Before The Storm

Chapter 16

The next morning, I laced up my running shoes, determined to clear my head. The sun was just rising, casting a warm glow over the neighborhood as I stepped outside. I needed the release that running always provided.

As I jogged down the street, lost in my thoughts, I spotted Cole waiting at the end of my driveway, wearing his running shoes and a casual tank top. My heart sank. "What is this?" I asked, annoyance creeping into my voice.

"I know you don't want to talk to me," he said, running a hand through his hair, looking both hopeful and regretful. "But I figured I'd join you for a run."

"Great," I replied, trying to keep my irritation in check. "As if I need company right now."

He fell into step beside me, his presence both comforting and infuriating. "I'm really sorry about last night," he said, attempting to bridge the gap.

"Whatever," I muttered, increasing my pace.

"How are you?" he asked, genuine concern etched across his face.

I didn't respond. Instead, I pulled out my AirPods and popped them in, tuning him out. I focused on my breath and the rhythm of my feet against the pavement, trying to drown out the sound of his voice.

"Come on!" he called after me, but I ignored him, pushing harder as I ran. I didn't want to hear his apologies or excuses. I just wanted to be alone with my thoughts.

With each step, I felt a mix of anger and sadness wash over me. I had hoped this morning run would bring clarity, but all it did was remind me of the mess that was my life. And the last thing I wanted was to deal with Cole right now.

Cole kept pace beside me, and no matter how fast I ran, he matched my speed. I focused on the rhythm of my breaths, determined to ignore him. It was infuriating how he just wouldn't give up.

As we rounded the final corner and headed back home, I felt a mix of exhaustion and irritation. We reached my driveway, and I turned to him, crossing my arms. "What, you gonna follow me into the house too now?"

He shrugged, a sheepish grin on his face. "If that's what it takes for you to talk to me, maybe."

"Seriously? I told you, I don't want to talk to you right now, Cole," I snapped, feeling my frustration bubbling to the surface again.

"I can't just pretend like everything's fine," he replied.

"Maybe you should've thought about that before you decided to air my dirty laundry," I shot back, the hurt bubbling to the surface again.

"Look, I get it. I messed up. I was angry, and I took it out on you. But I really do care, Maddy," he said, his voice softer now.

"You were angry for her!" I yelled, the bitterness spilling out. "You fucked me over for her!"

Cole's expression shifted, realization dawning in his eyes. "Maddy, I—"

"You think I don't see it? You jumped to defend her like I was nothing!" I continued, feeling the mix of jealousy and hurt consume me. "I get it; she's the new girl, and I'm just the spoiled brat who everyone loves to hate."

"Wow, Maddy you are so self-absorbed. She's not new. You two have been in the same class the whole year."

I felt my anger flare again. "Shit, I'm sorry. That's not what I meant," he added, realizing how harsh he sounded.

"Stop acting like a fucking saint, Cole. Do you think I don't see you, making fun of that nerd in the cafeteria. How you have him running around bringing you coffee and doing your homework. So why is it such a crime when I do it, but perfectly fine when you do?" My voice was sharp, filled with the anger I couldn't contain.