Open This When...

chapter two

"Seriously? He needs to get a grip. He's not even worth it Sar."

"I feel like I love him though."

"I know you do, but you can't let him treat you that way, you deserve better."

"I know, but it's like my mind knows I have to dump him, but my stupid heart can't let him go."

"Right."

"I really do need to dump him."

"I can help you."

"Really?"

"Sure, he's not good for you Sarah, he's toxic. And what did we learn in Health class our eighth grade year?"

"That it's bad to stay in a toxic relationship, no matter how much you think you love the person."

"Right, because a toxic relationship can turn into something much worse. And if he ever laid a hand on you, I'd have to break is fingers, and that's not something I want to do unless it's absolutely necessary." She laughs. "What?"

"Emma, you're Five Foot Two and he's six foot eight."

"So, I'll buy a stepping stool." We laugh again. "So when are you breaking up with him?'

"The only time I'll see him is lunch, so I guess then."

"Good, there will be witnesses so he can't turn it around and say he broke up with you, because he's just spiteful enough to do it."

"He'll do anything to keep his image, and his "Never been dumped" reputation."

"You know, somehow I doubt that he's never been dumped."

"So do I, but don't tell him that, he gets mad then defends himself, the best part is how he doesn't know how to drop things."

"Oh yeah, he's famous for that." The teacher calls everyone to attention.

"Okay students! Everyone pass your research papers to the front, unless you need to staple yours, if so, come and get the stapler." I pull my paper form my backpack. Sarah gapes at it.

"Man, you did the full eight pages and double spaced it? Pretty impressive for someone who got distracted."

"Why, thank you." I say, laughing. "Yours doesn't look bad either."

"It better be the best freaking research paper I've ever written."

"I'm sure you did fine."

"Yeah, I hope your right."

"When am I ever wrong?"

"Must I remind you of that time we went to the fair and you suggested we eat funnel cake right before getting on the twister?"

"Oh God, no, please don't remind me of that, I still can't look at funnel cake the same."

"it'll be fun!  You said, we won't throw up!  You said. That stain still won't come out of my shirt."

"If it makes you feel any better, it never came out of my shoes either."

"That only makes me feel slightly better."

"You'll feel great once you dump Jackson."

"I hope so."

********

"Are you ready to do this?"

"Yes." We walk up to the table where the football team always sits, there's an empty chair, there always will be, because no matter what, Eli will always be a part of the team to these guys. "Jackson, we need to talk."