Only You

Chapter 9

Later in the morning everybody woke up and seemingly understood what had transpired. They suggested a movie day, in which all 7 of us squished on two fairly small couches, watching anything from Disney movies to horror. When I asked where Ms. Belle was, Landon says she went to the diner earlier in the morning. This reminded me that I had to go to work, so I said goodbye to the group and left for work.

They had asked if I wanted a ride but I wanted to clear my head, and a walk would help a little. My body was still in a lot of pain, but the ice Declan had me put on my ribs and nose helped a lot. I think that we have formed a new understanding of one another and I'm grateful for that, as long as we're not at each other's throats I'll be happy.

Work goes by quickly, and Ms. Belle was happy that I was safe last night and stayed at the house. When I make it home I'm glad to see that James is out, and take advantage to do some chores, then let my aching body relax. I ice my ribs, and go to bed, looking forward to another long week of school.
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"Pineapple on pizza is the only way to eat pizza" says a very disgruntled Johnny, with his hands crossed over his chest, frowning at Sam.

"It's gross Johnny, we're not getting Pineapple on the pizza. Sorry." Sam responds, looking the least bit interested. Johnny sighs in frustration but doesn't respond, instead frowning down at his food. I chuckle slightly and bump his shoulder with mine,

"Hey, lighten up John. Maybe they'll buy you some ice cream." I say smiling. It's Thursday afternoon, and Lily is having all of us over for a movie night. I can't because my dad will be home but I'm happy they are having fun, it's been a long week. Johnny looks up hopefully toward Lily who nods her head in reassurance. His face brightens and a large grin spreads across his face.

"Ronnie, why can't you go?" Says a pouting Landon looking towards me.

I shrug my shoulders, choosing not to repeat myself for the thousandth time. I look over across from me to see Declan already looking at me. He spots the Apple that I have been slowly eating for the past twenty minutes, sighs, and slides a granola bar towards me. I give him a thankful smile, knowing I won't be able to argue. I tried earlier in the week but he wouldn't listen, so I'm just incredibly grateful. I turn my attention back to Landon and shrug,

"I have stuff to do at home." I finally respond to his question opening up the granola bar. He looks skeptical but doesn't question me further. Conversation flows again, and I can't help but feel disappointed that I can't be with my friends. Just a few more months before my 18th birthday and then I can leave James forever. I'm ripped out of my thoughts by the bell, and start collecting my stuff. Everybody says their goodbyes and Lily, Sophie, and I make our way to the Library.

After another period, all my homework is done and Lily and Sophie left for class. Declan arrives a few minutes later and starts his homework without a second glance in my direction. I chuckle slightly, shaking my head, and open a book I had started the week before. One period goes by and then another, and I have finished about half of the book. Happy with my progress I look up and am surprised to find Declan's observant gaze already on me.

"Why don't you just come tonight, I'm sure your dad will understand if you hang out with friends, right?" He says, his gaze sharpening on my movements, as I twitch slightly with my book.

"Not the most understanding type, I guess" I say smiling slightly, brushing him off.

"Just think about it, okay? You deserve to have a little fun" he says packing his stuff up and walking towards the door right as the bell signaling the end of the day went off. I sigh and collect my belongings, starting the long walk home.
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Three hours later, and I'm done with dinner and most of the cleaning. My father is in his study, and I'm trying to build up the courage to go and ask him if I can go out. There would be no point in sneaking out, he checks to make sure I'm in my room when he goes to bed so I decide to be honest.