East Side Sunsets

Chapter 14

I stayed with Jess in her apartment for the entire day. She really needed me, and I think I needed her. Contrary to my previous beliefs, she is actually one of the nicest, most genuine people I have ever met.

I really did feel bad about her secret, though. She's never gone on a date with anyone, yet she acts so mature.

Ponyboy and I decided to go for a walk that night to watch the sunset on Shays hill. Pony held my hand as we talked about anything on our minds.

"So, what did you do with Jess all day? You were in there for an awful long time."

"We just talked. She's actually an amazing person, once you get to know her, I mean. She's only 20 and she's pregnant. Kinda like Kitty was."

I said to him. I looked down at my feet as the brisk wind blew into my face.

"I really do feel bad for her, though. She doesn't have any idea who the father is, and she's going into this alone. You know what she told me?"

He looked at me, pretending to be interested, like the good boyfriend he was.

"She's never had a boyfriend before. Just her clients. Oh, Pony, I wish I could do somethin' for her."

I said to him. I kept looking at my feet and then started thinking about her. She gave great advice...kind of like someone else I knew. I suddenly jumped in front of Ponyboy, excitedly.

"SODAPOP! Your brother, he doesn't have a girlfriend, right?"

I asked him, Ponyboy shook his head and smiled at me as I progressively got more excited.

"I'll set them up on a date! She's perfect for him!"

Ponyboy looked confused, then shook his head.

"Come on, Luc. Sodapop would never date a prostitute. And better yet, a pregnant one!"

I frowned at Ponyboy.

"You care too much about other people, darling. I think she can handle it herself. If love is meant to happen, then it will!"

"Oh, Pony, it's so perfect. They'd be in love, we'd be in love, and everyone would be happy. She deserves some happiness, I think."

I said to him, resuming our walk. He nodded in agreement.

"Everyone deserves to be happy, Lucy. Listen, Darry invited us over for dinner on Sunday. If you wanna bring her, by all means-"

"Oh thank you Ponyboy!"

I said, kissing his cheek. He grabbed me up into his arms and kissed me longer. He didn't care if people were looking in public, he would do anything he wanted to anyway.

I loved that about my love.