Chapter 29: Conflict Over Me
Chapter 29: Conflict Over Me
Mila's pov
I glanced around Mr. Williams' bedroom. It was neat, tidy and clean-a stark contrast to Everett's. The space was filled with a pleasant aroma; it was the same scent I picked up on when we were together fucking.
Spreading out on his bed, I inhaled from the pillow. The smell of him infiltrated my nostrils, making me feel drugged. I hugged it, closing my eyes and wondered what it would be like if I were to sleep here more often. I felt giddy at the thought.
As I rolled on my stomach, several photographs caught my eye.
They were of Everett and his father set in chronological order. All of them were in black frames, dusted perfectly. I smiled when I saw the age progression from a decade ago to now. Then I realized that there weren't any pictures of Everett's mother.
Everett had mentioned that she had left when he was young, which was the reason for his closeness with his dad. Just seemed strange that there wasn't anything left. I was curious about what she looked like.
Though I wanted to investigate, I realized I couldn't. If I made a sound up here, Everett might hear me. Sighing, I dropped back down on the bed, wondering how long they would be here. Maybe I could get some more sleep.
The sound of cups and plates smashing on the floor shattered my serenity. Everett was shouting angrily. I could hear him all the way upstairs. He was so loud.
"She has been lying all this time. She was never a goody two-shoes!"
The heavy door slammed, and I could hear his scuffling footsteps outside. Dashing to the window, I watched as Everett stormed out to the front yard. My mouth went dry as I pulled on my blouse nervously. I didn't like this kind of conflict, and it seemed like it was about me.
My heart was racing as I fanned myself, trying to decide what to do. My stomach was in knots as I listened for Mr. Williams’ footsteps. When I heard nothing, I realized I had to go down there and see what happened.
Cautiously, I walked down the stairs. Mr. Williams was still there, and the floor beside the dining table was a mess. I walked closer and noticed he had an expression of helplessness. I had never seen this side of him before.
It made me feel worried. He was the one always calling the shots. Swallowing hard, he stared at the mess. He seemed tired.
As he bent down and began picking up the shattered China, I joined him. I felt guilty realizing that there was no other person they could be talking about. It had to be me. If only I could smooth things over.
We were quiet for a few seconds almost like he didn't realize I was there, but then we began stacking the pieces in a pile together. He was speechless and I grew concerned. It wasn't like him to be distant like this, without engaging with me. Usually, my presence at least warranted some sort of quip.
"Are you two okay?" I asked him tentatively. I was unsure if I wanted to know the answer. Mr. Williams didn't speak; he just kept his head down, still focused on picking up the shards. I continued, "It sounded like he was shouting about me." I laughed nervously hoping to lighten the mood.
I expected him to deny it and maybe ask me to leave but instead he just continued to pick up the plates. When he sat on his heels, he looked at me, his lips turned down in a frown, furrowing his brow.
"I don't know what to do with him," he said, gesturing to the pile of plates. "He needs to be disciplined better, maybe given a better education. Sometimes he's out of control and I can't calm him down, no matter what I try."
Surprised that he felt that way, I spoke up.
"Mr. Williams, he's no different than most of the boys I know," I said pointing out to the world. "They follow their impulses. Always shouting, drinking, or making problems for everyone. That's the whole reason I'm fascinated with you. You're not like that."
He picked his head up to meet my eyes. I grinned at him, hoping for his usual witty remark, but the serious expression remained. Pursing my lips, I felt uncomfortable as I waited for the awkwardness to go away.
As he dropped his mouth open, I suddenly felt afraid. Maybe what he had to say would make me feel differently about him or perhaps he'd end things between us. Either way, I had to get out of there.
"I have to leave for an exam," I said.
Quickly, I rushed out the door and down the street. Hopefully Everett was far away by now. As I walked along the sidewalk, I was closer to the school, seeing several classmates. That's when I suddenly ran into Ada.
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