Paul Newman and A Way Back Home

Chapter 9

Sitting in the hospital made me think. Sure, there would be things that were absolutely awful, like Lilia nearly dying or losing a rumble, but for crying out loud, I've never been so happy-go-lucky away from home. The question of actually wanting to go back was another story. Thinking about the school work, family, and life I was missing just made me shiver. And the fact that the gang had no idea where we were from just made it feel even more sickening. Two-Bit, my lovely Two-Bit, was just a fictional character, but I was not. Even though this was almost like a dream (although I've pinched myself thousands of times already, knowing I was awake), it was a nightmare.

"You guys are the best. Lilia's recovering, so I'll just spend the night again with her, by my side. Good night. Try to get some sleep guys. I can stay here, don't worry," Johnny encouraged.

I felt terrible. Johnny dealt with one of the most upsetting and shocking days of his life, and we were going to let him recover alone?

"Two-Bit and I will stay with ya, Johnny. I feel bad leaving you alone. We'll manage, right Two?" the words rushed out of my mouth, full of sorrow and sympathy.

"Yes ma'am," Two replied. I figured he got the memo.

We hugged and said goodbye as everyone else left, and then Two hugged me, and we both touched our noses together, smiling. Things were rough are all over, but boy, our love was tuff.

"I'm lucky to have a Minnie that treats the gang with respect," Two flirted.

"I'm just lucky to have a Mickey that's Keith Matthews," I told him with a smile.

We checked on Lilia, who was doing much, much better. As the two of us walked in, Johnny and Lilia were gazing into each other's eyes. I was glad everything happened the way it did, even though some terrible things could not be avoided.
***
Two and I practically fell asleep on the surprisingly comfortable couch outside Lilia's room.

Whether or not I should tell him the truth, now that was the question. The thought could just stay at the back of my mind, just for now. The stress had already accumulated, and I didn't want more of it.

A promise is a promise.