ashes [m.h.] (Completed)

Chapter 17.

The ride back to my dorm was silent on my part, full of Mia talking, and me simply nodding and mumbling a "yea" every now and then. My mind was on Matty.

I can't help but thinking of the time I've spent with him. Although I barely know him, I thought we might've had something. The way he couldn't even look at me, the fact the he just stood there, not even caring to explain. It hurt. I must've been so distracted by him tearing off my blouse, and him practically living in my house to realize, he might've just been "messing around". Why would he have any interest in me? It makes more sense to think of him as using me. He doesn't seem like the relationship type anyway.

Once we reach my dorm, I slip out of Mia's car with barely a word goodbye. It's just about 5 when I get to my room, and all I want to do is sleep the rest of the day away. I lay down and decide to nap, pulling my mind from him.

***

It's Wednesday morning when I awake. I contemplate not going to classes, and almost go through with it. But no, I'm not going to sacrifice my education for some silly feelings for a boy.

I get out of bed and don't bother showering. I dress my mood, wearing leggings, a large T-shirt, and converse. I almost put my hair in a bun, but my face begs me otherwise. I brush through my hair quickly, getting all the sleep out of it. After a quick look in the mirror, I decide to wear my hair down, covering up my face. I check the clock, and have plenty of time to grab breakfast. My bag is in hand not long after, and I head out the door.

I make the short walk to the campus Starbucks, half expecting Mia to be here. With a quick look around, I don't spot any sign of my friend. My feet carry me to the counter to place my order, and I'm quickly greeted by a friendly face. He smiles wide, flashing his perfect teeth. His eyes are soft with a light brown circling his pupils. His skin is a rich coconut tan, with black hair curlier than I've ever seen, cut neatly on the sides, and let loose on the top in a semi orderly fashion.

"Hi, how are you?" His voice is deep. I smile at him politely.

"I'm okay, you?"

"Better now that you're here." He says smoothly.

"Um," I can't help but grin, not knowing how to respond. A beat of silence rests between us before he realizes his words.

"Wait, no." He panics. "I didn't mean it that way. I meant that business is slow and it's great to have a customer." He laughs. "I should've worded that better."

"It's okay," I grin wide "Um, so can I get a double chocolate chip frappe, please."

"Sure thing. Can I get your name?"

"Maggie"

"Thank you, your order will be out shortly." He smiles, and I can't help returning the action.

Meerly minutes later, my order is out and my name is called back to the counter. I quickly pay, taking my coffee soon after.

"Have a nice day, Maggie." He calls.

"You too," I look at the name tag pinned to his chest "Holden." After exchanging a smile, I exit the coffee shop and head to class.

It isn't until I take my seat in my first class that I notice the black scribbling on the side of my drink. There in the blank space intended for names reads "the beautiful girl that made my day" .

I smile wide to myself, at the stranger's compliment.

***

After constantly looking back at my little note, and smiling uncontrollably, my first two classes come to an end. On the short trip from my second class to my last, I begin to dread the possible events that could occur. Hopefully Mia is there to give me a distraction.

Once reaching the doors, I walk in, and as hoped I spot my friend sitting in her usual spot with my old seat next to her empty. I walk at ease in her direction, and make it there in no time.

"Hey." I call her attention to me.

"Maggie! Hey girl." She beams.

"So what have I missed?" I say while sinking into my chair. She looks to me with a raised eyebrow.

"Nothing important," she sports an all-knowing smirk. "But I think the real question is what have I missed?"

I instantly know what and who she's referring to. She didn't have a chance to interrogate me on the ride from the mall, so she's taking the oppurtunity now. I'm instantly grateful when the professor walks in, silencing all conversations. He begins class and i can't help looking back, noticing exactly who isn't here. Matty.

Class comes to an end and Matty never bothered showing up. Hopefully Vince didn't hunt him down for the remainder of the money Matty owes. Granted, it is his fault, but I'd never wish an ambush by Vince and his men on Matty.

Mia and I walk together exiting the room, and I stop in my tracks at the sight in front of me.

"Matty?" I breathe. His head raises, and I gasp at the sight in front of me. He sits on the ground, back leaning against the wall.

"Maggie." He beams, greatful for my attention. It isn't until he moves his lips that I notice it. As he removes himself from the floor, I get a clear view. Along the rise of his cheekbone sits a dark grey bruise, his lip busted and a bit swollen as well. I wince at the sight in front of me.

"What happened-" I trail off, my voice flooding with concern.

"I need to talk to you." He ignores my question. I suddenly tense. "I just need to explain myself."

"No you don't." I scoff. "I get exactly what's going on, Matty."

"No, no, no." He rushes. "I don't do that anymore. I stopped, I promise."

"Bull-fųcking-shįt, Matty!" I yell, catching the attention of the few people around. "I've been through this cycle way too many times before. You're never gonna quit it. That's just how it is."

Without another word, I turn swiftly in the opposite direction of Matty, making my way anywhere else but here.

***
I've been so excited to write these last few chapters and I feel like I could've written it a million times better.

Do any of you guys agree? Or is the way I write okay? I just don't know if I convey the idea well enough. Some feedback would be great!

Hope you like it so far... thanks so so much for reading!!!

-nya