Lines in the Ice

Chapter 22

Preston’s roommate hadn’t gone to the Hawaii with everyone else. When Preston escorted me into the room, he was sitting on the couch watching T.V. I gave him a small wave. Preston shut the door behind me.

“Are you staying here?” Preston’s roommate asked. I couldn’t remember if he had told me his name in the past or not.

“Just for tonight,” I said.

“Can you guys just keep the noise down so I can sleep,” he groaned. I looked at him like he was stupid.

“She’s just sleeping here,” Preston said. “By the way, get off the couch.”

His roommate rolled his eyes and got up reluctantly. Preston got a couple of blankets and put them on the couch. I hesitated before making my way next to Preston. I could feel both of the guys’ stares.

“So you’re going to sleep on the couch,” I joked.

“Hahah,” he faked laughter, “No, you’ll be sleeping on the couch.”

“Yes, how chivalrous of you,” I said sarcastically.

“Chivalry is my main quality,” he replied.

“Well, I’m tired. I’m going to go to bed,” I yawned. Preston nodded and headed towards the bathroom.

Preston’s roommate propped himself up with his elbow. He watched me as I got comfortable on the couch. The sound of running water started in the bathroom. I knew Preston was taking a shower. I stared at Preston’s roommate, neither of us saying anything. The only noise was the shower.

“Are you guys dating now or something?” Preston’s roommate was the first to speak.

“No, not now at least,” I mumbled. We were quiet again.

“Am I going to see more of you?” He asked quietly.

“Maybe, I don’t expect to stay here tomorrow, though.” He nodded.

“What’s your name?” I asked him.

“Alex.”

“Nice name.”

“And yours is Brenna,” he said.

“Yeah,” I yawned before rolling over.

The shower stopped. I traced little patterns onto the back of the couch. One of the beds creaked. Someone, I hope Preston, rubbed my back slightly. I closed my eyes tightly. The warmth of the hand left me. I drifted off to sleep. Some where that I hoped to get away from Michael and this horrible day.

“Bree, please don’t be like this.” The voice started out as a whisper and then got louder. I couldn’t see anything but darkness. The voice sent shivers down my spine.

“Why’d you do it?” I asked. There was a long pause.

“Because I didn’t want you to know,” the voice said.

“Who are you?” I yelled. My voice seemed to echo.

“You’re best friend,” he said calmly. Slowly things came into vision. It was like I was sitting in the same place I had sat with my dad, overlooking the city. The grass was soft underneath me and the stars were glowing above me.

“If you were really my best friend you would have told me,” I cried.

His hand took mine. I refused to look at him. I know who it is. At least I think I do. I just don’t want to confirm it.

“Bree, please forgive me,” his pleaded. His voice was quiet and full of need.

Tears slid down my face. “I don’t think I can,” I whispered.