Ch. 44 Secrets

Jesse HIlton is waiting for me

by the cash registers

where I usually work.

I've known Jesse

for three years now.

Not many people like him.

It's not because he's weird

or unattractive.

He's over six feet tall

and has got sandy hair

and wire rimmed glasses

and is actually very good looking

and normal.

But he's rude,

and insensitive,

and kind of a jerk.

But I tolerate him.

"Nice to have you back,

Short-Stack," he says.

I scowl at the name

because I don't like being reminded

of how short I am.

But he always calls me that,

in spite of my protests.

He smiles at me

and jumps off the counter.

He's the only one that knows

my best friend just died.

He doesn't mention it though.

But not to be polite.

It's because he's Jesse

and Jesse doesn't care.

I don't mind,

even if it's rude,

because I don't want to talk about her.

He welcomes me back 

with a pat on the head

and a stick of gum.

It's a slow day

so he stays with me

at my register,

sits on the counter,

and talks.

He asks me 

about Miles's party tonight

because he's going.

I lie

and tell him I'm not

because I don't want

to have to talk to him

while I'm there.

He seems disappointed

but I still don't tell him the truth.

I know Jesse

and if he's allowed to lie

and keep secrets,

then so am I.

Author's Note

Tell me what you think down below! Thanks for reading!
--theladygraceling