10 Years • Joel Pimentel

Chapter 8

The cold breeze hit making me shiver as I walked over to the well known house. The house that has become like my own. I knocked on the door hoping they opened quickly. Although i had a big coat on and gloves, I still felt cold.

The door opened and there stood Patty. "Get in. Get in." She said. I thanked her and sat down on the couch. "Joel's taking a shower right now."

"It's okay. I'll just wait for him." I said less shaky.

"If you want, you can go up to his room." I quickly shook my head no remember the incident that happened not too long ago. "It's fine. I'll wait here." I said as I felt my cheeks burn. "Alright. I'll be in the kitchen if you need anything."

I nodded and observed every small detail of the living room. The wall on the far right, still had the coloring Gabriel did. Slowly fading but still visible. I looked up and noticed that there was new pictures added. Next to a picture of Joel's grandparents, was one with two young kids on the slide. One was inside as the other was dangling from it. I stood up not recognizing the figures from far away. As I got closer, I realized it was a picture of Joel and I when we were younger. Smiling, i grabbed the picture and hold it. My heart melted as i felt the little butterflies in my stomach.

"Crazy how time passes by, right?" I turned around to see Joel in a hoodie with sweats. His hair was wet and messy. Let me tell you, he looked so good I couldn't believe my eyes.

"Yeah." I said putting the picture down. "Good times." I don't know why but I felt nervous for some reason.

"Are you okay?" Joel looked at me concerned.

"Y-Yeah. I'm just feeling cold." I lied half smiling.

"Are you sure?" He smiled wide. I couldn't help it but smile too. I hate him. He always does that. "Positive."

"Alright then. Let's go upstairs." He said. I nodded and followed him.