It Started With Lake (Book 1)

Chapter 8: Lake

"Honey, is this about Gunner? He texted me at work saying you broke up with him at the party," Emani's mom said in a tired tone. "I'm sorry, but I was never a fan of Gunner anyway."

I couldn't hide the grin that tugged at my lips. I was proud of Emani for dumping that loser.

Emani closed her eyes and said," Mom, it's not about Gunner. It's about Uncle Travis."

"Is he alright?" she asked, voice laced with concern. "I haven't talked to him in a few weeks."

Emani's eyes filled with tears, and I squeezed her hand. "He came into my room one night and tried to rape me. I was twelve years old."

Mrs. Jefferson shook her head. "Travis would never do something like that, Emani. That's just sick. Why would you say something like that?"

I stared at her mom, confused. "Mrs. Jefferson-

"No, Lake. This is ridiculous. I knew I should have kept it to myself," Emani said in between sobs. "He threatened to rape Seven, and that's why I kept it a secret for so long. I felt ashamed and didn't know what to do, mom. He never came back into my room, but that night stayed with me for years."

"I am not going to stand here and listen to this bullcrap, and your friend needs to go. It's getting late."

Mrs. Jefferson was clearly in denial and didn't want to accept the truth about her brother. I wasn't expecting that reaction from her, and it pissed me off. Emani needs our love and support.

Emani and I watched her mom go upstairs, sniffling. I looked at Emani for a second, and the sadness in her eyes was heartbreaking. There was also something else there...anger.

"How am I supposed to deal with this if my mom doesn't even believe me, Lake?" she asked, shaking her head.

"It's just going to take some time. I'm sure she will come around, E," I said, hoping I was right.

"I'm just going to block his number and be done with it." She typed away on her phone and then gazed up at me. "This is so crazy, Lake. I feel like I'm in the twilight zone."

"We should take a walk to clear your head," I suggested.

She nodded. "Alright."

She grabbed her black North Face jacket, and I silently followed her outside. My mind was whirling with the image of Emani's uncle trying to attack her, and I got angry all over again. It wasn't fair that he was getting away with this. He needs to pay.

"What's on your mind, Lake?"

"Nothing," I lied, not looking in her direction.

"You're acting weird because of what I told you." Her bottom lip trembled. "I think my mom was right. It's late, and I'm tired."

She began to walk in the opposite direction, and I should have gone after her, but I didn't. I suck at understanding female emotions. They are weird beings that confuse me at times.

Instead, I walked to Jordan's place. It's about ten minutes from here. The muscles in my legs burned as I strolled up a steep hill. I breathed a sigh of relief when I reached his street. The lights were still on in the living room, and I used my key to get inside. Jordan was sitting on the couch, cleaning his guns. He was wearing jeans and a grey sweatshirt, and his eyes were puffy. I could tell he's been up all night.

"Allergies," he said, reading my mind. "How was your night?"

I sighed as I sat down. "I don't understand women at all."

Jordan laughed. "Join the club, buddy. What did you do?"

I grinned. "Why do you think I did anything?"

"I just have a feeling. Anyway, give me the tea. Isn't that what you teenagers say?"

I doubled over in laughter. "Please don't ever say that again, bro." Jordan snickered as I gathered my thoughts. "Emani told me something personal, and I'm still processing it."

"She must really trust you," Jordan said, getting serious again."

I hesitated. "Yeah, I guess so."

Jordan gave me that look. The one where he's about to lecture me. "You like her, don't you? I thought she had a boyfriend."

I wiggled my eyebrows. "They broke up tonight."

Jordan chuckled. "Just be careful. The guy could try to win her back, Lake." He set his guns down. "I'm going to bed goodnight."

After he left, I grabbed a thick blanket and leaned into the comfy pillows on the couch. The wood-burning fireplace warmed my cold body, making me forget about my chilly walk home. I focused on the water spots on the ceiling as I tried to fall asleep. It was almost two in the morning, and I still couldn't sleep. I kept thinking about Emani and decided to text her.

Me: Hey, I wasn't trying to treat you any differently. I guess I was just angry for you. I'm still in your corner, E.

...

I saw three dots on the screen and knew she was typing.

Emani: Thanks, I'm sorry for getting mad. It was just a lot to handle. I feel like my life is falling apart :(

Me: I know everything looks dark now, but brighter days are coming. You were there for me when I had no place to go, and now I will be here for you. That bastard will get what's coming to him, E.

I promise.

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Emani's mom didn't take the news too well. Do you think she was just in shock? Do you agree with how she reacted? Let me know your thoughts 💭