The Darkness Inside

16

Jared POV

Oh Grace called. Again. I can't believe her. She kissed another guy.

You weren't even dating.

But we were talking. I miss her. I miss her like crazy. Trying to get through without her is nearly impossible. She left a voicemail. That's weird. She normally just hangs up. Let's see what she's got to say.

"Jared Trace Hank. I'm calling because I have to say goodbye. I'm not meant for the world anymore. I want to thank you for our time together. Us being together has made me happier than anything. I'm also calling to let you know I'm sorry. I never meant to hurt you. You probably stood up for me because you pity me, but that's okay. I'm sorry that you saw me with another, but you won't have to see me anymore. Thank you for the memories Jared. I love you."

Oh I can't breathe. I'm in the middle of video class. I run out. I need to go after her. Oh my god. Grace.

I call her as I'm speeding to her house.

"Grace??!"

Nothing. Voicemail.

"Grace Paisley Tate. Don't you dare leave me. Not now. Not ever. I love you."

I pull in her driveway and run to her room. She's laying in the floor. I pick her up and run to the bathroom. I'm gagging her trying to get her to throw up the pills. It's not working. I keep gagging her until she finally throws them up. I put her in my arms and turn on the faucet to get a washcloth. I wet it and put it on her forehead. I'm splashing water on her trying to wake her up. She coughs and her eyes barely open.

"Am I dead yet?"

"Grace. It's Jared. Wake up."

She's more alert now and she looks at me and starts to cry.

"Grace. Please stop."

"Do you still hate me?"

"Grace, I don't hate you! I've never hated you."

"Jared, you don't want to be here go-"

"I'm never. EVER. Leaving again. Grace Paisley Tate."

She starts to doze off, so I take off her hoodie and tshirt. She's wearing a tank top, so I got a shirt or put on her and I kissed her on the forehead. I dressed her and picked her up. I cradled her in my arms. I hum a song. She's finally good and asleep.

"I love you Grace."

Her eyes open just a tad.

"You what?"

"I said I love you."

She smiled and so did I. She went back to sleep.

Things might just be okay.