Guardian

An Unexpected Visitor

I didn't tell anyone about the incident with the new kid. I didn't really have anyone to tell anyway. Dad's been gone since I was eight. He died in a fire when I was nine. Mom's barely home, and when she is, she's usually asleep. I'm basically all alone save for my dog, Spook. 

Spook met me on the porch as I was walking up the steps. I sat down my backpack and my purse to hug my only friend. The great dane put his massive paw on my lap as if to ask what was wrong.  I hugged his grey, dappled neck as I told him bout the events of the day. I guess dogs are pretty good listeners. My stomach grumbled, and he whined in agreement. 

"Let me clean up inside a little  bit, then I'll get you some grub," I pat the big dog's head and walk into the house. It doesn't take long to clean up and give Spook a large bowl of kibble. My stomach growls again and I decide to go to Maggie's, the local diner.

It was a nice night out, so I decided to walk the three blocks to the diner. With my purple hoodie zipped up and my hands in my pockets, I head on over.  I'm nearly there when it starts to rain. The water came down in sheets. I'm soaked when i step foot in the diner. 

Cold and wet, I take a seat in an open booth and wait for a server. When she comes I order my usual, cherry cola, chicken Parmesan with extra cheese, and a slice of cherry pie.  I'm enjoying my food when i feel something heavy wrapped around my shoulders. 

"You looked cold," says a deep voice I've never heard before. I look up to see Carter Munster sliding into the other side of the booth. 

"Oh...uh yeah...thanks..." I mutter. "Is there something you need? Or...? Are you playing a joke on me? People from school usually aren't that nice to me."

"I just wanted to check on you. You came in soaked. Thought you might want a ride home." He answered. I guess he works here? Or maybe he saw me walking in the rain. "My shift is over, so I can give you a ride so you don't have to walk home in the rain."

"I appreciate the offer," I smile taking a sip of my soda, "but wouldn't that be bad for your loner reputation?"

"Eh. If you don't want the ride, I can just leave," he says standing, "But don't blame me if you catch pneumonia and die." Carter walks out the door to his truck. He's left his jacket. I throw a ten and a five on the table and walk out after him. 

"Hey! You forgot your...", I shout after him, "Jacket." I finish with a sigh. I was too late he'd already peeled off and was well on his way home when I got outside. I pull his jacket closer around me. Might as well get some warmth out of it while I've got it. It smells like sandalwood and freshlly baked bread. The rain does not let up on the way home. 

Several hours later, I climb into bed having finished my homework and chores. I fall into a deep sleep. The dreams I have are vague, but I feel alarm, fear, and then peace. I do not remember them the next morning.