Rise

Chapter 26

I ignore my mom all morning and skip breakfast.

Harry keeps encouraging me to eat but he ends up losing.

After getting ready I stare at the clock at wait for time to pass because I want to leave as soon as possible.

I realize I have my car parked in the parking lot but Harry would get mad if I left without him.

Harry's wearing a black shirt and black jeans, I admire him as he walks into the room and sits on the bed beside me.

"You ready?"

I nod.

Harry's hair is damp from showering.

I remember the bruises and scratches Jessica gave me, the bruises went away yesterday, only leaving light pink marks behind.

The bruises weren't too bad to begin with which is why they faded away so quickly.

The scratches are still visible and I have to cover those up with concealer, I don't like it.

We say goodbye to Anne and Gemma who are eating waffles on the little table in the kitchen.

My mother stops me before heading out the door.

"Look Melanie I'm sorry, I had a talk with Anne about it and she's right, it's your life and I have no part in being nosey, I'm sorry."

I let go of Harry's hand to fully face her.

I nod a force a smile, then walk out with Harry close behind.

"You forgive people too easily." Harry says as we get out of the car and walk to campus hand in hand.

"If I were you that'd be a good thing for my girlfriend to do."

I smirk remembering the times I've easily forgiven Harry.

"Good point."

Harry ends class in about ten minutes so I wait in the parking lot.

I look over and see black glasses on a firmiliar blond.

"Ella!"

I smile and walk towards Charlie.

Charlie smiles back.

"Did you wing the civil rights speech?"

I cover my face.

"Oh god it was that noticeable?!"

Charlie laughs. "No I was kidding, but if you really winged it you did a good job."

I sigh in relief. "Oh thanks. I was so busy yesterday-"

My cheeks heat up at the thought of yesterday. Harry taking my virginity and those damn condom jokes.

"Your boyfriend is coming this way, see you tomorrow Ella!" Charlie grins and walks off, nodding at Harry as he passes by her.

"Who was that?" He asks.

"I made a friend." I say.

Harry unlocks his car and I get it, the first thing I do is turn the air conditioning up all the way.

"Sorry I didn't mean to leave you out in the heat so long, I should get my schedule fixed." Harry sighs and starts the car, driving in a different direction that we usually go.

"Where are we going?" I ask.

"Getting gas because I drive too much."

"We should take my car then."