Losing Charley

Prologue Part 4

September 2012

Arriving at Dixon High School the first day of my Senior Year, I pull into my assigned parking spot. As I turn off the ignition, Tessa pauses. Awe hell.

"Char, you gonna be okay today? I mean, you actually have to see him today."

Rolling my eyes, "Yes. Why does everyone think I'm not over him?"

"I'm not saying that. Heck, I know who your world revolves around, but now you actually have to see him each day. I know that something happened with Dylan. More than what you're letting on. You've been clinging onto Cash like white on rice and pushing everyone away."

"I didn't push people away."

"Whatever. I'm your sister, and I know you. I pay attention to details, and know when you are full of shit."

"Tess, I'll be fine. Just pray we don't have any classes together."

Shaking her head, she exits the car and we make our way into school. Dang, why did Cash have to graduate last year? Dang early birthdays. I smile thinking about my best friend and how he makes me feel. Since that night, Cash has been there no matter what, not that he wasn't before, but when Dylan and I dated he kept his distance. I guess that is like guy code or something.

Since my breakup with Dylan, we have been together every free moment. It makes me feel like I'm a little girl again. Wait, I totally don't feel like a little girl because the feelings I have for him aren't little girl feelings. He's helped me see that none of what happened was my fault, that I'm a strong woman, and he loves me regardless.

As the bell rings for class, I cross my fingers that Dylan isn't in it. Taking my seat, I watch the doorway for any sign of him. As the tardy bell rings, I know I'm in the clear. This pattern continues until lunch. Walking to the cafeteria I hear his voice but can't see him. I can feel my heart beginning to thump harder and harder in my chest. When he comes into view, I think about avoiding him, but realize that will only show weakness. I look his way as he gives a sly grin. No words are exchanged, but I know that I will find a new route to the cafeteria for the next one hundred and eighty days.

After arriving in my final class of the day, I watch the clock, the hands move closer to three o'clock and as soon as the bell rings, I grab my bag thankful that the day went smoothly. I breathe a sigh of relief that Dylan acted as if our breakup was just a typical breakup, and didn't make a scene. As I make my way to the parking lot to meet my sister I notice Piper is at my side as we cross the parking lot.

"Girl! It's day one and I'm already ready for summer!" she says.

"Me too! Can you believe they made us start on a Friday? Craziness!"

"I know right? What you got planned tonight?"

"I think Cash and I are just gonna go fishin' tonight. Why?"

She starts to laugh. "That what they call it these days?"

"Piper, you know better than that! We're just friends. He's been there when I've needed him."

As Piper begins to flex her biceps she says, "Char, I know I don't have big strong muscles but I could been there more when y'all broke up. I mean that's what friends are for."

I shake my head. I love that girl. She always knows exactly what to say and what not to say. She never pushes me for information, but she also knows exactly how deep she can dig. She's been my best girl friend as long as I can remember. I don't know why she wants to go so far off to school. Why can't she stay close by?