The Track and Me

Seven

Chapter Seven

Walking, okay crutching, out of school on the last day is the best day. In my head I hear that song "schools out for summer." If only every day could be like this.

Jake was standing by his car when I looked through the sea of students eager to leave.

He waved when I noticed Kate approach him. I rolled my eyes as she twirled her hair around her finger. Jake looked uncomfortable and I couldn't help but laugh.

"Don't you think so?" Kate said when I got into earshot.

"Actually coach already discussed captain for the girl's team. Hey Ryan. Let me help you." Jake quickly approached me and took my light bag from me.

"What do you mean? There should be a vote?"

"Coach picks them, Kate. You know that." Jake said opening the passenger door for me.

"What are you doing with her," I heard once he shut the door.

"What is it to you, Kate?" Jake said as he shut his door.

As we backed out of the parking shot I couldn't help but smile at Kate's shocked face.

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"And here's your stop." Jake said turning off his car that was sitting in my driveway.

"I guess I'll see you around?" I said looking down in my lap.

"Of course you will. How about you finally text me so I can have your number?"

"I completely forgot! I'm awful." I quickly recited my number as Jake put it into his phone.

"Thanks, Stanley. For everything."

"Quit making it seem like I'm never going to see you again," Jake said while smiling, "I'll be here tomorrow at 6. Be ready."

"Why-"

"No questions. Do you need help getting inside?"

"I thought you said no questions?" I smirked as Jake joking glared at me. "I'm kidding. I'll be fine. See you tomorrow."

Jake waited until I shut the front door before pulling out of the driveway. Tomorrow I will uncover Jake Stanley's secret.

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*ding dong*

"I'll get it!" I said maneuvering my way to the door.

"Hey." Jake said once I got the door open.

He looked different. He was wearing jeans with a button up shirt. His hair was styled and I could smell the fresh scent of cologne.

"Should I change?" I said looking down at my running shorts and t shirt.

Jake chuckled and smiled. "I'm going to say no but you do what ever makes you comfortable. You look fine."

I stood there for a second until I quickly turned around and grabbed my crutches. I was changing.

I grabbed a pair of khaki shorts and a dressier top. Not too dressy. This isn't a date.

"Better." I said coming out of my room.

"Ryan, you looked fine the first time."

I told grandma bye. Jake helped me down the stairs and into his car. After putting my crutches in the backseat, he got in and began driving.

"Where are we going?"

"That would ruin the surprise."

Jake kept driving until I softly fell asleep.

"Ryan, come on. Wake up."

I opened my eyes to see a large river.

"You took me to a river?" I said yawning.

"Just come on."

Jake helped me out of the car. Once I turned around I noticed a large building.

"Is this a church?"

"Do you trust me?"

"Of course."

"Come on."

I followed Jake through the doors and into a small room filled with children.

"Jake!" I heard several kids scream once we were in the room.

Jake grabbed me a chair and placed it beside where he was standing.

"Hey guys!" He said hugging a few that ran to him.

"I want to introduce you to some one." He continued. All 15 sets of eyes were on me.

"This is my friend Carrie. Can you guys say hi to her?"

"Hi Carrie." I heard at different speeds across the room.

"Hi. I'm Taylor and I'm 7." A little girl said walking over to me.

"Hi Taylor. I'm Carrie and I'm 17." I said smiling.

"Do you guys want to play!" Jake said.

Some of the kids jumped up and ran towards the toy box while others screamed yeah!

Jake walked over and began playing with some of the kids.

I noticed one little girl was sitting in the corner. I got up and made my way beside her.

"Hi. I'm Carrie."

The little girl softly waved at me.

"Would you like to play with me? I don't know how to play with these toys."

The little girl sat still for a second before shaking her head yes. She grabbed two dolls beside her and gave one to me.

"That's you." She said point to the doll she just gave me. "I'm Lily."

"Hi Lily. It's nice to meet you."

The little girl smiled and began to play with the dolls.

I looked up after about ten minutes and noticed Jake was smiling at me. I softly smiled back and continued playing with Lily.

After about a half hour Jake announced it was time to go.

Most of the kids were unhappy but they put the toys away.

I felt a tap on my leg. "Will you come back?" Lily asked with sad eyes.

"Yes. I would love to."

Lily smiled and walked out the door with the other kids.

I got up from the chair and followed Jake out of the door. Once we got into the car and he helped me in, it was silent.

"Thank you for coming. A lot of people wouldn't had even went in."

"Im not most people."

"I know. I think I owe you an explanation."

I stayed silent. I was afraid to make a sound.

"Those kids were foster kids. I volunteer here every week. Some times I bring toys or I'll sit and play with the kids. I just want them to know there is more to life that foster homes. Lily is the newest one. I'm surprised she talked to you. I've been trying for weeks."

"She is a great kid."

"They all are. I just wish I could help them."

"You are." I said placing my hand on top of his. "You're giving them hope."

Jake smiled at me with sad eyes. "I just wish I could give them more."

It was quite for a few moments.

"I've been there."

"Been where?" I said looking at Jake.

"Carrie, I was a foster kid."