge of coma. I flipped through the stations landing on Sports Center. After watching a few basketball highlights I was out like a light.
The phone snapped me out of a very deep sleep, I stabbed my arm into the darkness like a blind baby with a coat hanger – just hoping I’d reach the phone and after a dozen tries I did. “Dude, no I can’t go party, I need sleep….” I rambled on for a minute, until I heard a familiar female voice on the other end.
“Dude? So I have mysteriously grown a penis since earlier today?” she said, it still took me a second – but then I knew it was Katie. I didn’t even know why I said the **** id did, must’ve been dreaming about dreaming of being dragged out to another disaster of a party.
“No – No, what’s up? Sorry I was asleep.” I blinked a few times to get the gunk out of my eye, why did I have gunk? I looked at the clock; it was almost 11:30. Oh, that’s why. I had missed my wrestling and everything. I took a second to rest my eyes …. Being woken from a deep sleep, mid-dream was a troubling experience – I felt like I was being dropped from a plane into the jungle.
“Well, you were supposed to call me – I waited and nope, once again you fail to call me when you say you will. So, I figured I’d give you a call.” Well, since I was such a disorganized slob – it was good someone out of the two of us was taking some initiative. “How long have you been sleeping? Do you want me to let you go?” of course I didn’t want that, I was just still reeling from a Tyson fight.
“No, how about you come over – you live like, 5 houses down.” Normally I would’ve tried to have some charming line, but I was groggy – so ‘you only live 5 houses down’ sounded pretty damn convincing to me.
“Why do you want me to come over? Huh?” oh, I see how it’s gonna be. She’s gonna try and be difficult – I have news for her; I’m a pro-frickin’-fessional at that. But when it came to girls, I was a beginner at best.
“Because I wanna see you and if you don’t I’ll probably fall back asleep …. And we can’t have that.” I said a low laugh came from my mouth … I yawned to add effect & possibly since the deal, I was desperate at this point. I didn’t feel like going back to bed and everything I wanted to watch was already over. What better opportunity, to save myself from the madness of boredom.
“Is that the best you’ve got?” she snapped back. It was silent for a second; I was thinking that was the craziest thing I’ve ever seen. Not even my own mother could go from nice to mean that fast, close but no cigar.”… I’m kidding dork, I’ll be right there …. Just let me fix myself up a little. I’ll see you in 20, okay?” once I heard that, I wanted to karate chop her. That wasn’t even funny, I thought she had been sucked into Taylor’s pod & brainwashed.
“Sounds good, see ya then.” I responded and hung up the phone. I needed to ‘clean up” a little too, not the house … I was talking about myself. I needed a quick shower & then a little brush of the teeth, that soda was making my mouth taste horrid, almost as bad as the warm one last night.
The knock on the door came at just the right moment; I was just ending the drying of my shaggy hair. I threw the towel onto the bathroom floor & hurried over to the front door. I opened up and was taken back; she looked ADORABLE. She had her hair pulled back in a loose pony-tail, she had a big hoody on & was wearing thing pajama bottom; that had little white elephants on them. But the cutest thing and what caught my attention first was the huge fluffy monkey slippers she had on.
I guess I sat and stared a little too long “Are you going to let me in or just stare at my cuteness all night?” she said with her usual smart-ass tone; which was very reminiscent of mine.
“Oh, sorry. That’s pretty much the most adorable outfit I have ever seen – almost makes me feel like a cradle robber. Ha-ha.” I had a thing for girls who liked stuffed animals or were slightly childish – wow, I really was a cradle robber, well its okay … I’m already on my way to hell anyways.
I took a step back and motioned for her to come inside. She did; looking around the small apartment – from the expression on her face, she at least slightly approved, I mean – she didn’t run out of the house screaming “oh god, what just bit me!?” – s that was a good sign.
She walked around for a second, looking at my failed attempts at making it more enjoyable on the eyes. She was oh so willing to point out that my flowers and plants looked horrible and that I needed to water them – since I seemed to have forgotten all about that. “What the hell is that? That is so homely.” She said, pointing to what was actually an ugly picture. It was gift, but she was right – friggin’ ugly.
“Hey be nice, that was a gist someone gave to me.”
“Wow, you must’ve done something horrible to them, because they hate you.” After the last smart-ass comment, she turned her attention away from verbally tearing my home apart. She walked over & plopped herself down, I figured this is where she’d make fun of the worst couch on the face of the earth – but she didn’t, she actually used the words “this isn’t so bad” – I almost kicked her out right there.
So, what movie do you have picked out – and if you even mention Steven Seagal I will dropkick you off this couch” I was dumbfounded – how could anyone dislike an action-adventure legend such as himself. I was a little appalled, but I caught the slipper out of the corner of my eye & figured I’d give her another chance.
“No, as much as I would’ve loved to torture you … I actually can’t. I was thinking you could pick, I’ve got the new Batman, the old classic Pulp Fiction & a bootleg of Get Rich or Die Tryin’. So what will it be sweetheart?” I asked, not really caring what she picked – I had seen two of them and they both were great – but I was always down to see the black version of 8 Mile.
After about 10 seconds of thought she grabbed the Get Rich or Die Tryin’ and threw it on my lap. I nodded, happy with her choice and got down on the floor, and put it into my DVD player. “This better be good, or I’ll suplex you through this rickety-ass coffee table, got it?” I tried my best impression of The Rock’s “People’s Eyebrow” and failed miserably, but it got a laugh so I managed to come out even.
“What’s with all this wrestling violence tonight? We’re are some lame ass kids, I tell ya.” She said, kicking her feet up on the coffee table. She wrestled around with her self a little, trying to get comfortable.
“It doesn’t matter how much you toss and turn, that couch will ALWAYS be horribly uncomfortable.” I wasn’t joking either, I thought I may have came down with a slight case of scoliosis from it – even though I figured that was somewhat impossible – it sounded like a cool story.
I sat back up on the couch and of course I sat a little closer to Katie than I had been before putting the movie in, come on – I’m not that bad. She seemed not to mind, even going as far as to rest her head on my shoulder. The opening credits opened up, and little did I know – it would be the best part of the whole movie.
Now I wouldn’t say the movie was horrible, but let me put it this way – it was like 8 Mile without the talent. And by the look of Katie, she felt the same way … she had sort of curled up on the couch and had her eyes half closed. She looked about a good 3 minutes away from sleepy time. Normally I might have asked if she wanted me to walk her mom, but I didn’t want to do anything that might make her think about leaving earlier than she actually wanted to. Plus it was dark, and naturally – it scares me, so even if she was a chunker, I might even still let her spend the night … I laughed as my thought was a little mean, oh well.
“That sucked.” Was all she mustered from her slouched position. It wasn’t much but it pretty much hit the nail on the head.
“Yeah.” I wasn’t feeling real motivated either. I could’ve probably just passed out right there, me lunging on my back, her with her head on my chest. But I figured it was about time to get this little one off to her bedtime. “You want me to walk you home and protect you from all those monsters outside?” I asked, part of me wanting to be the gentleman and walk her and a little of me wanting to be a lazy ass and just go to bed. I figured the lazy-ass side had plenty of other times to shine, so I’d let the sweet side of me come out and play for a little while.
“Yeah – maybe in a few minutes. But it’s not the monsters I’m worried about, it that creepy old guy that watched me from his window.” She said and gave a half-assed laugh. “That’s probably why I don’t come visit you all that much – you live near a pervert.”
“Sure, use an old man as an excuse – you just don’t like me, it’s okay – you can admit it.” That was all I had, I couldn’t bring my “A” game this late at night, or this sober either for that matter.
She gave a small laugh and with that, she pushed herself up from the couch. She took a second to stretch looking down at me, I manage to glance up and see that her hair was pretty scary. I gathered up a little energy and got up myself. Without saying a word we both made for the door, and keeping with my gentleman theme I opened the door for her. Once outside, I realized it was pretty close to winter, unlike her – I wasn’t wearing anything more than a t-shirt.
“Hey, give me a piggy-back ride to my house!” she said, she sounded excited as a little girl on Christmas, so right there – it threw out any chances of me saying no.
“Get on” was all she needed, probably not even that – she bounded up onto my back.
Luckily it was a short walk, because about half way to her house she began to turn the innocent piggy-back ride into a horse ride. She was way overtired or her crazy side was starting to come out nicely. ‘knock it off or I’ll drop you.” She went silent for a second as we made it to her steps. “yeah, that’s what I thought – see, just had to put my foot down.” We both laughed at my horribly unconvincing authority.
I walked up the few brick steps that lay in front of her nice little ranch style house. It was yellow and the shutters were dark green, ew – it looked like some weird ******* bug, but then again – my apartment looked like a make-shift bomb shelter; I wasn’t gonna make a scene.
“Well, try not to be a stranger. I only live a few houses away and you can see from tonight, I have EXCELLENT taste in picking movies. Ha-ha” she rolled her eyes in mock disgust and suck out her hand.
“A handshake? What are we – in the 1930’s? Are you a man?” I started to joke, but she quickly leaned forward and kissed me, nothing to major – but enough to shut my loud mouth up for a few seconds. She slowly pulled away, gave me quickly smile and then stepped inside, giving me a cute little wave goodbye.
I stay put for a second, nice – things were working nicely & I hadn’t managed to **** anything up … yet. I took another moment and then realized how cold it had gotten since Katie’s lips weren’t planted on mine anymore. And of course, THE BOOGEY MAN was lurking somewhere – and that was all I needed, I quickly turned around and kind of jogged home – pleased with how the night had gone.
My lovely alarm clock sounded off, waaaay before it should of. It felt like I had only gotten like 4 hours of sleep; oh wait – yeah, I only did. But I guess that’s the price you pay when you have a cute girl over – plus sleep wasn’t that important. I did the same old routine I did ever morning; shower, get dressed & then spend about 15 or 20 minutes trying to convince myself of good reasons to go into work. With the whole Taylor thing changing lately, it was becoming easier and easier to go. I mentally logged my morning thoughts for now – and then headed off to work; wondering what great surprised and drama would be waiting for me.
None – not a single one, I had to say I was a little disappointed. I was the first one there, which probably meant she wasn’t coming in again. It was strange but I kind of missed it. The “good ole’ days” apparently were long gone. It was extra hard for me – I had all these smart-ass comebacks building up with no one to use them on. I feared that I’d soon start throwing them out into everyday conversation; and that could make for some pretty awkward moments. I got the store set-up as I milled around; it just didn’t feel like a good work. I sue to get the same feeling at school and sometimes when I woke up in the morning – you just new it was gonna suck or that feeling was there. I did my best to forget it, for the first 45 minutes I was there by myself – luckily I had another 15 before the mall actually opened up – giving whoever was filling in for Taylor to get here.
I had my back to the entrance and was startled “Hey, you’re here early.” She let out a giggle as she saw me jump a little, knocking over the box of CD’s I was sorting through.
“Holy **** – you almost killed me” I said laughing a little – it was way too early for that kind of stuff.
“Thanks for letting me borrow that CD yesterday – **** speaking of that, it’s out in the car.” She said and started for the door…
“Don’t worry about it, I have it burnt onto my computer at home – you can keep it until whenever.” I lied, but it was the first time I had ever seen use the word “thanks” and had it come out nice & sincere. So, I figured a few more days without my favorite CD was worth it.
“Okay – thanks.” She dropped her purse off behind the cash register. I looked over her. She looked cute but in a much different way than Katie. I knew Taylor wasn’t the shy, sweet & innocent girl Katie was. Not saying she was a ***** or anything – but if it came down to it, she knew what she was doing.
“So, you feeling better?” I figured I’d press my luck – worst case scenario she’d get all bitchy and go back to her normal self, which I had become accustomed to – and was quite comfortable with.
She hesitated – like I had seen her do a few days ago, almost looked like she was having an internal battle. The angel & devil sitting on her shoulders – trying to convince her what to do. “Yeah, it was nothing major – just nice to get away from this place for a day.” She responded with a small forced smile, well the devil won – but at least it wasn’t by a landslide.
“That’s good.” I said, and I decided I’d leave it there. With that I turned round and headed towards the other side of the store where I had been stocking earlier. She watched me for a second before focusing back onto what she was doing. So far the feeling I had was just a false alarm, but it was real early in the day – I was sure it’d be coming sooner or later.
I had worked through lunch, figuring I might try and skip out on a day of work – it’d been a good 2 months since I’d had a day off. I felt like I was owed one, maybe a nice little Thursday or something. That way I could get as trashed ads I wanted the night before and not have to worry. With my work-skipping ideas floating rough my head, I walked over to where Taylor was – we hadn’t been able to talk that much, it was actually the first bust day in what seemed like weeks.
‘When the hell are we supposed to put out these?” I asked, holding up a Resident Evil 5 game. “It doesn’t have a date anywhere on here – I’m thinking of stealing one, it’s such a good game. – not that you’d know.” I added, not meaning for it to come off rude – but it did slightly.
“Why wouldn’t I know anything about that game?” she paused, waiting for me to answer.
“Ugh … you just don’t seem like a video game girl, plus I’ve heard the stuff you and your friend have said about them in here.” I felt as if I had laid down a pretty good point.
“Yeah, like those girls know me …” I waited for her to finish but it didn’t look like she was going to, at least not without a little coaxing.
“So wait – you like Resident Evil?” I said; school girl excitement coming out in the tone of my voice.
“I guess … it’s not like you’ll believe me, probably just think I’m shallow like the rest of my friend.” Her tone sounded a little depressed. I thought quickly, I had to fix this before the ship sank.
“Well, if you’re such a Resident Evil buff – I think you should come over to my house and play this with me.” My words surprised me just as much as it did her. She didn’t say anything, but there was no vomiting or a karate chop to the neck – so far, so good.
“You’d want “Super *****” at your house?” she asked, doing the little quote thing with her fingers.
“No, I want you there – who’s this super *****?” I tried to diffuse the situation but before I could see if it had worked my suspicions from the morning was confirmed. I caught Scott & Keith walking in out of the corner of my eye. Great.
“Well if it isn’t my favorite little **** … and apparently her new little boy friend, how cute.” Dumb radiated from his mouth like bad breath, all I could do was role my eyes. Taylor wasn’t taking it as lightly as me – for obvious reasons.
“So, you don’t waste much time do you? Already moving onto a co-worker – that’s pretty hot.” I bit my lip, weighing my options. A fight would result in police, no job & probably a broken face – I wasn’t feeling too good about that. And sadly I didn’t even have any good one-liners weighting in “storage”, how fitting.
“Dude – back the **** off. If you aren’t gonna buy anything, you need to get you big dumb ass out of here.” Taylor’s eyes widened a little – ****, even mine did. Why would someone a 100 pounds lighter say that … oh yeah, forgot – I’m a dumbass.
“What did you say ******?” was all he came back with, I loved the originality of it.
“Yeah, I’m the *** – that’s why I’m talking with the cute girl & you’re hanging out with one of the village people over there.” I responded, pointing to his equally large friend. Who as hard as it was to believe, might even have a lower I.Q. than Scott. Maybe.
“Cute, please. Even Keith looks good compared to her.” I bit my lip again, I couldn’t believe that had gone through his mind and he had actually thought, yeah this seems like a good thing to say. Even Taylor let out a small chuckle through the building tears.
“More and more like your dad everyday, huh Scott? Buy something – or leave, don’t make me call the cops.” I ended it with that, I hated to pull the Po-Po card, but it seemed to have taken effect. I didn’t even really pay attention to the empty threats the two of them spewed out as the backed out of the store. I managed to catch one, the most clichéd of them all – “your ass is grass.”
It took a few minutes for Taylor to wipe the tears from her eyes. I took her place to cash out a lady that looked a little frightened. I apologized for that, it didn’t help much – she stuck out a shaking hand with a 20 dollar bill. I gave her change back and she took off in a hurry. Old people ruled. I looked back over at Taylor who was a little more come now, her make-up was a mess. She looked like she had two black eyes, which sadly – probably wasn’t the only time. I kicked that thought out of my head.
“You okay? Sorry about that.” I didn’t know what else to say, I left my “consoling people for dummies” book at home.
She nodded her head “Yeah, I hate that ******* …. He’s the reason I missed work yesterday.” She said as she wiped a little more of the eyeliner from her eyes.
I tried to act surprise, like I hadn’t heard it the day before. “Oh, I’m sorry … do you want to go back home again?” it was lame, but it was the only thing I could dig up.
She let out a labored laugh. “Even in a time like this, you still want to get rid of me.” We both laughed, hey – at least she had a good sense of humor during this.
“I’m sorry that was stupid, I’ll shut up now – last thing I’ll say is … I better see you at my house, 8 o’clock or else.” I demanded. “I won’t take no for an answer, plus I’m the greatest at these games – I’ll have to show you some tricks” I added, knowing I probably would take no for an answer, actually – I was expecting it.
“Okay …” she said with her head down. “I’ll try.” With hat she gave me her best smile she could and walked past me. This was definitely something I wasn’t really equipped to deal with. But that was me – always jumping into something I didn’t know much about, and doing it unprepared.
It was almost tear-worthy when the clock struck 5, finally I could free myself from the prison. Today had actually not been too bad of a day, a lot more talking with Taylor happened. Like she needed help, instead of grunting and pointing, she actually asked nicely. It was a nice change, but still felt a little awkward. And then to top it off, Taylor was coming to my house, well – that’s if she really did. I was placing my bets on a phone call about 9:30 saying she can’t and sorry for standing me up.
“Hey, I’ll see you tonight – just give me a call if you don’t feel like it, ok?” said as I headed out of the store, I figured I’d try and get that out in the air. I had nothing else planned, so either way I was fine – I just wanted to give her a way out.
“I’ll try to be there – eight o’clock right?” she asked, shutting the gate behind her. So, she at least kind of wanted to come.
“Yeah, do you even know where I live? Or my number? Sorry – I totally forgot to ask that.” All I could do was laugh, but I didn’t know she hadn’t asked those before – at least I didn’t feel too stupid after that.
“I know where you live, but I don’t know the number – but don’t worry, I don’t need it – I’ll be there, see ya then.” She said with another smile little smile we stepped out into the dark and snowy parking lot. Damn it, I wish I was in California right now – was all my mind could think as I got to my car. I watched Taylor walk over to her little Miata and get in – I didn’t expect Scott to be out there – but you never with dumbasses like him.
I arrived home a little later than usual; I had stopped on my way back to pick up my game system from my brother. I figured if she was potentially coming over for video games – I better have the video game system. Once in side I realized I was pretty hungry, so maybe I’d make something big incase she came. I enjoyed cooking, so even if she didn’t – I’m fat, I could handle it. It took me about 25 minutes of looking around to decide on pork chops – it was so hard not to pick chicken every time, me and him had grown very close over the past couple of years. I started up the over and got all the cooking prepared, it didn’t take long – and the longest part was now to sit and wait for it to be done. I walked over to the couch and plopped myself down – I figured I’d play some video games, it had been almost 4 months said I had played any and I didn’t want her showing up and me being all rusty.
The phone rang before I could even start the first game, I sighed – pausing it, I threw the controller down. It rang a few more times before I grabbed the phone – figuring it was Taylor calling to cancel. But the name on the made me almost choke. It rang again; I sat there – looking at it. Inside I was wrestling with the decision – pick it up or let it ring … I finally answered it.
“Hello?” I answered, my voice coming out as calm as possible – trying to sound like it was no big deal. Which it really shouldn’t have been.
“Hey, how’s it going?” the soft female voice came from the other line. The same tone she’d had since last October, when it had all blown up. I didn’t answer for a minute – I didn’t know if I was speechless or just had nothing to say.
“Uh, not much – just about to eat dinner. You?” the last part coming after a short delay, I didn’t really know what to say – when you go a long period of time without talking to someone, even if they were a best friend or a girlfriend – it’s almost if they turn back into a stranger. I recognized the voice on the other end – but it made me uncomfortable – a weird feeling, since that was the only thing that voice never made me feel in the past.
“Nothing, home alone – it sucks, I miss home.” She responded, it sounded sincere – like she was actually having a feeling and sharing without hiding behind a lie. I wanted to believe her, but after the last couple of years, believing her was like petting a rabid puppy. As cute as it looked, after a few bites you realized it might not be the best idea.
“You miss this **** hole? It’s warm where you are – it’s about to snow again here. Trust me, you’re better off there.” I was a little less uncomfortable, so I could now actually form complete sentences or at least try.
“I miss you – so the weather doesn’t really matter.” Oh no, that was unfair – that’s what pissed me off about people, they could never play fair – always having to cheat. It was sad that when she said those words, unfairness was the first thing that I thought of but it was. What was a really supposed to say to that? It was a trap – on one hand, if I admitted that I missed her too, she gets the upper hand and if I say I don’t she makes me feel guilty. The second one sounded better for almost anyone but me – guilt was something I did not deal with well. So, I dealt with her words the best way I could …
“Yeah, I’m sure you do – so how are things going between you & Larry? Good I hope.” That was my secret weapon, mentioning the current boyfriend and not sounding like a little kid who had just lost his favorite stuffed animal. I could tell it wasn’t what she was expecting or wanted to hear for that matter. It was silent for a second before she said ‘good, I guess.’ … deep breath Justin, brush it off – brush it off.
And than like a movie, I was saved all too conveniently by a knock at the door. Oh thank god, save me from myself I laughed a little “Hey, someone’s at the door, can you call back some other time?” I said, coming out stern and catching her off guard.
“Yeah, sure – I’ll call back sometime … I miss you bye, bye.” She threw the miss you in there a second time; she was really going for the early round knock-out.
“Ok, bye tootz.” I said and hung up the phone. “Just a minute” I yelled at the door and then put the phone down.
After that the rest of the night should be easy. I mean, I had at least tamed Taylor to a certain degree, but the beat on the other end of that phone convo would never be tamed – it was just best to lock her in a cage and leave her be. I hurried to the door as quick as possible not wanting to make her wait out in the cold all night.
She looked great as I opened the door. She even looked like she had taken more than 5 minutes to get ready, her hair was down – which was the way it looked best on her. As she stepped into the apartment she removed her coat, she had a cute little **** on that went nicely with her little jean skirt. All sorts of thoughts went through my head, even one where maybe I should take up being a brainless jock, since that was who those type of girls liked. But thought against it – I mean, I was just being myself and that got her as far as my house. Maybe I’d just keep her locked in the bedroom and that would solve all my problems.
“This place is cute, how long have you been here?” she asked, looking around – holy ****, she actually started a conversation without me almost having to force it out of her.
“Only like 3 months – you should feel special, I only allow the important girls in here. Usually I’d just go to their place.” I lied, truth is – I’d let anything that had tits and lacked a penis. But maybe I’d hold onto that little nugget of information for just a little longer.
“Then I better get going.” She responded going along with it.
“So are you ready to get your ass handed to you?” I asked, changing the subject as I pointed down to the black game system.
“You underestimate my awesomeness.” That was probably the funniest thing I’ve ever heard her say. It just was so unnatural to come out of her mouth, but it was cute – in a weird kind of way.
She whipped my ass in video games, it was pretty bad. But to my credit, I’ve only gotten like 10 hours of sleep in the past 4 days – and she had to be running on at least 12, an unfair advantage in my book. It didn’t even matter what game we picked hockey, ghost recon, basketball … I only manage to either win a game here and there or get a few kills, other than that – the legend of Justin was completely tarnished.
“How the **** are beating me so much?” I was actually surprised, I mean I’ve lost a lot before but this chick looked like she get within 10 feet of any game system and yet she was holding it down. The best part is she seemed to be having fun, I had never seen her laugh or smile so much in the years I had known her. It was good to see, even if it was at my expense.
“I play games all the time – when I am not with Scott, I mean wasn’t.” her tone got a little less giggly at the mention of that name.
“What do Vanessa and Brianna and all the other evil chicks think about this? They must want to kick you out of the circle.” I tried to get off of the subject she had just brought up, the best I could.
“Trust me – I may hang out with them, but I hardly have anything in common with them.” She brushed her hair back, taking her glance of me and placing it on the blank TV screen.
“Well, then I have to ask this question – do you watch football or like it at all?” this was a very important question in whether I could ever talk to her again, not even joking.
“You mean like profession or playing it outside and stuff.”
“I was thinking professional – but if you like playing touch football that’s awesome.” I responded.
I saw her look at my giant Steve Mcair poster than hung over the fish tank and she sort of cringed.
“Ok, but don’t hate me.” She said grinning “I like the Colts – Manning is so good!” the last part came out almost as a squeal.
I was horribly offended by her choice of a team, but she liked football and actually new at least one thing about it. That got her off the hook. “Oh god, the Colts? The Colts?” I repeated in mock disgust. “Wow, I don’t know if I can allow you to be in my house after that comment.” I added; laughing. She stuck her tongue out and gave me a playful shove to my ribs.
“Oh that’s it.” I said jokingly and lightly pushed her back.
She let out as grimace of pain and I almost just laughed, she couldn’t be that much of a pansy could she? I sat there for a second as she held her ribs, I didn’t know what to say – did it actually hurt her or was she just pulling my leg? Great, now I felt bad. “Are you alright?” I asked.
“Yeah, I think I should probably go.” She said standing up quickly – what the hell was going on. I’ve seen this in movies and it never ended well.
She grabbed her coat and started walking towards the door – I was still just sitting there. “Wait, Taylor – why are you leaving? I don’t even…” I didn’t even finish, she turned around, facing me as she put her jacket back on. I really had no idea why she was leaving. Guess I hurt her when I pushed her but was that really a reason to just get up and jet?
“I should probably go; it’s getting kind of late” she answered.
“Don’t use that tired ass line on me, its 11:30 – you’re 18. That doesn’t work with me” I was a little frustrated, so I didn’t really sugar coat my words like I usually tried to with her.
I don’t know if me actually sounding like I had a pair of balls had a good effect on her or a bad one – or any for that matter. But she at least hadn’t left. I stood up and stepped over to her, I figure why not be right in striking distance of her, why not? I guess it was funnier in my head.
“How did I hurt you, I barely touched you – you didn’t see me crying when you slugged me.” I guess I came off a little insensitive.
“Because … I have a bruise there. It’s not your fault, you didn’t know.” She had calmed down a little – but my big mouth just wouldn’t leave well enough alone, just apologize and move on – but this is me I’m talking about, common sense was a real hit or miss.
“I know …” it was one of those things you say and kind of want to take back. Not only could this just bring a new breed of drama to the situation, I had promised Laurie that I wouldn’t tell.
“What do you know?” Oh there it was; the normal Taylor attitude had made an appearance. Everything in my mind screamed ‘shut up’, that silence was the best thing to say at this point. I had just gotten her to go from super-bitch to fun tolerable Taylor and any number of things that was about to come out of my mouth, would kill three days of hard work –and those three days felt like 3 years.
“About Scott and you.” Well at least I had kept it vague – a lot had been going on between them, I could be talking about the break-up (which I wasn’t supposed to know about) or …. Well it was down to two, maybe I could attempt to lie myself out of this one too.
“Just forget it, I’m sorry.” I tried saving face, a very weak attempt of buttoning up what had just been undone. It failed.
“How would you know that? How would you know?” the repeating of the words led me to believe she wasn’t all that thrilled. The tears forming in her eyes, pretty much locked up this thought.
“I saw you two in … Laurie told me.” I switched in mid sentence, I mean – I hadn’t really seen anything in the parking lot, so forget that – wasn’t gonna say anything. I felt bad, but sometime you gotta sell out the cute older co-worker, it’s just part of life.
“Wait, so is that why you asked me over here? Because you ******* felt bad for me?!” this was taking a turn for the worse “I mean, you didn’t seem too interested in talking to me before this – Jesus, we’ve worked together for almost 6 months and the last three days are the only times you’ve said anything to me.” I was dumbfounded and a little bit afraid. How could the whole “not talking” thing be pinned on me she was the mean one.
She grabbed for the door knob, turning her head just along enough to say “Thanks a lot” and then she was out the door. Holy **** – that was my only thought at the moment. I opened the door up, she hadn’t reached her car yet, she was obviously upset – I wasn’t exactly sure why, I mean she had said a bunch of **** but it was a little confusing at the moment.
“Wait.” I yelled out into the silent night.
She stopped, whipping tears from her eyes as she looked back up at me. She didn’t respond though, she just chose to stand there – waiting for me to say something. If she was expecting me to say something to fix this whole thing or to sweep her off her feet, she was **** out of luck – that only happened in movies and this **** wasn’t a movie.
“Just come back inside.” Was the best I came up with. I wasn’t all that disappointed in it – it worked for the situation; not very flashy, but to the point.
She stood there for a few more seconds, the look on her face screamed ‘that’s the best you’ve got?’ which wasn’t a bad look on her, well – besides the smeared make up and puffy red eyes.
“Well are you gonna come back in? It’s cold as **** out here and my nipples might rip through my shirt soon.” I fought fire with humor and it worked, she let out a laugh through the tears and snot, how lovely.
I motioned for her to come inside and she shook her head no. I guess her body wasn’t really listening though. Because she was slowly walking back towards the porch, still slowly shaking her head no.
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