Records Later, Still Confined (Sequel to BTC)

Chapter 18

Riley's POV

Max and I walk out of school at the end of the day.

"So...Emily told me what you said to her." Max says.

"Of course she did."

"Don't you think you're being a little pushy with her?"

"Um, no. I have protected her long enough waiting for this article to go away and it hasn't. It's time for her to step up. I gave her a little over a week but after that, I'm taking action. The ball is in her court now." I say as we walk to Max's car.

"But Riley, what if she isn't ready? I mean, you know how her parents are. Who knows what they'll do?!" Max asks as we drive off.

"Yeah, well, you know what, Max?! Who knows what this rumor could turn into?! Or what it could do to my family?!"

"You're being selfish."

"I am not! You're being unreasonable!"

"I'm trying to protect my friend!"

"And I'm trying to protect my family! God, I knew you wouldn't understand."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

I sigh, "Nothing. Nevermind."

"No, tell me."

"Forget it."

"Riley!"

"Look, Max, you just don't come from the best family, okay? I just don't think you get what it's like to be in my family's situation where - "

"Woah woah woah. You think I don't know what it's like?! You think just because my parents aren't all rich and famous means - "

"Hey, that's not what I meant."

"Oh, I know exactly what you meant."

"No you don't! Will you just listen to me?!"

And the rest of the car ride back to my house was just one big argument, and it progressed pretty far. It soon wasn't even about the rumor or Emily anymore. We were just shouting the most insulting thing that came to mind because we were just angry.