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Josh was to go home today after school. I didn’t want him to but I knew he had to since he’s been at my house for three days now. If he was comfortable with it, then I’d be fine. I just didn’t want him hurt, that’s all.
“So how are you feeling? You ready to go back?” I privately asked Josh. We’d be parting after this period and I wanted to make sure he was okay.
“I’m okay. It’s fine.” He mumbled, causing me to frown at his response. He’s sad again.
“Text me if you want to talk? Or if anything bad happens. That’s on the table, too.” I encouraged. He looked up at me and gave me a real, genuine smile before nodding at what I told him. That’s how I knew he’d be okay. I could tell when he gave me faux ones but he didn’t this time. He gave me one of his famous, heart melting ones and I couldn’t be any more thrilled.
“Okay.” I said. “I’ll see you later.” I told Josh as I gave him a hug and made my way to the bus stop.
—
I got home and did all the things I usually did. Ate, finished homework, ate some more, watched Netflix and showered all without a single text from Josh. I’d checked my phone a thousand times but still, nothing. It was odd.
Usually I would text him but I didn’t want to pry. Giving him his space at this moment made sense to me. If I pestered him, he’d probably get upset and I didn’t want that.
My mom was home today, too. I guess today was really off balance for everyone. It was about eleven thirty when Josh texted me. It was a small message but I was still relieved to see he texted me. I eagerly unlocked my phone and looked at the message.
Josh: Hey, Ty.
Hey, how are you?
Josh: I’m okay. I don’t think I’ll be going to school tomorrow so do you mind taking my assignments? I’ll pick them up after school.
Oh. Well, yes, of course. Are you sure you’re okay?
Josh: Yeah. I have to go though. Goodnight.
Goodnight.
The conversation was short lived but at least I spoke to him. I could tell he wasn’t okay. I just hoped nothing bad happened.
—
The day was hectic. I had to attend my classes, pick up Josh’s after he sent me his schedule and go to lunch by myself. Josh didn’t text me all day either. I guess he was just busy or something. Maybe he was sick.
“I hope everything is okay. Make sure you give him my best wishes.” Mrs. Flynn told me as she handed me another assignment paper for him.
“I will, don’t worry.” I smiled and grabbed the paper before leaving and heading home. Josh told me he would come by around three thirty so I’d wait for him. I wanted to talk to him about something anyways.
When Josh got here, it looked like he’d walked. My house was a bit further from his but still in walking distance. I opened the door and he was there, looking down and avoiding my gaze momentarily.
“Hey.” I greeted. He looked up and gave me a nod as a way to say hello back. I stepped aside so he could come inside. I led him to the dining room where his papers were.
“Thanks for picking them up for me. I didn’t want to fall behind or anything.” He told me, reaching for the folder that contained all his due work. I pulled it back and held it behind my back before he could reach it though.
“Come on, Ty. I don’t have time for this.” Josh sighed. I shook my head and resisted to give him his work.
“Tell me what happened first and you’ll get it.” He looked taken aback but I could see he smile that played on his lips.
“Why do you care so much?”
“Because I care about you, duh. Now can you tell me?”
“Aw, you care about me.” Josh cooed. My cheeks blushed red and I became flustered.
“We you’re my friend so I have to care about you. What happened to the quiet but fun Josh? I don’t want the cocky and ador- outgoing Josh right now.” I corrected myself. Close one.
Josh just looked at me for a moment before talking.
“My dad just taught me a lesson about staying out late and I felt sick this morning so I didn’t go. Can I have my paper back now or are you going to be stubborn.”
I scrunched my nose at his behavior and response to me. It wasn’t right.
“Josh, don’t say that the way you did.”
“Don’t say what the way I did?” He stepped closer to me but I stood my ground.
“He hit you, didn’t he?” I said, almost in a whisper. Josh was now standing face to face with me, smiling a bit as he looked into my eyes.
“Why are you smiling. It’s not a good thing. You getting hurt is never a good thing.” I explained, frustrated. He had no reason to smile.
“You’re cute.” He told me before he swooped down and captured my lips with his.
At first I was shocked and didn’t react to his kiss but soon I found myself melting at his touch and kissing him back. I felt how soft and comforting Josh’s lips felt against mine and fell in love with the sensation.
The kiss wasn’t rushed and it wasn’t forceful. It was sweet and kind. I wanted it to last longer. I wanted Josh to stay right here with me but it wasn’t long until he pulled back and started talking again.
“I’ll take these.” Josh smirked and grabbed his papers that were now at my side. I wasn’t over the fact he kissed me so he took them with ease. I almost welcomed him to take them.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, Tyler.” Josh said, giving me a small peck on the lips before turning on his heel and exiting my house.
This was not what I thought was going to happen. I really didn’t mind it though. Not one bit, honestly.
***
I’m not taking Josh’s issues lightly. I just have to hurry this along because it’s a short story. Nonetheless, his serious issues will be addressed.
l8r sk8rs *
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