The Devil You Know

Chapter 31: We're Leaving

I went and sat down on the couch next to Joel and Naomi came and sat next to me. I actually loved having her around, not only just for Jade, but for me too. I don't know why I was so awkward around her though. Well, ice always been awkward around her but this time it felt different. I felt different.

Jade came downstairs, wearing one of my old black sweatshirts that she's been wearing a lot lately and sweats. She looked like she was super tired. She probably was, whatever else she took probably took a toll on her. She sat next to Naomi and rested her head on her shoulder. "We gotta head home soon, Ma is probably worried sick. I don't think any of us told her we were staying here" I spoke up, breaking the silence in the room. "Yeah, I guess we should get going" Jade said quietly. "I'll go with you guys" I nodded and we all got up. Joel had to get ready for work so he stayed behind.

We went out the door and started walking towards the house. It was pretty cold out and it looked like it was about to rain. For summer time, the weather wasn't always warm here. We made it to the house and Ma wasn't in the living room and Pop was gone but the smell of alcohol lingered in the room. He was drinking again. There was a worried and sad look on Jades face. I ran upstairs looking for Ma, I ran in her room and she was sitting on the floor, her face all beat up. My blood started to boil at the sight and Jade walked in and saw Ma's face. Jade left and went into her room. I guess Brendan wasn't home either. "Tommy we have to get away" Ma spoke, her voice distraught. "I know, Ma.." I mumble, holding her close and kissing her head.

Naomi went to Jades room as well. I heard the front door slam and immediately knew it was Pop. Ma didn't need to take this anymore. She told me if this happened again, we'd be leaving. I was the only one who knew she was starting to get sick. "We're leaving, tonight. I'll tell Jade and Brendan" I mumble leaving the room and closing the door. Pop was downstairs yelling at nothing.