Faded (The Outsiders FF)

Chapter 13

Chapter 13

Two-bit drove me home in his pickup. When we arrived there were 2 police cars out front. I was shaking, and I had a death grip on Two-bit's arm. I couldn't quite read his face as we walked up to the door. Fear? Confusion? I guess it would make sense that he would be nervous around cops. He is a greaser and all, but Two-bit has never had a big blowout with the cops, unlike Dally. Sarah was right beside us holding my hand, but I didn't squeeze hers, just to make sure I didn't hurt her.

"I think I'm just gonna stay out here," Two-bit said quickly.

"Ok," I croaked.

"A-all right," he said awkwardly, and lit a cigarette before he walked back to his truck, and leaned back on the side doing his best to look tuff. I would've laughed or smirked at his attempt, but I was too nervous. Nervous about what I would see when I got inside. What I would find out.

We walked inside and a new feeling swept over me, replacing my fear. A feeling of sorrow and gloom. It seeped off everyone's faces when they looked up at me. Two police officers and Michael were in the living room. The police officers were on one couch while Michael sat across from them, head down, and fists clenched together, while his arms rested on his lap. I loosened up on Sarah, and she ran to Michael. He picker her up, and hugged her tightly in his strong arms.

"At least he's acting like a real big brother," I thought.

"W-what's happened?" I said not exactly knowing how to word anything.

The police officers looked at Michael expecting him to answer me, but he never did so one of the officers did. She was a woman with light blonde hair pulled out of her face with a low ponytail.

"Your father was in a wreck. He's in the hospital now, and he's in pretty critical condition..." The woman trailed off.

I looked at her with an emotionless face. Not happy or sad, scared or confused. Just a blank expression. It's not like I was trying to hide my feelings. I'm just not sure what I was feeling at that moment. I have no clue.

"He can't have any visitors as of now, but you can see him in a few days," she said. I swallowed a lump in my throat.

My dad may not be the best, but I know he isn't the worst, and I still love him. It was once, he hit me once. I could forgive him. I know he's sorry. I hope he's sorry.

'Is this what happened last night?' I thought. 'Why didn't he tell me?' All these thoughts ran through my head, as I stood emotionless.

"Riley, Riley," I heard a loud voice say. I blinked once.

"I-I'm sorry. I just-"

"I understand," she said softly. She stood up along with her partner.

"Your brother will be your guardian for the time-being while your father is unable. Someone will be in to check on you Friday. If all is well, he can continue being your guardian for now. If not...you will be...taken to an orphanage, foster home, or relative until your father recovers,"

I felt like bursting out in tears right then and there, but I couldn't. I wanted to so badly. I wanted to fall on my knees and let it all out, but I didn't. I just gave a slight nod to the woman, and she put a hand on my shoulder.

"I know this is hard, but it'll be okay. Remember someone will be here Friday. I'll give you a call in a few days, and tell you when you can visit your father, goodbye Riley, Michael, Sarah," and with that she left with the other lady right behind her.

After I heard the fuzz car take off, I took in a shaky breath and turned around. I opened the door and waved off Two-bit off. He gave me a strange looked, but eventually got in his pickup and drove off. I went back inside, and looked at Sarah and Michael. Michael's shoulders were slumped forward, but Sarah sat in his lap.

I wanted to tell him what happened between me and dad, I wanted to tell him to look at Sarah's arms and legs, I wanted to ask him why he was never home anymore...but when I opened my mouth nothing came out. They both looked at me expectantly, waiting for me to say something. The problem was I couldn't say it.

I closed my mouth and stood staring straight into Michael's eyes. Nothing showed in his eyes either. Nothing. I guess hiding feelings wether we mean to or not is just a gift given to us Tays.

I stayed there for a second more before I walked up stairs, and went into my room. I sat on the edge of my bed, and slowly looked around my room. So many questions I just couldn't bring myself to ask. I looked slowly around my room, first my door, which held pictures of houses and hearts Sarah drew for me, then my closet, finally my dresser.

I walked over to my dresser, and opened the top drawer. I dug to the back of the drawer and found a picture. It was me and my mom on my 13th birthday. Two months before she died. No one knew about this picture expect for me and Sarah. I'm giving it to her when she gets old enough. I want her to know what her mother looked like, even if she doesn't remember her.

I sighed aloud while I leaned on my dresser, staring at the picture. This is one of those times where you miss someone so much it sends a pain to your chest. It hurts, I miss her. I tried my best to hold in my tears, but they come anyway. My vision blurs as tears fall down my cheeks, and make spots on the carpet underneath me. I stare at her smiling face. I've probably haven't cried this much since I found out she was gone. I'm tired of being strong. I'm scared, I'm broken. I need my mom. I need her, but she's gone.