Chapter 59 Move On
I don't own Captain America
Scarsdale High School
Wednesday, 27 February 1963
The bell rang for lunch in the high school, and within seconds the halls became packed with students excited for their break for the day. Today was like any other day though the weather outside is gloomier and colder than yesterday, with dark winter clouds hanging low in the sky and snow constantly falling. This week's weather has been degrading with each day, just like what the weatherman said. Looking very solemn and uncharacteristically calm, Sarah Amanda Rogers walked down the hallway with her three friends. Though she did her best to hide the pain she harbored within her after the breakup last Friday, her three friends could tell her mood was also degrading as the week went on.
Sarah wore a grey belted coat, black pants, and boots, quietly followed her friends down the hallway. Everyone at the school was dressed for the cold, wearing thick winter jackets and pants, and to Sarah, it seemed like everyone wore the same color. It didn't really matter anyway as she went through the motions of the week.
Hannah glanced over her shoulder at Sarah, "Hey."
Sarah looked up at her, "Yeah?"
Hannah slowed down to walk beside her friend, "Are you sure you're doing okay?"
Sarah nodded, "Yeah, I'm fine," she lied, hiding behind a false smile. "Why do you keep asking?"
Amy raised a brow, "Because you just had a bad breakup, Sarah. And you seem to be taking it relatively well. We know you're not weak-willed, but still, what he said would hurt anybody."
Sarah waved her hand, "I'm fine. Really."
Hannah sighed, "Sure." Not believing a thing she said.
David frowned, "You weren't fine on Monday."
Sarah shrugged, "it was raw then. Look, I won't lie, it hurts. But I'll get over it."
"Kevin is a real ass for breaking up with you the way he did. What he said—" began Hannah.
Sarah interrupted her, "I'm going to move on. I'll be all right in a little bit. So don't worry about me, okay? I'm a big girl."
Though Sarah spoke confidently, the three friends saw through her tough exterior and knew she was in turmoil. Usually, when Sarah insisted that she was okay meant, she was frustrated, angry, hurting, or some combination of the three.
David spoke up, "I know your tough and all, Sarah, but it's okay to tell us that you're torn up inside."
Sarah smiled at him, "I appreciate that, David. But I'm telling you I'm okay. Seriously." She frowned, "Please stop asking."
David nodded, "Alright, alright."
Amy looked at Sarah, "I won't bring this up again, but…
Sarah sighed, "Amy, please. I'm fine."
Amy nodded, giving her the space she wanted. In fact, all three friends tried to give her the time and space she wanted.
Sarah spotted Angela waving from across the hallway as the friends approached the cafeteria. Sarah took this opportunity to avoid talking about her feelings or the breakup. She began to make a beeline to her sister, "I'll see you in the cafeteria. Going to chat with my little sister," Sarah waved at them as she headed off.
Hannah nodded stopped in her tracks, "all right. We'll grab our usual table."
Amy chuckled, "And we'll fight off the vultures who try and take it."
Sarah waved again, "Eh, it's not the end of the world if we lose the table for a day." With that, she walked off.
Hannah frowned, "Yep."
David glanced at her, "What?"
Hannah nodded, "She's in an internal hell right now. She'd never accept people taking our table."
Amy sighed, "I agree."
David frowned, "What do we do?" He asked as the friends watched Sarah head over to her sister.
Hannah shrugged, "I don't know. But we're not just going to stand by and watch our best friend spin out of control, are we?"
Amy shook her head, "No."
"Well," David began. "It seems her version of out of control is being more reserved, calm, and quiet than normal. Almost like her sister."
Amy chuckled, "Yeah, that doesn't sit right with me."
Hannah sighed, "Anyway, we need to find a way to cheer her up or help her through this process. But more importantly, regardless of what we do, we must be available for her when she needs us. That's literally the least we can do."
"Since when did we ever aim for the absolute minimum in anything?" joked Amy.
Hannah smirked, "Exactly."
David began to walk, leading the way to the cafeteria, "Well, let's grab our table, then we can scheme."
Hannah laughed, "Scheming involves something bad. We aren't planning on doing anything bad."
Amy shrugged, "Not yet, at least."
Hannah smirked, "True."
Sarah approached her little sister and flashed her a smile, doing her best to hide the emotions within. Angela waved and returned her smile as she neared.
The truth was, after the weekend, Sarah didn't talk much of the breakup to anyone. Of course, she told her Mother, Michael, Angela, and friends, but didn't want to talk about it too much. While her friends and siblings voiced their concerns, her Mother silently acknowledged the need for space. Her Mother simply told her that she was there for her whenever Sarah needed. The talk with her father immediately after the breakup also helped her in more ways than he ever knew. Her Dad's little talk helped curve the wave of initial emotions through Sarah's hurt, sadness, and shock at the outcome. In that short conversation, her Dad did everything a dad needed to do and more. But now, after a few days to process everything, Sarah still felt sad and hurt, and definitely not herself. It seemed like the wounds from the outcome were getting bigger and not healing. And All anyone could do was wait for her to heal.
Sarah stopped by her sister and noticed the hallway was clearing up as most of the students were already in the cafeteria or outside starting their lunch. Of course, there were always a few lingering in the corridors for whatever reason. Sarah nodded to her sister, "What's up, Angela?"
Angela looked down, "I could use your help with something." She chuckled, "It's. It's kind of embarrassing."
"That's okay. Just tell me," Sarah urged gently.
Angela paused and looked down. She then shook her head, "Never mind, sorry I bothered you."
Sarah furrowed her brows in confusion, "Angela, you got me over here; what is it?"
Angela shook her head. "Sarah, you just went through a breakup. This might be awkward, and I don't know if—"
Sarah sighed and groaned in frustration. "Angela, I don't need everyone to remind me. I'm not a wounded puppy. I promise I'm fine, okay?"
Angela nodded. "Okay. Sorry, big sister."
Sarah nodded and ran a hand through her long hair. "It's alright. Can you tell me what's up now?" Angela didn't initially say anything. "This is about someone you like at school," Sarah spoke in a hushed tone in case someone was eavesdropping.
"Mhmm," hummed Angela.
"What's her name?"
"Veronica," Angela said quietly. She smiled, "Veronica Sellas."
Sarah chuckled, "Oh, I know her. Nice girl."
"Yep."
Sarah nodded, "Okay, so what do you need? And where is she now?"
Angela shrugged, "She's getting lunch with her friends. I—"
Sarah raised a brow, "Do you want to ask her on a date?"
"No," Angela said, shaking her head. "Um. I want to at least tell her how I feel. Not so much ask her on a date. I doubt she'll feel the same." Angela shrugged, "As mom always said, 'the heart wants what it wants.'" She frowned, "It doesn't feel good harboring those things inside. It kind of hurts not being able to express your feelings. Do you know what I mean?"
Sarah nodded, "I do."
Angela knows about hiding feelings better than anyone else. Still, right now, Sarah has been hiding the pain of the breakup for the last four days. All she wanted to do was scream and be mad at the world, but Sarah did her best to hide it so no one could know what was really going on inside.
"You should tell her,"
"Okay," replied Angela.
Sarah nodded, "Be brave, Angela. There isn't an easy way to do it. You just have to be yourself. And hopefully, being yourself will be enough." She trailed off and began to think of what Kevin said to her last Friday.
Angela looked down, "I don't know, I'm a little nervous."
Sarah made a small smile, "I know, and that's okay. Take a deep breath and say what comes naturally, don't worry about looking dumb. Be yourself. Don't try and be someone you're not because then you'll have to try and prove that every day if it goes anywhere, not to mention the other person will see right through it." Though Sarah is heartbroken, that didn't stop her from being there for her family.
Angela nodded, "Okay," she said quietly.
Sarah patted her shoulder, "Go get her. But, don't be loud about it. The school might not be accepting. And definitely don't tell Mom or Dad. At least not yet."
"Okay, thanks, Sarah," said a thankful Angela. She nodded, "How about you. Are you doing okay?"
Sarah nodded, "I'll be okay, Angela." Angela raised a brow. "I promise."
"Okay. I'll see you after school then," Anglea said, smiling at her big sister and turning to head for lunch.
Once Angela left, Sarah was alone in the hallway, save for a few other students walking about. She sighed and ran a hand through her hair. A wave of sadness and anger shot through her as she thought about Kevin and their breakup again. Sarah grumbled at her thoughts. Not wanting to dwell on it, she turned and headed for the cafeteria, too, relying on her friends to distract her from the present situation.
In the cafeteria, Amy, Hannah, and David sat at their usual table, discussing how to help Sarah. All of their plans have been focused on how to cheer her up and help her forget about Kevin. Unfortunately, all of their ideas sounded the same and very basic. In a very short period of brainstorming, the three friends were stumped.
Amy sighed, "I don't know, guys. All our plans either sound the same or something Sarah would get annoyed about."
David nodded, "Yeah, especially if it looks like we're going out of our way to cheer her up."
Hannah sighed, "She would absolutely hate it if we just smothered her in the hopes of making her feel better."
"Man, we're great friends, aren't we?" joked Amy.
"The very best," laughed Hannah.
David looked over Amy's shoulder and slumped his shoulders. "Oh my God…"
Amy furrowed her brows, "What?" Hannah and Amy both turned around and saw an awful picture.
The trio saw Kevin Jensen walk into the cafeteria with another girl around his arm. They watched them with cold eyes as the couple joined a group of friends toward the entrance of the cafeteria.
Hannah grumbled, "You got to be joking. Kevin just broke up with Sarah!"
Amy scoffed, "you know what that means." Hannah nodded. "He was already talking to that girl long before he broke up with Sarah."
"Yeah," Hannah scoffed. "Do you believe we used to like that guy? What a pig!"
David looked around the room, "Um. Where's Sarah anyway? Is she still with Angela?"
Amy shook her head and saw Angela walk into the room and head for her friends. "Nope, she just walked in."
"That means Sarah isn't far behind," said Hannah. "She's going to see this and flip."
"What do we do?" asked Amy, a look of worry growing on her face.
David stood up and eyed the main entranceway to the cafeteria. "Uh," he said out loud as he thought about what to do.
Suddenly, a fair-haired girl came up to the table and greeted them. "Oh my gosh. Did you just see Kevin walk in with that new girl?"
Hannah nodded at the girl, "Hey, Keri." She sighed and eyed Kevin, "Yeah, we saw."
Keri rolled her eyes, "days after breaking up with Sarah too. That's not fair at all."
"Nope," replied Amy.
Keri Gifford, a sophomore and an outgoing fair-haired girl, is one of Sarah, Amy, and Hannah's many friends in their class. She always dressed nicely and had cheerful looks and warm smiles; she was well-liked and approachable. Keri also worked closely with Michael in the leadership program and talked with Angela a few times in passing. There were little things anyone could say negative about her other than her usual positive attitude, which could sometimes be annoying.
Keri smiled at the group, "I know what Kevin did is really messed up, but Sarah is a strong girl. I know she'll move on and overcome." She nodded, "It'll be hard on her for a few days, but I know she'll be okay in the long run."
Hannah smiled, "Yeah." With that, Keri smiled and walked away.
As soon as Keri walked off, David looked up to the cafeteria entrance and gasped. "Oh no," David trembled.
"What?" Amy and Hannah said simultaneously, turning to look at what David was staring at. Since Kevin, his new girl, and his friends occupied a table toward the main entrance to the cafeteria, there was no way Sarah wouldn't see them. Lo and behold, David, Hannah, and Amy spotted Sarah walk in and stop at the door, staring at Kevin and the new girl he's with.
Sarah stood at the entrance for a moment that seemed to last forever, looking at Kevin with his new girl. Oblivious to her stares, the other girl leaned into Kevin, letting out a happy laugh at her conversation with everyone at the table. The girl looked pretty with round lips, long smooth blonde hair, and dressed well in winter clothes that even accented her thin figure. That sight was just enough to twist the knot in her stomach even tighter and the knife in her heart even deeper. There was no benefit of the doubt that Kevin wasn't already talking to this girl on the side before he broke up with Sarah.
Kevin turned and saw Sarah, the two of them making eye contact. Sarah gave him a cold glare, causing him to break eye contact and return to talking with his friends and the girl. Sarah maintained her composure and stoic look and walked off, heading to her friends.
A handful of students nearby witnessed the brief interaction and whispered amongst themselves about the drama between Sarah and Kevin. Some students in the school pretended to care since they vainly loved the "high school drama" and saw it as the most exciting thing in their lives and school. Though other students couldn't care less, the majority was left feeling bad for what happened to Sarah. Even with Sarah's reputation, she was well-liked by many.
As Sarah walked over to her table, Amy, David, and Hannah stared at her with concerned looks. As she sat down next to David, Hannah frowned, "Sarah, we're—"
Sarah raised her hand, "I don't want to talk about it. Please don't mention it."
"Okay."
Amy frowned, "So…"
"So," replied David.
Sarah sighed, "I'm not a wounded puppy, guys. I'm still me."
Hannah frowned, "Sarah, you're hurting. You're not acting the same. We get and respect you don't want to talk about it, but we're just concerned for you is all."
"I appreciate it," replied Sarah. "But I'm fine. Let's drop it. I don't want to or need to keep talking or thinking about him, okay?"
Amy smiled, "Yeah, forget him."
David spoke up, "Sarah, you're the strongest person we know…"
"And Michael," smirked Amy, hoping that'll get some reaction out of her."
Sarah quickly eyed Amy.
"There she is," Amy joked lightly. "At least you're not far gone."
"Anyway," David sighed. "We know you're strong, and you're doing the best you can bottle up all that pain. But understand you don't have to just carry it yourself. We're here for you just the same."
Hannah smiled proudly at David. "What he said."
"We don't want that balloon inside to pop," Amy added.
Sarah nodded, "I appreciate it." She waved, "I uh, just need time is all."
"Okay," the friends all said.
Internally, after seeing Kevin with another girl so quick after their breakup, Sarah dived deeper into a state of chaos, heartbreak, and pain. That has to be one of the worst things to witness after a breakup. At least in her mind.
David nodded to the cafeteria entrance again, "Hey, there's Michael. He's running late for lunch."
Sarah shrugged, "I think he had a meeting with the coach for the upcoming season or something. I don't know."
The friends saw Michael stop and notice Kevin with the new girl. Sarah looked away while Hannah, Amy, and David watched with anticipation as to what Michael was going to do. David looked around for a mere moment and spotted others looking in Michael's direction. They were too curious about what he would do in the middle of this drama.
While her friends looked on, Sarah looked down and took out her lunch but didn't dig into it, only staring blankly at it. She again went internal, her mind playing all the good memories she and Kevin shared, which turned into pain that ravaged her mind. Being her first major breakup, everything hit her harder.
Michael didn't move from his spot at the cafeteria entrance for what seemed like an eternity. He eyed Kevin with extreme malice as he watched him snuggle up with a new girl mere days after breaking up with Sarah.
A firm hand placed on his shoulder surprised Michael causing him to jolt suddenly. He snapped a look at who it was and saw it was his best friend, Riley.
"Don't bother. He isn't worth it," Riley said. Michael didn't respond. "I can tell you were thinking of ways to cause bodily harm against him."
"Yeah. That's true," Michael said, looking back over to Kevin.
Riley chuckled, "Besides, come this coming year when he tries for the varsity team, I can crack him." He smirked, "or you can during the drills."
Michael nodded, "I'll hold you to it." With that, the pair then turned and headed to their friends at the corner of the cafeteria. As they walked over, Michael gave one last disgusted look at Kevin. He grumbled and looked away, "I feel bad for Sarah, though. Her head is here right now."
Riley nodded, "I don't blame her. How he broke up with her and then immediately showed up with a new girl is totally fucked."
Michael shook his head, "Yeah."
Riley raised a brow, "I never liked the guy. Do you think Coach will listen to you if you tell him not to get him on the varsity team? You are the Captain, after all."
Michael sighed, "Probably not."
"Eh, worth asking and bringing up his poor character."
As the pair joined their friends, Michael shrugged. "This is a public school program, man. Coach isn't going to cut a player solely because I ask him too with the reason of Kevin breaking up with my sister."
Eva looked up at Michael, "How's Sarah?"
Michael sat down with his friends and shook his head, "Not good. But she'll be okay after a while."
Irena nodded, "She's a strong-willed person. It'll take time, as you said."
Rhys chuckled, taking a bite out of his sandwich and pushing a small carton of milk over to Michael. "Think you can hit him in the dome with this from here?"
Brandon laughed, "he's the quarterback of the team. Of course, he can."
Michael nodded, "I can…But…"
Eva laughed, "Everyone knows it was him."
"And he'll get a load of trouble," added Irena.
Riley smirked as he took out his lunch, "But it would've been so funny. So worth it."
"Yeah," everyone agreed.
Hours later, at the end of school, Angela sat alone on the bench by the maple tree in the gloomy cold, with a book in hand as is her routine after school. With her friends left for home, Angela sat patiently, waiting for her sister and mom to come and pick her up. She broke away from the immersion of her book and looked up to the empty snow-covered lawn. Not a lot of people were still here.
Angela furrowed her brows and looked down at her watch. Her Mother was running later than usual, and Sarah wasn't here yet. Come to think of it, she didn't seem to see Michael or any of his friends after school either. Something was oddly fishy. Angela looked toward the entrance of the school and frowned. She hoped her sister was doing okay; there wasn't much for her to help. Though Angela never experienced it, she knew that first breakups tended to hurt and were one of the most challenging pain to overcome.
Angela suddenly saw her mom's car pull up to the curb. She stood up and glanced back at the school entrance again, curious and concerned about where Sarah was.
Almost on cue, Sarah's three best friends pushed open the doors and stepped out into the frigid cold. However, Angela didn't see her big sister with them at all.
She glanced at her mom's car then back at the three older girls. "Hannah," Angela called out as she approached the three friends. "Have you seen my sister at all?"
Hannah buttoned up her winter coat and shivered, "Funny. We were going to ask you that same question."
Amy shrugged, putting her gloves on. "She immediately left the class the moment the bell rang. She wasn't by her locker, wasn't in the cafeteria, not at the quad, and not even in the bathrooms."
Hannah nodded, "In short. We searched everywhere."
Angela turned around and saw her mom step out of the car and wave over at her.
David spoke up, "Did you try the locker room?"
Hannah paused and looked stumped for a moment. "Nope." She gave him an annoyed look, "I'm curious. Why didn't you suggest that earlier?"
"Just thought of it," replied David.
Suddenly, Sarah showed up behind her friends, "I'm here. Sorry I was running late, Angela."
Hannah put her hands on her hips, "And where were you after school?"
Sarah furrowed her brows, "What are you, my mom?"
Angela gestured to their mom's car by the curb. "She's here waiting."
Sarah frowned and suddenly looked a little scared. "Sorry, I'm late."
Amy raised her arms in frustration, "Hey! Where did you go after school?"
"I just had to take care of a few things, is all," Sarah lied.
Hannah raised a brow, "Like what."
Sarah sighed, "I was just talking to my brother." She glanced at her sister then at her Mother in the distance. "Anyways, I'd love to sit here and listen to your million questions, but sorry, gotta run."
Sarah quickly squeezed between her friends and walked off, Angela following close behind with a look of concern on her face.
Angela can tell her sister was putting on a fake facade for the world to see. It was the corner of her lips that betrayed her. They seemed to tighten for lack of a better phrase when she lied about her feelings. It was hard for Angela to see her sister like this, especially since she looked up to her significantly in terms of her personal strength and how she presented herself to everyone. Sarah has excellent social skills, which Angela lacks. It was hard for her to see her big sister like this.
As the two sisters approached the car, Peggy smiled at them. "Hi, darlings," she greeted.
Angela smiled, "Hi, mom."
Sarah didn't respond as she opened the car door and got into the front seat. Angela did the same but in the backseat, sliding next to her little brother, John.
Peggy got in the car and closed the door, and shivered. "Goodness, it's cold today." She looked at her daughters, "How was school?"
"Good," replied both Angela and Sarah at the same time.
"Contain your happiness, you two," Peggy smirked. She glanced over at Sarah and saw the distress and emotions in her eyes. Though Sarah wore an expressionless look, Peggy knew her daughter.
Peggy leaned over to her and spoke in a hushed tone, "Sarah."
Sarah glanced at her.
"Are you doing okay?"
Sarah nodded, "I'm fine, Mom." She grumbled and spoke harshly, "Everyone has been asking me that all day. I don't need you to ask either."
Peggy frowned, "I'm your Mother, sweetie. It's my job and right to ask my daughter that question." She understood the attitude and let it go after that statement.
Sarah frowned, "I'm-I'm sorry, Mom."
Peggy gave her a reassuring smile, reaching over and gripping her leg. "It's okay. Let's get home and have some hot cocoa. It's freezing out here."
John cheered excitedly, "Yes!"
Angela smiled too, "that sounds good."
Peggy turned the car on and drove off.
As the minutes passed by in the car, Sarah continued to look outside and watch the snow-covered streets zip by in a blur as her mom drove off. She wasn't in the here and the now at all.
Peggy shook her head as the snow began to fall a little harder. "I sure hope Michael doesn't freeze to death out there."
Angela spoke up, "He didn't wear his jacket when he walked off. Just his sweater."
Peggy groaned, "That boy. What am I going to do with him?"
Steve & Margaret Rogers Residence, Scarsdale, NY
An hour after being home, Peggy stood in the kitchen in an apron over her blouse and leggings, finishing up making the hot cocoa for her and the kids. She used the homemade recipe Steve taught her the first Christmas they spent together, blowing her mind. After the kids were born, they never had hot cocoa as good as what mom and Dad made them. Peggy smiled as she hummed a tune to herself and poured the remaining hot cocoa into the last cup.
Angela and John suddenly walked into the kitchen before their Mother had a chance to call them that it was ready, drawn by the sweet aroma of the chocolate. "Hm! Smells good, Mom!" Angela expressed.
Peggy jumped in surprise, turning around to see her two kids sitting down at the table. "Oh, darlings, you're here already." Grabbing two cups from the counter, Peggy made her way to the table. "Just in time, just finished."
Angela chuckled, "Could smell it from my room. I knew it was ready."
"Smells good, Mom," added John.
With the heater on and the smell of hot cocoa in the air, the house felt cozier than usual. It had a delightful and comfortable atmosphere compared to the harsh cold outside.
Peggy put the cups down in front of her two kids. "Enjoy, sweethearts," she said, kissing John on the top of his head and Angela on her cheek. She then turned and walked over to the refrigerator and grabbed a jar off the top. "And can't forget biscuits."
John smirked, "You mean cookies, Mom?"
Peggy laughed and rolled her eyes, "No. I mean biscuits, honey."
John sighed, "I miss Christmas." Angela smiles
Peggy placed the jar in front of her kids and smiled. "It happens every year, John."
"But we have to wait a year," John replied, taking a sip of his hot cocoa while simultaneously reaching for a biscuit in the jar.
Peggy laughed, "You'd get sick of the holiday if it happened every day."
John shook his head, "No, I wouldn't."
Peggy smirked and her son and looked toward the foyer, "Where's Sarah?"
Angela took a sip of her hot cocoa. "Um. We knocked on her door, but she didn't answer." She frowned, "I think she's crying…"
Peggy frowned.
"Still about Kevin?" John asked, munching on a biscuit.
Peggy nodded, "Mhmm." She sighed, "Broken hearts don't heal overnight, sweetie." She turned and walked over to the counter to grab a cup of hot cocoa she made for Sarah. "I'll go and talk to her and see if she wants anything."
With the cup of hot cocoa in hand, Peggy walked up the stairs and headed to Sarah's room. As she neared the teenager's room, she heard the faint sounds of crying coming through the door. Peggy frowned and stopped outside. "Sarah, sweetheart," Peggy called softly, gently knocking.
"I don't want to talk right now," Sarah's called, her voice muffled by the door.
"Sarah," Peggy responded.
"Mom, please," she replied.
Peggy couldn't stand her daughter being so sad. It broke her heart. But though Sarah's words said 'no,' the tone of her voice called out for help. Peggy took a deep breath and slowly opened the door, instantly seeing Sarah hidden under her bedsheets, her shoulders shaking, and the sound of crying filling the room.
Sarah tightened her grip of the sheets over her head as she sobbed. "Mom, I said I didn't want to."
Peggy closed the door behind her and quietly walked over to the bed. She placed the hot beverage on the desk and silently sat down at the edge of the bed by Sarah's feet. She sat quietly for a moment, hearing her teenage daughter sob into the sheets.
Peggy spoke softly, "I got you hot cocoa." Sarah didn't respond. Peggy reached over and gently placed her hand on her daughter's leg. "Darling, it breaks my heart that you're hurting. I want to give you the space and time you need, but watching you go through this hurts. Again I want you to know that I'm always here for you if only just to listen."
Sarah continued to cry.
Peggy frowned and leaned down, and kissed the blanket that covered Sarah's side. She let out a soft sigh, "Call me if you need anything, okay?"
She paused and waited to see if Sarah would respond. But after a moment of nothing but silence, Peggy stood up and headed for the door.
Just as she opened the door, she heard Sarah call out to her. "Mom, can you stay?" Sarah asked with a shaky voice.
Peggy silently closed the door and nodded, "Of course."
Sarah removed the covers and sat up. She frowned and wiped her tears from her cheek. "I'm sorry," she said, her voice quavering from crying.
Peggy walked over to the bed and sat down beside her. She wrapped her arms around her daughter, "Shhh," she said in a soft voice. "There's nothing to apologize for. I know your heart is broken, and it's hard. Especially the end of your first relationship." Peggy gently rocked her back and forth, "I know it doesn't feel okay now, but—"
Sarah cried into her Mother's arms and hugged her back. "He's with another girl! Already!"
Peggy frowned but stayed silent so she could speak.
"Already! Why wasn't I good enough for him?" Sarah rambled. "But he said all those things to me…what am I a—"
Peggy interrupted with a confident tone, "You're a strong, kind, sweet, intelligent, beautiful young woman, Sarah. And our precious daughter." Sarah continued to sob for the end of her first real relationship. "He said those things to you because he didn't know who you are."
Peggy leaned back and looked at Sarah. "I know this hurts so, so much. I remember it vividly when my first love broke my heart." Sarah sniffled and whipped her tears away. "I was fifteen, beginning another year at St. Martins, my boyfriend of over a year broke up with me out of the blue." She laughed at the memory, "Would you believe that I was so shocked I felt physically ill. I struggled to function for a few days."
Sarah sniffled, "Really? You Mom?" She couldn't believe that her mom. The strong and all-knowing Director of SHIELD who went to war and helped prevent nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis would feel "ill" after a breakup.
Peggy nodded and smiled, "It really is true that 'the first love cut is the deepest.'"
Sarah looked up at her, "How long did it hurt?"
Peggy nodded, "A while." Sarah frowned, feeling dejected. "Like all pain. It'll take time to heal, darling. But time itself doesn't heal the wounds, but eventually, you'll find a new normal, and that's okay. "
"When is that?"
Peggy gave a small smile, "It'll come. When it stops aching and hurting every waking moment, and you can wake up without feeling something wrenching at your heart, and you can carry on without thinking about him. That's the new normal, and that's when you moved on." She nodded, "it'll hurt for now, but it'll pass. Probably not what you want to hear, I know."
Sarah shook her head, "it's okay, Mom."
Peggy smiled, "Your Dad did a great job in curving your grief and your hurt. And what he said is true."
Sarah sniffled and wiped her tears off her cheek, "He's with another girl, which means he had eyes on her while we were still together."
Peggy shook her head and brushed Sarah's hair with her hand, "Darling, I'm sorry. I truly am. But he might've not been with you for the person you are. And that's not acceptable." She leaned back again and looked into her daughter's eyes. "You know what you're worth, right?"
Sarah nodded and calmed down for a moment, and spoke confidently. "I know, Mom," she said in symbolic defiance to her sadness and Kevin.
Peggy nodded, "Then you don't need anyone else satisfaction or gratification. But you do deserve someone better, who treats you well and adds to your joy."
Sarah frowned, "What if I'm alone because of my reputation of being a fighter and being too 'strong?'"
Peggy shook her head again. "You won't be single forever, Sarah. It's okay not to be interested in dating all the time. Be patient. A month from now, you might meet someone amazing. Just wait for it. Have patience. You're young; you have many years to find the right one to have a meaningful relationship with. Besides, you're very, very beautiful. Someone will always be interested in you, Darling. Whoever it is will be lucky to be with you."
Sarah made a small smile as another tear rolled down her cheek.
Peggy wiped her tears away with her thumb, "It's okay, my darling. It's okay."
"What do you do if someone you love stops loving you?" Sarah asked through her tears.
Peggy made a small smile, "You cry a little, and then you wait for the sun to come out. It always does." She brought her into another hug and held her tightly.
Sarah's voice quivered, "I don't know if I can forgive him, mom."
Peggy nodded, "Maybe you will, maybe you won't. That's for you to decide. Be selective about who to forgive and return to." She let go of Sarah and leaned back, "You can forgive him without going back to him, and you need to decide the right choice."
Sarah let out a sigh, "Such a jerk," she said, wiping her tears away.
"Yup," Peggy responded. Sarah leaned into her. "Can I tell you something, sweetie? Hopefully, it won't upset you."
"Mhmm," Sarah hummed.
"I always thought you could do better." Peggy kissed the top of her head, "I tolerated him because you seemed happy. He's dirt for breaking your heart, darling."
Sarah smiled, "Thanks, Mom."
Peggy held her daughter tightly, "Find someone who adds to your joy. Don't settle for less and don't meet someone below your level of happiness."
Sarah chuckled, "is it weird that I wish to find a relationship like you and dad."
Peggy laughed, "No, it's not weird at all. We want to set an example for you. You see us every day, and you'll follow our example whether you know it or not." She rocked back and forth, "I just hope you find someone that adds so much joy to your life like your father does for me."
Sarah let out another calming sigh, "Okay."
Peggy leaned back, "I'm here to listen whenever you need, darling." She planted another kiss on her head. Sarah smiled and held her Mother tight. "I love you. And I always will."
Sarah buried herself deeper into her mom, "thanks. Mom."
Peggy chuckled, "I heard your Dad wants to hunt him down. Is it too late to join?"
Sarah laughed.
"I love you, darling."
"I love you too, Mom," Sarah replied, hugging her mom.
Later, Peggy quietly stepped out of Sarah's bedroom, closed the door behind her, and headed back down to the kitchen. As she walked down the stairs into the foyer, Peggy heard Angela and John talking to Michael, who she didn't expect to be home so soon.
As she stepped into the kitchen, Michael greeted her. "Hi, Mom," he said, leaning against the island, hot cup of cocoa in hand. "Um, was one of these for me?"
Peggy smiled as she headed over to him. "Mhmm. Glad you made it home before it got cold," she said, planting a kiss on her son's cheek.
Michael turned around and frowned, "How's Sarah?"
Peggy leaned back against the sink, "Ah, Sarah will be okay. She needs some time and a little space." She shook her head, "Her heart got broken pretty hard by what that boy said and did. Awful boy to treat a girl like that."
Michael nodded, "Yeah."
Peggy crossed her arms, "We shouldn't talk about this behind Sarah's back. I'm sure a lot of people at your school already do. She doesn't need her family doing it too." Michael and Angela nodded. "Just give her time and be patient with her. A broken heart doesn't heal overnight."
Michael nodded, "Got it."
Peggy shook her head, "And no revenge missions. The last thing I need is a phone call from the school that you crippled the boy permanently."
"Yeah, I thought about it," joked Michael.
"Michael," Peggy said sternly.
Michael raised his hands, "I was joking! Come one. I'm not that messed up."
"Good. Let's leave it there." Peggy shook her head, "Change of subject. Why didn't you wear your jacket when you walked home?"
Michael shrugged, "Wasn't that cold. Besides, I had my sweater."
Angela raised a brow at her brother, "Michael, it was freezing!"
"It was actually below freezing," corrected Peggy.
Michael rolled his eyes, "Mom, I was fine." He gestured with hands, "Besides, we're superhuman. A little cold won't put me down."
"Tell that to your father," Peggy eyed him.
"Mom, it wasn't that cold when I was moving. I felt cozy."
Peggy shook her head, "Fine. Why listen to me anyway? It's not like I gave birth to you or anything. Do as you like, see if I care."
Michael bit the bottom of his lip and paused for a moment. "Fine. I'll wear my jacket next time."
"Good," Peggy said victoriously. She looked around the kitchen, "I should probably start making dinner."
"Where's Dad?" asked John.
"He's working a little late today, but he should be home in a few hours or so."
Michael paused, "Um. Mom?"
"Hm?" Peggy responded as she gathered the pans she used for hot cocoa and put them in the sink.
"Uh."
Peggy glanced at him and raised a brow. "What is it, son?"
"Wrestling."
Peggy paused. "No." She shook her head, "No way."
"Mom, I want to be a dual athlete at school. I like sports, and it would be great—"
Peggy interrupted him. "Darling, I love watching you play football, but we let you play because it's majorly a team sport. And even though we know you have the power to outperform everyone, we know that you have to rely on other players to win." She shook her head, "Wrestling and even Track are largely individual. Except, Wrestling, you can seriously hurt someone." She gestured with her hands, "Track, you'll just beat everyone without breaking a sweat."
Michael frowned, "Mom, I could've easily hurt someone in football if I really wanted to."
Peggy snapped a look at him. "Don't remind me."
John chimed in, "But, Mom. Since you're Michael's biggest fan in football, you can be his biggest fan in wrestling too!"
Peggy sighed, "That's not how this is going to be settled, John."
Michael frowned, "Come on, Mom. You trusted me not to go all out and hurt someone in football. You can trust me in wrestling."
Peggy raised a brow, "Why do you want to do wrestling and not track?"
Michael shrugged, "Well, wrestling is a winter sport, and I'd join next school year. It'll help me stay active outside of football and school, and just personal training, which means more extracurricular activities to look good for college applications."
"Hm," Peggy responded, crossing her arms as she leaned against the sink.
"Well, I also do want to do track, too, which is this spring…" Michael looked at her sheepishly, "I figured to lead with wrestling first, though."
Peggy sighs, "Is that all? I'm surprised you didn't want to do baseball."
Michael shrugged again, "To be honest, I think that sport is a little slow for me."
Peggy eyed her son, "Watch what you say next, darling?" she said, jokingly. She became a fan of the sport after Steve took her to a game when they began dating.
"Mom, please?" Michael begged to play more sports.
Peggy sighed and rubbed her temple, "I'll think about it. Let me talk to your father about it." She turned and turned on the sink to wash her hands.
"Okay!" Michael responded excitedly. He quickly paused, "Wait."
"What?" she said, running her hands through the water.
Michael looked at her Mother with suspicion. "Are you really going to talk to him about it, or are you going to spin it, so Dad has no other option but to agree with your position?"
Peggy gave him a funny look, "I am going to talk to him about it."
"Great!"
"And I don't do that," Peggy responded.
Michael nodded, "Yeah, you do."
Peggy looked at Angela and John, who both responded with head nods. Michael grinned in victory.
Peggy sighed, "Okay. I'm going to get started on dinner. Is there anything you kids like tonight?"
"What do we have?" Michael asked, finishing his cocoa.
John grinned, "spaghetti?"
Peggy chuckled and shook her head. "Can't keep having pasta, darling. Try something else."
Angela spoke up, "Roast chicken?"
"I can do that," Peggy said with a smile.
Michael nodded, "Heck yeah!"
John frowned, "Aw, chicken again!"
Peggy walked over to the fridge, "Don't bite the hand that serves you, John."
"Sorry," John replied sheepishly.
Peggy smiled as she opened up the refrigerator.
Later in the evening, with the kids upstairs, and the house quiet and dark except for the lone lights in the family room and kitchen, Peggy sat quietly at the end of the couch enjoying a good book. A normal late in the evening routine for her when Steve works late. She was dressed comfortably in her short nightgown and robe as she waited patiently for her husband. It was dead silent in the family room, something Peggy enjoyed while reading in the evening. She didn't like listening to music or the TV when she read at the end of the day. The calm and quiet was very soothing to her.
As Peggy turned the page, she heard the garage door open, signaling that Steve was finally home. She smiled and closed her book, and stood up to greet her husband. After a moment, Steve walked into the kitchen, briefcase in hand, and undoing his tie.
Steve smiled at her, always expecting to see his wife waiting for him when he got home. Never got old. "Home," he said warmly.
Peggy walked over to him and gave him a kiss. "Wow, that was a long day for you."
Steve nodded, "Why does it seem like my days are getting longer than yours?"
Peggy chuckled, "I don't know, probably because I'm the boss in my business." She took his briefcase from him, "Here, let me take that for you. Welcome home, darling."
Steve smiled, "Thanks, hon." He undid his tie and let out a tired sigh. "I don't think being superhuman means much to the business world."
Peggy walked over to the couch and put Steve's briefcase down. "Too bad you can't punch your way through paperwork."
"I wish. That be fun," joked Steve. He walked over to the couch and draped his tie on the couch armrest. Steve then placed his hands on his wife's hips, bringing her close, and swaying side to side, Peggy gripping his hands affectionately.
Peggy hummed in content, "Hm. I missed you today."
Steve kissed the nape of her neck and smiled, "Me too." He then kissed her on the cheek. Peggy turned her head, and the two shared a few kisses.
Peggy reluctantly broke the romantic gestures dinner was ready. She smiled, "Before we continue and as much as I want to. Your dinner is on the table. It's still warm."
Steve smiled and let her go, "alas. Man has to make a choice. His wife or eating food."
Peggy turned and smiled, placing a hand on her hip. "Dinner will get cold. I, however, won't," she said with a seductive smile.
Steve chuckled, "Okay. That settles it. Thanks, Peg." He turned to the kitchen and headed to the table under the only light that was on. "I am starved, though."
Steve walked over to the table, removing his coat and draping it over one of the chairs. He let out a tired sight and rolled his neck.
Peggy chuckled and walked over to the table, "Must've been quite the day for you."
Steve sat down by his covered dinner. "It was one of those days where I felt underqualified."
Peggy sat down beside her husband. "You're not underqualified. You're one of the smartest people I know."
Steve laughed, "Thanks." He waved, "never mind me. How was your day?"
Peggy rolled her eyes. "You know, the usual. Espionage, dealing with secrets and lies, and politicians."
Steve chuckled, "Yeah. I definitely don't envy you."
"But it was a good day for the most part. No red balls, fallen angels, or anything bad today." Peggy shook her head, "No catastrophic disasters or sparks of another world war, surprisingly."
Steve uncovered his dinner and took in the wonderous smell. "Hm, smells good." He turned to his wife, "And how's Sarah doing?" He began to dig into his plate.
Peggy leaned onto the table, "She's definitely hurting. It'll take time." She shook her head, "What Kevin did…it's unbelievable."
Steve swallowed his bite. "Is there something new?"
Peggy nodded, "He's with another girl," she said pointedly.
Steve raised a brow, "Already? That son of a…" He grumbled, "What a jerk."
Peggy shook her head, "Jerk isn't the word I'd describe him."
Steve smiled, "Me neither. Damn, that's got to be awful for Sarah to see. I wish I could do something to help." He continued to eat while he conversed with his wife.
Peggy shook her head. "You did all you can, darling, and then some. You can only listen to her and comfort her when she needs it. She has to move on at her pace."
"Right."
Peggy nodded, "Cant punch your way to fixing her heart either, you know."
Steve chuckled, "Sure would make me feel good. And probably Sarah too."
Peggy laughed, "But it won't fix anything, and it would set a poor example."
"I know, I know," said Steve.
Peggy fell silent for a moment. She shook her head, "I do want to hurt the boy too. How dare he do that to MY daughter."
Steve chuckled, "Yep." He smirked, "Hopefully, this shows Sarah never to date again." Peggy slapped him playfully. Steve mock cleared his throat. "I mean, hopefully, her next boyfriend isn't a total slimeball. And adds to her joy."
Peggy chuckled, "Better. Hm." She sighed, "There's one other thing from our kids."
"Uh oh," Steve said with a smirk.
"Michael wants to join the wrestling team."
Steve raised a brow, "Wrestling? He certainly has the strength and the skill from you."
Peggy nodded, "And track turns out."
Steve leaned back and swallowed his bite. "Woah, what did you say? No, I presume."
Peggy sighed and rolled her eyes, "Initially, but I promised him I'd talk to you first."
Steve nodded, "Hm. Track. I don't see a problem other than the fact it might be super boring for him. He literally doesn't have to try to win."
"I agree. Of the two, I'd rather have Michael do track. But as you said, it might be boring," replied Peggy, resting her cheek against her hand.
Steve shrugged, "Well, wrestling is a little different. He can definitely tweak someone pretty bad in that sport."
"Exactly my thoughts."
"However, someone who is more skilled in the techniques can easily outwrestle someone stronger." Steve shook his head, "I don't know how that'll play out against a superhuman or super teenager for that matter."
"Hm." Peggy frowned, "I'm worried about what he can do to someone. Football is bad enough. At least he's the quarterback."
"There's more skill required from Michael to wrestle, but I can understand the concern."
Peggy sighed, "Is football not enough?"
"It isn't just about playing sports for Michael."
"What do you mean?"
Steve smiled, "I mean, he enjoys being active, but he also enjoys the camaraderie of being in a team working toward a common goal. He also gets practice and experience as a leader and as a young man."
Peggy nodded, "Yes, but track and wrestling are individual-driven sports."
"That's true. But the individuals train together, and their points are collective to further the overall school points to win a tournament, event, or race." Steve shrugged, "Of course, there are personal awards too, but the school will ultimately be the winner."
Peggy nodded, "I see."
Steve smiled proudly. "Michael has done a great job in football. And you even love watching him play. you're quite the sports mom."
Peggy chuckled, "I do love watching our son play." She sighed and waved, "Fine. We'll let him play these sports."
"Wait, really?" gasped Steve in surprise.
Peggy furrowed her brows, "Uh, yeah."
Steve laughed, "Huh. I was expecting you to get all serious and start dictating to me."
Peggy cocked her head to the side. "Am I really like that?" she asked in disbelief.
Steve nodded, "Sometimes."
"What? Why didn't you tell me?"
"I really can't most of the time," Steve laughed.
Peggy rolled her eyes and pushed her husband. "Go eat your dinner before. And don't forget to do the dishes."
Steve laughed, "Yes, dear."
Thursday, 28 February 1963
The following morning, Peggy, dressed in a white blouse and black business skirt, stood in the kitchen, enjoying a hot cup of tea while her kids had a full breakfast. Michael, Angela, and John relished a big English breakfast that included eggs, bacon, sausage, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. Sarah was the only one not at the table as she wasn't up yet. However, this morning's breakfast was not usual for the family on a school day. Peggy hoped her oldest daughter would feel good enough or compelled by the delicious aroma to come down and join them.
Angela hummed in content at the delicious food, at what she would consider a weekend breakfast. She savored the rare feast before a day of school.
Michael swallowed his bite, "Mom?"
Peggy took a sip of her tea, "Yes, love."
"What's the occasion for the great breakfast? Not used to having all this food for a school day?" he curiously asked.
John smiled, "I'm not complaining."
Angela nodded, "It's so good."
Peggy chuckled, "Well, your father left for work early, and I woke up with him. And since I was up so early, I decided to make you all some delicious and warm food for today." She smiled, "Had all this extra time."
Michael nodded, "Thanks, mom! Well, probably should thank Dad too for waking you up."
Peggy laughed. She glanced outside and saw the thick frost pasted to the kitchen window. "It's going to be cold. So what does that mean?"
Michael sighed and slumped his shoulders, "I'll put on my jacket…"
Peggy raised a brow at him, "And—"
Michael looked up dramatically and sighed. "And wear it when you're not looking."
Peggy nodded, "Atta boy."
John looked toward the foyer, "Is Sarah not coming down for this good breakfast?"
Since the breakup, Sarah has been very mopey, including not wanting to get out of bed in the morning. Since Friday, Peggy or Steve had to force her out of bed to get the day started. Getting too much sleep and her recent feeling of worthlessness is a side effect of her broken heart. Peggy, and Steve, for that matter, hated seeing her like that and hoped she would eventually move on. Unfortunately, that's not something they could rush.
Peggy put her tea down on the island. "Hm. I'll get her," she said, walking toward the foyer.
Almost on cue, Sarah showed up, already dressed for the day in colorful pants, a striped blouse, and her hair down with a white headband. Aside from her mother, she was the only one ready for the day as her three siblings were still in their pajamas.
Sarah smiled, "Smells good."
Though Sarah still felt the sadness within her, she does feel better, especially after the encouragement and talks with her parents, friends, and family. The pain that Kevin caused and how she hated the feeling of missing him tormented her. It was all confusing inside, which made it feel worse. But last night, Sarah made the conscious decision to focus on something other than Kevin as opposed to what she felt the past week, which was surrounded by concentrating on him and what they had. However, it seemed pretty clear that their relationship was built on a vain foundation. Now, Sarah was going to make an effort to move on. She wanted to try and follow how her Mother led her life and accept her good friends' advice and comforts. Asking for help or being the one to be consoled was never something she thought she'd experience. But Sarah was glad her family and friends were there. In her perspective, her problems probably seemed trivial to them, but their actions were significant for her.
Peggy smiled at her daughter, "Oh, Sarah, you're up. I was about to come to get you." She walked over to the table and gestured to the serving plates. "Serve yourself, darling. The food is delicious."
Sarah smiled, walked over to the table, and sat down by an empty plate beside Michael.
"Mhmm," John nodded.
Sarah nodded, "Thanks, Mom." She reached over to the serving plate and got some food. "I decided to be productive finally."
Michael laughed, "Amazing."
"Shut up," Sarah eyed her twin brother.
Peggy rolled her eyes, "Let's not start this now." She smiled at her daughter, "are you feeling better?"
"A little bit," Sarah nodded. "Thanks, Mom. For everything."
Michael furrowed her brows, "Hey, what about us? We helped too." He shrugged, "Sort of."
Sarah chuckled, "What about you?" She leaned over to him, wrapped an arm around him, and gave him a noogie.
"Hey!" Michael swatted her hand. "You can't do that to me."
John laughed, "At least it's not me this time."
Peggy chuckled, "Hope you enjoy the breakfast, Sarah."
"Thanks, Mom."
Peggy turned her attention to the other kids, "Now if everyone is done, go get ready for school and catch up to Sarah. I have all your lunches packed too."
Angela stood up with her dishes, "Thank you, Mom."
John got up and darted out of the kitchen, leaving his dirty dishes behind in the sink.
Michael stood up, "Hey, dishes in the sink!"
John walked back, grabbed his plate, and put it in the sink. "Sorry," he said, walking back out.
Angela placed her dishes in the sink and turned on the faucet, running water through the dirty dishware.
Peggy nodded at her, "I'll handle the dishes before I drive you to school. Go get ready, darling." With that, Michael and Angela head out to get ready for school.
Sarah took a bite of her food, "Where's Dad?" She smiled happily, "Wow, this is so good. Not the usual for a school day."
Peggy laughed. "Your father left early. Anyway, I got up with him and decided to make a full breakfast."
Sarah nodded, "Ah. He's been working a lot lately."
Peggy nodded with a concerned look. "They're approaching deadlines."
"Makes sense," Sarah replied.
"So. Are you doing okay?" Peggy asked, sitting down beside her.
Sarah nodded, "Better. As you said, it'll take time. But I'm doing better."
Peggy smiled and gripped her arm affectionately. "I can see that. Just wanted to hear you say it."
Sarah nodded, taking another bite from her food. "Thanks again, Mom."
"Anytime." She leaned over to her and kissed her cheek. "I love you, sweetheart."
Sarah smiled, "I love you too, Mom."
Peggy stood up and gestured to the lunches on the island, "I left you a little extra something for lunch." She winked, "Don't tell your brothers."
Sarah chuckled, "I won't."
Scarsdale High School, Scarsdale, NY
Later on at school, Sarah, Michael, and Angela walked across the snow-covered grass toward the school's main entrance, having just been dropped off by their Mother. The winter school morning was like any other, with thick cloudy overcasts and a gentle snowfall. The buildings had icicles on their gutters, snow on the rooves, and barren trees. Still, the pavement was freshly shoveled, making it clear to walk.
After crossing the snowed-over grass, Sarah made a beeline to her friends standing off to the side by the maple tree. Angela waved at her sister, "Bye, Sarah."
"See ya, Angela," Sarah waved back.
Michael gave her a funny look which Sarah rolled her eyes in response.
Hannah greeted Sarah. "Morning, Sarah," she said, running a hand through her red hair.
"Hey, Hannah," Sarah responded. She shivered and rubbed her hands together before sticking them in her pockets. "Cold."
Amy, who had her fair-colored hair tucked under a warm hat, shivered. "Yep. Say, Sarah." She gave her a funny look, "Um."
"What's up?" responded Sarah.
David nodded, "You look. Well, you seem happier. Like better than the way you've been recently."
Sarah shrugged, "Yeah. I'm just…adjusting."
"Well, that's good, right?" Hannah asked.
Sarah nodded, "I had a good conversation with my mom last night. It helped a lot."
"That's good," said Amy.
Sarah nodded to the door of the school. "Let's go. I don't know why we're standing out here and talking in the cold."
As the friends headed into the school, they passed by a click of four girls talking amongst themselves. One of the girls called out to Sarah as she passed them. "Hey, Sarah, see Kevin with another girl?" The girl asked in a condescending tone. "He's with Holly. Cheerleader."
Sarah stopped and turned to face her, her friends stopping beside her. "I know," replied Sarah.
"What are you going to do?" the other teenage girl asked.
Sarah shrugged, "What can a girl do? I'm not going to do anything. Whatever we had is over." She rolled her eyes, "Which we never had anything anyway."
Amy raised a brow at what Sarah said.
The girl scoffed, "Okay," she said sarcastically.
Sarah smirked, "Continue to date every boy that comes your way. Your dress is like a revolving door." With that, Sarah winked and walked away, her friends quickly trailing behind.
"Hey!" the girl fired back. The girls' friends smiling behind her back.
As Sarah made her way toward her locker, Hannah laughed, "Damn…"
David chuckled.
Sarah glanced at her and shrugged, "I mean, it's true."
Hannah chuckled, "Someone had to say it."
Amy tapped Sarah on the shoulder, "Hey, Sarah. What did you mean by that?"
"By what?" replied Sarah.
"I don't know. You said, 'we never had anything anyway,'" Amy said.
Sarah shrugged, "Well. It's clear Kevin was dating me more for how I look than anything else. Or just to date." She frowned, "The more I think about it, the more I think he wasn't invested in me or us."
Keri walked up to the friends, "I heard that. That was pretty funny." Sarah smiled. "Are you doing okay, Sarah?" She asked, adjusting her backpack.
"Little better."
Amy laughed, "You know, Sarah. Hannah, David, and I had this big speech to give you, but it seems like you're in a good place…oddly enough."
"That's sweet," Keri offered genuinely.
Sarah shrugged, "For now at least." She sighed, "It hurts, don't get me wrong. Especially how it ended and what he's doing now. After seeing Kevin with a new girl, all of a sudden is clear that he wasn't the person for me. He was…artificial. Didn't notice it then, though."
Hannah nodded, understanding Sarah.
Sarah sighed, "My mom and Dad did say a lot of good stuff to help. I'll get through it. And I know I can count on you guys too."
"All the time," smiled David.
Sarah smiled and glanced at Keri, "You too, Keri."
Keri smiled, "I didn't do anything. But thanks."
"You talked to me, which is never bad," Sarah replied.
Later in the day, Sarah headed to her locker during lunch to grab her food after an uneventful and tedious school morning. Passing through the loud hallway, she let out a tired sigh and rubbed her neck. Once at her locker, Sarah opened it and grabbed the brown paper lunch bag within, glancing into the bag for a moment to see what her mom made. She closed it again but then paused when she realized something odd was in it that isn't usually included with her lunch. Sarah reopened it and saw a small piece of paper folded on top of her food.
Sarah removed the piece of paper and unfolded it to see what it was. It was a short letter from her Mother that read,
"We love you, always, always, always, and we are here for you. You can call us anytime, day or night.
Love, Mom
PS: There is something extra in the bag other than this note."
Sarah couldn't help but smile at the letter. She glanced back into the bag and saw something dark wrapped in thin parchment paper. Reaching in and grabbing the item, Sarah could tell it was soft and felt like cake or some sort of bread. Sarah unwrapped the mysterious food item and smiled with joy when she saw a few slices of her Mother's malt loaf. Sarah didn't wait and took a small bite, savoring the soft texture and sweetness from the fruit within it.
Sarah chuckled and shook her head, rewrapping the malt loaf slices and putting it back in the bag. It was so good, she had to stop herself from stuffing her face with it in the middle of the hallway. But it left her longing for more. With that, Sarah closed her locker and headed to find her friends.
Somewhere else in the school, David, Amy, Hannah, and Keri were heading toward the cafeteria to meet up with Sarah. Keri usually didn't join them for lunch but decided to just catch up, which none of the three other friends minded. Squeezing through the packed hallway, the four friends were deep in conversation. Still, they talked loud enough to overcome the chaotic crowd within the corridor.
Suddenly, David stopped in his tracks, prompting the three girls to stop as well. Hannah gave him a confused look, "What are you doing?"
David frowned and saw Kevin talking with his new girl, Holly.
Amy shook her head, "Oh, yeah. Let's go, David. He's not worth it." The three girls began to walk but noticed David wasn't joining them. Amy furrowed her brows, "David.
David looked intense and didn't move nor respond.
Hannah spoke up, "David, what are you doing?"
David began to walk directly toward Kevin. "Give me a minute."
"David, don't!" Hannah called out to him.
David turned back toward his friends, "I have to do something."
Amy sighed, "How about not getting yourself beat up!"
David waved them off and headed to Kevin. Unfortunately, the girls knew that Kevin would beat their friend to a pulp if David and Kevin got into a fight. Kevin is a foot taller, muscular, and a football player.
Keri raised a brow, "Are we going to let this play out?"
Hannah put a hand on her shoulder, "Let it play for a second."
Amy rolled her eyes, "God, you sound like Sarah sometimes. David. Is doing something stupid."
David approached Kevin, "So, Kevin."
Kevin glanced over his shoulder for a moment, "What is it, man?" He then returned to sweet-talking Holly, who grinned and smiled at him.
David stopped behind him, "What, Sarah not girly enough for you or something?"
Kevin turned back around, "Go away. Can't you see I'm busy?"
David chuckled. "I guess you're not man enough to handle that type of girl, huh?" he said, poking his buttons.
Kevin turned around, "What did you say?"
Holly frowned and tugged on Kevin's arm, "Kevin, let's go. He's not worth it." Kevin didn't respond. "It's only Sarah's dumb friend. Just leave him alone, and let's get lunch."
David smirked, "Sarah told me what you said to her when you broke up with her." He glanced at Holly, "Do you know what he said?"
Kevin stepped forward, "So what's it to you?"
"Do you know what you did to her?"
Kevin rolled his eyes, "It's not my problem anymore. I said what I said. Can't take it back now. Besides, last I checked, that doesn't concern you." He pushed him, "Mind your own business."
Kevin turned around and began to walk away.
David called out to him, "It becomes my business when you hurt my friends!"
Kevin turned back around. "Oh, I get it you like her! I always knew it." He chuckled, "Hate to break it to you, we might be over, but I know you're not her type. Besides, she can protect herself. She doesn't need a hero. Especially from you. If she's got a problem, she can find me." Kevin shook his head in disgust, "She doesn't need to send a dumb newspaper boy
Holly tugged Kevin's arm, "Let's go, Kevin." Kevin turned back around.
David frowned, "Oh, I get it. She isn't submissive to you. You can't control her, and she doesn't always do what you say, right? You probably wanted a little more but couldn't get her to agree. Not like you can force her cause she'll just beat—"
Kevin turned around and grabbed David by the collar. "Shut the fuck up!"
"That's it. Isn't it?" David said with blind courage.
At this point, the two of them attracted the attention of everyone in the hallway.
Amy shook her head, "Going in for the rescue." Hannah stops her. "Hannah, Kevin is going to beat the shit out of David."
Hannah nodded, "I think he needs to do this. Let him go."
Keri shook her head, "You got a loyal person in David."
Hannah smiled, "Yup."
Kevin sneered through his teeth. "I broke up with her because there isn't anything between us. That's it. Nothing more, nothing less to that."
"Then why didn't you just say that instead of saying all those things about how tall and strong she is compared to you?" asked David.
"I said shut it," snapped Kevin.
Holly begged her boyfriend to relax, "Kevin, let him go. He's not worth it!"
David laughed, "Can't handle a girl who's stronger than you!" He looked at the crowd around them, "Look, big 'ol jock over here can't handle a girl!" David smirked at Kevin, "Girl, who doesn't want to sleep with you! Oh, not man enough to be weaker than a gi—"
"I said shut up!" Kevin snapped, punching David in the face, sending him to the ground.
"Oh!" the crowd responded in shock.
"God, you're so annoying!" responded Kevin.
David groaned, rubbing his cheek in pain. "Wow, can't even knock me out," he grunted.
Kevin shook his head and took a step forward.
"Leave him alone!" Sarah's voice boomed in the hallway.
Everyone turned and saw Sarah at the end of the hallway. The crowd parted like the sea to let Sarah pass.
Kevin chuckled, "Need her to come to save you again, huh?"
Sarah put herself between Kevin and David. "You know, Kevin. I'm glad it's over. No girl should be told what you said to me. You don't deserve me or any girl her, for that matter." She glanced at Holly, "Not even her." She focused back on Kevin, "You're insecure and pathetic."
Sarah turned and helped David up, who thanked her with a quiet nod.
Sarah glanced at Kevin. "I'm proud of who I am, and I don't need anyone else to tell me different." She nodded, "Continue to live in your sad, pathetic worldview. It's fine." She chuckled, "Also…good luck competing to get to the varsity football team. Heard the tryouts are going to be tough. Best get comfortable in JV."
Kevin stares at her angrily.
Sarah smiled, "Well, you have an interesting choice to make here."
The crowd of teenagers watched intently, ready for another one-sided Sarah Rogers fight.
Sarah smiled, "You can defend your petty and pathetic manliness or." She paused, "Walk away and don't do anything stupid. As you said, you can't date a girl who can beat your ass in a fight. So, you know exactly what's going to happen if you get angry now and throw punches."
Kevin looked around and saw all the eyes on him. He looked at Holly and then took a step back.
Sarah smiled, "Didn't think so. Don't ever talk to David or my friends ever again." With that, Kevin took Holly's hand and walked off, passing the crowd in silence.
Sarah looked at everyone staring at her. Hannah stepped forward and spoke up. "Shows over! Go away!" The other teens quickly went back to getting their things from their locker, grabbing their lunches, and heading to eat.
Amy, Hannah, and Keri greeted the two friends. Amy chuckled, "We thought you were going to lay Kevin out."
Keri shrugged, "Wouldn't mind seeing it, either."
"He wasn't worth it," replied Sarah.
Hannah checked on David. "David, are you okay? What were you thinking?"
David rubbed his raw cheek. "I wasn't. I was just upset at what he said to Sarah, is all. I couldn't let it go."
"I appreciate everything you guys did for me," Sarah responded.
Hannah smiled, "Yep. Kevin isn't as cute now." She scoffed, "What a jerk. Can't believe Holly would go for someone like that."
"I can't talk. I did date him for a while."
Keri shook her head, "But you didn't realize he was that much of an asshole."
David raised his brows. He was the only one who had extreme distrust over the guy.
Amy chuckled, "You got me worried that other boys think the same way."
Sarah nodded, "I'm sure they do."
Keri nodded, "For some reason, boys think that have to be the loudest, most macho, and ass holes to everyone to get girls to like them."
"So stupid," Hannah responded.
Sarah smiled, "But they aren't all like that. Look at David."
"That's true," Amy laughed.
David smiled.
Sarah glanced at him, "Oh, before I forget." She leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Thanks for sticking up for me, David. I appreciate it."
David blushed a bright shade of red. "Uh, uh. N-no problem," he stuttered. David would be lying if he wasn't looking for a moment like that to happen.
Sarah smiled, "Let's go have lunch." With that, she headed down the hall, Amy and Keri following close behind.
Hannah smiled, "What was that with Kevin?"
David shrugged, "I don't know."
Hannah nodded, "That's a good side of you. Keep that up."
David nodded, "Yeah." David began to walk and follow Sarah.
"David," Hannah said, earning a curious glance from him. "If you want to impress someone like Sarah. You don't need to do what you did just now."
"What do you mean? Like pick a fight," he asked.
Hannah nodded, "Yeah. It's like what we said. You don't need to be macho." She nodded toward Sarah, "It's the confidence and sincerity she likes."
David nodded, "I see," he said, staring at Sarah.
Friday, 1 March 1963
After school ended for the week, Sarah walked out with her friends into the cold outdoors. The clouds still covered the sky with a thick gray layer, the temperature was still freezing, but at least it wasn't snowing. Sarah trotted down the small steps, took a little leap from the last step, and planted her landing on the ground. She felt and looked happier compared to the rest of the week.
Though the breakup was still fresh and felt raw, Sarah was well on her way to moving on from it. The memories of the relationship and the bond that Kevin shattered still plagued her mind like it was yesterday. But Sarah, being the mentally strong and physically tough girl, challenged herself to move on. Sarah was in the process of convincing herself that Kevin wasn't worth the tears or pain. It'll take a lot longer to fully move on, but it was a start. It helped that she had friends and family with her. What David did yesterday was surprising and sweet. His actions helped her out a lot. It showed the caliber of person she wanted with her, and she wouldn't settle for anything less. She's lucky to have a friend like David in her life.
Sarah smiled and took in the cold air. Hannah grumbled and bumped into her, "Why are you the happy one right now?" She shivered, "Today was awful, and it's cold."
Sarah shrugged, "It's the weekend."
Keri laughed, "She's got a point."
Amy shivered and bounced on her toes, "I see my mom. I'm going to split before I freeze to death."
Sarah nodded, "See ya, Amy." Amy waved and walked off.
Hannah nodded to the cars parked at the curb, "I see mine too. I'm getting out of here." She smiled at Sarah, "Still hanging out tomorrow?"
"You bet," Sarah smiled. Hannah then ran off, hoping to get out of the cold as soon as possible.
Keri hugged Sarah, "Bye, Sarah."
"Bye, Keri." Sarah smirked, "Are you joining us Saturday too?"
Keri raised a brow, "Oh, sure. I didn't know I was invited."
Sarah rolled her eyes, "You were part of the conversation, Keri. Of course, you're invited."
Keri smiled, "Okay. Saturday then." Keri waved and walked off.
David turned to Sarah and nodded. "Sarah. See you Saturday," he said coolly.
Sarah smiled, "See you soon, David." She nodded, "Thanks for standing up for me yesterday. I know that probably wasn't easy. But I appreciate it."
David nodded, "Any time. You're worth it." With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Sarah alone.
Sarah watched him with a confused look. He looked and acted differently somehow. Standing up to Kevin probably boosted his confidence level a ton, which she supported. David is a good friend. Anyone should be so lucky to have someone like him in their life.
Sarah turned and headed for the bench by the maple tree to meet her sister, but Angela wasn't there to her surprise. Pausing in her tracks, Sarah glanced around and focused on the street, thinking her mom might already be here, and Angela left to get to the car. But that wasn't likely since Angela usually waited for Sarah regardless. Sarah headed for the bench and continued to scan the crowds of teens walking out of the school to see if Angela was nearby.
While scanning for her sister, Sarah spotted Michael walking with Irena and his friends Riley and Rhys. She again began to wonder who her brother liked in the school. He never talks about it nor hints at it with her. It's probably because she's his sister, and he's afraid that she'll blab about it. Sarah supposed it was a reasonable fear. She also knew Irena had a thing for him but would never admit it to him. Poor girl. Sarah smirked. She's sure his friends probably know, which means it's high time she'd ask behind his back about it. That'll drive Michael crazy, but it would be funny.
Suddenly, Angela's voice interrupted her scheming. "Sarah."
Sarah jolted, "Angela!" She smiled at her sister, "Hi!"
Angela looked at her confused, "What were you doing?"
"Nothing. Thinking," responded Sarah.
"Um. About—" Angela began, thinking her older sister was thinking about Kevin again.
Sarah shook her head, "No, no. Nothing like that." She laughed, "Thinking how to make Michael go mad."
Angela laughed, "Oh."
Sarah looked around at the street, "Hm. Don't see Mom or Dad yet." She squinted, "Dad's been busy lately, so I think it's mom who's going to pick us up." Sarah smiled, "Is it weird that Dad is busier than Mom, who runs practically a spy agency?"
Angela spoke up, "I talked to her."
Sarah snapped a look at Angela, "Sorry, what?"
"I talked to Veronica. Um. I told her."
Sarah nodded, "Oh." She made an encouraging smile, "How did that go? Hopefully, no one overheard you."
Angela nodded, "That's where I was. We were alone behind the gym."
"Okay, so what did she say?"
Angela sighed and slumped her shoulders. "She said I was sweet for saying what I said and brave to tell her."
Sarah frowned, "I'm guessing she didn't feel the same."
Angela shook her head, "No." She sighed, "I mean, that's okay. Not like girls dating girls is accepted anyway, so I don't blame her."
Sarah wrapped her arms around her sister and gave her a warm hug. "That shouldn't matter. Love is love, Angela. Heart wants what it wants."
Angela nodded, "I know." She couldn't help but feel disappointed and a little heartbroken that her crush didn't feel the same way. But Angela wasn't an emotionally driven girl. She was just happy to confess it to someone she likes finally. Angela looked up at her sister, "I'm glad I decided to tell her in the first place."
Sarah chuckled and let her go. "That's one way to think of it."
"I'm not too torn up about it."
Sarah laughed, "Well. As you know. There's more fish in the sea."
Angela nodded, "Yeah." She raised a brow, "When do you think I should tell Mom or Dad."
Almost on cue, Sarah spotted their Dad's car pull up. Sarah smirked, "And speak of the devil. Looks like Dad is coming to get us today."
Angela nodded and began heading that way, Sarah walking alongside her.
Sarah glanced at her, "To answer your question. I don't know. Not for a while, at least." She shrugged, "I guess whenever you're confident enough and comfortable enough to tell them."
"I see," responded Angela.
Sarah shook her head, "The thing is, I don't know how they'd react."
"Yeah." Angela sighed, "I probably don't want to tell them for a long while." She looked at her, "Can you be there with me when and if I do?"
Sarah smiled, "Of course."
The two sisters got to their Dad's car and opened the doors. Their father smiled at them, "Sarah, Angela, ready to go home? Ready for the weekend?"
John, sitting in the back seat, smirked, "Dad says we're going to the movies tonight!"
Angela slid into her seat and closed the door, "Ready."
Sarah got in the front seat and closed the door. "Can't wait," she said with a smile.
Their father nodded, "Alright. Let's do it." He gave Sarah a funny look, "Are you doing okay?"
Sarah shot him a look, "I'm excited for the weekend, Dad. Let's go." Her father nodded and quietly began to drive. Sarah smiled and looked out the window.
Quote from The Sound Of Music
This chapter took a while, mainly cause it was hard to write for me. Hopefully, I did it right. If not, well, there's always next time lol.
Hope you all enjoyed this chapter. Sorry it took a while. Lot of life and work stuff the past few months. I will continue to write this story and hope you will continue to enjoy and join in the adventure.
More to eventually come. :)
We are well on our way diving into the 1960s and the major historical events that occur.
Sooooo. I just watched James Bond "No Time to Die." Im probably going to do something about that lol