The Mute

Chapter 11

Tyler's P.O.V

The next morning, I struggled with arranging how I would casually mention to Ashley about making the team. I even struggled with talking to her the first time.

Something about her makes me all tongue tied.

I could just stare in those beautiful brown eyes and be so mesmerized that I would forget what to say.

As I hopped out the shower, I examined my jawline in the mirror. My pale face startled me.

I realized that the face I stared upon was a failure.

The lifeless color to my face connected with the emptiness inside.

I failed Joshua. I lost Tiffany. Dominic, Rick, and Heath, forgot all about me.
Everyone from my old life, was gone.
Just Mom and I now.

Then something changed. I thought about Gabe, Trisha, Eddie, Beth, and her.

Ashely.

There was a strange feeling inside of me that continues to draw me to her. Almost as if she would understand this pain I feel, or just take my mind off it.

I got ready for school, and slung my backpack over my shoulders. My mom was already at work before 8 a.m. So I had to take a nice peaceful walk to school.

I had no idea what I would be in for when I walked into those doors.

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Ashely's P.O.V.

I waited patiently all night for his text. But then I contemplated, "Well he's a gentleman, so maybe he will call."

I got neither.

I woke up that Thursday morning and checked my phone with utter disappointment.

To make myself feel a little better about it, I decided to dress slightly different.

Instead of my converse and dark jeans, I wore something from the way back of my closet.

I wore a turquoise blue halter dress with little brown wedges. The dress used to belong to my mother.

The moment I zipped up the dress, I felt a breeze rush by me. It was warm air.

Suddenly, I felt my mother's presence near. I could almost hear her sweet singing voice that hummed lullabies to me when I was 7. This image of my mother, I have always utilized since her passing to be my happy place to calm my anxiety attacks.

I miss you Mom. I wish I could get your advice on this boy. Why did you have to go so soon?

I realized I couldn't dread on this now. Opening old wounds would not get me to school on time. Plus, it would ruin my make up that I finally started to do!

I wiped my tears. Then I got my bag to head out the door. I decided to walk to school in order to clear my head.

Today was going to be a good day. I just knew it.
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Tyler's P.O.V.

When I arrived at school, I hardly could hold in my excitement. I went against my better judgement and texted her.

Hey Ash. It's Tyler. I'm sorry I didn't text you last night. Busy with football practice.

•••

Hi Ty. It's okay. No worries.

Darn. What do I say next? Ask her out? No. Not like that. I regret sending this.

See you in class today Partner ;)

Well, I guess that's it. I told her.  Too bad I won't know what she thinks.