Lily

7

I sit there for some time before going to the cupboards. I shift through them, looking, looking. There is nothing in any of the cupboards. I wipe my eyes again. Mum must've gotten rid of all the alcohol in the house after I left.

I fish my phone out of my pocket and look at the time. It's 9:30pm ,the corner shop should still be open. I grab my coat and keys and leave the house. I stuff my hands into my pockets as the air holds me in its icy grip. Slowly, I trudge round the corner to the shop. The bell rings as I swiftly push the door open.

"Hey Carl," I mumble as the door swings shut.
He raises his hand, waving at me. I go straight to the refrigerator; opening it I take out a cold bottle of vodka. I place it on the counter in front of Carl. He looks at it briefly before turning his attention to me.

"I can't sell you this, Lily," he says. "Not after..."
My hands close over his mouth.
"We don't need to speak about that," I mumble ,slowly taking my hands away from his mouth.
"I still can't sell it to you. I promised your dad," he answers.
"He doesn't have to know," I say holding up a £20 note.
He shakes his head, "You're not even legally allowed to buy alcohol, you're still a minor."
"Come on Carl, I've had a rough night," I whine.
He sighs, "Fine ,but drink responsibly."
He takes the £20 from my hand and gives me the bottle.
I smile.
"Thanks," I say before leaving.

I tuck the bottle into my jacket and briskly walk home.

I sit underneath the sink pouring the glorious drink down my throat, in gulps and swigs.

I hear a key in the door and quickly retreat to my room. Mum and dad come in giggling and kissing. I smile as I watch them from my bedroom door. I wipe my eyes on my sleeve, it goes dark with the dampness of my tears. I shut my door. I put the remaining liquid at the bottom of my wardrobe and sit on the edge of my bed. I'm not ready to call and apologise to Jacob but I know I'll have to eventually.

I curl up in bed, under the covers and shut my eyes.