I laid in bed not making a sound thinking about the decisions I had made. I mostly thought of my mother.
Her curly dark black hair and skinny structure. She was so caring and her touch gave me all the comfort I needed.
If I could go back; I'd grow up. I would sleep beside my mother every night no matter what she wanted. She was always trying to protect me.
Once her hair was gone she tried to to hide it. But cancer couldn't be hidden. To be fully honest I was completely aware of what the situation was.
I was too stupid to take it serious. I wanted to pretend we would laugh it off later. She would leave the hospital, and hold me again.
She would regain that twinkle in her eyes. That dull tired look she gained would leave. My father would quite drinking and be the supportive husband he once was.
I'd be okay.
"Raven?" I heard Mickey say. "Are you crying."
"Yeah." I said done with the lies.
I needed them all to know the truth. I wasn't okay. I reached my breaking point. I wasn't okay.
"I've been thinking a lot." I said softly feeling tears form again. "I miss my mother Mick."
"Why didn't you talk to me," He said and I couldn't being myself to respond. "You know I remember when you told me she had cancer. It was like everything changed." He said with a soft sigh. "I miss her too sometimes."
"Remember how she'd always tell stories about her nurses."
"That one who wore a thong." Mickey laughed.
I smiled feeling my tears stop. "She was the best."
"Just like you." Mickey said looking at me. "You're strong and beautiful. Those two years without you were horrible. I missed you birdie."
"I'm so-"
"No, don't apologize. I understand now. I just wish it wouldn't happen. I just wish none of us would have to cry anymore. "
"Exactly." I said smiling. "If only it was so simple.
"Well, my bestie at least we have each other."
"Aw, for the resties." I laughed thinking of all the great times we shared. "I think my nose is ready for a piercing."
"Serious?!"
"Better get dressed." I laughed.
---
Mickey and I walked down through the town as the rest of the gang followed.
"I'm so happy!" He squealed. "Ring or stud."
"Ring duh."
"Oh, my besties back."
"Stop saying bestie you crazy homosexual."
"So, are you guys a thing now?" Spencer asked from behind us.
"Don't worry superman, I'm still gay." Mickey said tapping his nose.
"See I didn't need to work out." Spencer said nudging Josh.
"Guess I owe you." Josh laughed hands wrapprd around Avery.
"Please, Mick's got low standards." I laughed.
"Ouch." Avery laughed smiling.
"Can we focus on Raven." Mickey snapped.
"Where is this piercing parlor anyway?" Josh asked.
