Bruises // A Kleinsen Love Story

• T W O •

Jared Kleinman - Third

Jared Kleinman settled into his second story bedroom, occupying his full sized bed, a blank expression adorned his face as he stared out the window. Wine red blackout curtains that were usually kept closed had been pulled open, allowing smidges of light from the night sky to slip into the brunets room.

Nighttime was Jared's favorite.

When the sky was dark, Jared's emotions were able to run free, allowing him to think all the thoughts he pushed down in public; the teenager could think about anything and everything when he was home. It wasn't like anyone would ever be there to interrupt his thoughts, anyway.

Evan.

He could think about Evan.

Bruises.

He could think about the bruises the littered Evans skin.

Car insurance.

He could think about the car insurance his parents paid him for hanging out with Evan.

Family.

He could think about his mother and father.

Alone.

He could think about how they left him alone for most of his life, only showing up when absolutely necessary.

Money.

He could think about the money he got on the rare occasions that they were at home.

But one thing Jared could never think about was why he kept going back to Evan. He didn't like the kid, no, he actually saw him as a burden. His anxiety and that obnoxious stutter that came with said anxiety had always been so annoying. And yet Jared could never seem to shake Evan away, not fully, wether it be Evans doing or his; wether it be because of Evan checking in on him like he did every day, or because of Jared picking fun at the blond in the halls of Middleborough high school.

Jared could never- would never allow himself to think about why he subconsciously kept returning to his childhood bestfriend, Evan Hansen. He could, however, let his mind wander to the bruises that continuously multiplied on Evans skin.

Tomorrow, Jared closed his curtains and got ready for bed, tomorrow I can ask, pretend to care. Then I'll get my beloved car insurance.