It Started With Lake (Book 1)

Chapter 14: Lake

"Lake, you can go home if you want. I'll be fine," Emani said, forcing a smile. She stood on her tiptoes and kissed my cheek. "I'll text you later."

I glanced over at Mrs. Jefferson and noticed she was smiling. She was glad I wasn't going with them, and it irritated me. I don't know why she hates me so much, but I'm done trying to get her to like me.

"Alright."

I left without another word, tail between my legs, wondering if I would ever fit into Emani's world. Probably not.

I went to the bus stop and pulled my phone out of my pocket, dialing Jordan's number. He picked up on the first ring.

"Hey, bro," he answered.

"Hi," I replied. "How is your trip?"

"It's awesome here. Florida has the best beaches, man. I wish you could have come, but I didn't want to drag you out of school."

"It's cool, man." The truth was I didn't want to be the third wheel. He took his baby and wife with him.

"So, how are things with Emani?" He asked.

I sighed. "She's been dealing with a lot, and I'm trying to be there for her, but she shuts me out sometimes. Then her mom doesn't like me."

I didn't tell Jordan about Mrs. Jefferson finding me in Emani's bed. He would have a heart attack and probably give me the sex talk. I may be a virgin, but I know how things work and how to be safe.

"Just give her some time Lake. She may still be processing whatever happened. As for the mom, she can stick it where the sun doesn't shine. In life, everyone won't like you, and that's okay."

Jordan was right. His words made me feel better about my relationship, and I made a mental note to be more patient with Emani.

When I got home, the door was open, and I stiffened. Jordan was still out of town with his family and couldn't possibly be home. I reached for my blade and slowly eased the door open some more. The lights were off, and I quickly flipped the switch in the living room.

"Lake, get your fat ass in here, boy."

I recognized that voice from anywhere.

Larry.

Ugh.

Larry was sitting on a barstool in the kitchen, drinking a beer. I let out a heavy sigh, setting my bag on the floor. Once he finished his bottle, he went into the fridge and grabbed another one—typical Larry.

"What are you doing here?" I demanded.

Larry laughed. "My place is being treated for mice, and I remembered that Jordan has a key under that mat outside. I can't believe you didn't come to check on your dear old dad."

"For the last time, you're not my freaking dad!" I hissed, growing frustrated by the minute. "You need to leave. Jordan is trusting me with this place, and he wouldn't want you here."

Larry's eyes darkened, and he slammed his bottle down. "I have had it with that smart mouth of yours. You're not too old for a beating, Lake."

"Get out before I call the police," I threatened. I opened the door and gestured for him to go.

The blood drained from Larry's face, and he threw the empty bottle at the fridge. "You think you're better than me in this fancy place. I remember once upon a time, all I had to do was smack you into shape, boy. You're not even supposed to be here. I'm your father, according to the state."

He was right. "Are you trying to blackmail me, Larry?"

"If you don't let me stay here, I'm going to send your ungrateful ass back into the system!" My eyes darted towards my blade. It was on the counter just waiting to be grabbed. Larry followed my gaze and chuckled. "Are you thinking about cutting me, Lake?"

Yes. "Shut the hell up and stay out of my way."

Larry laughed some more before walking to the bathroom. A few seconds later, I heard the shower running and loud music. I was about to curse him out when my phone buzzed.

Emani: I hope you aren't mad at me for not taking you to the station with us. I just didn't want my mom to make you feel like crap the way there. I promise that I'm not shutting you out...

And just like that, my mood shifted back to being happy.

Me: It's okay. I'm not mad, E. I know your mom doesn't like me, and I can't change that. I just hope it doesn't affect us.

Emani: It won't. I know you're a good guy, Lake, and I don't care what my mom thinks. I'm getting sleepy. See you tomorrow, babe.

She called me, babe!

Over the next few days, I stayed gone most of the time. Larry was grating on my nerves, and I couldn't stand to be around him. I haven't told Jordan that Larry has been staying at his place, and I know he will be pissed. I hated lying to him, but I couldn't risk Larry sending me away. I finally had something that made me want to stay in this town, and I'm not giving her up.

At school, I turned abruptly to go back and grab my history book from my locker when I bumped into someone. I peered down into Sasha's light brown eyes and reached out to steady her so she wouldn't fall.

"Sorry I wasn't really paying attention," I said quickly.

"It's ok," she replied with a grin. "Where is Emani?"

I shrugged. "I haven't seen her today."

Sasha looked sad. "Yeah, she's been acting distant since the cabin. I hope she's not mad at me."

I decided to put her mind at ease. "Emani is going through some stuff right now, but I'm sure she misses you. Just give it some time."

Sasha studied me for a moment. "You really care about Emani, don't you?"

"Yes," I said without hesitation.

She grinned at me. "I never thought I would say this, but I'm really happy for you guys. I see how you look at her, and even though you don't need it, I approve. Keep taking care of our girl Lake."

"Always." As she walked away, I reached for her arm, stopping her. "Sasha, you deserve better than that tinder guy. He's a tool."

She beamed up at me. "I know. He's history."
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Hey guys! So Larry is back, and it doesn't look like he's leaving anytime soon. Even though Larry doesn't hit Lake anymore, he's still emotionally abusive. On a brighter note, Sasha approves of Lake and is rooting for him and Emani. 😁

I would like to thank everyone that has given this story a chance. It means a lot to me. See you next chapter ✨❤️