DESCRIPTION: When things start to go wrong for Eldon, he has no choice but to run away. But not before saying goodbye to James? (AU)
WHAT TO READ: N/A
DATE PUBLISHED: 25/04/19
A/N Although the title says James and Eldon, there won't be much as this short is based more-so on Eldon. But enjoy anyway, and comment which couple you want to see in upcoming chapters.
I've known it for a long time, about my dad being an alcoholic. He wakes up at 9 every morning and has his first drink, and by the time I'm home he's gone – all night – and the routine repeats itself.
I don't know where he goes at night, and I don't want to. But I know I have to leave, I can't stay with him – at least, not at the moment.
I have it all planned out.
I'll pack my bags before I leave home in the morning, and when I return in the afternoon: I'll make my getaway.
But not without saying goodbye to James...
How do you tell the person you love the most that you're leaving? Sure, James knows about my fathers drinking problems but I've never mentioned to him my problems with it - I can't let my alcoholic father affect my life: I won't let him.
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"How long are you leaving?" James asks me.
I sit at the end of his bed in the middle of the night, my duffle bag sitting on the floor beside me with everything I need inside.
"I don't know," I shake my head and look down at my hands - ashamed to look James in the eyes, "but don't expect to see me at school tomorrow."
James sits fully up now and reaches out to take my hand, "where will you stay?"
Again, I shake my head. Good job Eldon, no idea where to go and when to come back.
James lets go of my hand and reaches over to his side draw before pulling about a chunk of money. "Take it," he tells me shoving the notes into my hands, "if you have this, I know you'll be safe, in a motel room."
I give in and take the money and unzipping my bag to put it in for safe keeping.
"I don't want to leave," I tell James honestly to which he holds my cheek in the palm of his hand.
"Then don't. Stay here with me."
I shake my head as a tear drops down my face, "I can't. I have to leave."
James nods his head in understanding before cupping my face in his hands.
"Then please, stay safe." I nod and press a gentle kiss to his lips – our last kiss for a long time.
When we pull apart, his eyes are still closed, so I take it as an opportunity to leave before he opens his eyes.
I quickly pick my bag up off his bedroom floor and hurry out of his room. Out of his house.
I don't know where I'm going, but I do know I have to get away. Even if it means leaving my love behind.
