Without Words

26- High

AN: Trigger Warning: This chapter involves violence and implied drug abuse.

"And that is a wrap." Katelyn closed her enormous ledger and regarded the members. "We have done well and Certificates of Participation will be available upon our return to school. Have a Happy Christmas everyone."

Everyone cheered. Today's the last day of school before Christmas break. We have half day classes and my friends planned for Christmas shopping after finishing up on our club activities.

I covered my yawn as Katelyn went from person to person, thanking and wishing them happy holidays. I have been working on my paintings most of the day and nights. My free periods and weekends are reserved for finishing all of it and I haven't gotten nearly enough sleep. In fact, I just collapse on bed covered in paint because of exhaustion. Just this week, I already bought a sleeping bag so I could sleep in the studio and just hurry up home and shower before school.

Then there were exams next and I had to take a pause on the mentorship and focus on studying first. I'm doing well in my academics and I'm confident I could still maintain my GPA but it doesn't hurt if I do better.

"I'll get some coffee and energy bars from the vendo first." I told my friends. As of this moment, I am operating on a two hour sleep and my brain is barely functioning. I'm going to need more push to handle a shopping spree with Katelyn. "I'll meet you at the parking lot."

"Grab me some energy bar too." Luca requested. "It's been too long since I participated in Katelyn's shopping marathon."

After grabbing the requisite survival pack for said marathon, I headed to my car. Tightening my coat around me, I'm glad December isn't so cold this year. The chilly wind and minimal snow certainly made my birthday look better. I don't look forward to snowstorms and staying indoors this year.

I saw someone waiting by my car and stopped. Matt and Dan would be staying over at Francis' to watch some sports game tonight. I'm sure they already left. I rushed over and was surprised to see him there.

"Noah? What are you doing here?"

"Hey, Princess." He greeted and I gave him a second look. He looks thinner than the last time I saw him, his dark circles evident and his hands twitching anxiously at the sides. His hair, previously tied on hte back, now freely fell from his shoulders. "Nice car."

"Are you okay?" I asked worriedly as I moved closer. I noticed he was sweating profusely, which is weird. I'm pretty sure it's 3 degrees outside today.

"Just wanted to say hi." He sniffed then wiped his nose. It was then that I noticed burn marks on his fingers.

"Then, hello to you too. Did you already eat?" I answered brightly, moving closer to him.

"I'm good."

"We could drive by a drive thru and get you some subs." I offered then gently took one of his hands and examined the various burn marks, some old and some new. "Where did you burn these? I think I have some ointments with me."

He suddenly took his hands harshly away from my grasp and pushed me away. I was stunned by his actions. "Don't touch me!"

I stood straight and tried to understand what just happened. He was now panting and blinking several times. "Noah, are you alright?" I gazed worriedly into his hazel eyes and stiffened- they're both dilated. "Do you need me to call your parents?" I asked swiftly, stepping cautiously away from him. I've been in the company of nurses and caregivers to recognize the signs of addictions.

"No! Don't call them! Promise me you won't call them." He charged towards me and I extended my arms instinctively, trying to put distance between us.