Euronymous

Chapter Ten

T/W - mental health talk, mature themes

A couple of weeks had gone by, and I'd been filling my time with work and music. I'd seen Pelle and Øystein at the shop a couple of times together or with the others. Øystein hadn't spoken to me as much, but we still shared glances. I began to wonder if I'd romanticised our relationship? Made it into more than what it was.
Pelle's eyes were always kind, and I knew he was thankful for my help the night of the concert. I'd spent a few nights restless, losing sleep over thoughts about what Pelle did. It made me sad knowing the kind of pain he must feel to do that - both the mental and physical that comes with it.
It made me wonder about my own depression. I'd always struggled with it, but I'd never found an outlet. To be honest, I'd never really been able to give in to it, or acknowledge it. My dad needed me. Erik needed me. Even if they wouldn't admit it.
Who would organise groceries? Who would make sure the laundry was done? Dishes? Wallowing just wasn't an option.
Now that I was older though, Dad wasn't cooking so much anymore and Erik was out a lot, meaning I was left to my own devices. Maybe I should start going out more and meeting people. The thought made me want to cringe - I wasn't exactly a social butterfly.
I was lost in thought, staring mindlessly at the tv, unsure of what I was even watching. The bell above the door rang, pulling me out of my trance.
Øystein walked in alone.
"Lone wolf today?" I asked, raising an eyebrow. He smirked.
"I'm always a lone wolf."
I rolled my eyes as I walked to the till, ready to take his order.
"B-" He started.
"Burger, no tomato, extra cheese. Fries and a soda." I finished for him. He looked at me, eyes a little wide and slid the cash over the counter.
"You come here too much." I laughed, shaking my head.
"Yeah, well I can't complain. Foods good. Service is better." He gave me a half smile as I handed him the soda.
"C'mon now, I'm the best." I grinned. I was glad our friendly banter wasn't gone at least.
He waited for his food by the counter, which was unusual. He usually sat down and I brought it out to him. I didn't think much of it, but I was very aware of his glances, though he tried to be inconspicuous. I handed him the plate and he hesitated to take it.
"We're having some people 'round this Saturday. You should come." His voice was light toned and his expression soft.
Was it for his birthday? I knew that it was this weekend. My dad had mentioned it to Erik - Øystein's mum had mentioned it to him in passing. Before I could reply, he spoke again. "Just a casual thing." He added hurriedly, grabbing his plate and putting a chip in his mouth.
"I'll see if I can swap my shift." Hammed was in the back somewhere. I'd have to beg him, but I knew if I picked up an extra shift or two next week he'd let me.
Øystein flashed a smile before taking a seat. I bit my lip. His smile was infectious and it made my stomach swirl, especially when it was for me.
"Hey, Hammed.." My voice was laced with sugar as I called out to my boss, ready to bargain. Øystein laughed quietly.