Scarred Angel

by Ari's World

I looked into his dark brown eyes; I saw nothing but love and adoration. I've never seen that look before. I don't understand why he looks at me like that. Part of me believed he could do much better than me, and while everything in my being told me, I was nothing special. He helped me feel like I was.

12. Limit Reached

Hey,

I hope everyone is staying safe and happy! Thank you to those who have favored, followed, and reviewed you are my inspiration and I appreciate each and every one of you! I appreciate you taking the time to read my story. I hope you guys liked Chapter 10. I'm a bit nervous for you to read Chapter 11. But, nevertheless, I hope you enjoy it!

I have posted Scarred Angel on Fanfiction, Tumblr, and Archive of our own as well. Enjoy!

Always and Forever,

Ari.

Warnings: Mentions of anxiety, bullying, physical abuse, anger issues, misuse of a bet, stress, emotional abuse, negative thoughts, and implying abusive sexual innuendos.

Disclaimer: I only own my OC's and parts of the plot you do not recognize from the Twilight Saga.

Chapter 11: Limit Reached

"I guess that's just part of loving people: You have to give things up. Sometimes you even have to give them up."

― Lauren Oliver, Delirium

8:27 a.m. La Push High, La Push, Washington

I tapped my fingers on the steering wheel, listening to the rain pelt against the windshield. I glanced down at my phone, grimacing at the time. I needed to go to my locker, yet I couldn't force myself to get out. "You're being a baby," I mumbled, unclicking my seat belt. Only a few more months of school and I could be done with this hell hole forever. I hit the wipers seeing Alex still perched on the ledge beside the doors. Of course, he would pick the day where Paul wouldn't be here. "You don't need him to fight your battles," I grumbled at my thoughts. I could face him alone, I didn't need someone to hold my hand. A rapid knock on my window, caused me to clutch my heart. I glanced out the window seeing Kim grinning at me.

I opened my door, smiling when she held the umbrella higher so that we didn't get wet. "Why are you so jumpy?" I grabbed my bag getting out of the car, slamming the car door. I hooked my arm through hers thankful that she was there. I was a coward and I would admit it head-on. I didn't want to be anywhere with him.

"When am I not jumpy," I asked, holding my bag closer to my chest. Kim laughed, pulling me towards the double doors. My arm tightened in hers when we walked past Alex. I was thankful that he didn't try to stop us. I just had to get through two classes, the time in between classes, lunch and after school. "I have so much to tell you."

"We should've skipped today," Kim sighed, closing her umbrella. "I do not want to run today," She yawned, gesturing for me to take the umbrella. I took it, mouthing sorry when I accidentally flung water at a random chick. "Are we going through the maze?"

"Yeah," I murmured wishing that I didn't have to go through the maze, but at least that I wasn't alone. "Wanna skip during lunch?"

"Uh Yeah! Let's go eat in Forks," Kim smiled, jumping up and down. I laughed, jumping with her, ignoring the weird looks we were getting. "Alright meet me at my locker?"

I nodded, letting her arm go. "Sounds like a plan. See you in the locker room then." I turned heading to my locker. I weaved in and out of people, wishing that I could just walk normally through the halls. I hummed to myself when I finally reached my locker.

"Is this what we are doing now," I tensed hearing Alex's voice behind me. I held my breath, opening my locker, setting my new chocolate bars in, and grabbing out my textbook. "Laryssa." I gripped my book tightly, so I didn't turn around and knee him. I needed to go about this calmly and not give away my power. He didn't deserve to see how much he hurt me.

I jumped back, dropping my book when his hand reached over my shoulder slamming my locker. I turned to shove him back forgetting about being calm. "I told you to leave me alone." I glared at him watching his dark eyes widen at my sudden use of force. I had never gotten angry at him to the point where I would put my hands on him. "I don't want to speak to you. I don't want anything to do with you." Walk away, before you do something you will regret.

I grabbed my book, walking quickly to the classroom. I could feel several eyes on my back and I hated the attention. I had no doubt that the rumors were going to start circulating. I yanked open the door sighing in relief when there was no one in the classroom. I ran my fingers through my hair, wishing that I could crawl under my covers and bawl. My phone buzzed in my pocket and I pulled it out, slowly walking to the desk that started out as Alex and I's desk but turned into Paul and I's desk. I set my bag down with a thunk, a small grateful smile rising as I looked at Paul's message sitting down in the uncomfortable chair.

Paul: Have a good day today! Miss you. See you later?

Laryssa: Yeah your turn to pick a movie. ;P

Laryssa: I'll try. Have a good day too. Miss you too! See you later.

I rubbed my finger fondly over my lockscreen. I bit my lip, at the picture of us. I unlocked my phone, clicking on Paul's message again. I typed in a new message to him, hovering over the send button. "Stop being a coward."

I hit send before my brain could talk me out of it.

Laryssa: 3 (A/N: This is supposed to be a heart, but IDK why it won't stay as one)

Flashback: 4:45 p.m. Inside Lahote House, La Push, Washington

I moved closer to the warmth, pressing my face into a firm surface. I frowned wondering what I had put on my bed and since I didn't want to open my eyes, I used my hand to try and figure out what was so warm and firm. When I couldn't figure it out, I surrendered, opening my eyes to see brown skin under my palm. I dropped my hand biting my lip at my stupidity for forgetting that I had asked Paul to take a nap with me, I took a small peek at Paul only to see him still passed out, snoring away. I let out a breath of relief when I realized he wasn't awake to feel me accidentally grabbing his body. I glanced down at our bodies, grimacing when I realized that I was probably crushing him since I was halfway on his body. I had half a mind to just forget about it and go back to sleep since he was really warm. I stilled when Paul moved his snores halting, pulling me so that I was closer and his hand was lightly rubbing my back.

"Why are you so tense," He whispered groggily, burying his face further in my hair. "Relax, Laryssa." I nodded, taking his advice, trusting that if I was making him uncomfortable he would tell me. I laid my head back on his chest listening to the steady beat of his heart."Did you sleep okay?"

"Yeah," I said, feeling well-rested. I usually got cold easily, but his warmth kept me content. "Did you," I asked, letting my fingers trace shapes into his skin. I pressed my head closer to his chest when I heard his heart beat faster.

"I haven't slept that good in years," He admitted, pulling back to look at me. I peeked up at him, shooting him a small grin. "I might not let you go home now."

I laughed, scooting up so that I was eye level with him. Paul moved his arm so he could prop his head up. "I guess it wouldn't mind," I teased, resting my face on my hand. "Your bed is really comfortable." Paul laughed tilting his head back.

He looked back at me still smiling as he brushed his fingers against my cheek. Paul moved so that he hovered over me, I leaned back against the bed, reaching up to rest my hand on his face. I couldn't seem to stop reaching out to touch him. There were times that I felt like I was dreaming and when I felt his warm skin I knew that I wasn't dreaming. I pulled him closer, brushing my nose against his. Slowly I let my fingers trail into the hair on the nape of his neck. "Is that the only reason why you wouldn't mind?"

All I had to do was lean up and our lips would meet. "There might be a few more," I grinned, playing with his hair. I tugged lightly, biting my lip when he let out a small groan. "Did I hurt you?"

He shook his head, reassuring me that I wasn't pulling his hair too hard. "Tell me the other reasons… Please," He leaned closer, his lips brushing against mine softly. I could hear my heart pounding excitedly in my chest and I was starting to forget all my reasons at the chaste kiss. If I pressed my head further in the pillow and tilted my head up, our lips would fully meet. I closed my eyes when I felt his hand take mine.

"You're really warm," I opened my eyes, pulling him closer. I held his gaze before I lifted up to meet his lips. He grinned into the kiss, letting my hand go so he could place it on my back. I broke away when he flipped us so that I was hovering over him. I blinked rapidly trying to fight the sudden rush of dizziness. I laughed once I felt better, hitting his chest playfully. "You scared me."

"Sorry babe," He sat up, pulling me flush against his chest. I shivered at the new term. I hooked my arms around his neck, tilting my head to the side. I looked away from him, staring out his window seeing the rain still falling. "What's out there?"

"The rest of my reasons," I teased, squirming away when his hands pressed into my sides. I knocked my forehead against his chin, trying to fight off his hands. "Why are you so strong?" Paul chuckled, wrapping his arms around mine so I was trapped.

"One more reason and I'll let you go," Paul compromised, leaning closer to press a soft kiss at the tip of my nose. I stared at him wondering how I ever made the mistake of thinking he was an ass. "Promise."

"I really like spending time with you, even if it's just something simple like taking a nap," I admitted slightly embarrassed as I pursed my lips when his arms released mine. I didn't like the fact that I suddenly felt cold. "Satisfied," I asked, pushing my hair away from my face.

"I am," He rested his arms on my back. I settled my arms over his shoulders, letting my fingers trail back to the nape of his neck. My attention was drawn away when I heard the rumble of thunder. The last time that I heard thunder was when I was trying to take a photo, I had almost dropped the camera because the boom startled me. I wasn't really one for selfies, but as I thought about it more in-depth, Paul and I had no pictures together. "Tell me what you're thinking about?"

"We don't have any pictures together," I replied, shrinking closer when lightning flashed. I could ignore the thunder and the rain, the lightning not so much. I looked back at Paul, willing myself not to get scared.

"Want me to close the curtains," Paul asked, starting to rub my back. I shook my head, telling myself that I could handle it, I just didn't like it. Without letting go of me he reached back grabbing his phone. He unlocked it, "I may or may not have taken a few pictures of you at the beach."

"Oh?" I perked up, moving closer to his phone to see the photos. I couldn't help the smile that spread across my face as I looked at his screensaver of me, staring at the ocean. I smirked when I realized that it was the day he had chased me. Although I didn't remember him taking one. "That was a nice day," I murmured suddenly feeling shy and flattered at the fact that he set it as his screensaver. I looked away from his phone, focusing on tracing shapes into his skin so I didn't blush.

"Yeah, it was," He rested his head on my shoulder. "Laryssa?" He picked up his head from my shoulder, staring at me with a small smile. I smiled back, giving him my full attention. I blinked rapidly when I heard a small click. Paul laughed looking back at his phone, pulling up the picture. "You'll like this one," He held it up, I squinted trying to see it.

"May I?" I asked, holding my hand out for his phone. He set it in my palm, I readjusted his brightness so I could see the photo better. I grinned down at it, slightly envious at how well he took the picture. "What are some things that you aren't good at?"

"I'll tell you when I find out," Paul reached up kissing me.

8:37 a.m. La Push High, La Push, Washington

I looked down at the picture of me smiling down at him fondly. He was so confident that I admired him and I wanted to be like that too. I locked my phone with a small smile, pocketing it when my classmates started to enter. I pulled out my notebook, clicking my red pen as I roughly sketched a rose since I didn't have a partner today. I reached up to take my pendant out of my jacket when Alex strolled in, I started messing with it as I tried to focus on the sketch instead of Alex roughly pulling the chair out in front of me. I wanted to glare at him when he shoved the chair into my desk, causing me to mess up. I knew he wanted a reaction and I wasn't going to give it to him. He wanted to mess with me fine, I could deal with it. I continued on, ignoring the darker red line as I started over again. He did it again and I set my pen down calmly, scooting my chair back pulling the table with me so he couldn't touch the table.

"Partner up," Ms. Blu called, clapping her hands excitedly. I tried my hardest to ignore Alex when he shoved his chair back into my desk. I licked my lips, silently telling myself to breathe. "Laryssa?" I glanced at Ms. Blu waving her hand at me to come to her desk. I set my things on my chair so Alex couldn't touch them. I stood, walking to her desk, making sure that I could still see Alex and my things. "Since your partner isn't here today and you two have missed a few classes, you're gonna have to make up the work out of class."

"Can I show you something," I asked, ignoring her comment. She nodded wearily and I went back to my desk grabbing my bag and notebook. I brought my notebook up to her, flipping through the pages until I reached my rough draft of Paul's biography. "We finished our questions yesterday," I handed her my notebook so she could skim it. "I started typing it last night."

Ms. Blu slowly flipped through my front and back pages, a small smile on her face. "All of the questions?"

"All of them," I confirmed hoping that she was satisfied with it. "Since I did this and I'm using my laptop to write it. Can I go to the library?" The last thing I wanted was to be on the end of Alex's torments.

"I'll give you a pass," She opened her drawer, writing in her bubbly letters. "Paul finished his too?" She inquired, tearing the purple slip off the pad. She closed my notebook setting my slip on top of it.

"Yeah, but I'm not sure if he typed it up yet," I said, grabbing the slip with a small smile.

"Good job," Ms. Blu nodded glancing at the rest of the class. I took that as a sign that I could leave. "Laryssa?" I turned, wondering what else she wanted. "I can't wait to read it." I smiled, turning back to the door. I quickly left the room, letting out a sigh of relief. I had a whole hour to myself without having to worry about Alex.

I turned around the corner tucking my slip into my notebook, grimacing when I saw Cody. I couldn't get a break, I clicked my red pen nervously, hoping that he would leave me alone. "Good morning, Laryssa." I stopped glancing at Cody's smirk. I wasn't in the mood to deal with him.

"Morning," I gritted my teeth, starting to walk away feeling him following me.

"Hey," I heard his heavy footsteps, reminding myself to stay calm as I ignored him. His rough hand wrapped around my arm, shoving me against the locker. I winced when my back connected with one of the locks. "What did I tell you?"

I stared into his hateful brown eyes, shoving my anger down. I didn't understand why he felt the need to touch me. I yanked my arm out of his hold, glaring up at him. "Don't touch me."

"Bold of you to think you have a choice," Cody smirked leaning closer. I gagged at the smell of his breath. I had half a mind to shove a bottle of Listerine down his throat so I didn't have to smell dead fish again. "Who do you think you are?"

I dropped my bag and notebook, hearing the loud bang carry through the empty hallways. "Someone who is not in the mood for your bullshit." I watched his face morph into fury. I swallowed my fear when I felt his hand wrap around my throat, slamming my head against the locker. I ignored the pain, feeling panic set in as I clawed his hand, trying to get it off of me.

He leaned closer to me, and his breath surrounded my senses. I glared at him the best I could, digging my nails into his hand. "Brave girl."

I tried to shove the panic down, but the more I felt his hand press on my throat tightly, the more uneasy I felt. I let my hand drop from his moving to stand on my toes to get some relief. He shuffled on his feet so I could move. His hand tightened again and I pressed my hands against his shoulders. Cody laughed at my small attempts to push him off. "Off- me" I choked out, unable to breathe in deeply, realizing that if he moved back a little bit, I could knee him where the sun didn't shine and get away from him. His hand loosened some as he shifted and I made my move. I grabbed his shoulders, digging my nails into his shirt, bringing my knee up harshly feeling his hand let go of me. I bent down grabbing my things, ignoring him kneeling in pain, as I took off down the hallway not daring to look back. I reached the library doors, yanking them open, shoving myself past a few students not listening to their protests.

"You there, what's the rush?" I stopped pressing my hand to my racing heart. I tried to stop my hands from shaking. I kneeled, holding my notebook closer to my chest trying to calm myself. I scrambled back when a hand touched my shoulder. I looked up into the grey eyes of the old librarian. "Are you alright?"

"Yes," I stuttered out, opening my notebook to hand her the slip. "You just startled me," I lied, hoping that she would take the slip and leave me be. She reached out, taking the slip from my hand. She looked as if she didn't believe me but she didn't push further. Slowly, I got to my feet pulling my things closer to me. "Is there anything else you need from me?" I wanted to curl myself in the farthest corner of the library and forget about what just happened.

"No, let me know if you need anything," She emphasized anything and I almost wanted to take her up on her offer. I nodded, walking to the corner where I knew I wouldn't be bothered. I set my things on the small circular desk, looking around wearily realizing that I was the only one in this area. Quietly I pulled out my small compact mirror, tugging my jacket down seeing finger marks on my neck, and three scratches. I swallowed harshly, dropping the mirror watching it clatter on the table. I curled my hands into fists, wanting to find him and sock him in his disgusting mouth for daring to touch me but I knew I wouldn't do it. I closed my eyes, feeling my eyes burn at my shame. I was scared of Cody before he grabbed me, now I was terrified of him. I adjusted my sweater, trying to figure out what to do. I settled against the chair, knowing that I had half an hour to try and relax.

10:17 a.m. Gym, La Push High, La Push, Washington

I sat on the bleachers, fiddling with my jacket. "I have a test later, we can't go get lunch," Kim huffed, plopping herself next to me. She leaned back, patting her stomach sadly. "I really wanted pizza."

"Kim," I murmured, pulling my jacket closer wishing that I could see if the marks bruised. "I'm going to go to the locker room. I'll be right back." I didn't bother to listen to her response as I quickly walked towards the locker room. I rushed into the room, checking to see if there was anyone else in there. When I didn't see anyone, I looked into the mirror pulling my jacket down, moving my hair to the side, seeing the marks had faded, but the scratches remained. "Fucking Cody," I whispered, wishing that I had brought makeup so I could hide it. I fixed my jacket, seeing one of the stalls open. I cursed at myself when I realized that I had forgotten to check the stalls. I glanced at the smaller girl, hoping she didn't see anything. I turned away from her, heading back out to the gym. I opened the door not watching where I was going, and I bumped into Kim. I tried to smile, as I fixed my jacket. "Sorry, I wasn't thinking."

"C'mon tell me everything," Kim tugged on my arm, pulling me to sit in the empty entrance. I eyed the gym doors wondering if Coach Mig was gonna be mad. "Eh, he doesn't care. Tell me everything." I sighed, moving my hand to my neck.

"Alex made a bet with someone over the phone. I guess he bet a hundred dollars that he would be the one to take my virginity on prom night," I told her, watching the shock filter through her face before anger took over. She got up starting to pace back and forth. "Kim. Sit down."

"I'll beat him up for you," Kim growled, slamming her fist against her hand. "Give me a signal and I'll make sure he pays." She sat down next to me and I smiled at her. "Laryssa, what are you gonna do?"

"Cut him off," I shrugged, pulling my legs to my chest. "Right now Kim, it's the least of my worries. I honestly just don't care," I admitted, wondering if it was because of Cody. What happened was the only thing that I could really think about and the only thing I was worried about.

"What else are you worried about," Kim shuffled closer to me, staring at my hand on my neck. I closed my eyes, feeling burdensome. It wasn't fair that I was always going through something and Kim was always comforting me.

"It's nothing, so what's new with you," I asked, not wanting to talk about it. I wanted to be distracted and not deal with what happened earlier. "Let's talk about something else."

Kim stared at me, a small frown on her face. "I'm gonna let it go this once." She stated, stretching her legs out in front of her. "You know you can tell me anything right?"

I leaned my head on her shoulder, she was like the sister I'd always wanted. "I know Kim. I just haven't talked to you in forever and I want to know what's going on with you." Kim smiled, launching into a story about how Jared took her out to eat in Forks and how he had fallen into a pile of mud.

11:53 a.m. Cafeteria, La Push High, La Push, Washington

I sat in my usual seat, staring at Cody across the lunchroom. He laughed with his little group of friends and it was irritating me. I could faintly hear Kim grumbling about her test in her next hour. I tapped my nails on the table, catching Cody's gaze. I averted my eyes, feeling his glare on me. I could hear the blood rushing to my ears and I blocked out everything Kim was saying. I dropped my hand to my lap when he reached the table.

"Laryssa. Kim." Cody greeted sitting right beside me. He pulled his chair closer to mine and I wrinkled my nose at the smell. He placed his arm on the back of my chair when I didn't look at him. "Laryssa, don't think I forgot about our little talk."

I scoffed, shoving him away from me. I knew he wouldn't try anything with a room full of people. I turned in my chair knocking my knees against his leg, staring at him. I leaned towards him, "You're mistaking me." I glared at him, feeling fury run through my veins. I was tired of being a burden. I was tired of being shoved around by him. I was tired of feeling hurt by Alex. I was tired of being scared. I had reached my limit and if he pressed me any further I was going to blow. "I'm going to tell you this once, and I hope you can get it through your thick head." Cody scowled, his eyes flashing angrily. "If you ever bother me again, you will regret it."

Cody laughed sarcastically, grabbing my right wrist tightly, his nails digging in. I grabbed his hand digging my nails into the material of his tan long sleeve. "Your show of anger is laughable. I can do whatever the hell I want. If I want to mess with you, then I will. Your threat doesn't scare me."

I let his hand go, yanking my wrist from his grip. I stood up quickly letting my chair clatter against the floor as it fell. I narrowed my eyes at him, curling my hand into a fist. "That's the thing Rivers, I'm not scared of you. And it wasn't a threat." I said, aware of everyone's eyes on us. "It's a promise."

Cody gritted his teeth standing up, towering over me. I felt my blood run cold when he shoved me into the table, "You stupid bitch. Who the fuc-"

I cut him off, slamming my fist into his cheek, watching him go down. I shook my hand at the flair of pain, ignoring the excited shouts of the other kids. I could feel Kim yanking on my arm to get away from him, but I stayed staring down at him. Cody glared up at me, touching his split lip. "I'm a girl tired of your shit," I hissed, ignoring the others crowding around us. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Alex moving to stand in between Cody and I. His back was turned towards me as she blocked me from Cody. I wanted to scoff at his show of trying to protect me.

"Ms. Chiago," Coach Mig yelled, pushing through the crowd, "What the hell is your problem?". He grabbed my arm tightly, helping Cody up from the floor. "You alright Rivers?"

I pulled myself from his grip, feeling Kim let go of me. "I can find my way to the principal's office without you touching me." I shoved my way through the crowd, ignoring the pats on the back and the glares. I stopped short seeing the librarian and I could see a look of understanding on her face. I blinked rapidly trying to clear the burn from my eyes. She walked towards me, putting her arm behind my back walking with me to the office. I stopped, staring at her as I pulled down my jacket showing her the marks on my neck and wrist. I didn't know what was going to happen, but I knew she would believe me regardless and that was okay with me. "He shouldn't have put his hands on me."

Her eyes softened, patting my back gently. "Let's get you to the nurse." I nodded, feeling hypersensitive to everything. I wanted it to stop.

12:19 p.m. Nurses Office, La Push High, La Push, Washington

I stared at the posters, ignoring Jennifer cleaning the small cut on my hand. I could feel Francis' eyes on me, but I couldn't bear to look at her. I heard the door open, I didn't dare look at whoever entered. "Laryssa?"

My eyes snapped to Kim holding my things. She set them on the chair moving to sit beside me. "You have to go back to class," Francis said, looking at Kim.

She ignored her, moving to kneel by my legs. "You okay?" I nodded at her, glancing at the elder librarian. Kim set her hand on my knees. "I-"

"I'm okay," I sent her a small smile, patting her hand. "Go take your test, I'll be okay. Thanks for bringing my things." Kim frowned standing up, pushing a chocolate bar into my palm. "Eat something, even if it's this." Kim sighed, hiking her bag on her shoulder, "I… text me if you need me."

I held the chocolate bar in my hand, watching her leave the small room. I looked down at the bar, realizing that it wasn't one of mine. I closed my eyes when I realized she must have kept one on her. "Your hand is going to be bruised. Anything else you want me to look at," Jennifer prompted, causing me to open my eyes, as she sat back on her heels.

I was about to tell her, no, but Francis beat me. "There are scratches on her neck." Jennifer nodded, moving to move my jacket. I shuffled away from her when she grabbed my jacket. I looked at the floor, pulling my jacket to the side when I realized she was trying to help. She frowned, leaning closer to them. "It's going to sting when I clean them."

The door opened and Mr. Peters walked in, shutting the door behind him. He let out a heavy sigh, staring at me with a look of indifference. I held his gaze, not daring to show the uncomfortable stinging that Jennifer was inflicting on my neck. "What happened?"

"I hit him for putting his hands on me," I said, trying to figure out what was going through his mind. He sat down in the chair, his tone accusing, "I wasn't able to get a hold of your parents. You're going to be suspended for three days and you must write an apology to Mr. Rivers. You know, I had half a mind to expel you, but your teachers spoke up for your character, so you are presented with one more chance.."

My character was being questioned because I threw the first punch. I laughed at him, seeing the shock filter through his face. "My mom's at work and my dad is dead," I answered, not really caring that I was suspended, but irritated that he had the audacity to try and come after my character. I had a spotless record, I always got along with my teachers and others. Cody got what he deserved and I wasn't going to apologize for it, it's not like they would've done anything if I would've told them. Since I didn't have a parent in my corner I had to defend myself. "It's funny that you want to expel me when he was the one that did this earlier this morning," I gestured to my neck. "Check your cameras in the math wing and you'll see what kind of person he is." I glared at him, "You wanna expel me for defending myself, get ready for a lawsuit on you. There were multiple teachers in that lunchroom and not one of them did anything when he shoved me or grabbed my wrist. I'm not going to apologize for defending myself against him. He shouldn't have touched me in the first place."

I breathed hard, wishing that I had my dad with me. Instead, I was alone, and my mother couldn't even bother to pick up her phone. I froze when the door opened and Sue walked in. I batted Jennifer's hands away, rushing to hug her. Sue hugged me tightly, "Seth and Jay messaged me and I came right away. What's going on?"

"Who are you," Mr. Peters asked, standing up.

"Sue Clearwater," Her voice sounded tight as she addressed him. "I'm on the school board, we met last Tuesday." I pulled away from her. "I'm Laryssa's aunt," She lied, frowning at him.

"I'm sorry. It's been a long day," His voice changed into one more at ease. "I was trying to understand what caused Laryssa to hit another student."

Sue looked down at me, her eyebrows creasing in worry. I scoffed at the man, "Liar," I huffed turning to face him. How dare he try to play that he wasn't just shaming me. "Don't change your tune because my fami-"

"Laryssa," Francis held her hand up, shaking her head lightly. "Doulas," She chided, crossing her arms. "This is unbecoming of you, maybe I should have a word with the superintendent about this incident." He pinched the bridge of his nose, "Let the three of us have a word outside."

"I will talk to Laryssa first," Sue stated, setting her hands on my upper arms. Francis nodded, ushering the others out. I sat down on the bed when they left, setting my head in my hands. I felt Sue sit next to me, setting her arm around my back rubbing it soothingly.

She waited patiently until I was ready to talk. "He put his hand around my throat this morning. Then he came to the lunch table and I told him that if he bothered me he was going to regret it. He said he can do whatever he wants and he's not scared of my threats. Then I said it wasn't a threat but a promise and then he called me a stupid bitch, so I hit him. He's always picked on me and I can't take it anymore."

Sue nodded, moving my hair staring at the scratches. She grabbed the rest of Jennifer's supplies, recleaning my neck. She rested her hand on my cheek, "Leave the rest to me."

"I just want to go home," I let my shoulders drop, wishing that I could shut myself in my art room.

"Soon, trust me," Sue got up heading towards the door.

1:03 p.m. Nurses Office, La Push High, La Push, Washington

"You're suspended for one day, so you have a three day weekend. You don't have to apologize and he is being expelled," Sue said, holding my bag. "C'mon, let's get you home."

I stood grabbing my bag, walking by her side keeping my eyes on my feet. I rummaged through my bag getting my keys out. "Thank you for coming. I appreciate it."

"I'm always going to be here for you," Sue set her hand on my shoulder, stopping me. She lifted my head up, "Hold your head up, you defended yourself against a horrible kid and the principle. I'm sorry that you had to, but don't be ashamed of what you did." I stared at her, wishing I didn't feel the way I did. "Your dad would be proud."

I missed him now more than ever. "I'm going to go home. I hate to ask you, but will you pick up Jay?"

"Yes. I'll talk to him," Sue pulled me into a hug, rubbing the back of my head. "I'll bring you some food, so don't bother cooking. Call if you need anything." I let her go, walking over to my car ignoring the rain. I set my stuff in the back getting in. I held the steering wheel, turning the car on and backing out of the school. Once I was far away I let my tears fall.

1:39 p.m. Driveway of Chiago House, La Push, Washington

I stared at the house, turning off the car. Slowly I got off, feeling the cold rain soak into my clothes. I made my way up the steps, turning when I heard tires meeting the gravel. I let out a breath when the truck came to a screeching halt and Paul jumped out not bothering to turn it off or close his door. I stood frozen when he ran towards me. I took a few steps towards him before I broke out into a sprint. He caught me, holding me close to his chest. I grabbed him burying my face into him. "I've got you," I heard him murmur. "Let's get you out of the rain."

"How-," I pulled back, feeling tears mix with the rain. He stared down at me, his eyes connecting with my neck. I felt him start to tremble as he took a step back. "Paul?" His fingers trailed up to my neck still vibrating, a furious look crossing his face. "Rivers?" I nodded, holding my arms closer to my body. "Laryssa, I need you to go inside." I stared at him confused. "Baby… please." I stepped back when his voice came out strained.

I shook myself out of my confusion, turning on my heel to rush up the stairs. I glanced back seeing him running off into the woods. "What is going on," I asked, holding my arms closer to my chest going to let myself in the house. I turned back to my car, hearing Paul's truck still running. I bit my lip, running back out into the rain to get his keys. I turned off his truck, slamming the door turning around seeing a flash of silver in the woods. I squinted, taking a step closer trying to figure out if I was seeing things. I rubbed my eyes, freezing when I saw a dark figure slink through the woods where Paul had run off too.

---

Let me know what you guys think!

Edited on May 28, 2020.