Work in Progress

Chapter 41: The Dark Year Part Two

FOR THOSE WHO SKIPPED: Eli and Sam talked about what happened during Eli's stay at the hospital and the year after she was discharged.

*SAM'S POV*

I suddenly felt heavy. Everything started making sense and also not. All the times Eli mentioned her dark year... I understood why she never said more than she did. And whatever she said doesn't even come close to how serious it was. I needed time to process all of what she told me. But I also knew she needed to know how I felt about it all. So I look her straight in the eyes and say, "Look, I'd be lying if I said I didn't get scared of what you told me." I see fear flash in Eli's eyes. "But not for the reason you think. I'm scared for you, Eli. I know you're trying your best. But I also know you're making things sound less serious than they are."

"I know. I understand if you don't want anything to do with me anymore." She lowers her head.

"Let me finish. I'm also mad that you didn't tell me sooner because then I would've been able to help you sooner as well. Have you really been smoking this whole time?" I put a hand on her chin and raise her head to look at me.

"Every other day before I go to sleep. But I've gotten down to just one joint now." Eli says feebly.

"Okay, that's good. Do you talk to a doctor or therapist about this?" I wanted to make sure she was getting the professional help she needed.

"Yeah, umm. My aunt makes me get a check-up every other month and I meet with my therapist once a month too." I'm surprised by this since not once has Eli ever mentioned needing to go to an appointment. I figured she just wanted to be alone when she didn't want to hang out. Note to self: never assume when it comes to Eli.

"You have to tell me their names and contact details. Also, your aunt's. Lastly, you have to promise me that no matter what happens, whenever you feel tempted or you think you're slipping, you'll tell me. Promise me you'll tell me, Eli." I pleaded with her. She will never -- should never -- have to go through that alone again.

"I promise." Tears were now falling from her eyes and I couldn't stop the tears I was holding back myself. "You're really not leaving me?" She asks as if unsure of herself.

"You're stuck with me, dummy." I laugh and she suddenly pulls me into a tight hug.

"I don't deserve you," she whispers.

"You deserve love and I-- I love you."

Eli pulls away slowly. "You do?"

"You must think I'm crazy." I laugh, feeling embarrassed at my sudden confession.

"Then we're both crazy because I love you too." She flashes that toothy grin I've grown fond of and I flash her one myself. We were both now half-laughing, half-crying but we couldn't care less. All we cared about was that the person we love loved us back.

A/N:

Is this what it's like writing? I seriously did not see that coming. Despite the outline I made for the next few chapters, I love yous definitely didn't even cross my mind. Is it weird? Or rushed? Or have they been basically together already but not officially? Please tell me what you think.

Happy New Year's Eve, everyone! Let's hope next year will be better and good.