Flipped: Back Again (L.T. Sequel to Flipped)

Chapter 13: Sacrifices

I got on my feet as soon as I heard the door close. It was evident that she didn't want to talk to me and I could see the blatant distrust in her eyes when I approached her. She immediately denied my attempts to explain myself and scaled the stairs to create some distance between us. But I wouldn't let up. I basically chased her to our room to plead my case; still, she wouldn't hear me out.

"El, please. I was just as caught off guard as you were." I repeat for the millionth time. "I'm sorry."

"Saying you're sorry doesn't fix everything Louis." She huffs while pushing past me to place her jewelry in its rightful place. I then follow her into the bathroom as she begins to remove her makeup. My eyes never leave her face as she looks into the mirror, totally ignoring me. This whole situation is unnecessary; and to be fair, I did warn her that something bad would happen if she invited Eliza here. What I can't understand however, is why she isn't channeling the anger toward her as well. I'm fuming just by the thought of Eliza because she is the real one to blame. Yet, here I am receiving the silent treatment for things beyond my control.

"Just tell me why you're so upset with me. This isn't my fault. It was all her decision and she didn't pick the date until you said something.. If that doesn't prove she's wicked then I don't know what will."

"That isn't the point!" She exhausts, stalking away someplace else. She angrily opens the dresser and pulls out some night clothes before slamming it shut.

"How 'bout we not take our frustration out on the furniture, yeah?" I can take her being mad at me but she doesn't have to destroy the house because she's upset. I even know enough to take that shit elsewhere. These furnishings were far too expensive to ruin over a stupid fight like this. Instead of having another sassy response, Eleanor cuts her eyes at me and disappears into the bathroom, intentionally slamming it shut once again.

When I heard the water turn on, I sat down on the bed to try to relieve some anger as well. Grabbing a pillow, I landed my fist on it several times. It released some tension but my head was still clouded with murderous thoughts surrounding Eliza. I try the next best thing I could think of; laying on the ground. A perfect spot was one in the middle of the room where we had a nice velvety rug. It tickled my ears as I adjusted myself and I instantly felt more at ease even with the chaos haunting me. My mission was to refrain from coping with alcohol and collect enough patience to deal with Eleanor when she got out the shower. I knew I would need the strength to endure her inevitable interrogation and be able to respond without getting defensive. I hope Eliza's getting chewed out as I am. Her husband might've looked content at dinner, but I'm sure he was just as bothered by the news. Quite frankly, I'm willing to bet big that they're having a scream match of their own right now.

<ELIZA'S POV>

The car was quiet and the subtle hum of the engine created a soothing atmosphere. After being riled up from Louis, I was in need of some peace and quiet. How dare he try to challenge me; not to mention his attempt at flaunting that twig in my face. Was that supposed to make me jealous. Ha- as if. I don't hold a shred of envy for that girl. She's nothing compared me; and even on my worst day, she still couldn't compete.

Why'd he have to act that way? I did everything he said, I was ready to put on the greatest act of my life but Louis had a different alternative. I feel like he set me up from the beginning and just wanted to show off his new life. One that I'm not supposed to be apart of.

The ring around my finger is suddenly awfully tight and I can feel the skin swelling around it. I eventually slip it off and toss it to the side, not seeing a need for it after tonight.

"Is that the end of our marriage then?" Xxavier breaks the silence. "To think, it'd be over so soon." His tone is dry, lifeless; even when attempting a joke he sounds monotonous. Then again he was the typical English man; just oozing with sophistication and disdain for the common man.