Oakley [ON HOLD]

21

I wince as I sit up from the bed, my left arm aching from the physical therapy yesterday. Getting into my washroom I switch the light on and walk towards the sink. Reaching for the pill bottle I try opening it only to fail like I do every morning of doing this.

I press the bottle against my stomach as I press down and twist the cap, almost dropping the bottle afterwards. I drop two onto my tongue before swallowing them with water and putting the cap back onto the container.

After brushing my teeth and washing my face, I turn and head toward my dresser, pulling out my uniform. My teeth dig into my bottom lip as I peel my clothes carefully off and try to get my uniform on.

I let out a sigh after I have everything on and gather all my books and stuff them into my bag. My hair falls into my eyes as I lean down to grab the straps, a huff leaving my lips at the intrusion. I hastily grab a small clip and tug back the front strands as best as I can while also holding the clip before deciding its the best I'll manage.

I pull the strap of my bag onto my right shoulder, and snap my headphones over my ears before pulling my hood up. Making my way towards the door my gaze finds my cello, tucked into the corner of the room, untouched for weeks. I should be better by now, the doctor said weeks to possibly months, but its been over three weeks since Brussels and my still barely able to lift my arm.

I had found out that I had ranked first at the competition shortly after Abel and Elijah had left the hospital but with everything that happened it didn't feel as good as it should have. Donna and Reed left after a few days at the hospital saying they had matters to attend to back in New York, unsurprisingly.

Although I was thankful they left because even though I ranked first, it didn't matter, I had embarrassed them and put their reputation in jeopardy, and they didn't hesitate to badger me with those thoughts while they were there.

Reporters were calling non stop after a couple days, so eventually I just turned off my phone, exhausted of their attempts.

I mean I ranked first, but at what cost? It all had to mean something though, all the broken finger tips and practises, the pushing Abel away, the articles, the harsh words and expectations, and even when Donna slapped me. It all had to mean something right? I thought I was going about it the right way, but I have nothing now.

I've always withstood all of it knowing everything I'm working towards can only be achieved through Donna and Reeds resources. Without them I wouldn't be able to continue playing the cello. Everything was always to keep on playing, nothing else mattered, but now I cant anyway.

Tears pricked the corners of my eyes as I harshly sniffled and looked away from the instrument, twisting the doorknob and leaving the room. After locking the room I turned and headed towards class, already exhausted even though it was only Monday.

Although that seemed to be normal since I got back, the pills they gave me made me tired and sleepy and the time with Donna and Reed drained me. But not having Abel there even though we were still getting to know each other made everything harder.