Categories > Celebrities > Fall Out Boy > This Heart Of Mine
Title: This Heart Of Mine, Chapter 1/?
Fandom: Fall Out Boy (Is this really a surprise?)
Genre: Romance
Characters/Pairing(s): Patrick (again..is it a surprise?), Addison, Maggie, Pat, Roberta
Disclaimer/Warning: Nothing yet.
Summary: A new girl (aren’t most of mine, new girls haha) comes to Glenview and meets a new friend…and her brother.
A/N: I’m going to try and get the last of my new stories up before I leave on Saturday. I’m going to be at my moms from Saturday to Tuesday. I’m seeing Panic on Tuesday and staying in Minneapolis overnight. I should be home sometime on Wednesday. So there won’t be an update for awhile. I hope you like this story. It actually just came to me. I really don’t like to have more than 2 stories going that I write myself.
Chapter 1
I really don’t know where to start. Things have been so crazy the last few years. I haven’t seen him. Patrick. I think I knew I loved him when I first met him. Can you fall in love with someone when you are 13? I’m pretty sure I did. I guess we’ll start there.
I just moved to Glenview with my mom. Can I tell you the truth? I hated it. I wanted to go back to Minnesota. My mom wanted a fresh start. My dad decided to start a new family and basically left us. So off to Illinois we went. Okay, so picture it, Glenview, 1998, sunny, and the first day of spring. Yes, I still watch Golden Girls. Now I’ll let my 13 year old self start and come back in the next chapter.
1999
I woke up to my mom making pancakes. I usually love the smell, but not today. Being 13 and in middle school is hard enough, but with people you don’t know. I’m going to be sick. I run to the bathroom and throw up. After that I decide to get ready.
After my shower I look in my closet. What to wear? I finally go with a t-shirt and jeans. Guess, you really can’t go wrong. Can you? I go downstairs and find my mom in the kitchen.
“Addison, I was just about to call you. How are you doing?”
“Terrible. Can I just stay home. Maybe be home schooled?”
“No. Now sit and I’ll get you a plate.”
I sat down and my mom brought me a plate of pancakes that looked like a hungry man’s feast.
“You do know I’m a 13 year old girl, right?”
“I just thought you could use a little extra something.
“I appreciate it, but I’m sick how it is.”
“It’ll be fine. You better hurry. You don’t want to be late.”
“God forbid.”
“Don’t start, Addie. You know this is hard on both of us. I felt the same way when I went to work. Just be yourself.”
I hurried up and grabbed my backpack.
“I’m going to go now.”
“You sure you don’t want me to give you a ride?”
“That’s alright. I’ll see you later.”
“Bye. Have a good day.”
I walked to the end of the street. My mom and I lived in a cul de sac. It was a nice neighborhood. I knew there were a lot of kids, but at the time I just didn’t feel like getting to know any. As I got closer I notice a lot of older kids and a few around my age. I kept to myself as usual and then this girl with dark hair came up to me.
“Hey, my name is Maggie. Your new around here, right?”
“Yeah. My name is Addison, but I go by Addie.”
“What grade are you in?”
“Eighth.”
“Same here.”
“I’m so nervous.”
“Don’t be. It won‘t be bad.”
The bus came and I sat with Maggie. She seemed really nice. Once we got to the school we got our schedules and locker numbers. All the fun first day stuff. Maggie actually had her locker next to mine. So we went and tried to open ours. I seem to always have trouble with lockers. Never can get the damn thing open. Maggie of course got hers open. Me, well of course not. She came and started working on it.
“There you go. It was jammed.”
“Thanks. I may need you again. I’m actually sure I’ll need you again.”
After getting our lockers open we went to our homeroom. We had 3 classes together, but I met some of her friends and the day wasn’t too bad. After school we went home. Getting off the bus Maggie asked me to come to her house. Mom never got home until after 6:00 so I decided to go.
“Mom, I’m home and I brought a friend. Is that alright?”
“Oh, sure.”
Maggie’s mom came into the front room.
“She lives up the road.”
“Your living in the Doctor’s house. Well, not anymore.”
“I guess so. I really don’t know. My name is Addie.”
“Nice to meet you. I’m Pat.”
“We’ll be upstairs.”
Maggie showed me to her room. Since being the first day we didn’t have any homework so we did pretty much what any teenage girls did. Talk about boys and listened to music. Two hours later there was a knock on her door.
“What?”
The door opened and the most gorgeous boy in all of my thirteen years came in.
“Mom wanted me to get you for supper. She said your friend can stay if she wants.”
“Oh, okay. Thanks. We’ll be down in a little bit.”
The boy left Maggie’s room.
“Do you want to stay?”
‘I’ll have to call my mom. Who was that?”
“My brother Patrick. I have two older brothers. Kevin is 18. He’s in college in Arizona. Patrick is 15 and goes to high school. Let’s go downstairs so you can call your mom.”
When we went downstairs all I could say in my head was Patrick. Maggie showed me the phone in the living room and I called my mom. She was going to be late at work anyways so it was fine. I went to the dining room. Patrick was there, but no Maggie or Pat.
“Um, where should I sit?”
“Anywhere. I’m Patrick. Mags didn’t tell me your name.”
“It’s Addie Nelson. My mom and I just moved here not too long ago.”
I went and sat across from him.
“Hope you like it.”
“It’s alright. I’d rather be in Minnesota though. That’s where I’m from.”
“We’ve been there a few times for vacations. It’s nice.”
I could tell he was nervous. He kept pulling on his hat and I could feel the floor shaking with his foot moving up and down.
“Are we ready?”
Pat came out with supper. I think I even heard Patrick sigh of relief.
“Patrick what have I told you about the hat? Take it off. Where is your sister?”
“I don’t know. She came down with Addie.”
Patrick took off his hat and his hair was all over the place. He smoothed it down with his hands. He looked so cute.
“Sorry, mom.”
Maggie came in the room and sat down.
“Where were you?”
“Upstairs.”
“I know that.”
“She was probably talking to David.”
“Don’t be a jerk, Patrick How could I? Addie was on the phone.”
“She’s been in her for the last fifteen minutes talking to me.”
“Children, will you two please not fight. We do have a guest.”
I actually was enjoying it. At home our meals are alright. I love my mom, but she’s not a the best cook. I always wanted an older brother or sister. So, this was fun to me.
“Sorry, mom. I didn’t mean to call Patrick a jerk.”
“Let’s just eat.”
After we were done eating Maggie and I did the dishes. I had only known Maggie a short time, but I really liked her. I always had trouble with friends and it was nice to make one so easily. I could really be myself with her. After we were done I decided to go home. I knew my mom would be home soon.
“I should really get going? I want to thank you for a nice meal, Pat.”
“No problem. It was nice for you to stay.”
“I’ll see you in school tomorrow.”
“I’ll be there, even if I don’t want to be.”
I was halfway home when I heard someone hollering my name. I turned around and Patrick was running after me.
“What are you doing?”
“You forgot your backpack.”
“Oh, thank you. I really didn’t need it. Maggie could of just given it to me tomorrow.”
“It’s alright. I had nothing else to do.”
“A fifteen year old boy has nothing to do? Are you serious? Shouldn’t you be making out with a girlfriend or something.”
He turned the most adorable red.
“You sure your thirteen? You act a lot older.”
“My mom says that too. She says I’m an old soul.”
I laughed.
“I should get going. My mom is probably home by now.”
“Would you like some company?”
“Sure. If you don’t have anything else to do.”
We walked in silence for awhile. I looked over at him and he was staring straight ahead.”
“So, what do you do for fun?”
“I’m learning drums. I like to listen to music.”
“Really? That’s awesome. You’ll have to show me sometime.”
“Uh, I don’t think so. I’m not that good.”
“I bet you are. I’ve always wanted to learn guitar. My mom thought it wasn’t very lady like so I was stuck with piano.”
“I’d love to learn piano.”
“Come over sometime and I can show you.”
“You sure?”
“No, I thought I would invite you and not really mean it.”
I lightly pushed him and he smiled at me.
“Your different. So much better than some of Maggie’s friends.”
“Am I your friend?”
I had never been around a boy I liked and been so bold. There was definitely something about this Patrick Stumph.
“Yes, yes you are.”
“Well, here we are. My mom is home. Do you want to meet her?”
“Sure. But then I’m going to have to get going. I have some homework.”
We walked in and my mom was in the kitchen.
“Mom, I want you to meet a friend of mine.”
“Is this the friend from school?”
“No. This is her brother. Patrick Stumph. His family lives down the road. Patrick, this is my mom. Roberta Nelson.”
“Nice to meet you Ms. Nelson.”
“Call me Roberta. Do you go to the same school?”
“No, I’m in high school. I really have to go. I’ll probably see you tomorrow, Addie.”
I walked Patrick to the door.
“Bye. Don’t get lost.”
He laughed.
“I won’t. See you later.”
I watched Patrick until he was out of sight.
“He seemed like a nice boy.”
“Yeah. He is. I think I’m going to read and listen to some music.”
As I went upstairs I thought about Patrick. He really wasn’t my type. I actually didn’t think I had a type. He was short for his age, wore glasses, had reddish hair, and was pale. I mean pale. I bet if he walked out in the sun he would get burned. I laid on my bed and listened to some music. For the first time being here I was happy.
@~
The next morning I got up and got ready for school. I still had a smile on my face. I knew my mom was going to wonder about me. Now, I don’t want to say I’m moody, but well I guess I am. Since my parents break up I haven’t felt like myself. My dad never calls or writes. He has a new family. I’m the child he never wanted. He always wanted a boy. I remember in fifth grade when I went out for basketball. He was so proud. Too bad I hated it. After one year I stopped. I just wanted to please him.
After I dressed, I went downstairs and made myself some cereal. I grabbed my backpack and said goodbye to my mom. Walking to the bus stop I wondered if Patrick would be there. He was already getting into my brain. I don’t think that was a good thing.
“Hi Maggie.”
“Hey, how are you doing?”
“Good.”
I didn’t see Patrick.
“Doesn’t your brother take the bus?”
“If he doesn’t run late. He’s horrible to get up. Our mom works early so I usually have to wake him up. Not a pretty sight.”
The bus pulled up and I seen Patrick running to the bus stop. Everyone got on and I waited for him.
“Hi, running late?”
“Just a little.”
We got on the bus and Patrick sat next to me.
“Maggie said you basically aren’t a morning person.”
“Hell, no.”
“Maybe if you didn’t talk to your girlfriend all night.”
“What makes you think I have a girlfriend?”
“A nice guy like you? You must have someone.”
“There is this girl. She’s new. Has dark brown hair, brown eyes, and she’s really cute.”
I couldn’t believe it. He couldn’t be talking about me, could he?
“Have you talked to her?”
“Yeah. We talked yesterday.”
My stomach was in knots. I didn’t know what to say.
“There she is.”
I looked forward. It was a girl older than me. The bus just picked her up. I was a fool. Of course he would want someone his age. Not me. What was I saying? My mom would kill me if I said I had a date with a fifteen year old.
“Oh, she seems nice.”
What the hell? I didn’t even know the chick.
“She is. Her name is Veronica.”
“You should talk to her.”
“I don’t know.”
She sat in front of us.
“Hi, Patrick. Is this a friend of your sister’s.”
“Yes. Her name is Addie.”
“Her, can talk. I’m Addie and I just moved here.”
“I’m from Glenview but just moved to this neighborhood. I’m new to the high school. You must still be in middle school then?”
“Eighth grade.”
“Fun times.”
“Yeah. Real fun.”
Just then the bus pulled in front of the school. I was sitting by the window and had to go in front of Patrick to get off the bus. I accidentally stepped on his foot.
“Ouch! Damn.”
“Oh god. I’m sorry, Patrick. Are you alright?”
“Yeah. I’ll be fine.”
I got to the front of the bus and looked back and seen Veronica move to sit next to Patrick. I stepped down and started to walk in the school.
“You like him don’t you?”
“I don’t know who your talking about?”
“My gross brother.”
“I guess I do. Are you mad?”
“Mad? No. A little concerned. What do you see in him?”
I laughed.
“I don’t know. He doesn’t see me that way so nothing is going to happen.”
“You never know. I can talk to him.”
“Don’t you dare! Anyway, if I told my mom I was going on a date with a fifteen year old boy she would probably have a major freak out.”
“Alright. If you want me to do anything, let me know.”
Maggie and I went to our first class. All through out the day I thought about Veronica. She was so pretty and I was so plain. After school we waited for the bus.
“Want to come to my house again?”
“Sure. My mom works late.”
“Good. Most of my friends live across town and never get to see them. I do have friends here, but we aren’t that close. Maybe we all can go to the movies this Friday. I could introduce you to them.”
“That sounds like fun.”
The bus came and I stepped on after Maggie. I knew they picked up the high school first. Patrick was sitting by himself. Maggie turned around to me.
“Go sit by him.”
“But,”
Before I could say anything she was already sitting with someone else. So, I went to sit by Patrick.
“Can I sit with you?”
“Sure.”
He moved his books.
“How was your day?” He asked.
“Alright. It’s school. What about you?”
“Same. I did ask Veronica out.”
“What did she say?”
“She said yes. Now I have to think of something to do.”
“I’m glad.”
I hugged him.
“Uh, I’m sorry.”
“It’s fine. So, where do you think I should take her?”
“Maybe out to eat and a movie or something. I’m not sure. I’m not high maintenance like her.”
Patrick laughed.
“High maintenance? What makes you say that?”
“I don’t know. Just by her appearance. I’m sorry. I probably shouldn’t judge her. She seems like a nice girl from talking to her this morning. So, where is she?”
“Cheerleading practice.”
It took everything not to laugh.
“I’m sorry. Cheerleading?”
“What? You think I can’t get a date with a cheerleader?”
“No. You can date anyone you want. Uh, your very cute.”
I was sure I was the one who was red this time.
“I’m cute?”
“Yes. Your very cute. Let’s just drop this.”
“No. I like you speechless and that shade of red really looks good on you.”
“Funny, Stumph.”
Thankfully, the bus stopped and we got off. Maggie and I walked together while Patrick walked ahead of us.
“What did he say?”
“They have a date on Friday.”
“Oh, I seen you hug him and I just thought,
“I know. It’s no big thing. Do you have a lot of homework?”
“Not a lot. But some reading.”
“Same here.”
Thankfully, I was able to switch topics on Maggie. I really didn’t want to talk about her brother anymore. We went to her room once we got to her house. We did our homework and then Maggie called some of her friends. We were going to get together for a movie on Friday. I was looking forward to it.
“That’s the last of them. You’ll like them all.”
“You never did tell me about David” I asked her.
“He goes to my friends school. He’s not a boyfriend or anything. Just a friend right now.”
“I can’t wait to meet everyone. I think I’m going to go. I need to start some supper. I’ll call you later.”
“Alright. I should probably help mom. Talk to you later.”
I left Maggie’s and walked home. I thought maybe, just maybe there would have been a letter from my dad or a phone call. Nothing. So against my better judgment I called him.
“Hello?”
“Dad. It’s Addie.”
“How are you doing?”
“Okay. Started school yesterday.” I could hear the baby in the background.
“Listen, now is a really bad time. I’ll call you back in thirty minutes.”
Before I could answer the line went dead. As I waited I made some chicken and potatoes. Mom wasn’t going to be home until late. Thirty minutes passed and nothing. A hour passed and nothing. I ate and then cleaned up. Still no phone call I left the house and went for a walk in the backyard. After a week being here and stuck in my room I went for a walk through the woods in our backyard. I found a little pond. It was my special place. I didn’t even tell my mom about it. I spent some time there.
I found a dry spot and sat down. I just wanted my brain to shut off. Before I knew it, it was dark. I walked back home. My mom was in the living room.
“Where have you been? I’ve been calling all over.”
“I was out. And what do you mean all over. I only have one friend.”
“You know what I mean. I better call Pat. Patrick is out looking for you.”
“Can’t I just go by myself for a little bit without you freaking? I needed to think about some stuff.”
Mom went to call Pat and there was a knock on the door. I went to answer it.
“There you are.” Patrick stood on the front step.
“I’m fine. I’m sorry for ruining your night.”
“It’s alright. I was just about to tell your mom I couldn’t find you. Where did you go?”
“There’s a little pond in the back.”
“Are you alright?”
“Yeah. Just down I guess. Dad problems. Or lack of them.”
“If you ever want to talk, I’m a good listener. I hardly see my dad.”
“Thanks. I better go. I have some sucking up to do.”
Patrick laughed.
“See you tomorrow.”
I walked to talk to my mom who was in the kitchen.
“Mom, I’m sorry. I forgot how long I was there.”
“I just didn’t know what happened to you. Next time leave a note or something. You called him didn’t you?”
“Yeah. I thought he would of sent a letter or called. We only talked for a minute and he had to go. He said he was going to call but he didn’t. Why doesn’t he want me?”
“Oh sweetie.”
Mom took me into her arms.
I was fighting the tears. I hated crying and showing any kind of weakness. Especially, over him.
“He loves you in his own way. I wish I could knock some sense into him. He was so happy when you were born. You have to believe that. I know things didn’t turn out, but I’ll always be here for you.”
“I know. And I thank you so much. You are the best mom.”
“Are you saying that so I won’t ground you?”
“Maybe. Maggie and some of her friends are going out Friday. Can I go?”
“Your grounded one night. Come home straight from school tomorrow. No computer, tv, stereo, and any other things you find enjoyment. Please be honest and do this. It’s going to be another long night. And you can go.”
“Thank you. I’ll come home right after school. I know I probably deserve a lot more time. Thank you mom. I’m going to go to bed.”
As I climbed into bed and went to sleep, I had a good night. Maybe Glenview wasn’t going to be so bad.
Fandom: Fall Out Boy (Is this really a surprise?)
Genre: Romance
Characters/Pairing(s): Patrick (again..is it a surprise?), Addison, Maggie, Pat, Roberta
Disclaimer/Warning: Nothing yet.
Summary: A new girl (aren’t most of mine, new girls haha) comes to Glenview and meets a new friend…and her brother.
A/N: I’m going to try and get the last of my new stories up before I leave on Saturday. I’m going to be at my moms from Saturday to Tuesday. I’m seeing Panic on Tuesday and staying in Minneapolis overnight. I should be home sometime on Wednesday. So there won’t be an update for awhile. I hope you like this story. It actually just came to me. I really don’t like to have more than 2 stories going that I write myself.
Chapter 1
I really don’t know where to start. Things have been so crazy the last few years. I haven’t seen him. Patrick. I think I knew I loved him when I first met him. Can you fall in love with someone when you are 13? I’m pretty sure I did. I guess we’ll start there.
I just moved to Glenview with my mom. Can I tell you the truth? I hated it. I wanted to go back to Minnesota. My mom wanted a fresh start. My dad decided to start a new family and basically left us. So off to Illinois we went. Okay, so picture it, Glenview, 1998, sunny, and the first day of spring. Yes, I still watch Golden Girls. Now I’ll let my 13 year old self start and come back in the next chapter.
1999
I woke up to my mom making pancakes. I usually love the smell, but not today. Being 13 and in middle school is hard enough, but with people you don’t know. I’m going to be sick. I run to the bathroom and throw up. After that I decide to get ready.
After my shower I look in my closet. What to wear? I finally go with a t-shirt and jeans. Guess, you really can’t go wrong. Can you? I go downstairs and find my mom in the kitchen.
“Addison, I was just about to call you. How are you doing?”
“Terrible. Can I just stay home. Maybe be home schooled?”
“No. Now sit and I’ll get you a plate.”
I sat down and my mom brought me a plate of pancakes that looked like a hungry man’s feast.
“You do know I’m a 13 year old girl, right?”
“I just thought you could use a little extra something.
“I appreciate it, but I’m sick how it is.”
“It’ll be fine. You better hurry. You don’t want to be late.”
“God forbid.”
“Don’t start, Addie. You know this is hard on both of us. I felt the same way when I went to work. Just be yourself.”
I hurried up and grabbed my backpack.
“I’m going to go now.”
“You sure you don’t want me to give you a ride?”
“That’s alright. I’ll see you later.”
“Bye. Have a good day.”
I walked to the end of the street. My mom and I lived in a cul de sac. It was a nice neighborhood. I knew there were a lot of kids, but at the time I just didn’t feel like getting to know any. As I got closer I notice a lot of older kids and a few around my age. I kept to myself as usual and then this girl with dark hair came up to me.
“Hey, my name is Maggie. Your new around here, right?”
“Yeah. My name is Addison, but I go by Addie.”
“What grade are you in?”
“Eighth.”
“Same here.”
“I’m so nervous.”
“Don’t be. It won‘t be bad.”
The bus came and I sat with Maggie. She seemed really nice. Once we got to the school we got our schedules and locker numbers. All the fun first day stuff. Maggie actually had her locker next to mine. So we went and tried to open ours. I seem to always have trouble with lockers. Never can get the damn thing open. Maggie of course got hers open. Me, well of course not. She came and started working on it.
“There you go. It was jammed.”
“Thanks. I may need you again. I’m actually sure I’ll need you again.”
After getting our lockers open we went to our homeroom. We had 3 classes together, but I met some of her friends and the day wasn’t too bad. After school we went home. Getting off the bus Maggie asked me to come to her house. Mom never got home until after 6:00 so I decided to go.
“Mom, I’m home and I brought a friend. Is that alright?”
“Oh, sure.”
Maggie’s mom came into the front room.
“She lives up the road.”
“Your living in the Doctor’s house. Well, not anymore.”
“I guess so. I really don’t know. My name is Addie.”
“Nice to meet you. I’m Pat.”
“We’ll be upstairs.”
Maggie showed me to her room. Since being the first day we didn’t have any homework so we did pretty much what any teenage girls did. Talk about boys and listened to music. Two hours later there was a knock on her door.
“What?”
The door opened and the most gorgeous boy in all of my thirteen years came in.
“Mom wanted me to get you for supper. She said your friend can stay if she wants.”
“Oh, okay. Thanks. We’ll be down in a little bit.”
The boy left Maggie’s room.
“Do you want to stay?”
‘I’ll have to call my mom. Who was that?”
“My brother Patrick. I have two older brothers. Kevin is 18. He’s in college in Arizona. Patrick is 15 and goes to high school. Let’s go downstairs so you can call your mom.”
When we went downstairs all I could say in my head was Patrick. Maggie showed me the phone in the living room and I called my mom. She was going to be late at work anyways so it was fine. I went to the dining room. Patrick was there, but no Maggie or Pat.
“Um, where should I sit?”
“Anywhere. I’m Patrick. Mags didn’t tell me your name.”
“It’s Addie Nelson. My mom and I just moved here not too long ago.”
I went and sat across from him.
“Hope you like it.”
“It’s alright. I’d rather be in Minnesota though. That’s where I’m from.”
“We’ve been there a few times for vacations. It’s nice.”
I could tell he was nervous. He kept pulling on his hat and I could feel the floor shaking with his foot moving up and down.
“Are we ready?”
Pat came out with supper. I think I even heard Patrick sigh of relief.
“Patrick what have I told you about the hat? Take it off. Where is your sister?”
“I don’t know. She came down with Addie.”
Patrick took off his hat and his hair was all over the place. He smoothed it down with his hands. He looked so cute.
“Sorry, mom.”
Maggie came in the room and sat down.
“Where were you?”
“Upstairs.”
“I know that.”
“She was probably talking to David.”
“Don’t be a jerk, Patrick How could I? Addie was on the phone.”
“She’s been in her for the last fifteen minutes talking to me.”
“Children, will you two please not fight. We do have a guest.”
I actually was enjoying it. At home our meals are alright. I love my mom, but she’s not a the best cook. I always wanted an older brother or sister. So, this was fun to me.
“Sorry, mom. I didn’t mean to call Patrick a jerk.”
“Let’s just eat.”
After we were done eating Maggie and I did the dishes. I had only known Maggie a short time, but I really liked her. I always had trouble with friends and it was nice to make one so easily. I could really be myself with her. After we were done I decided to go home. I knew my mom would be home soon.
“I should really get going? I want to thank you for a nice meal, Pat.”
“No problem. It was nice for you to stay.”
“I’ll see you in school tomorrow.”
“I’ll be there, even if I don’t want to be.”
I was halfway home when I heard someone hollering my name. I turned around and Patrick was running after me.
“What are you doing?”
“You forgot your backpack.”
“Oh, thank you. I really didn’t need it. Maggie could of just given it to me tomorrow.”
“It’s alright. I had nothing else to do.”
“A fifteen year old boy has nothing to do? Are you serious? Shouldn’t you be making out with a girlfriend or something.”
He turned the most adorable red.
“You sure your thirteen? You act a lot older.”
“My mom says that too. She says I’m an old soul.”
I laughed.
“I should get going. My mom is probably home by now.”
“Would you like some company?”
“Sure. If you don’t have anything else to do.”
We walked in silence for awhile. I looked over at him and he was staring straight ahead.”
“So, what do you do for fun?”
“I’m learning drums. I like to listen to music.”
“Really? That’s awesome. You’ll have to show me sometime.”
“Uh, I don’t think so. I’m not that good.”
“I bet you are. I’ve always wanted to learn guitar. My mom thought it wasn’t very lady like so I was stuck with piano.”
“I’d love to learn piano.”
“Come over sometime and I can show you.”
“You sure?”
“No, I thought I would invite you and not really mean it.”
I lightly pushed him and he smiled at me.
“Your different. So much better than some of Maggie’s friends.”
“Am I your friend?”
I had never been around a boy I liked and been so bold. There was definitely something about this Patrick Stumph.
“Yes, yes you are.”
“Well, here we are. My mom is home. Do you want to meet her?”
“Sure. But then I’m going to have to get going. I have some homework.”
We walked in and my mom was in the kitchen.
“Mom, I want you to meet a friend of mine.”
“Is this the friend from school?”
“No. This is her brother. Patrick Stumph. His family lives down the road. Patrick, this is my mom. Roberta Nelson.”
“Nice to meet you Ms. Nelson.”
“Call me Roberta. Do you go to the same school?”
“No, I’m in high school. I really have to go. I’ll probably see you tomorrow, Addie.”
I walked Patrick to the door.
“Bye. Don’t get lost.”
He laughed.
“I won’t. See you later.”
I watched Patrick until he was out of sight.
“He seemed like a nice boy.”
“Yeah. He is. I think I’m going to read and listen to some music.”
As I went upstairs I thought about Patrick. He really wasn’t my type. I actually didn’t think I had a type. He was short for his age, wore glasses, had reddish hair, and was pale. I mean pale. I bet if he walked out in the sun he would get burned. I laid on my bed and listened to some music. For the first time being here I was happy.
@~
The next morning I got up and got ready for school. I still had a smile on my face. I knew my mom was going to wonder about me. Now, I don’t want to say I’m moody, but well I guess I am. Since my parents break up I haven’t felt like myself. My dad never calls or writes. He has a new family. I’m the child he never wanted. He always wanted a boy. I remember in fifth grade when I went out for basketball. He was so proud. Too bad I hated it. After one year I stopped. I just wanted to please him.
After I dressed, I went downstairs and made myself some cereal. I grabbed my backpack and said goodbye to my mom. Walking to the bus stop I wondered if Patrick would be there. He was already getting into my brain. I don’t think that was a good thing.
“Hi Maggie.”
“Hey, how are you doing?”
“Good.”
I didn’t see Patrick.
“Doesn’t your brother take the bus?”
“If he doesn’t run late. He’s horrible to get up. Our mom works early so I usually have to wake him up. Not a pretty sight.”
The bus pulled up and I seen Patrick running to the bus stop. Everyone got on and I waited for him.
“Hi, running late?”
“Just a little.”
We got on the bus and Patrick sat next to me.
“Maggie said you basically aren’t a morning person.”
“Hell, no.”
“Maybe if you didn’t talk to your girlfriend all night.”
“What makes you think I have a girlfriend?”
“A nice guy like you? You must have someone.”
“There is this girl. She’s new. Has dark brown hair, brown eyes, and she’s really cute.”
I couldn’t believe it. He couldn’t be talking about me, could he?
“Have you talked to her?”
“Yeah. We talked yesterday.”
My stomach was in knots. I didn’t know what to say.
“There she is.”
I looked forward. It was a girl older than me. The bus just picked her up. I was a fool. Of course he would want someone his age. Not me. What was I saying? My mom would kill me if I said I had a date with a fifteen year old.
“Oh, she seems nice.”
What the hell? I didn’t even know the chick.
“She is. Her name is Veronica.”
“You should talk to her.”
“I don’t know.”
She sat in front of us.
“Hi, Patrick. Is this a friend of your sister’s.”
“Yes. Her name is Addie.”
“Her, can talk. I’m Addie and I just moved here.”
“I’m from Glenview but just moved to this neighborhood. I’m new to the high school. You must still be in middle school then?”
“Eighth grade.”
“Fun times.”
“Yeah. Real fun.”
Just then the bus pulled in front of the school. I was sitting by the window and had to go in front of Patrick to get off the bus. I accidentally stepped on his foot.
“Ouch! Damn.”
“Oh god. I’m sorry, Patrick. Are you alright?”
“Yeah. I’ll be fine.”
I got to the front of the bus and looked back and seen Veronica move to sit next to Patrick. I stepped down and started to walk in the school.
“You like him don’t you?”
“I don’t know who your talking about?”
“My gross brother.”
“I guess I do. Are you mad?”
“Mad? No. A little concerned. What do you see in him?”
I laughed.
“I don’t know. He doesn’t see me that way so nothing is going to happen.”
“You never know. I can talk to him.”
“Don’t you dare! Anyway, if I told my mom I was going on a date with a fifteen year old boy she would probably have a major freak out.”
“Alright. If you want me to do anything, let me know.”
Maggie and I went to our first class. All through out the day I thought about Veronica. She was so pretty and I was so plain. After school we waited for the bus.
“Want to come to my house again?”
“Sure. My mom works late.”
“Good. Most of my friends live across town and never get to see them. I do have friends here, but we aren’t that close. Maybe we all can go to the movies this Friday. I could introduce you to them.”
“That sounds like fun.”
The bus came and I stepped on after Maggie. I knew they picked up the high school first. Patrick was sitting by himself. Maggie turned around to me.
“Go sit by him.”
“But,”
Before I could say anything she was already sitting with someone else. So, I went to sit by Patrick.
“Can I sit with you?”
“Sure.”
He moved his books.
“How was your day?” He asked.
“Alright. It’s school. What about you?”
“Same. I did ask Veronica out.”
“What did she say?”
“She said yes. Now I have to think of something to do.”
“I’m glad.”
I hugged him.
“Uh, I’m sorry.”
“It’s fine. So, where do you think I should take her?”
“Maybe out to eat and a movie or something. I’m not sure. I’m not high maintenance like her.”
Patrick laughed.
“High maintenance? What makes you say that?”
“I don’t know. Just by her appearance. I’m sorry. I probably shouldn’t judge her. She seems like a nice girl from talking to her this morning. So, where is she?”
“Cheerleading practice.”
It took everything not to laugh.
“I’m sorry. Cheerleading?”
“What? You think I can’t get a date with a cheerleader?”
“No. You can date anyone you want. Uh, your very cute.”
I was sure I was the one who was red this time.
“I’m cute?”
“Yes. Your very cute. Let’s just drop this.”
“No. I like you speechless and that shade of red really looks good on you.”
“Funny, Stumph.”
Thankfully, the bus stopped and we got off. Maggie and I walked together while Patrick walked ahead of us.
“What did he say?”
“They have a date on Friday.”
“Oh, I seen you hug him and I just thought,
“I know. It’s no big thing. Do you have a lot of homework?”
“Not a lot. But some reading.”
“Same here.”
Thankfully, I was able to switch topics on Maggie. I really didn’t want to talk about her brother anymore. We went to her room once we got to her house. We did our homework and then Maggie called some of her friends. We were going to get together for a movie on Friday. I was looking forward to it.
“That’s the last of them. You’ll like them all.”
“You never did tell me about David” I asked her.
“He goes to my friends school. He’s not a boyfriend or anything. Just a friend right now.”
“I can’t wait to meet everyone. I think I’m going to go. I need to start some supper. I’ll call you later.”
“Alright. I should probably help mom. Talk to you later.”
I left Maggie’s and walked home. I thought maybe, just maybe there would have been a letter from my dad or a phone call. Nothing. So against my better judgment I called him.
“Hello?”
“Dad. It’s Addie.”
“How are you doing?”
“Okay. Started school yesterday.” I could hear the baby in the background.
“Listen, now is a really bad time. I’ll call you back in thirty minutes.”
Before I could answer the line went dead. As I waited I made some chicken and potatoes. Mom wasn’t going to be home until late. Thirty minutes passed and nothing. A hour passed and nothing. I ate and then cleaned up. Still no phone call I left the house and went for a walk in the backyard. After a week being here and stuck in my room I went for a walk through the woods in our backyard. I found a little pond. It was my special place. I didn’t even tell my mom about it. I spent some time there.
I found a dry spot and sat down. I just wanted my brain to shut off. Before I knew it, it was dark. I walked back home. My mom was in the living room.
“Where have you been? I’ve been calling all over.”
“I was out. And what do you mean all over. I only have one friend.”
“You know what I mean. I better call Pat. Patrick is out looking for you.”
“Can’t I just go by myself for a little bit without you freaking? I needed to think about some stuff.”
Mom went to call Pat and there was a knock on the door. I went to answer it.
“There you are.” Patrick stood on the front step.
“I’m fine. I’m sorry for ruining your night.”
“It’s alright. I was just about to tell your mom I couldn’t find you. Where did you go?”
“There’s a little pond in the back.”
“Are you alright?”
“Yeah. Just down I guess. Dad problems. Or lack of them.”
“If you ever want to talk, I’m a good listener. I hardly see my dad.”
“Thanks. I better go. I have some sucking up to do.”
Patrick laughed.
“See you tomorrow.”
I walked to talk to my mom who was in the kitchen.
“Mom, I’m sorry. I forgot how long I was there.”
“I just didn’t know what happened to you. Next time leave a note or something. You called him didn’t you?”
“Yeah. I thought he would of sent a letter or called. We only talked for a minute and he had to go. He said he was going to call but he didn’t. Why doesn’t he want me?”
“Oh sweetie.”
Mom took me into her arms.
I was fighting the tears. I hated crying and showing any kind of weakness. Especially, over him.
“He loves you in his own way. I wish I could knock some sense into him. He was so happy when you were born. You have to believe that. I know things didn’t turn out, but I’ll always be here for you.”
“I know. And I thank you so much. You are the best mom.”
“Are you saying that so I won’t ground you?”
“Maybe. Maggie and some of her friends are going out Friday. Can I go?”
“Your grounded one night. Come home straight from school tomorrow. No computer, tv, stereo, and any other things you find enjoyment. Please be honest and do this. It’s going to be another long night. And you can go.”
“Thank you. I’ll come home right after school. I know I probably deserve a lot more time. Thank you mom. I’m going to go to bed.”
As I climbed into bed and went to sleep, I had a good night. Maybe Glenview wasn’t going to be so bad.
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