Dear Jackson

Chapter 12

I was drenched, cold, bones chilled. My sweatshirt and sweatpants didn't even help in the slightest against the storm I walked in. I couldn't take it anymore. BamBam has already missed two days of school because of this situation. I saw the locker, I heard the name calling, and all the rumors. I felt worse because of the way he looked at me after my friend made fun of him. I just let him, and walked off. I didn't help or talk to stop it in anyway. But, I knew I should have.

I hesitated to knock on the front door of his house as I ran up the driveway to it. I felt like showing myself around here was a joke, pathetic. I kept my fist up centimeters away from the door before giving a rhythmical wrap. I banged quite loud as to catch their attention over the noise of the storm. I awaited a minute, but I got no answer. I knew the two were home as the car was parked right in front. This time I rang the doorbell twice in one go.

"Coming!"

I tensed and felt my heart rate suddenly boost with nervousness. Bam's mother hollering at my call. A moment later the door swung open, and she locked her eyes with mine. Her expression immediately changed at the sight of me, and I suddenly forgot how to speak.

"Oh, Jackson, it's you. A lot of nerve coming to my door."

Why did she speak to me like that? She always greets me with a smile and hug. But this time I got a cold shoulder with attitude.

"Excuse me? I'm a little confused."

"You're drenched and shivering. As I am upset at you, I still can't leave you out here looking like this. Come in."

I hadn't even noticed I was trembling. I awkwardly gave a nod while wiping my feet on the place mat, taking slow steps in. The warmness of the household hit my hands and face pleasently. But what was she upset about? Did BamBam tell her about the situation?

"Thank you very much."

"Mhm. Take those clothes off and hand them to me, I'll put them in the dryer."

As I was pulling off my Sweatshirt and tank top, I realized I would be stripped down to my boxers.

"Uh, what will I wear afterwards?"

I shyly asked as I handed her the two items.

"Nothing, you can handle standing around in your underwear."

Every word out her mouth held a slap of anger. A quiet, subtle tone tagging along. I decided not to argue, and just gave her my pants as well.

"Go take a seat in the kitchen while I go to the laundry room. We have a lot to discuss."

At those words I already knew BamBam told her. But why? Was it a way to get back at me? Or did he feel the need to vent out his emotions? I was confused for the most part. I also felt embarrassed at the fact that his mother knew. I was feeling of unwanted exposure.

I pulled the chair out from under the table and took a seat, scooting in. While waiting I rested my head on my hand, staring out the window that conveyed the outdoors. I saw far out lightning shoot across the sky, only for seconds later to hear faint yet strong roaring thunder. You could feel the slight rumble of the ground, but it wasn't much to scare someone or cause worry.

"Alright Jackson."

I heard Bam's mother speak my name while strolling back into the living room. She entered the kitchen and proceeded to sit across from my spot. The table was small, so it wasn't much distance apart. I awaited for her to start the conversation as I wouldn't even know where to begin.

"BamBam told me everything. How you guys are dating and have feelings for each other. And that's not why I'm mad at you, not even close. I'm happy that you guys both decided to build a further relationship. But-"