BROKEN
Chapter 22- Introducing Effie
Alexandra POV-
An unexpected shriek liberated from my mouth once Harry’s lengthy arms reached for my own, tugging on my upper arm and forcefully demanding me to stand. His grip was sturdy, yet extremely tight. So tight, that the spiky edges of his fingernails dug into my flesh; breaking my first layer of skin.
Refusing to give into such rough behavior, I remained planted on the cushions, narrowing my eyes directly towards his. The familiar, shining, emerald orbs I had grown accustomed to had now transformed. They were inexplicably coated with darkness, glazed over, and now shadowy dull. Oddly enough, they weren’t looking back at me either, instead, they were staring in the distance; past me. I wondered what he was looking at, if there was actually something intriguing behind me or he was merely lost in his own thoughts.
Studying his facial features, Harry looked zoned out. His teeth tugged ferociously on his bottom lip and his breathing was unsteady -which made me question whether or not he even knew how pinching his skintight grasp actually was.
With frowning eyebrows, I shrunk further into my seat; slightly whimpering as I tried to yank my arm out of his never ending hold.
"Um..Harry, where exactly are we going?" I murmured, glancing back up at him skeptically.
As if my words had snapped him out of a peculiar trance, his vision had finally darted towards my direction, followed by where his hands were clamped over the top of my arm. Instantly, his pupils doubled in size, pure shock overlaying his features.
In one swift motion, he ripped his hand away, his mouth slightly agape as he stared down at his fingertips. He wiggled them a bit; as if to see if they still worked or if they were actually his.
From there, he increased the distance between us; taking a slow, cautious step backwards. Now, he stood frozen in front of me, both of us unsure what to say nor do and neither of us daring to break the silence. Mutely, I began to question why he just acted out the way he did. His reflex was so quick that he truly made it seem like my skin was a fiery flame that he had just burnt his fingertips with.
"Erm..sorry I didn’t mean to.." He trailed off, not daring to look me in the eyes; pondering over what to say.
I shrugged it off, instinctively bringing my hand above the soreness Harry had left behind. Once I did so, I rubbed the newfound, tender skin in small circular motions, pacifying the abrupt pain.
Diverting my gaze back towards the semi mysterious, curly headed boy, he was now sitting on top of the coffee table; both feet planted on the floor. Since he was fairly close to me, it was still clear as day that he was trying to avoid me for as long as he could.
And in my opinion, it was long enough.
"It’s no biggie," I responded a tad late, sending forth a insouciant, toothy grin.
Lifting his head up, ours eyes locked and I watched closely as he surveyed my expression; trying to detect any sort of lie or catch a fraudulent smile. But he couldn’t-because it was all truly genuine and he soon figured that out.
Waiting for his next movement, he flashed a crooked grin and lifted himself off the table; stalking over to me. What he did next, caught me off guard.
Harry pulled his right hand out of his skinny jeans pocket, unfolding it so his palm was facing upward and his arm was now extended. Through my thick eyelashes, I glanced up at his towering figure, lifting an eyebrow as I sent him a quizzical look-undoubtedly, confused as to what he was doing.
He nodded towards his hand and I reached for it with my own, letting him gracefully haul me off the couch.
Harry twirled his keys around his fingers, hastily pulling me along towards the door. Ready to leave, we were still hand in hand as he reached for the metallic, golden door knob.
"So, where are we going?" I asked again, looking up at him with a great deal of confidence. As the door swung open, he turned around to face me, instead of walking through.
"I’m bringing you home," he deadpanned, thin lips in a straight line.
I nodded in understanding, forcing myself not to cringe when he said the term home. It’s actually kinda funny, I thought to myself, he can’t exactly take me home if I don’t have one.
Biting my lip, my honey coated eyes searched for his striking green ones. Clearing my throat, I asked, " okay..um can I just get my suitcase and phone before we go?"
Harry’s forehead crinkled as if he wasn’t expecting that question to arise. Tilting his head imperceptibly, he tapped his chin with his pointer finger- eyeing me up and down.
"Yes, I think that would be a good idea."
Letting my head fall, I released my hand from his hold, an emptiness lingering in my palm. Without another idiom, I shuffled over to the mini kitchen where my zipped up bag was situated in the corner. Pulling on the handle, my suitcase rolled behind me; the tiny wheels turning with every step I took. After grabbing my cellphone off the table, I met back with Harry who stood outside the door; closing it to make sure it wasn’t left ajar.
"Ready?" he asked, slinging his arm over my shoulder. I tensed a bit, the idea of [friendly] human contact somewhat alien to me. Gazing up at his prominent dimples and dainty appearance, I soon relaxed without delay.
With a simple nod I left as response, we both made our way towards the elevator. Patiently waiting for the double doors to fly open, Harry turned to me; allowing his arms to fall.
"How are you feeling?"
Well..I was unsure as to what exactly he was referring to, but I had several answers.
There was a mixture of nervousness, distress and panic pulsating through me. The thought of being stranded and left alone again was enough to send chills spiraling down my spine. How was I possibly going to support myself?
Second, there was an aching in my heart-not being able to say goodbye to the people who sheltered me, took care of me and treated me like a friend- even if it was for only a short period of time. My current mood consisted of a combination including despair, depression, hopelessness, bleakness and sadness filling up my heavy heart.
Through all of these emotions, there was still a spot left for fear. The fear of my ex boyfriend finding, torturing, and hurting me. The infinite list of possibilities was enough to quicken my heart race and have a cold sweat.
Popping back to reality, the sudden ‘ding’ from the elevator alerted me; filling up my ears. Breaking out of my bottomless thoughts, I assumed neither of those responses were what he was asking for.
"I’m fine, how are you?" I replied, stepping past Harry and through the open space.
"No Alexandra, that’s not what I meant," he sighed, clearly frustrated.
After noticing that we were both the only people inside the elevator, I watched Harry press the level one button and return to our conversation. " I meant, how are you feeling after last night?"
Oh.
Averting my gaze towards the bronze doors, I concentrated on them as they slowly shut; leaving us completely to ourselves.
"I’m in a bit of pain..nothing I can’t handle" I mumbled, fixating my eyes towards the ground; leaving my head hung extremely low.
"Well, make sure to take good care of your self," he said.
Beneath my breath, I muttered an “I’ll try." Thankfully, he hadn’t heard. Harry was too busy consumed in humming along with the elevator music to even notice. Turning my head and out of completely nowhere, he had pulled out a beanie and pair of dark shades. Delicately placing the hat above his head and pushing his chocolate ringlets inside, he slid the sunglasses over the bridge of his nose; his deep, emerald eyes hidden. Wow, what a great disguise.
"Remember to keep your head down and we’ll go out the back door," he instructed adamantly.
In my opinion, he almost took this whole scenario a bit too seriously. I felt like I was in an undercover spy movie. A small giggle escaped from my lips at the stark thought, proceeded by the lift doors about to peel apart.
"What’s so funny?" He asked; amused.
"Nothing," I affirmed, shaking my head as the doors were finally separated.
Grabbing my waist and stepping out, Harry ushered me through the boisterous lobby. Surprisingly, it was insanely busy and crowded with a numerous amount people. I guess that was a good thing though- because nobody recognized the extraordinary Harry Styles sneaking through the back door of this five star hotel.
When we finally reached outside, the crisp air was refreshing. Tiny droplets of water descended from the thick, cloudy sky and landed promptly on my shoulders. Examining the canvas, puffs of grey blanketed the portrait above- the color of ash and soot. Stretched across the dusky sky, the view had a hazy ominous feel and unanticipatedly, the drizzling rain was descending faster and faster; a perfect, wet drop splashing onto the tip of my nose. Cool wind blew on my face as goosebumps arose on my exposed skin.
I loved the rain.
"Let’s hurry to the car!" Harry called in a husky, raised voice; hoping to be heard over the showering of raindrops.
Instead of taking my time and enjoying the cool, liquid plummeting down to the surface, Harry rushed over- picking me up and into his arms. Laughing, I was pulled against his chest deliberately; one hand below my legs and the other placed behind my back as he began to run like an idiot.
Eventually, we reached a shiny, silver vehicle which I deemed to be Harry’s. The passenger door creaked and was soon yanked open as I was briskly placed onto the black, rugged, coriaceous seating. Chuckling to myself, I watched humorously as Harry waddled over to his side of the car; practically soaking wet.
Once he reached inside and shut the door, he turned to me; pulling off his beanie.
"Don’t worry, the curls were protected."
A squeak of laughter launched out of my mouth, shaking my head at his foolishness. “You’re curls are stupid," I joked, howling from laughter as I pulled my wet hair behind my ear.
Dropping his jaw, Harry placed one hand on his heart dramatically, feigning hurt. “You know, chicks dig the curls," he fought back; pretending to feel offended and waving his hand to and fro.
"Whatever you say.." I smirked, speaking loud enough for him to hear. Turning away, I glanced out the window, watching the specks of rain slide down the glass; racing to the finish line.
From the corner of my eye, Harry revealed a cheesy grin, deciding to ignore my sly comment.
Turning on the ignition, he twisted the keys as the engine roared to life. Pulling out of his original parking space, he turned the wheel; focusing on the road and departing the almost-vacant parking lot.
"So, where to?" he asked; eyes still concentrated on the route in front of him.
Frozen; I was utterly distraught and was internally freaking out inside my head; biting my nails anxiously. Where should I tell him to take me? Quickly, I was forming into a bundle of nerves; all torn up and unsure what to do nor say.
But I had to say something.
I didn’t know many places in London for him to take me to.
But- My mind wandered back to the time Liam found me and the tiny coffee shop we went into for breakfast. I guess that’ll work.
"Um, down a block or two there’s a cafe and you can just drop me off there," I explained, trying to not shake in my seat or have my teeth chatter.
"You sure? I can ju-"
"Positive," I interrupted nimbly, revealing a weak smile-that I’m sure he wasn’t deceived by.
"Well, okay then…" he murmured; choosing to disregard my strange behavior. Thank goodness.
Slouching down in my seat, I shut my eyes tightly; waiting for this car ride to be over. Not even seconds after I attempted to calm myself, a familiar, gruff voice spoke up.
"What’s the name of the place I’m dropping you off at?"
"Caroline Cafe," I countered, “Its right there," I said, pointing towards the petite shop with a blue awning; few tables and chairs scattered out front.
Pulling over to the side of the road and in front of our destination, Harry shifted in his seat; body facing me.
"It was nice meeting you, Alexandra," he spoke, a small smile playing on his lips as he extended his arm out for a… handshake?
Um ok.
"You too," I practically whispered; the farewell gesture catching me off guard. I mean, I kinda expected a hug or exchange of phone numbers. Something.
Doing my best to hide my disappointment, I gripped his hand feebly; my head turned to the side
.
"Will you just tell the boys, especially Liam and Niall that I said goodbye?" I nearly begged softly; my voice weak and unsteady.
With that, Harry nodded and I forced myself to exit the vehicle, entering the pouring rain. Clutching onto my suitcase, I waved goodbye as he sped off in the distance and found my self dragging my sluggish body over to the cafe. A small bell rang as I walked through, the wooden door slamming behind.
Sitting behind the mahogany counter was an old lady wearing a black apron tied around her pudgy waist. Her short grey hair was combed to the side, a friendly smile floating on her face as her cherry red lips brought out the white in her teeth- a single tooth missing in the front.
Reliving my memory here in the past, she hadn’t been the one working behind the register before. A rather young, freckled girl had been there instead.
The room was empty just like last time, the familiar cozy, warm atmosphere and aroma of fresh brewed coffee filling my senses.
"Hello sweetheart," she greeted; her voice gentle and welcoming.
"Hello," I said, wiping my dirty, wet feet on the placemat before stepping further inside.
Rubbing my eyes, I attempted to reciprocate her loving smile, but mine was drowsy and worn out.
These passed few days have been nothing but stressful and I was broken down; slowly collapsing.
Knowing that it was the polite and fair thing to do, I lazily scuffed my feet along the hardwood floor, reaching the register.
I know I didn’t have much money, but I couldn’t just sit here and not order anything. Running my fingers through my long, damp, tangled hair, I squinted my eyes in attempt to read the menu hanging on the wall. It was hard to see due to the dim lighting- not to mention my eyes were watery in general; blurring my vision. I wouldn’t let myself cry though.
"What would you like to order?" She asked politely, her cheer never faltering.
Looking up at her for the first time, she took In my appearance and a small gasp fell from her lips. I don’t blame her.
Surely, she had questions running through her mind as to why I had a suitcase, why I was in pajamas, why I looked like a mess and why I had bruises, scars and bandaids scattered across my damaged body.
All in all- I looked like a train wreck.
Especially with no makeup on.
"Miss, I don’t have much money on me. I was wondering what the cheapest drink would be? Actually, a water would be fine," I rambled, trying to distract her.
I was beginning to feel self conscious and awkward as she eyed me up and down. Her bottom lip jutted out and sadness filled her sparkling, pale- blue eyes. Did I look that bad?
"Honey, just take a seat. It’s on the house. I’ll be right out with some food and a drink for you," she said; clearly sympathizing me, full of pity.
"You sure?" I questioned, unzipping my suitcase in search for my change purse and money, “because I know I-"
Waving her hand dismissively, she shook her head, “don’t worry about it."
Turning around and heading to what I assumed to be the kitchen or something, the old woman was out of sight and I carried myself over to one of the couches near a bookshelf. Plopping myself down, I took out my phone charger and used the outlet beside me to charge my phone; remembering it was low on battery.
After that, I closed my eyelids, trying to understand how everything went wrong and especially why Harry wanted to get rid of me so quickly. I don’t blame him though. What good was I anyways? I just took up their living space and food. Not to mention, I added to their stress by getting hurt that night at the club and was irresponsible for being under the influence, piss drunk, smashed, wasted, you name it.
But last night, I had yet to remember. But maybe this whole time I was forcing the memory out of my thoughts; maybe I was just too scared to find out what actually happened.
Closing my eyes, I replayed the entire day yesterday- leading up to Louis barging into the living area; demanding we all go out and have a good time. Soon, it was all coming back to me in a flash.
Everything.
Step by step.
I remember being mad at Liam.- over something stupid.
Refusing to consume alcohol, but giving into the pressure afterwards.
Niall escorting me to the bar and excusing himself to go to the bathroom.
Sitting alone and spotting Jake grinding against a girl in the middle of the dance floor; his tongue down her throat.
Ordering too many shots out of anger, grief, and just plain agony.
I cringed at the flashbacks which seemed to worsen as the night went on. Slapping my head due to my stupidity, I threw my head back on the cushiony pillow left on the couch- preparing myself for the rest to muse over.
Harry trying to get me to stop drinking and Jake sitting right beside him.
Initiating the steamy, make out session with Harry to piss off Jake—which only lead to him coming over for a full confrontation.
So, Harry left me-assuming Jake was my boyfriend.
And Jake forced me through an alleyway.
The kicks, punches, slaps, all fresh in my mind now. It was like I was feeling the pain all over again. Tears rolled down my cheeks as I revived the harsh words thrown at me, the nauseating taste of my own blood. I quivered, his dark, vengeful eyes pictured in my head; refusing to disappear.
But then, there was that star. That single, shining, star that saved my life.
And although I blacked out shortly after I had made my wish, someone came. Someone made my wish come true.
And that someone, was Liam.
Wiping away the stray tears that had stained my puffy cheeks, a brittle smile crossed my features once the jolly, elderly woman padded over-resting a tray on the table set in front of me.
"Eat up," she advised once I sat up; reaching for the glass cup-only now realizing how parched I actually was.
"Thank you, I really appreciate it um.." I paused, realizing I didn’t know her name.
"You can call me Effie," she said, finishing my sentence for me.
"Okay," I grinned, " Thank you so much Effie."
"Anything for a pretty girl like you," she playfully teased, tapping the tip of my nose and walking away.
After devouring the chicken noodle soup and crisps completely, I found myself drifting off to sleep. My eyes fluttered close and darkness overtook me, unaware how run down and truly tired I was until now.
—-
Waking up halfheartedly, there was a continuous tap on my left shoulder. Humming a series of nonexistent words, I looked up to meet a pair of light, aqua eyes of the women who had given me a free meal. Shaking my head to try and bestir, I used the back of my hands to rub my droopy eyes, attempting to have a clearer look.
"Effie…" I mumbled.
"Sweetie, it’s alright. Go back to sleep. You can stay here for the night. The shop is closing, but I’m locking the doors. I’ll see you bright and early in the morning."
Without the strength to fight back, an incoherent ‘thank you’ slipped from my mouth before I felt my consciousness ebbing away once again.
An unexpected shriek liberated from my mouth once Harry’s lengthy arms reached for my own, tugging on my upper arm and forcefully demanding me to stand. His grip was sturdy, yet extremely tight. So tight, that the spiky edges of his fingernails dug into my flesh; breaking my first layer of skin.
Refusing to give into such rough behavior, I remained planted on the cushions, narrowing my eyes directly towards his. The familiar, shining, emerald orbs I had grown accustomed to had now transformed. They were inexplicably coated with darkness, glazed over, and now shadowy dull. Oddly enough, they weren’t looking back at me either, instead, they were staring in the distance; past me. I wondered what he was looking at, if there was actually something intriguing behind me or he was merely lost in his own thoughts.
Studying his facial features, Harry looked zoned out. His teeth tugged ferociously on his bottom lip and his breathing was unsteady -which made me question whether or not he even knew how pinching his skintight grasp actually was.
With frowning eyebrows, I shrunk further into my seat; slightly whimpering as I tried to yank my arm out of his never ending hold.
"Um..Harry, where exactly are we going?" I murmured, glancing back up at him skeptically.
As if my words had snapped him out of a peculiar trance, his vision had finally darted towards my direction, followed by where his hands were clamped over the top of my arm. Instantly, his pupils doubled in size, pure shock overlaying his features.
In one swift motion, he ripped his hand away, his mouth slightly agape as he stared down at his fingertips. He wiggled them a bit; as if to see if they still worked or if they were actually his.
From there, he increased the distance between us; taking a slow, cautious step backwards. Now, he stood frozen in front of me, both of us unsure what to say nor do and neither of us daring to break the silence. Mutely, I began to question why he just acted out the way he did. His reflex was so quick that he truly made it seem like my skin was a fiery flame that he had just burnt his fingertips with.
"Erm..sorry I didn’t mean to.." He trailed off, not daring to look me in the eyes; pondering over what to say.
I shrugged it off, instinctively bringing my hand above the soreness Harry had left behind. Once I did so, I rubbed the newfound, tender skin in small circular motions, pacifying the abrupt pain.
Diverting my gaze back towards the semi mysterious, curly headed boy, he was now sitting on top of the coffee table; both feet planted on the floor. Since he was fairly close to me, it was still clear as day that he was trying to avoid me for as long as he could.
And in my opinion, it was long enough.
"It’s no biggie," I responded a tad late, sending forth a insouciant, toothy grin.
Lifting his head up, ours eyes locked and I watched closely as he surveyed my expression; trying to detect any sort of lie or catch a fraudulent smile. But he couldn’t-because it was all truly genuine and he soon figured that out.
Waiting for his next movement, he flashed a crooked grin and lifted himself off the table; stalking over to me. What he did next, caught me off guard.
Harry pulled his right hand out of his skinny jeans pocket, unfolding it so his palm was facing upward and his arm was now extended. Through my thick eyelashes, I glanced up at his towering figure, lifting an eyebrow as I sent him a quizzical look-undoubtedly, confused as to what he was doing.
He nodded towards his hand and I reached for it with my own, letting him gracefully haul me off the couch.
Harry twirled his keys around his fingers, hastily pulling me along towards the door. Ready to leave, we were still hand in hand as he reached for the metallic, golden door knob.
"So, where are we going?" I asked again, looking up at him with a great deal of confidence. As the door swung open, he turned around to face me, instead of walking through.
"I’m bringing you home," he deadpanned, thin lips in a straight line.
I nodded in understanding, forcing myself not to cringe when he said the term home. It’s actually kinda funny, I thought to myself, he can’t exactly take me home if I don’t have one.
Biting my lip, my honey coated eyes searched for his striking green ones. Clearing my throat, I asked, " okay..um can I just get my suitcase and phone before we go?"
Harry’s forehead crinkled as if he wasn’t expecting that question to arise. Tilting his head imperceptibly, he tapped his chin with his pointer finger- eyeing me up and down.
"Yes, I think that would be a good idea."
Letting my head fall, I released my hand from his hold, an emptiness lingering in my palm. Without another idiom, I shuffled over to the mini kitchen where my zipped up bag was situated in the corner. Pulling on the handle, my suitcase rolled behind me; the tiny wheels turning with every step I took. After grabbing my cellphone off the table, I met back with Harry who stood outside the door; closing it to make sure it wasn’t left ajar.
"Ready?" he asked, slinging his arm over my shoulder. I tensed a bit, the idea of [friendly] human contact somewhat alien to me. Gazing up at his prominent dimples and dainty appearance, I soon relaxed without delay.
With a simple nod I left as response, we both made our way towards the elevator. Patiently waiting for the double doors to fly open, Harry turned to me; allowing his arms to fall.
"How are you feeling?"
Well..I was unsure as to what exactly he was referring to, but I had several answers.
There was a mixture of nervousness, distress and panic pulsating through me. The thought of being stranded and left alone again was enough to send chills spiraling down my spine. How was I possibly going to support myself?
Second, there was an aching in my heart-not being able to say goodbye to the people who sheltered me, took care of me and treated me like a friend- even if it was for only a short period of time. My current mood consisted of a combination including despair, depression, hopelessness, bleakness and sadness filling up my heavy heart.
Through all of these emotions, there was still a spot left for fear. The fear of my ex boyfriend finding, torturing, and hurting me. The infinite list of possibilities was enough to quicken my heart race and have a cold sweat.
Popping back to reality, the sudden ‘ding’ from the elevator alerted me; filling up my ears. Breaking out of my bottomless thoughts, I assumed neither of those responses were what he was asking for.
"I’m fine, how are you?" I replied, stepping past Harry and through the open space.
"No Alexandra, that’s not what I meant," he sighed, clearly frustrated.
After noticing that we were both the only people inside the elevator, I watched Harry press the level one button and return to our conversation. " I meant, how are you feeling after last night?"
Oh.
Averting my gaze towards the bronze doors, I concentrated on them as they slowly shut; leaving us completely to ourselves.
"I’m in a bit of pain..nothing I can’t handle" I mumbled, fixating my eyes towards the ground; leaving my head hung extremely low.
"Well, make sure to take good care of your self," he said.
Beneath my breath, I muttered an “I’ll try." Thankfully, he hadn’t heard. Harry was too busy consumed in humming along with the elevator music to even notice. Turning my head and out of completely nowhere, he had pulled out a beanie and pair of dark shades. Delicately placing the hat above his head and pushing his chocolate ringlets inside, he slid the sunglasses over the bridge of his nose; his deep, emerald eyes hidden. Wow, what a great disguise.
"Remember to keep your head down and we’ll go out the back door," he instructed adamantly.
In my opinion, he almost took this whole scenario a bit too seriously. I felt like I was in an undercover spy movie. A small giggle escaped from my lips at the stark thought, proceeded by the lift doors about to peel apart.
"What’s so funny?" He asked; amused.
"Nothing," I affirmed, shaking my head as the doors were finally separated.
Grabbing my waist and stepping out, Harry ushered me through the boisterous lobby. Surprisingly, it was insanely busy and crowded with a numerous amount people. I guess that was a good thing though- because nobody recognized the extraordinary Harry Styles sneaking through the back door of this five star hotel.
When we finally reached outside, the crisp air was refreshing. Tiny droplets of water descended from the thick, cloudy sky and landed promptly on my shoulders. Examining the canvas, puffs of grey blanketed the portrait above- the color of ash and soot. Stretched across the dusky sky, the view had a hazy ominous feel and unanticipatedly, the drizzling rain was descending faster and faster; a perfect, wet drop splashing onto the tip of my nose. Cool wind blew on my face as goosebumps arose on my exposed skin.
I loved the rain.
"Let’s hurry to the car!" Harry called in a husky, raised voice; hoping to be heard over the showering of raindrops.
Instead of taking my time and enjoying the cool, liquid plummeting down to the surface, Harry rushed over- picking me up and into his arms. Laughing, I was pulled against his chest deliberately; one hand below my legs and the other placed behind my back as he began to run like an idiot.
Eventually, we reached a shiny, silver vehicle which I deemed to be Harry’s. The passenger door creaked and was soon yanked open as I was briskly placed onto the black, rugged, coriaceous seating. Chuckling to myself, I watched humorously as Harry waddled over to his side of the car; practically soaking wet.
Once he reached inside and shut the door, he turned to me; pulling off his beanie.
"Don’t worry, the curls were protected."
A squeak of laughter launched out of my mouth, shaking my head at his foolishness. “You’re curls are stupid," I joked, howling from laughter as I pulled my wet hair behind my ear.
Dropping his jaw, Harry placed one hand on his heart dramatically, feigning hurt. “You know, chicks dig the curls," he fought back; pretending to feel offended and waving his hand to and fro.
"Whatever you say.." I smirked, speaking loud enough for him to hear. Turning away, I glanced out the window, watching the specks of rain slide down the glass; racing to the finish line.
From the corner of my eye, Harry revealed a cheesy grin, deciding to ignore my sly comment.
Turning on the ignition, he twisted the keys as the engine roared to life. Pulling out of his original parking space, he turned the wheel; focusing on the road and departing the almost-vacant parking lot.
"So, where to?" he asked; eyes still concentrated on the route in front of him.
Frozen; I was utterly distraught and was internally freaking out inside my head; biting my nails anxiously. Where should I tell him to take me? Quickly, I was forming into a bundle of nerves; all torn up and unsure what to do nor say.
But I had to say something.
I didn’t know many places in London for him to take me to.
But- My mind wandered back to the time Liam found me and the tiny coffee shop we went into for breakfast. I guess that’ll work.
"Um, down a block or two there’s a cafe and you can just drop me off there," I explained, trying to not shake in my seat or have my teeth chatter.
"You sure? I can ju-"
"Positive," I interrupted nimbly, revealing a weak smile-that I’m sure he wasn’t deceived by.
"Well, okay then…" he murmured; choosing to disregard my strange behavior. Thank goodness.
Slouching down in my seat, I shut my eyes tightly; waiting for this car ride to be over. Not even seconds after I attempted to calm myself, a familiar, gruff voice spoke up.
"What’s the name of the place I’m dropping you off at?"
"Caroline Cafe," I countered, “Its right there," I said, pointing towards the petite shop with a blue awning; few tables and chairs scattered out front.
Pulling over to the side of the road and in front of our destination, Harry shifted in his seat; body facing me.
"It was nice meeting you, Alexandra," he spoke, a small smile playing on his lips as he extended his arm out for a… handshake?
Um ok.
"You too," I practically whispered; the farewell gesture catching me off guard. I mean, I kinda expected a hug or exchange of phone numbers. Something.
Doing my best to hide my disappointment, I gripped his hand feebly; my head turned to the side
.
"Will you just tell the boys, especially Liam and Niall that I said goodbye?" I nearly begged softly; my voice weak and unsteady.
With that, Harry nodded and I forced myself to exit the vehicle, entering the pouring rain. Clutching onto my suitcase, I waved goodbye as he sped off in the distance and found my self dragging my sluggish body over to the cafe. A small bell rang as I walked through, the wooden door slamming behind.
Sitting behind the mahogany counter was an old lady wearing a black apron tied around her pudgy waist. Her short grey hair was combed to the side, a friendly smile floating on her face as her cherry red lips brought out the white in her teeth- a single tooth missing in the front.
Reliving my memory here in the past, she hadn’t been the one working behind the register before. A rather young, freckled girl had been there instead.
The room was empty just like last time, the familiar cozy, warm atmosphere and aroma of fresh brewed coffee filling my senses.
"Hello sweetheart," she greeted; her voice gentle and welcoming.
"Hello," I said, wiping my dirty, wet feet on the placemat before stepping further inside.
Rubbing my eyes, I attempted to reciprocate her loving smile, but mine was drowsy and worn out.
These passed few days have been nothing but stressful and I was broken down; slowly collapsing.
Knowing that it was the polite and fair thing to do, I lazily scuffed my feet along the hardwood floor, reaching the register.
I know I didn’t have much money, but I couldn’t just sit here and not order anything. Running my fingers through my long, damp, tangled hair, I squinted my eyes in attempt to read the menu hanging on the wall. It was hard to see due to the dim lighting- not to mention my eyes were watery in general; blurring my vision. I wouldn’t let myself cry though.
"What would you like to order?" She asked politely, her cheer never faltering.
Looking up at her for the first time, she took In my appearance and a small gasp fell from her lips. I don’t blame her.
Surely, she had questions running through her mind as to why I had a suitcase, why I was in pajamas, why I looked like a mess and why I had bruises, scars and bandaids scattered across my damaged body.
All in all- I looked like a train wreck.
Especially with no makeup on.
"Miss, I don’t have much money on me. I was wondering what the cheapest drink would be? Actually, a water would be fine," I rambled, trying to distract her.
I was beginning to feel self conscious and awkward as she eyed me up and down. Her bottom lip jutted out and sadness filled her sparkling, pale- blue eyes. Did I look that bad?
"Honey, just take a seat. It’s on the house. I’ll be right out with some food and a drink for you," she said; clearly sympathizing me, full of pity.
"You sure?" I questioned, unzipping my suitcase in search for my change purse and money, “because I know I-"
Waving her hand dismissively, she shook her head, “don’t worry about it."
Turning around and heading to what I assumed to be the kitchen or something, the old woman was out of sight and I carried myself over to one of the couches near a bookshelf. Plopping myself down, I took out my phone charger and used the outlet beside me to charge my phone; remembering it was low on battery.
After that, I closed my eyelids, trying to understand how everything went wrong and especially why Harry wanted to get rid of me so quickly. I don’t blame him though. What good was I anyways? I just took up their living space and food. Not to mention, I added to their stress by getting hurt that night at the club and was irresponsible for being under the influence, piss drunk, smashed, wasted, you name it.
But last night, I had yet to remember. But maybe this whole time I was forcing the memory out of my thoughts; maybe I was just too scared to find out what actually happened.
Closing my eyes, I replayed the entire day yesterday- leading up to Louis barging into the living area; demanding we all go out and have a good time. Soon, it was all coming back to me in a flash.
Everything.
Step by step.
I remember being mad at Liam.- over something stupid.
Refusing to consume alcohol, but giving into the pressure afterwards.
Niall escorting me to the bar and excusing himself to go to the bathroom.
Sitting alone and spotting Jake grinding against a girl in the middle of the dance floor; his tongue down her throat.
Ordering too many shots out of anger, grief, and just plain agony.
I cringed at the flashbacks which seemed to worsen as the night went on. Slapping my head due to my stupidity, I threw my head back on the cushiony pillow left on the couch- preparing myself for the rest to muse over.
Harry trying to get me to stop drinking and Jake sitting right beside him.
Initiating the steamy, make out session with Harry to piss off Jake—which only lead to him coming over for a full confrontation.
So, Harry left me-assuming Jake was my boyfriend.
And Jake forced me through an alleyway.
The kicks, punches, slaps, all fresh in my mind now. It was like I was feeling the pain all over again. Tears rolled down my cheeks as I revived the harsh words thrown at me, the nauseating taste of my own blood. I quivered, his dark, vengeful eyes pictured in my head; refusing to disappear.
But then, there was that star. That single, shining, star that saved my life.
And although I blacked out shortly after I had made my wish, someone came. Someone made my wish come true.
And that someone, was Liam.
Wiping away the stray tears that had stained my puffy cheeks, a brittle smile crossed my features once the jolly, elderly woman padded over-resting a tray on the table set in front of me.
"Eat up," she advised once I sat up; reaching for the glass cup-only now realizing how parched I actually was.
"Thank you, I really appreciate it um.." I paused, realizing I didn’t know her name.
"You can call me Effie," she said, finishing my sentence for me.
"Okay," I grinned, " Thank you so much Effie."
"Anything for a pretty girl like you," she playfully teased, tapping the tip of my nose and walking away.
After devouring the chicken noodle soup and crisps completely, I found myself drifting off to sleep. My eyes fluttered close and darkness overtook me, unaware how run down and truly tired I was until now.
—-
Waking up halfheartedly, there was a continuous tap on my left shoulder. Humming a series of nonexistent words, I looked up to meet a pair of light, aqua eyes of the women who had given me a free meal. Shaking my head to try and bestir, I used the back of my hands to rub my droopy eyes, attempting to have a clearer look.
"Effie…" I mumbled.
"Sweetie, it’s alright. Go back to sleep. You can stay here for the night. The shop is closing, but I’m locking the doors. I’ll see you bright and early in the morning."
Without the strength to fight back, an incoherent ‘thank you’ slipped from my mouth before I felt my consciousness ebbing away once again.
Notes
WEEYYHEYYY READ BELOW PLS & THANK YOU <3Okay guys, is my story that bad that it dropped from a 10/10?
I'm seriously really upset and im like sobbing. is BROKEN that bad?
please just comment and let me know what your thinking. do you want me to stop writing? :( like idk if its even worth it anymore i just...asdfghjkl;';lkjhgfdsa.
cmon cmon & vote/comment/subscribe!
what do you like/love/dislike about the story? i need answers! and just comment please! say something! anything!
i exist.
10/14/13