Chapter Eight

Martin's eyes widened. "Ruthie, you still have to finish school. I love you with all my heart, but now's not the best time. You know I'd marry you in a heartbeat, but we both know it would be best to wait. Is it even legal?"

Ruthie chuckled. "I don't think so. I guess you're right, but it's going to be hard to get through the next two years!"

Now it was Martin's turn to laugh. "I should get some sleep now. I'll see you in the morning."

"Okay," Ruthie told him as she exited. "Sweet dreams." She blew him a kiss.

Mac was still in the lobby waiting. As he saw Ruthie walk by, he chased after her.

"How is he?"

"Fine. He'll be released tomorrow," Ruthie replied, not even looking at Mac.

"That's good," Mac said.

"It is," Ruthie nodded in agreement.

"Are you still not talking to me?" Mac asked her.

"I just did, didn't I?"

"Yeah, but--"

Ruthie cut him off. "Look, I don't think I can ever forgive you for what you did. The ONLY reason I'm talking to you is because Martin is doing fine. Otherwise, you'd be lucky to get a nod out of me!"

Mac had tears running down his face. "I am so sorry."

"Look, I didn't mean to be so rude to you." Ruthie calmed down.

They started walking together back to the hotel.

"Why did you do it?" Ruthie asked silently, tears flowing.

Mac shook his head. "I don't know why I got drunk. I guess I was just jealous of Martin."

"Why?" Ruthie stopped walking. "His dad has been in Iraq for months! His mom died when he was little! If anything, he should be jealous of you! Even though your parents are divorced, they're still living!"

"I'm jealous because he has you." Mac looked her right in the eye.

"Why?"

"Ruthie, you are of my best friends. You are so kind to others, even me when I don't really deserve it. You're just--perfect."

Ruthie didn't know how to respond, so she just took off, dashing to the hotel.

She stopped walking for the second time that night when she got to the entrance.

Sitting right in the lobby was Peter.

A/N: Getting interesting, huh? Sorry the chapters are short--it will just be a long story. Please hit that blue button and review!