The Perks of Being a Freak (Editing)

21. The Two That Remained

Emily’s house was the closest, so I dropped her off first. As Emily slid from the seat, I reached over and grabbed her arm. Then I nodded my chin towards the car sitting in the driveway.

Terror shot through them all.

He’s here, Emily thought, almost involuntarily. He’s here. Oh God he’s here.

If he tries anything, Tony said fiercely. Punch him as hard as you can in the nuts.

I will, Emily promised, and then she dropped out of the car and walked up to the front door. One last glance at me was all she allowed herself before she strode confidently through into her house.

Her father’s face was priceless.

Benny and Tony next? I asked, backing out of Emily’s driveway.

Yeah, Benny said, glancing over at his sullen neighbor.

Unfortunately, Benny, Tony and Rajeev all lived across town.

So the drive was mostly silent, even more silent than before. Before we had had mental communication. Even though we hadn’t really spoken, we had heard each other, emotionally and pensively.

But now they were all purposely cordoning their own minds off. I knew that I didn’t want them to feel the betrayal I felt, but I wasn’t sure why the other boys were strengthening their walls.

“We’ll get home soon enough, buddy,” Benny said soothingly. “Chill.”

Tony relaxed a little bit, but crossed his arms and glared out the window. Impatience swirled within him.

I know you want to get home to them, Tony, I thought towards him exclusively. Just be patient. They’ll be alright.

I hope so, he thought back.

And so they fell back into silence.

Almost as soon as I pulled up in front of the apartment complex that both Benny and Tony lived in, Tony was out the door.

Thank you for the ride, Lia. Benny grinned. He had really nice teeth, I realized, blushing. And a very nice smile.

“Anytime, Benny,” I smiled back. “Make sure Tony’s siblings are alright, kay?”

“‘Course,” Benny winked, and then turned to saunter up the steps.

And that left Rajeev and me.