which are pain-relieving drugs that are still used today.
~~~
~ at a bus stop, on the south side
"Piper and Cavan are at the rec. Do you want to meet them with me?"
"No thanks, I need to get home."
"Wow, that must be the first time I've ever heard you say that. What for?"
"Homework."
Andy sighs. "Do you remember when we were in class and you told me that things were going to be different?"
"I didn't tell you. I asked you if they would be."
"Do you want them to be different?"
I stare at the ground, kneading the inside of my pockets with my fists. "Yes."
"There you go then. And after, I said - "
"The truth, and only the truth," I repeat, my eyes burning in the glare of the sun.
"Yes," he says. He glances at me after I don't say anything, as though he was expecting me to say something.
I don't. I can't find the words to say anything. And suddenly, it is as though it's the first time we stood at this bus stop together, in the rain. Suddenly, my words have gone. The choking sensation returns and a blinding panic settles in as I remember why I need to get home. "I need to go," I say.
"I don't want to seem nosy. It's just... You never tell me the truth, about, well... Anything," he exasperates. "It's difficult. I don't know the first thing about you, Taylor- Jade."
"Firstly, don't call me that," I say, my speech returning, giving me the feeling of resurfacing a body of water. "Don't ever call me that."
"Why?"
"My Dad... Never mind. Actually... No. I wish I had your parents... You don't realise how lucky you are!" I say, stuttering a little as my voice wavers like it always does when I am worried and scared. He doesn't say anything, but just stands, staring at me in shock and surprise. "Where's this fucking bus? I need to get home!" I mutter.
"Why do you want to go home to them then?"
"Because! Just because. What's the time?"
"It's 3:45."
"When did we go to Shake That?"
"Erm... About 3:15?"
"Okay," I say. It's too late, I'm thinking, but it doesn't matter - if the bus arrives soon I might still make it...
Andy mutters under his breath. "I'll find out eventually. You will tell me. And you'll feel better for it, I promise."
"Okay," I lie.
~~~
