TOUGH LOVE

THE TRIP?

Nick led me to his room and offered me some water which I politely declined.

"Nick, I know why you didn't go with me." I lied. I wasn't sure if I did know but I had an idea and this was the best way to find out the truth.

"You do?" his voice cracked making it obvious that he was nervous.

"Yes, he told me all about it." I lied confidently.

"I'm sorry, I was an asshole. You're a nice girl, Rider but I just can't lose Jeff. He's always been there for me you know? Through my parents divorce, finals and break ups. He's a big part of my life and when he asked me to pick between you two, I just couldn't do that to him." Nick was looking at me with sorry eyes. My theory, as always, was correct. I was livid. Why does Jeff think he can get away with anything?

"Listen, it's fine. I actually had a great time at the dance, with my friends."

"That's great." he said clearing his throat. "Also please don't mention to Jeff that you're with me because that was part of the deal too, remember." Nick said with a forced smile.

I was so angry my fists were both clenched. I left the fraternity house that Nick lived in and knew exactly where I was going. I needed an explanation.

I arrived to Lennys house about 10 minutes later. Jeff's car was parked out front. 'Perfect' I thought to myself.
I rang the doorbell and was greeted by the man himself.

"well if it isn't my favorite girl." said Jeff trying to hug me but I took some steps back.

"Cut the bullshit. We need to talk, get in the car." I sounded so badass that I left Jeff with his mouth open.

He did, however, follow orders and walked right behind me into Tre's car.

"Wait Ry... where are we going?" Jeff asks me with concern in his deep voice.

"Some where private to talk." I say focused on the road.

After 10 minutes of a silent drive to an empty parking lot. I park the car and unbuckle my seatbelt so Jeff knew shit was about to get real. I loved Jeff, I really did but this time he crossed the line.

"Care to explain your little ultimatum to me?" I ask Jeff who is currently looking at me with his eyes practically popping out of his head.

"I-I just... w-well" Jeff stuttered.

"You just what?" I ask impatiently.

"I- I thought I was protecting you."

"WHAT THE HELL IS UP WITH EVERYONE PROTECTING ME. I MAYBE YOUNG BUT I'M NOT STUPID. I KNOW HOW TO PROTECT MYSELF." I yell at Jeff with tears in my eyes making the silence, awkward and tense.

"Sorry for yelling but this isn't the first time you embarrass me by playing the protective older brother. Why would you even think that making Nick choose between me and you was a good idea?" I ask Jeff, noticing his eyes getting as watery as mine were.

"I'm so sorry, Ry. I know I crossed the line and I'm sorry. It's just... you don't know Nick like I do. He always plays with girls. I just didn't want to see you end up like them."

"Nick made it clear that we were only friends, Jeff. The only thing you did was make me feel shitty after Nick texted me saying he didn't want to speak to me."