The Bad Boy and The Amputee

Chapter One

Chapter One

Stacey

“Why do I have to go back there?” I questioned my dad.

“I said you could have one year off to be homeschooled while you were getting back to yourself.” He informed. “ I’m not letting you waste your senior year in this house!”

“They’re gonna question me and treat me differently. I’m not ready for that.” I could feel the tears burning at the back of my eyes, but I didn’t let them leave. Dad quickly pulled me into a hug as a form of comfort.

“If they were really your friends in the first place, then they won’t judge you.”

“I haven’t talked to any of them since the accident. None of them know anything.” My blue eyes met with my father’s hazel ones as the moment got deeper.

“It’s your last year of high school and I want you to enjoy it. Go have fun and be out there!”

“Fine dad, I’ll go and I won’t complain.” I mustered up a weak smile.

The blaring annoyance of an alarm clock woke me the next morning. My groan definitely didn’t go unnoticed. I turned it off quickly and sat up, swinging my leg over the edge of the bed. My hand reached out for my prosthetic sock and grasped it between my fingers. I pulled it over the stump grimacing. Next I leaned down to grab the prosthetic, clicking it into place on my thigh.

For the next twenty minutes I got ready for the day ahead. The time ended with me looking in the mirror, assessing my outfit. I wore dark bootcut jeans with a bright yellow v-neck. My dark chocolate brown hair was in its’ natural waves and my face was pale with minimal makeup. My eyes seemed brighter from the contrast, but for once in a long time, I felt alive.

When I was satisfied with my appearance I hobbled down the stairs to the kitchen, where my dad stood cooking. “Your gait’s improving.”

“Yeah, I suppose so. It’s only been about seven months since I started walking again.” I told him sarcastically. His scowl silenced me. “Sorry, I’m just nervous for today.”

“I know what you mean, but keep it controlled. Everything will be fine.” Dad sighed before continuing. “Want some pancakes?”

“Nah, I can’t eat right now. Can you drive me to school?” Dad chuckled before nodding.

“Sure, just give me a few minutes.” He cleaned up the kitchen a little bit before leading me out to the car. The car ride was silent beside the soft hum of music coming from the stereo. Not even ten minutes later we pulled up in front of the school. “Have fun today. I’ll pick you up later.”

“Thanks dad.” I gave him a small smile before shimmying out of the car. I took a deep, shaky breath before trudging toward the front of the school. Barely a few steps later, a high-pitched voice shrieked my name, making me freeze.

“Stacey Cohen, is that you?” Amber, my old best friend, pulled me into a hug before I could escape. “Where’d you go? No one’s seen you since after sophomore year!” I pushed away from her and started my walk backwards.

“I’m sorry.” I turned and rushed toward the front office so I wouldn’t have to see her hurt face. Soon I arrived at my destination and walked to the front desk. A middle-aged woman with a kind smile greeted me. “My name’s Stacey Cohen. I’m here to pick up my schedule.”

“Oh yes, here you are, Miss Cohen.” She handed me a piece of paper and then continued her typing.

“Thank you. “ I gave a small smile before leaving. Stupidly, I walked out of the office with my eyes glued to the paper. A moment later my body collided with a huge force making me look up. The boy was tall, maybe a little over six-foot, with tan skin, dark brown hair, and even darker brown eyes. His leather jacket and white undershirt paired with dark jeans practically screamed, “bad boy”.This boy could definitely be the definition of tall, dark, and handsome, but that was until he opened up his mouth.