With You

Chapter 24

Ricky's POV

I called E.J. over, I really needed to talk to him. He was going to California but he was worried about me. I didn't want him to not be at his best because of me. He deserved the world and a chance to prove how talented he is.

"Hey babe," E.J. said when he came in. "You said we need to talk, did I do something wrong?" His face was full of worry, watching me.

"You did nothing wrong E.J.," I said crying. E.J. held me close and just let me cry into his chest. I didn't deserve him and he deserved way better.

"Take your time love," E.J. said rubbing my back. "You can tell me when you're ready."

"E.J. I've been thinking and I want you to do your best in California," I started. "You can't be your best when you're constantly worried about me. Us being in different states is only going to make things harder and you deserve someone better than me."

"What?" E.J. asked his voice cracking. "What are you saying? Ricky, you're the best thing to ever happen to me."

"E.J. you're not going to do well being far and worrying about me. You know you won't cope without being able to drop everything for me," I told him. "I love you E.J., I love you so much but we should break up."

"Ricky," E.J. said his eyes filled with tears. "I don't want to lose you. I love you too much."

"I know E.J., but this is best for us," I said crying.

"I'll always love you, Ricky Bowen," E.J. said crying and grabbing his things. "We can still be friends right?"

"Of course E.J.," I told him, a weak smile on my face. I was glad he wanted to be friends still. I wanted too but I didn't know how'd he react. I thought he'd hate me for it but he didn't and I was glad. E.J. was still my person even though we aren't together romantically. I'd always be grateful for all the love and affection he gave me. E.J. left the room after saying a quiet goodbye and kissing my forehead.

Breaking up with E.J. was one of the hardest things I had to do but it had to be done. Next, I had to leave. I couldn't keep using Carol and Dana's kindness. They were too kind to me and I loved it but I felt guilty. They were spending so much money on me seeing a therapist and nutritionist. They did way too much for me and I wasn't even their kid officially. They were going to sign the papers but since my dad was still going through court cases they couldn't yet. I loved Carol and Dana, I really did but I hated feeling like a burden. They reminded me multiple times that I'm not but I felt and knew I was. Nini said she was okay with me moving in. We called each other brother and sister but I was ruining her life. She was giving up a school and it was partly because of me.

I started packing a bag. I just needed a few outfits and my skateboard and I'd be gone. I'd be done ruining everyone's life. I pulled a hoodie off of a hanger. It was one of E.J.'s old ones that he had given me. I would miss E.J. but I'm doing what was best for everyone.