Aiden & Harlow (Wattpad version)

When life hands you lemons, toss them out

Harlow

The holidays arrived and passed like a blur, as did the rest of the school year. When you focus on other things besides your single life, you learn to appreciate life more. Well, except I have my parents, who prove they're insane.

"What do you mean the store is out of Rocky Road ice cream?" Mom asked Dad.

"I searched several stores, and they're all sold out."

"It's one of the most popular flavors."

"Tell me about it."

"I find it disturbing that you complain about an ice cream flavor," I told my parents.

"One day, you will understand the significance of Rocky Road ice cream," Dad said.

"Today is not that day, and tomorrow isn't looking any better."

My dad rolled his eyes. The front door opened as Jagger and Rocco entered.

"Don't you have a home?" Dad asked them.

"Yes, and it's lovely," Jag said.

"You're a dipshit," Roc told Jag.

"Why? Because I point out the obvious?"

"How does Krista tolerate you?"

"The same way you tolerate Elise." Jag smirked.

Roc gave Jag an annoyed look and shook his head. "Harlow, are you ready for art school?"

"It's scary and exhilarating at the same time. But I can't wait to show the world my creativity," I replied.

"You deserve it."

My lips curled upward.

"But first, we get to watch my baby graduate," Dad said with a smile.

I couldn't wait until I graduated and headed to art school. It's been my dream.

*******
Aiden

I was working on my bike when Mom handed me two envelopes. I set my tools down and opened the envelopes. One was night school informing me that I passed and graduated high school. The other was a letter.

After reading the letter, I handed it to Mom. She took it, read it, and looked at me. I smiled as she smiled.

Sometimes, our path differs from our parents' path.

********
Harlow

Graduation arrived, and I pinned my cap to my hair. Someone tapped on my door. I glanced at Dad.

"Have I told you how proud you make me?" Dad asked me.

"All of the time." I grinned.

Dad chuckled and strolled towards me. "I know you were hoping for a different outcome with Aiden."

"Why? It's not like our relationship made you happy."

"It's not that."

I gazed at my dad.

"I didn't have the picture-perfect family while growing up. On the day you were born, I held you in my arms and promised to protect you. I never wanted you to endure what I did as a child. All I wanted to do was love you."

"But you did."

"What?"

"You protected me and encouraged my dreams. You would tuck me into bed, read me bedtime stories, and listen to me. You taught me not to judge people but love them because you loved me without judgment."

My dad's lips curved upward, and I wrapped my arms around his waist. Parents doubt themselves with their children, but mine was unique.

Dad released me, and we left for graduation.

*******
Damien

Bikes roared as several of us arrived at Harlow's graduation. Parents and students stared at us as we dropped our kickstands. I got off and helped Harlow off my bike. She made her way to her seat, and we found our seats.

"Problem?" Jag asked everyone.

People stared at us.

"Turn around and pay attention to the graduates."

Roc and I snickered. We sat in the same row with Jax and Richard.

"You should work on bikes," Richard told Jag.

"Why?"

"Because you wouldn't survive in my club."

We laughed, and Jag rolled his eyes.

*******
Harlow

I sat in between Diesel and Rebel as the principal spoke. I turned my head to glance behind me, but I didn't see anything.

"What's wrong?" Rebel asked me.

"I thought someone was watching us."

Rebel and Diesel glanced behind us and saw nothing. They shrugged and turned to face the front. It must be my imagination.

******
Aiden

In the distance, I leaned against a tree and moved when Harlow turned her head. I didn't want her to see me, but I wanted to watch her collect her diploma.

After the Valedictorian and Salutatorian spoke, the principal called students to the stage. Each student collected their diploma. When he called Harlow's name, my dad and others clapped and cheered. A smile crept upon my face as Harlow collected her diploma.

After everything that happened, she deserved this day. When she stepped down from the stage, I turned and walked away.

No matter what happened, Harlow would survive. She always did.

*******
Harlow

After graduation, we headed to Jaden's bar to celebrate. Most people have family and friends at a party. We celebrated with bad boys and bikers. I didn't mind since a bad boy raised me.

I sat down at a table with Diesel and Rebel, along with our families.

"Can I have everyone's attention?" Jade asked.

Everyone stopped talking and focused on Jaden.

"Today, we celebrate three kids graduating high school. Diesel, Rebel, and Harlow have been accepted to schools. Let's give them a round of applause!"

Everyone in the bar clapped and whistled. Different guys came to our table and handed us envelopes. Jax and Richard handed each of us an envelope.

"What's this?" Rebel asked, holding the envelope in his hand.

"Jax and I took care of things when you were babies. Open the envelope," Richard said.

We opened the envelopes and pulled out a receipt, along with a check. Our eyes bulged.

"You paid for our schooling and gave us a check for money," Rebel mentioned.

"We covered any expense that scholarships didn't cover, along with housing. The money is for living expenses," Richard explained.

"I can't accept this money," I said.

"Why not?" Jax asked me.

I glanced at everyone at the table. "Because it's not right. You shouldn't pay for my schooling."

"Harlow?"

I looked at Jax.

"There's nothing wrong with accepting help from people. I know what it's like to come from nothing. When you find someone who shows you there are people who care about you, you treasure it."

I glanced at my parents, who nodded.

"Thank you," I told Jax and Richard.

They nodded, and we spent the evening celebrating graduation. If I learned anything from this past year, the people who care about you, will show you.