It Started With Lake (Book 1)

Chapter 6: Lake

It felt weird being back here. I surveyed my surroundings. The living room was so...dirty. As hard as I tried to fight it, the smell of trash and pet urine hit my nostrils. The round black coffee table was covered with old cigarettes, filthy dishes, and naughty magazines. The ratty old couch had pet hair on it, and the tv stand was dusty. It was obvious the place hadn't been cleaned in weeks.

Larry was getting on my last nerve. He called me earlier to remind me that the social worker was coming. I would rather go to Gunner's party and be bullied than be here. No, scratch that, I would rather get hit by a bus than be here. Ok, you get the point. This place sucks.

"Lake, why are you standing like a statue? Help me clean this place up!" Larry muttered, narrowing his cold grey eyes. He used his cane to clear off the table.

I cocked one eyebrow at him. The old man still thought he could control me, but things were different now. I was no longer the little boy that feared him and cowered in the corner. I was at least three inches taller than him. My fingers itched to hurt him, but I couldn't do it. I would never become a monster like Larry. I've learned that in life, people won't always treat you right, but you don't have to stoop to their level. I believe in karma.

"Why are you just now cleaning? The lady will be here in an hour," I complained, grabbing the trash can from the kitchen.

Larry's lips thinned. "I'm not too old to whoop your ass, boy."

I'd like to see you try. "Whatever, Larry."

After arguing with Larry for an hour, the living room and kitchen were finally spotless. Mrs. Horne from the agency arrived at seven, and we all settled onto the sofa. She was a tall, plump woman probably in her early twenties. Her dark red hair was secured in a ponytail at the nape of her neck.

Mrs. Horne smiled at me. "Lake, how are you?"

"I'm fine."

She typed something on her laptop. "How do you like living with Mr. Larry?"

Larry was watching me closely as I came up with an answer. It was hard to keep a straight face. "It's cool."

Larry plastered a fake smile on his face. "Lake is doing well in school and helps around the house. He's the best son I could ask for."

He was full of bologna, but I went with it. "I love school and appreciate Larry for all he's done."

Mrs. Horne seemed satisfied with my response and closed her laptop. Then she went on to inspect the house. A small mouse ran across the hardwood floor, and she jumped on the couch. Larry's face flamed with embarrassment, and I had to hide my grin.

"I'm so sorry. This is my first time ever seeing a mouse in my house," he lied.

Mrs. Horne smoothed out her hair, still standing on the furniture. "It is important that you get rid of any rodents. Mice carry diseases."

"I will get right on that," Larry replied. He walked her to the door and waved goodbye.

I stood up and headed towards the front door. Larry grabbed my arm, forcing me to stop.

"Where the hell are you going?" he demanded.

"Out."

"Boy, have some respect. I'm still your father," he echoed.

"You're not my father. My father is dead," I shouted, annoyed. I grabbed my jacket and slammed the door before I did something I would regret.

My phone vibrated in my pocket as I sat down at the bus stop. Happiness surged through me when I saw it was Emani.

"Hello?" I asked.

"Lake, where are you?" She sniffled.

I sat up, holding the phone closer to my ear. "I'm at the bus stop. What's wrong?"

"Text me where and I will pick you up." She ended the call, and I messaged her my location.

A few minutes later, I saw headlights from a distance coming towards me. Emani's Jeep appeared in front of me, and I stood up. I flashed her a warm smile as I slid beside her. She didn't smile back. I opened my mouth, but she put her finger on my lip, silencing me.

"I'm not ready to talk about it right now."

I nodded. "Ok."

Emani leaned back in her seat, black hair falling into her eyes. "How was your night?"

I shrugged. "I just left Larry's house."

She started to drive. "Oh Lord, how did that go?"

"It wasn't a big deal. I don't have to see him again for a while. Where are we going?"

"You'll see."

**
"These rolls are to die for," Emani moaned, stuffing her face at the table. She had cinnamon butter on her bottom lip, and I handed her a napkin.

We are at Texas Roadhouse. This is my first time ever coming here, and I must say the food is delicious. Emani ordered chicken critters, aka tenders, and I chose a full rack of ribs and fries.

"I should have hung out with you in the first place Lake. I'm having so much fun," she said.

I grinned at her, glad she was in a better mood. "That's good to hear, E. I like seeing you happy."

"Gunner thinks I like you," she said randomly.

Does he now...

"Why did he say that?" I asked, setting my rib down.

She shrugged. "Everyone keeps saying it."

"Do you feel something for me, E?" I asked, holding my breath for her response.

"Hold that thought." She ran to the woman's restroom, covering her mouth.

I was so close...

Emani emerged from the restroom, looking pale. I left thirty dollars on the table and helped her outside.

"Lake, I could have paid."

I shook my head. "It's okay. I have money saved up."

Emani's cell phone was vibrating in her pocket. She looked at the screen and frowned. "Ugh, I wish he would leave me alone."

"Who?"

Her bottom lip quivered. "My uncle."

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So, you met Larry in this chapter! He's something else...Did you notice a difference in Lake? The next chapter will have a flashback, and it so be prepared. Thanks for reading ✨