Emi
“The good news is that there is nothing structurally wrong with your eye. The bad news is that it will probably look worse tomorrow. Is it causing you any pain?”
“Nothing I can’t ignore.”
“Good, I’m going to prescribe you some eye drops that’ll number you for a bit if it gets too bad. The swelling should continue to go down, but ice it for a few minutes every couple of hours.”
“Thank you.”
I am happy the doctor confirmed that there was no damage to my eye. It was embarrassing enough to get punched. Since I have the day off, I promised my dad I would see him and Jane for a while.
Jane is Jake’s mom and my stepmother. When they first started dating, I was upset because of the history Jake and I have, but I quickly saw how happy she made my dad and got over it because he deserves to be happy after everything that he has been through.
The good thing about being out while everyone is working is the lack of traffic, so I made it to my dad’s house quickly. The house I grew up in hasn’t changed. Dad has kept it the same since we moved in. Jack and Tyson’s parents still live next door, and according to Jane, they get together for dinner often.
“Oh my gosh, Em, what happened?” Jane was the first to see it and grabbed my chin, studying my face.
“I tried to break up a fight at work yesterday. It’s nothing; the doctor looked at it this morning and said it was only a black eye and a busted blood vessel.”
“Henry, come and look at Remington’s face.”
Jane has been the only one to go back and forth between my nickname and my real name. I don’t hate my name, but it’s known as a boy’s name and, to be honest, I prefer the name Jack gave me when I first met him. I’ve tried to move on, but every time I date, I feel like I’m wasting their time and the connection isn’t there.
“Are you hungry? Lunch is about made; it’s only sandwiches.”
“A sandwich sounds good. Thanks, Jane.”
“Great, we’ll have lunch on the back porch; why don’t you and Henry take a seat, and I’ll be right out with the food and drinks.”
“I’m glad you moved back.” My dad stated as we sat down. “I’ve missed having my little girl around. Tell me what you’ve been up to.”
“Nothing, really. The first day of work was eventful, as you can tell by looking at my face. I’m settled into my apartment, but other than that, my life has been boring.”
“So, no boy?”
“No, dad. I’m not seeing anyone.”
“Not even the other Dane boy?”
“Especially not Tyson.”
“That’s too bad. Joel and I were discussing how nice it would be if our families became one. With how close you and Tyson were, we figured that a relationship would happen.”
“Sorry to disappoint you, but Tyson and I don’t see each other like that.”
The rest of lunch was just catching up with Jane and Dad. I found out they are planning a family vacation with Danes over Christmas break to a beach house. The Danes and my family went in on it together.
***
I’ve always been close to my father, for the longest time it was him, and I, and I’m happy that he found Jane. She is wonderful, and I’m kind of jealous that Jake got to grow up with her being his mother. She has always been kind and has welcomed me with open arms, and she takes care of dad. When mom left, it took a toll on him. I was too young to understand, and he was hesitant to date because he didn’t want another person walking out on us and I didn’t realize what he went through until I was older.
I didn’t want to go to this dinner Lauren invited me to. She’s always been catty to me, and I’ve said nothing to her because of Jack. I knew he loved her, and I didn’t want to disrespect him that way or make him hate me more.
I stared into the mirror, looking at my eye. There wasn’t anything I could do, so I didn’t bother putting on makeup. I just made sure my hair and clothes looked nice and left them alone. I’m thankful she lives below me, so I can basically eat and run. I’m only doing this to be civil, if we work together things between us need to be civil, and we won’t be able to avoid each other.
I took a deep breath before knocking on the door, and unfortunately, it didn’t take long for Jack to answer the door. He smiled at me and stepped aside, inviting me in. Lauren’s apartment wasn’t much different from mine. Her apartment is a little more updated, but the same size and same layout.
“I’m so glad you could make it. I know it was the last minute, but I didn’t realize you lived in the same building until Jackson told me yesterday.” Lauren always sounds fake when she’s talking to me.
She used to talk down to me all the time, and I’m going to assume that hasn’t changed; I just haven’t been here long enough for her to do it.
“Let’s all take a seat; the food is done.” Thank you, Lord. I mentally said to myself. I was forced to sit across from Lauren and Jack, and I hated it because I didn’t want my face to be a thing they were forced to look at.
“How is the eye?”
“It’s good; the doctor said there was no damage, so it’ll just look worse before it gets better.”
“It looks horrendous. If I were in your shoes, I would have covered it up.”
“I tried; it’s too dark.”
“Well, I hope you like shrimp pasta. I got off work late, and this was easy to throw together.”
“It smells delicious; thank you for cooking and inviting me.”
“You’re welcome, Remi.” I didn’t like that name coming from her.
“So, are you happy to be back?”
“I’m happy to be closer to my dad, even though he seems just fine without me.”
“I also didn’t expect you to study education.”
“It wasn’t my first major, but I quickly found out that I loved teaching others.”
“Teaching is a noble field, but it doesn’t pay well. That’s why Jack is going to work for my dad after we get married.”
“Let’s not talk about this right now.” Jack quickly stated.
“Anyway, are you seeing anyone?”
“Nope, but that’s the question of the day.”
Why are people interested in my love life?
“That’s a shame. I could help you; I could give you a makeover.”
“No, thank you.”
“Oh, come on, we can get you some highlights and find some clothes that fit your body type.”
“Lauren, knock it off; her looks are fine.” Jack seemed irritated, and I’m pretty sure this just led to an argument.
“Of course, you would say that.”
“What is that supposed to mean?”
“It means that I was right all these years.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about; I’m with you, not her.”
“But you want to be.”
This was getting so awkward. I wanted to leave, but part of me wanted to watch the train wreck.
“Where did you get that idea?”
“The way you look at her, Jack.”
“I think you’re emotional, and you need to calm down; we can discuss this later.”
I looked at Jack, and I couldn’t tell what he was thinking; he looked angry and afraid.
“Thanks for dinner, but I’m going to go now.”
“I think it’ll be for the best,” Jack said without looking at me.
“I’ll see you tomorrow.”
I quickly left and ran to my apartment. That dinner was so awkward, but Jack was right. She has nothing to worry about, he’s with her, and he wouldn’t leave a girl like her for someone like me. I’m awkward, shy, and nowhere near as pretty and polished as Lauren. I think I need to embrace Alyssa’s dating plans for me.
***
Sophomore Year of High School
“Hey, can I talk to you?” Lauren asked as she jogged up next to me.
“Sure.”
I’m a little hesitant because she never talks to me alone.
“I would appreciate it if you left Jack alone. He isn’t into you and it’s starting to bother me.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, I barely talk to him. I only see him during class now. I don’t even sit with you guys at lunch anymore.”
Lauren let out a sigh.
“I want you to not be friends with him. He won’t say anything to you because he’s too nice, but you annoy him.”
I was taken aback by her comment. How can I annoy him when we barely speak?
“I don’t understand.”
“He’s afraid that if he says something to you that you’ll tell his mom and he’ll get in trouble, he doesn’t want anything to do with you anymore.”
I was trying to keep the tears from forming in my eyes and I had a lump in my throat.
“Don’t worry, you can tell him I’ll leave him alone.”
“Thanks, and I’m sorry about this. I know you have a crush on him, which is why I think he doesn’t want you around.”
Her words hurt, but there is nothing I can do. If he didn’t want to be around me, I’ll make sure I stay away.”
***
The only time outside of class that I spend time with Jack is on the way home. We usually ride together, but today I asked dad to pick me up, I only have my permit and I told him I wanted to practice my driving since I’ll be going for my license soon.
On my way out I passed Tyson and Jack but didn’t stop to stand with them like I normally do. As soon as I passed them Jack spoke up.
“Are you not riding with us?”
I shook my head no. “Dad is picking me up.” I didn’t offer any other explanation and left.
Dad was waiting for me in the passenger seat, and I got in the driver’s seat without looking back at them. I know I'll have some explaining to do with Tyson, but for now, I want to get out of here.
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Jack I waited for Remi to leave before I addressed Lauren. I didn’t want to make Remi more uncomfortable. “What the hell was that?” “I was just stating the truth; she’s the reason you’ve been distant these last few days, right?” “No.” It was the truth; I’ve been slowly distancing myself from her for multiple reasons, and the number one reason is, that I don’t want to marry her, but Lauren and her father have done a lot for me, and I feel like I’m obligated to go through with it. It isn’t fair to her; I’ve led her on and she built a life around me. “You’re lying. You’re a coward because you won’t admit it.” “Fine, you want the truth?” I yelled. “I don’t want to get married.” Before I started talking again, I took a moment to calm myself. “I thought the engagement would solidify our relationship, that all we needed was something exciting to mix things up, but I was wrong. I think I’ve been over this relationship for a while, and I just didn’t want to hurt you.” “Well, it doe
Emi When Jack left, I called Alyssa, but she didn't answer, so I called Jake and asked him to have a late dinner with me. I didn't get to eat much of my food earlier because of the argument Jack and Lauren were having and I was starving. I was relieved when Jake said he was free and would even pick me up. “What the fuck happened to your face?” “I tried to break up a fight at work and got punched; I would prefer not to talk about my eye. I have other things to tell you.” “Fair enough. Where do you want to go?” “Any place open that has food and beer.” “I know just the place.” It didn’t take me long to realize he was taking us to Pat’s Bar and Grill. It’s his favorite place to eat and never misses an opportunity to eat there. As soon as I walked in, I saw Tyson and Jack sitting at a corner table, and I didn’t want to sit anywhere near Jack while I had this conversation with Jake. “Let’s sit over here.” I quickly pulled him over to a table near the door. “Ok, start spilling befo
EmiAfter the rose and note, Jack didn’t reach back out; I didn’t even see him in the teacher’s lounge, and its been close to two weeks. I still see him in between classes as we monitor the hall, but that’s the only time.It felt awkward, but I was thankful he was giving me space. He needed to figure his relationship with Lauren before anything happened between us.“It’s about time you showed up!”Alyssa yelled as I joined them. I quickly glanced around the table and noticed Jack was there with Tyson. They barely hung out together, so I wasn’t expecting him to join us tonight, but I like seeing them together. I took a seat next to Alyssa. “I didn’t know he was going to be here. Tyson didn’t tell me he invited him.”“It’s okay. It’s nice to see them getting along for once. I think they’re trying to mend things.”“I think it helps that Jack knows that you’re not into Tyson.”“Let’s not talk about this.”I like to avoid things. I know it’s not healthy but it’s easier than dealin
JackI was hoping to surprise Remi by showing up early and didn’t consider that she may have been feeling sick from the alcohol she had last night. I look like a douche, and I can’t blame her for being annoyed.I was hoping the food would help my cause by making her feel better, and it seemed to have worked.“Can I have five more minutes so I can straighten my hair?”“I think it looks good, but if you want to straighten it, I can wait.”I honestly thought she was beautiful; she always has been. I remember the first time I saw her when we were six. I told mom Remi was beautiful and that I hated Tyson for taking her away from me. He stole her attention from me that day, or at least I thought he did. I can’t believe it turned into twenty years of bickering and jealousy.“All done. So where are we going?”“I’ll give you two hints. You used to love it when you were younger, and it was the first time you saw me punch Ty in the face.”She let out a gasp, followed by laughter.“The ar
Present DayEmiHe wants to kiss me. Should I let him? Would people think I’m a home wrecker if we were to be seen kissing in public? I don’t want people to think he’s cheating.Now that I have Jack’s attention, I’m afraid of it, but I still want him to kiss me. I don’t know what I should do. “We can save the kiss for after the day is over with,” I suggested. I didn’t want to seem too eager.Jack smiled, and I couldn’t help but smile back at him.“So, what’s next?”Honestly, I didn’t expect there to be anything else. The first part of the day was fun, the food was great, and Jack was honest with me.“Well, what are you in the mood for? I had one other thing planned, but I’m not sure how messy you like to get.”“I’m up for anything.”“Don’t regret your decision later,” he jokes.We walked back to his car, and he drove us downtown and parked in front of this small warehouse.“Umm, I didn’t think you were a murderer.”Jack laughed and took my hand and guided me towards the b
JackHer kiss surprised me, but I’m so fucking happy she made a move. I didn’t care I still had paint on my face and hair; I just wanted to devour her. Kissing her is like being on a rollercoaster, it feels like my stomach is flipping, and I have butterflies fluttering around. If I had known kissing Remi would feel like this, I would have fought harder for her. I knew I wanted her, but I didn’t think she would make me feel like my heart and soul were complete.I turned us around and lifted her onto to kitchen island and deepened the kiss. When she let out a moan, I took that as a sign to continue. I slid my hands up her shirt, gently caressing her skin. I slowly made my way to her breast, where I massaged them and pinched her nipples, and rolled them between my fingers. She pulled me closer as I broke the kiss to pepper her neck and collarbone with kisses. My dick was throbbing, and I wanted to be in her, but I knew I had to wait for her to be comfortable with me before going that fa
EmiI was nervous when I saw Lauren walking toward me and even more worried when she started talking to Jack. I’m afraid that he’ll want to work things out with her because of their history together. I know he says he doesn’t love her, but it’s what he knows.Part of me thinks it’s best to stop this so he can’t leave me to go back to her. I want to ask him what they talked about yesterday when he comes over today, but I know it would be rude and it’s none of my businessThe buzzing of my phone distracts me from my thoughts, and I can’t help but smile.Jack: I’m running a bit late. Do I need to bring anything to make it up to you?Me: Nope, just bring yourself.Jack showed up about twenty minutes later, and when I answered the door, he greeted me with a kiss. Even though it surprised me it still felt normal. “This is for you,” he said as he handed me a cupcake.“I hope it’s still your favorite?”“Is it peanut butter love from Layla’s?”“It is.”“Then it’s still my favorite,
Jack“I want this, Jack.”I was happy to hear her say those words. I was waiting for her to stop us and I wouldn’t blame her if she did. I have a lot of work to do to gain her trust. “But before we continue, I want to let you know that I don’t have a lot of experience and I may suck at this,” she stated. I sat up and looked at her. “What do you mean?”Her face turned red, and she looked down at her hands.“I’ve only done this twice and both times; it wasn’t what I expected, so I think I’m doing something wrong.”I lifted her chin, so she was looking at me. “Don’t worry about that; let me take care of you.”I stood and picked Remi up. “What are you doing?” she screeched out.“Going to your bedroom? Which one is it?”“Second door on the right.”Once we were in her room, I placed her on the bed and removed her pants, leaving Remi in her bra and underwear, and I stripped to my boxers before placing myself on top of her.“You can tell me to stop at any point.”“How many time