The Exception

Chapter 35: When Things Spiral Out Of Control

The music blared in my ears. It was early Saturday morning, and I decided to go out for a jog. Sweat poured from my forehead, and my heart pulsated hard. I was out of breath as I reached the house, and I wanted a shower before going to work. As I opened the door and walked past the living room, I froze.

"Keith?"

Keith was sitting on the chair and my mom was sitting across. It looked like he was here already for a while.

"What are you doing here?" I asked, I gave a semi-smile, but he did not return it. He stood up and walked towards me.

"Is there somewhere we can talk? In private?" he asked.

I nodded and gestured for him to follow me outside onto the porch.  Safe from my snoopy sister.

"What's going on?" I asked as I crossed my arms.

Keith walked up and down the porch, before settling on the ledge and leaning forward. He took a deep breath. "I don't think it's...wise for you to carry on working at the Candy Store..."

I raised my brow. "What are you talking about?"

"I'm letting you go, Agnus," Keith turned, and I saw his jaw  was clenched.

"You're firing me?" I asked in shock.

Keith nodded. 

"Why?" I asked. I was trying to comprehend what was happening. I thought I was doing well, and now he was....why?

Keith opened his mouth, then closed it.

"Is it because of that shooting done nearby? You said it yourself, it doesn't happen often..."

"But it did happen, Agnus..."

I glanced at the door and then spotted my mother standing at the window. Then I realized what was happening. "Did my mother talk you into this?"

Keith sighed.

"And she was so cold as to let you tell me!?"

"I offered to tell you, because I thought you'd take it better..."

"No..." I shook my head.

"Agnus...." Keith took a step forward and I pushed him.

"No, why would you do that? I said I was fine working there...I thought you respected my decision...."

"Yes, I did, Agnus, but I also have to respect your mother's...and truth be told, I don't want to be the one who puts you in danger...."

I groaned in frustration.

"I don't understand why you are so disappointed, I mean, this job isn't really the best that's out there...."

"You don't get it, do you? I loved the job, because you are there...my life has been such a rollercoaster of rumours, bullying, parents fighting...that this job...was my escape," I said. "And apart from Ellie and Evan...you're my only other friend I can really trust...now you're taking that time and that escape, away from me."

"Look, Agnus, it's not as if I want this to happen either, damnit," Keith took a deep breath. "My life, especially my job, was so dull...until you came along. I looked forward to each and every afternoon, wishing the mornings away because I knew you would come, and smile, and instantly my day would be better...and now I have to let that go."

I looked down at the ground as he said this. I was really disappointed, and angry. Man, I was angry at my mom, but I couldn't be mad at Keith. He was doing this out of respect of my mother's wishes. "We'll still be friends...right?"

I looked up somberely at Keith. The thought of losing him terrified me. It's only been a few weeks, but the time spent together was bliss. It felt like I knew him for ages. His eyes met mine.

"Of course," he leaned over the ledge again.

I sighed and glanced around. "Maybe we could go jogging together...if you'd be willing to risk it."

I glanced at Keith, a small smile playing on his face. "I'd love that...and if you are interested in meeting my friends...we're having a bowling match Tuesday night..."

"I'd love to," I said. "It's agreed..."

Keith nodded, and I swallowed hard.  This was going to be tough, and now my whole Saturday was in shambles. I guess I could do homework?

"See you Monday morning? Six o clock sharp?"

"Where?"

"I'll come here," Keith spoke. He gave me a side hug. "Good bye, Agnus..."

"Bye," I spoke softly. I watched as he left and sighed. Things were spiralling out of control again, and...my phone was ringing. I looked up at the screen and gave  small smile. It was Evan, which was strange. It was too early in the morning for him to be up. 

"Morning Princess..."

"Morning Evan...what are you doing up so early?" I asked as I placed my hand on my hip.

"Was wondering if I could swing by the store today, before Tyler's party...I've got a surprise..."

My smile dropped. "About that..."