The Angel's Calling

Chapter 17

My breathing became short and quick as if I had run a marathon. I closed my eyes and shook my head, trying to accept what I had just read. I looked down at the page again and there it was.

''This diary belongs to Katherine Hunt''

This diary, this book, these texts - they were all handwritten by her. I looked at the time and I sighed. I changed my clothes, brushed my teeth, and went to bed.

NEXT DAY

Dad: Josephine, wake up!

I woke up with a sudden shock and didn't know what was going on.

Me: Dad? what are you doing here?

Dad removed the curtains in front of the window to the side.

Dad: You are going to be late for school.

He didn't seem really happy. I searched for my phone and open the lock screen.

Me: It's Monday?  OH BOY...

I ran to the bathroom to quickly wash my teeth and ran back to change my clothes. When jeans and shirt were on I stopped for a second.

Me: Where is Peyton?

Dad stopped.

Dad: Where else can he be? He is snoring on his bed in the guest room. I guess it's the result of you keeping him up so late.

I knew the truth and that wasn't it. I decided to stay silent to his response. Not because he would feel good about assuming that and blaming me, rather because I didn't want to start the day like this.

I took my backpack with me and ran downstairs. I didn't even bother going to the kitchen because my dad was not in the good mood and would have started yelling easily. I put on my Addida's shoes and ran to the bus stop. I knew I was going to be late but I tried to make myself calm by saying ''rather late then ever''

AT SCHOOL

I knew my class was having a lecture on the second floor and I really tried to make it on time but rule has it: once you're late, you're late and won't get in.

When I made it to the auditorium, the clock was 8:03 a.m and I knew I missed this. I had few contacts in the class but how was I really going to get the info. I was praying for a chance from my professor. I had made a mistake and went outside to calm my nerves.

Some time later Jessica had found me on one of the benches outside and hugged me from behind by surprise.

Jessica: oh my god, Jose! So good to see you!

She removed her hands from my eyes , revealing herself and sat down next to me.

Jessica: how have you been?

She sounded so sincere. I looked her into her eyes and tried to smile.

Me: I think I'm doing okay. What about you?

Jessica: me? Yeah, I'm doing pretty well. Been kind of busy with Eric and so..

Me: totally get it.

Jessica: yeah..

I looked at the ground and it wasn't a surprise to feel like my mind was empty. This situation had been going on for a long period now. Kinda made me question if me and Jessica would be better in the future.

Jessica: Josephine?

I looked at her and replied with a simple "hmh?"

Jessica: how are you? Really?

Hearing that I just shrugged and looked away.

Jessica: we used to be always talking and hanging out. I get that boys entered the picture but it's not only that. We barely see each other anymore.

Me: I wish it was that easy, Jess

She took my hand and put into her hands.

Jessica: it can be. We all have tendencies to make things worse than they actually are.

I broke free from her grip and stood up.

Me: no.

I turned around to face her.

Me: I know you know that I want things to be normal but ever since those accidents, my life routine has basically consisted of new leads and Peyton keeping an eye on me.

Jessica nodded.

Jessica; I know that. I heard it all, really. How you wanted so badly to be baptised and police couldn't say how far the shooter could have been.

Me: true. But now things have gotten complicated with my parents. I have been lying to my father, asking Peyton do to that plus you and  I have to deal with my mother and her past.

Jessica stood up and sighed.

Jessica: Jose, you know I've always got your back, even with Eric. And I haven't suggested lying to people.. you did that by yourself.

Me: Of course I did!

I yelled.

Me: Cause I don't know what I  should do!

I tried to calm down and tried to stay neutral.

Me: I feel like my mom was lying to my dad before and I'm continuing to lie for her. Not only because I feel like I'm confused, lost and scared but I also don't want innocent people like you or the pastor getting involved. You saw what can happen and I'm trying my best.

I sat down and looked at the ground, there were few stones in front of me. Jessica also sat down.

Jessica: so you're scared, confused and lost. You are lying to your dad and you ask people to lie for you and you feel like the situation with your mom is getting complicated because half of your lies are about her.

I chuckled at that.

Me: you do make a good summary.

Jessica: Look, Josephine. I don't know what to tell you cause I know things are complicated right now. Maybe a piece of advice instead? At least I think?..

Me: okay..

I smiled

Jessica: with your situation, I suggest you only expect the worst just to be prepared. And maybe?.. don't push people away just because of lies.

Me: but you know that..

Jessica: you're overacting. Not saying it's good to lie because honesty... but you're still protecting others. You don't have to make others understand... at least the ones who'll stay.

I chuckled.

Me: thanks Jessica

Jessica: no problem. Always a pleasure.

She took out her phone.

Jessica: oh god, I have my next lesson on the other side of the building.. I gotta go. See you soon?

Me: of course!

I watched how Jessica disappeared out of my sight and I took my bag to also get in my class this time. When I had made it and taken my seat, I received a message from Peyton.

"Be ready. We're going to the hospital."