How To Loose A Wentz In Ten Days (Or Less)

Chapter Eleven

It was a couple of days before they let me go. Peter went home every day and came back every visiting hour. I grew to like having him around. He was really sweet and consent. He surprised me with a stuffed bear and some flowers early this morning. It really meant the world to me. Come to think of it - he was all I had. I got dressed in the clothes he brought along which he apparently found in my apartment. 

Good to know I actually had one.

Apparently I was part of some rock band called sixteen strings. I told him he was crazy and had one helluva overactive imagination. That was - until he showed me the photos. To be perfectly honest - I looked happy, but I stood out like a damn sore thumb. They were all so glam metal and there I was - short blonde hair and nearly no tattoos. "How... How long have I been part of this band?" I asked hesitantly. I could see something was eating at him, but for now - I didn't want to upset him any more than I already have.

"About four years or so." He answered. I picked up my bag and asked him if he could take me to 'my apartment'. He smiled brightly, taking the bag from me and leading me to wherever. He led me to a black SUV and tossed my bag onto the back seat before opening my door for me. "I'm sorry-" I apologized, awkwardly rubbing my arm as I looked out the window into the overcrowded parking lot. Cameras flashed all around, but I couldn't care less. They knew me, but I barely knew 'myself'. 

We drove in silence most of the way as I concentrated on everything except him. I felt insecure for some unknown reason. The only thing I knew for sure was that I needed to go to Chicago. I had to go back to my campus and I had to get some answers. That - was the only place I could think of to start. I must have moved to LA after everything happened to get away from it all and start my life over. Peter's wallet dropped out of his pocket and I stretched to pick it up for him before it rolled in under his seat. A piece of paper fell out and I accidentally turned it over to see what it was. I didn't like interfering in other people's private lives, but - it was a photo of us. Me and him. Back when I was in college. I wore that ridiculous Jack Skellington backpack I wanted so badly. I really looked happy - squealing as he carried me on his back. He wore a striped beanie, his long black hair hanging out from under it. The initials CIU on his t-shirt. 

I must have stared at that picture forever, a ridiculous grin plastered on my face when I caught him smiling back at me. I remembered him. Peter - Pete. He was the love of my life back then. I can vaguely remember us breaking up, but for the life of me - I couldn't remember why. We were always so happy together. He studied something ridiculous like political science or something. "Pete?" I half asked, unable to hide my excitement. I was just so glad I remembered him - even though I couldn't remember everything... I remembered something.

"Jen? You... you remember me?" he asked surprised, biting his lip to keep himself from tearing up. I bit mine too, nodding in response. He pulled the car over to the side of the road, grabbing me into his arms - laughing like a lunatic. 

"I... I don't remember everything, though." I admitted. I could feel him smile against my cheek.

"That's fine. As long as you remember me - I'm happy." he answered, stroking my back as he chuckled. 

"Why did we break up? I don't know why, but when I remember us - I just remember how happy we were and stuff." I asked, pulling away from him. "You didn't-"

"No, Jen - I'd never cheat on you. I just got too caught up in my own damn world and I... I kinda neglected you. If only I knew what I know now, I'd turn back time and take back everything I did to you." he said, gently stroking the hair out of my face. I smiled, cupped his face and kissed him. He kissed me back, sliding his hand in behind my hair. I couldn't believe how much I missed doing that. It felt like an eternity since I last kissed him. He slowly pulled away from me, his eyes searching my face for some sign that I'd regretted what I've done, but I didn't. I just sat there, biting my lip and feeling all giddy inside. I rested my head against his chest, unable to keep myself from smiling.

"I think I love you, Pete." I said, trailing my finger along his chest.

"Jen - I know I love you. I always have and believe me - after realizing the mistake I've made... I've tried everything in my heart to rectify it." he admitted, drawing me closer to him. "And I still want to. I won't stop until I know you're happy again."

"I'd like that." I admitted. "You're still going to show me where my apartment is, right?" 

He chuckled, starting the car again and flicking on his indicator. "I almost forgot about that." he joked, winking at me before turning back into traffic. I hugged myself as I slid down my seat. I really had the most amazing boyfriend. I knew he'd help me try and remember - being there every step of the way. 

In good times - as well as bad ones. Because I knew... I knew they were coming.

My happiness never lasted.