Trouble Makers

Thorns like a prickled heart

When we got to his house he knocked on the door. I partly think his mum expects him everyday back early from school. She's gotten used to seeing me come back with him too. Ever since 1st grade if Eli got picked up for being upset because he was being bullied I would always be picked up with him. I think it was more of a comfort thing.

His mum opened the door and her kind and soft smile met us. "Was it that Kyler boy again?" I nod the answer because I know Eli won't. He doesn't like to talk when he's about to cry. People could always tell. "Come on in." She steps out of the threshold revealing the stairs leading up to Eli's room. We both instantly trudge up the stairs and straight to his room and close the door. He sits down of the edge of the bed with his head in his hands. His hood finally falling of his head. His face is drenched in tears.

"Eli." He kicks the bin and I jump back.

"Y/n I'm sorry. I'm so sorry." He says quickly after seeing me jump in fear. He stands up fast looking at me.

"Don't apologise to me." I say walking forward and throwing me arms around his neck and pulling him into a long embrase. I can just about reach his neck due to his height but he bends his knees slightly so I can reach. He's had to do that ever since he had a growth spurt. His arms hold my back tightly as he cries into my shoulder. We stand still for what feels like forever but still not long enough. He lets go and I'm forced to let go with him. "Let's lay down." He nods his agreement and wipes his final tears.

I sit down on his bed and move myself over so there's room for him. He sits down next to me and gives me the remote. We always sit and watch Titanic together. It's a tradition we always uphold. He loves it and it's his favourite movie.

I shiver slightly and instantly Eli offers me the hoodie he is currently wearing. I take it great fully and put it on. It's so warm and cozy and it even smells like him. I move down in the bed slightly so I'm height level with Eli's chest. I put one arm behind his back and one arm over his torso. His arm then rises and wraps itself around my shoulder.

I look up at him and he looks away and covers up his scar. With my hand that goes over his torso I lean up and pull his hand away.  "Stop Eli. It's beautiful."

"It's hideous y/n." He shys away.

"I promise you Eli, it's beautiful."

"Your beautiful." He whispers back but it doesn't quite register. I wrap my arms back around him and the movie begins.

***

The movie has not finished yet and Eli has fallen asleep. I look up at him; he looks so peaceful. So calm. Almost happy. All at once a gut wrenching feeling hits my stomach. I can't be thinking the way I am. The way I have been. He's so handsome. And I can't change that. And neither can his scar.

He's always been there for me and I've always been there for him. Y/n and Eli the unstoppable duo. But I can never have him the way I want him, I'm so lucky no one can see him the way I see him. Otherwise all the girls would be lining up for him and I would have no chance.

I look at his face. I already miss him even though I'm here with him. His eyes like stolen parts of the ocean, so blue. And his hair like beautiful autumn leaves. His breath is slow and relaxed.

"Eli." I start, desperately hoping he cannot hear me but also slightly hoping he can. "I have loved you for years and I will always love you. I hope one day you realise how amazing you are. Because you have literally saved my life Eli and I don't know how I can ever repay you. You Eli Moskowitz are so beautiful and no scar or haircut or anything could ever change that. You might not have girls lining up for you. But I'm here and I'm thankful to be your best friend and if I had the choice I would choose to be so much more."

Without thinking I lean over to his chest and kiss where his heart is. "I love you so much Eli."

As rose watches, Jack lets go and sinks into the ocean. Never being seen again.