Stronger
<33
ONE
Ever since I was a little girl I have been searching for my prince charming. I would always play dress up with my cousins and we would pretend we were princesses and our brothers were the princes. It was so stupid yet so much fun and it felt so real. I always was a girly girl. I love clothes, singing, and dancing. I am good at managing all three. I am a pretty extraordinary person. Anyway that's enough about me. Let's talk about my family. I have a small immediate family: My mom, dad, my brother Eddie, and myself. My name is Alexa. I am sixteen years old. I am close in age with my brother Eddie. He is eighteen, only two years older than I am. My family and I live in Florida. It is really nice here and we live right by Universal Studios. It is so insane. It is summer time now and that means no school for three months. I am so excited for this summer vacation because my brother and his friends are going off to college in a few weeks and this is probably the last time we are all going to be hanging out together. My friends and his friends all hang out together. That is what I love about our relationship and ages.
Today is going to be fun. It is the big summer bash ...part 2. Every summer we all throw two huge parties. Part 1 is the start of summer and Part 2 is the end of summer. Well the end for them since they have to go to college earlier than I have to go back to high school. It is going to be so much fun this year because it is at our house. We are actually getting everything ready right now. My parents stay around while the party is going on since some of my friends and my brother's friends parents come too and hang with them in the house while all the kids are outside chillaxin.
"Eddie is everything set up and ready outside?" I ask
"Yeah pretty much, I just have to get everything ready for the barbecue. Do me a favor Lexie... call up Ryan and ask him to bring over extra bags of ice. Maybe his mom can get them on her way here." he says
"Should I call him on his cell or..." I ask
"Yeah try his cell first. Thanks Lex" he says
Ryan is Eddie's best friend. They have known each other since like fifth grade and now they are going to college together also. Every single girl likes him and that is not an exaggeration. I mean every girl. He doesn't have a girlfriend but he does like all the attention. I call him up.
"Hey Ryan, what's going on?" I say
"Oh hey Lexie, not much getting ready to head over in about ten minutes. Do you guys need anything?" he says
"Yeah actually I was going to ask you if you or your mom would pick up a couple of extra bags of ice on your way here. If you don't mind." I say
"Yeah sure no problem I'll bring them over when I come. My mom is probably coming a little later so I will get them now so that we have enough." He says
"Okay sounds good. Thanks Ryan I will see you in a little bit" I say and hang up.
The doorbell rings and some of our guests are now arriving. Well they aren't really our guests but more like our closest friends.
"Hey guys...what's up...come on in" I say as I greet peeps
"Alexa, is Ryan coming?" asks my friend Darlene
"Yes he is okay...tell all the girls to calm down...oh my gosh" I say and walk away. Some of these girls are so obsessive over this kid.
"Alexa, hey where is your brother" asks Brittany, Eddie's girlfriend.
Brittany and I are so close. She is one of my best friends even though she is the same age as my brother. They have been going out for like four years now. She is also going to the same college as Eddie and Ryan.
"Um hey I think he went upstairs for a sec" I say
"Is Ryan here yet?" she asks
"No not yet he should be here in like any second" I say
"Everyone keeps saying he likes you. These girls are so obsessed with him" she says
"I know...they don't even know what they are talking about"
I see Ryan's car pull up. I go outside to help him carry the bags of ice.
"Hey" he says and hugs me
"Hi, finally you are here. Just to warn you all the girls have been asking for you so be ready for some attacking" I say
"Are you serious...ugh everywhere I go Lex. When is this going to end" he says
"When you get a girlfriend Ryan" I say and walk into the house
TWO
The party is going really well. Everyone is having so much fun. The weather is nice too. It isn't too hot so if people don't want to go in the pool they don't have to sweat their ass off.
"Who wants burgers?" shouts my brother
There are so many people at our house right now. See that is the thing with these parties. Every time we have these bashes not only do all of our closest friends come but also the friends of them and of them and of them. Sometimes I don't even know who half the people are.
Everyone eats burgers and hot dogs. My brother and Ryan are working so hard to cook for all these kids. My dad isn't home or else he would be doing most of the work on the barbecue.
"Alexa, who are all of these people?" asks Brittany
"No idea Brit...you know how these parties are...random people show up" I say
"That's true. So when is everyone leaving" she asks
"I don't know, probably like 4. It is already 1 in the afternoon."
"Wait 4 pm right?" she asks
"Of course. This is a day barbecue ... there is no way they would all be staying till 4 am." I say
"True...so what have you been doing lately? I haven't seen you in like a week"
"Yeah I know, nothing really. Just hanging out you know...relaxing. Getting everything ready for today" I say
"Has Ryan been coming over a lot" asks Brittany
"Yeah. He has been here at least once every day so far" I say
"Oh that's good." She says
"Where are you getting at here Brit" I ask
"No nothing" she says
The party was a lot of fun. It is over now and I am so tired so I am going to go to sleep.
THREE
It is the day after the party. Boy am I tired. My house is a mess too and I have to clean it. The phone is ringing. No one wants to get it okay I guess I will then. Oh my parents aren't home that's right. My brother is probably sleeping still.
"Hello" I say as I answer the phone
"Hi Alexa how are you" says Ryan
"Hey Rye I'm ok...a little tired but okay...how are you"
"Pretty good, pretty good" he says
"I dreaded waking up this morning" I say
"Oh yeah, why?" he asks
"Because I have to clean my house. It is such a mess right now" I say
"Where's Eddie, sleeping?" he asks
"Yup."
"Do you need any help cleaning" he says
"No it's ok I got it" I say
"No I want to help Lex. I'll be over in like five minutes"
"Are you sure, you really don't have to" I say
"No its fine" he says
I start to clean my house. I don't know why Eddie isn't up yet. It is already one in the afternoon. He usually doesn't sleep this late. The doorbell rings five minutes later.
"Hi Ryan" I say and give him a hug
"You started already" he says
"Just vacuuming. I don't think you want to do that" I say and laugh
"Where's your brother"
"Sleeping still" I say
"Still?" he asks
"Yeah. I don't know why or how, but he is" I say
"That's rare of him Lexie" he says
"I know, let me go check on him" I say and I go upstairs
I am in his room now and he is still sleeping. I try to wake him up but he is not waking up. Oh my gosh what is wrong with him. He is breathing though so I don't know.
"Ryan! Come here please hurry!" I scream
"I'm here, I'm here. What's wrong Lexa?" he says
"I don't know but I can't get him to wake up" I say nervously
"Ok calm down...does he have a pulse" he asks
"Yes. He does. What should we do? Should we call my parents?" I ask
"No I think we should call 911 first ... go call and tell them to get here as fast as possible" he says
I call and an ambulance is on its way. I go back upstairs to Ryan and Eddie.
"They are on their way now. I called my parents too and they are going to the hospital so that they can meet him there. They want us to stay here in case anyone calls or something" I say and start to cry
"Come here Alexa, come here. Everything is going to be fine" he says as he hugs me
"Please ...he has to wake up" I say
"He will Lex, he will" says Ryan
Ryan let's go of me
"No, please hold me Ryan please" I say and hug him more
"It's ok Alexa, everything is going to be okay" he says
The ambulance comes and takes him to the hospital. Ryan and I are still at my house waiting for my parents to call us.
"What did they say?" I ask Ryan
"They think he might be unconscious, but they don't know how" he says
"When is he going to wake up" I ask
"They don't know yet, we are just going to have to wait" he says
"I'm scared Ryan" I say
"Don't worry. I called Brittany and she is on her way over here now. Do you need anything?" he asks
"A hug" I say and he hugs me as I cry in his arms
FOUR
Brittany is here now. We are both really upset and even though Ryan is trying so hard to be strong for us right now I know he is upset too.
"I just wish I can see him right now" says Brittany
"I know Brit, but we have to wait until they call and let us know when we can go there" says Ryan
"What if something happens to him" she says
"Nothing is going to happen to him Brittany. My parents won't let it. You know that" I say
"I'm just nervous" she says
"We all are" says Ryan
We are sitting in the living room watching TV although none of us are really watching it but just staring at it and thinking about what is going on. Then all of a sudden the phone rings and Ryan gets it.
"That was your dad Alexa. He said it is ok for us to go down there now. Eddie is still unconscious but they are running a bunch of tests to find out why"
"Okay come on let's go. Ryan is your car here" I ask
"Yeah come on I'll drive" he says
We go to the hospital. When we get there we go in the room Eddie is in. He is still not awake but he looks fine. My parents are talking to the doctor and Brittany is sitting next to the bed. She looks really upset.
"Lexie, come here can I talk to you for a second?" asks Ryan
"Yeah I am actually going to go down and get a snack so come with me" I say
We are sitting down in the lunch room eating chips and drinking soda
"What did you want to talk to me about" I say
"Oh um how do you think Brittany is doing?" he asks
"Not too good but I think she will be ok"
"I know you are trying your hardest to be there for her Lex I know that's her boyfriend and all but he is your brother. I know it's hard for you too so I just wanted to let you know that I am here for you. I'll help you get through this itee." Says Ryan
"I know...thank you. I know it's hard for you too. He is your best friend. He is like a brother to you too. And don't worry because he is going to make it through this Ryan. I know he is" I say
"That's all Lex, keep thinking positive. That's what will help. Trust me"
"I know...I know." I say and start tearing a little bit
"Listen don't cry though because it's not good for you. It just makes things worse. He is your brother Alexa, your older brother and he is strong and he is going to wake up. You just have to trust that and believe it" he says
"I know...thanks Ryan" I say
"Are those any good?" he asks as I am eating my pretzels
"Yeah they are. Try one" I say and give him a pretzel
"Mm. They are"
"I'm thirsty I should have got a drink" I say
"Go get one. Here take this money"
"No I'm not going to finish it anyway I just need a sip"
"Here, then have sips of mine" he says
"Thanks" I say after I drink his soda
"Come on let's go back up" Ryan says
FIVE
"Mom how is he doing" I say
"The same...the doctors are still running tests. They may not have the results for a couple of hours. They say he is definitely not waking up today but maybe tonight or tomorrow morning after reviewing his conditions"
"Oh really...is that bad"
"It's normal but until they find out what is causing this we just have to wait" she says
I go over and sit on the chairs in the lobby.
"Alexa, I have to run. I forgot all about the baby shower I have today. Please call me if anything changes ok. I will definitely be here in the morning" she says
"Okay bye don't worry okay just have fun every things fine" I tell her as she leaves
"Hey, how you holding up" says Ryan as he sits next to me
"Alright...you?" I say and look at him
"Alright too, I guess. Brit just left" he says
"Yeah I know she was just over here saying goodbye" I say
"Your parents are probably staying over here tonight. What are you going to do?" he asks
"I don't know yet. My dad wants me to go home but my mom doesn't want me sleeping there alone so one of them might come home" I say
"No that's silly...I'll stay with you tonight. Tell them to both stay here. They both should be here right now Lexie. I'll stay with you." He says
"You already have done so much Ryan...you really don't have to"
"Are you kidding me Lex...Eddie is my best friend and I would do anything for him and his family...especially you" he says
"Okay...if you can run it past my parents and make them agree then be my guest" I say
"I'll be right back" he says
SIX
So somehow Ryan managed to convince my parents to let him stay over with me tonight. They actually appreciated the offer and were happy that they both get to now stay at the hospital. After saying goodbye to everyone Ryan and I headed home.
"No change this song I hate it" I say
"Better?" he asks
"Yeah. So thanks for everything you have been doing. I appreciate it so much, my whole family does" I say
"No problem Lex" he says
When we get home I put on my pajamas and we are watching a movie on the couch.
"Do you want anything Ryan, a drink or something" I ask
"Nah thanks...if I do I'll help myself don't worry"
"Okay...make your self at home" I say
"Already have" he says and smiles
"Ugh I am so tired" I say
"It's been a long day. Come, sit next to me" he says and I go sit next to him on the couch.
"Are you okay?" he asks me
"I guess so. It's hard."
"I know. I should tell you this. A couple of years ago when I was about I don't know, 15 or so, me and your brother promised each other that we would always be there for each other through all the hard times because we are best friends and you know what he said?" he says
"What?" I ask curiously
"He said Deal, but on one condition, that you will always be there for Alexa no matter what happens in the future to me or anyone else in my family because you are the only person I could think of that is the most like me and I trust you with her so please look out for her. He said even look out for Alexa with me now so that she never ever has to deal with any drama or stuff in her life. Alexa, this is why you are so close with our friends too, you know" he says
"Sorry I can't help but cry a little .... Right?" I say
"No you let it out...but just know and I have told you this over and over and over again but what your brother asked for me to do three years ago I am doing and I will always be here for you Lexie....always" he says and hugs me
"Thank you so much Ryan...I love you so much" I say
Then I just realized what I said. I just told the kid I loved him. I meant it on a friendly level and hopefully he knows that.
"I love you too Lexie" he says and holds me in his arms
"Can we talk about something else now...a little happier" I say and chuckle
"Yah ... um...so did you have fun at the party the other day" he asks
"Yeah I did. I wish I was still there. I heard a lot of rumors that night too."
"Like what"
"Everyone kept telling me that they think you like me"
"Really?" he says in a happy way
"Yeah...all the girls kept getting jealous of me" I say and laugh
"Well you know that's a little true...I mean you are a beautiful girl Lexie" he says
"I know I know but we have talked about this so many times Ryan. I know we would both go out with each other."
"It's all about timing Lex...and in a couple of months everyone is going off to college and you will still be in high school"
"I know it sucks...I wish I was the same age as you guys. It would be so much easier you know" I say
"Yeah you can say that again"
"I am going to miss you when you go to college. Every girl is going to like you and I am going to become a jealous person" I say and laugh
"Shut up Lexie...you know I will never forget you" he says and kisses me on the lips
"Thanks for that..." I say and kiss him back
"See how nice this is...nobody ever said this relationship wouldn't work Lex"
"How about this....how about we talk about it all when everything is settled with my brother and back to normal ...k" I say
"K..."he says and he kisses me again
"I'm tired" I say
"Go to bed then I will be alright out here on the couch"
"Can I stay here with you? I would feel better"
"Absolutely" he says and I lay with him on the couch and we fall asleep.
SEVEN
The next morning I woke up to the smell of pancakes. Ryan must have made them.
"Good morning sleeping beauty...did you sleep okay?" he says
"Yes...good morning" I give him a hug
"Hungry?"
"Starving...aw you made pancakes how sweet...thank you Ryan" I say
"No prob. Do you want anything else?" he asks
"Nope this is plenty thanks" I say
We eat our breakfast. As we are eating Ryan looks like he wants to tell me something but he doesn't let it out. He looks very happy too.
"What's up? Is everything ok?"
"Yeah why..." he says
"You seem very jumpy I don't know" I say
"Well I did hear some news this morning" he says
"What? About Eddie... oh what, what"
"He woke up Lex...but they think he might have had a seizure or something that was going on in his head so they are still running more tests now that he is awake" he says
"Oh thank God...can we go there now?" I ask
"Your parents want us to stay here and wait for them because they are all coming home a little later anyway...Eddie too" he says
"Yay...oh I am so relieved. I want to call him though ... can I?" I ask
"Yeah go ahead"
I get my cell phone and call Eddie's phone at the hospital. I am so happy and relieved that he is conscious again.
"Hello"
"Eddie! Hey how are you feeling" I say
"Hi Lexa... I am doing ok. How bout you"
"Good...Ryan is taking good care of me so don't worry" I tell him
"I know I heard. Brittany says hi. She is here with me now so...but I will be home later tonight so wait for me there okay...tell Ryan to hang out a while until we come home"
"Oh he will ...ok I cannot wait until you come home. I miss you and love you bye see you later"
"Love you too Alexa...bye" he says and I hang up
"How is he doing?" Ryan asks me
"Good he sounds really good" I say and smile
"I am glad to see you happy again Lex" he says
I give him a hug. I love this kid right now. I get butterflies around him and I have known him for so long.
EIGHT
It has been one week since Eddie was in the hospital and he is doing really well. The doctors figured out why he went unconscious in his sleep. It was caused by a trigger in his brain that set off his equilibrium and made him have a small seizure. This is usually caused by certain foods you eat so he just has to be careful. It also can be caused by alcohol so he has to lie low on that too for a while, which sucks because they are all leaving for college tonight. Today is going to be a sad day because I am going to have to say goodbye to my brother and his friends...especially Ryan. I am going to miss them so much. They are going to FSU which is Florida State University. It is about a four hour drive from our town. It isn't that bad but I definitely won't be seeing them a lot in the next couple of months.
"Alexa, honey go and tell your brother that Ryan is here with his bags. He has to help him pack up his car. And come down too because Ryan's parents are here" says my mom
"I told him mom. Hi Christine and John" I say as I greet Ryan's parents
"Hi sweetie how are you doing" says Christine as she gives me a hug
"I'm ok...how are you"
"Good. This is going to be a tough day for you I hear huh?" she says
"Yeah kind of. All my friends are leaving...its crazy. I am going to miss these two so much" I say referring to my brother and Ryan
"I know so are we all" she says
I go outside to see Ryan. Eddie and Ryan are loading their car. They are driving up there and I am going with them for the drive because my cousin lives right by FSU and she is coming back home tonight so I will drive back with her later. At least I will have some alone time with the boys.
When I go outside Ryan immediately gives me a big hug.
"How you doing?" he asks
"Okay...how are you guys doing? Making progress?" I ask
"We are getting there. Did you see my mom and dad" asks Ryan
"Yeah...they are so funny. Your dad is a pissa"
"Yea he's been cracking jokes all day long" he says and laughs
"Lex hand me that bag over there" says Eddie and I give it to him
"Oh what was in that...a brick" I ask
"Its Ryan's" says Eddie
"Books are in there" says Eddie
"Wow" I say and smile
"So you are driving up with us right" asks Ryan
"Yes I am"
"Good you better be or else I would be so upset" he says
"I know you would...I'll be right back guys" I say and go inside
I am so not looking forward to saying goodbye to them tonight. I don't know what I am going to do without them. Especially my brother, he was always with me. We did everything together.
NINE
It is now four o'clock. We are getting ready to hit the road. The boys are saying goodbye to the parents.
"Bye mom, bye dad. I will call you guys when I am at Kristen's house and then I will call when we are on our way back" I tell my parents
"Ok bye be careful. Have fun boys we will miss you. Love you both" says my mom
Eddie, Ryan, and I get in the car and we are on our way. It takes about four hours to get their so we should be there around eight.
"Guys this is so sad. I can't believe you guys are going off to college. I am getting so old" I say
"You? How do you think we feel?" says Eddie
"That's true" I say
"Don't worry you will visit us up here; many weekends to party with us and our friends ...right Lex" says Ryan
"Oh yeah...most def" I say
"Yo do we got any food in here" says Ryan
"Yeah what do you want...here are chips" I say and hand him a bag of Doritos
"Oh not these then my breath is going to smell like cheese...gross. How about pretzels hand em over" he says and I give him the pretzels
"Do you want water...here" I say and give him a bottle
"Thanks" he says
I fell asleep for like a half an hour and when I woke up I had no idea where we were but it was getting darker outside. Eddie is driving by the way. Ryan was at first so they must have pulled over and switched.
"Morning" says Eddie
"What time is it?" I ask
"4:30" he says
"Wow I didn't even sleep that long. It feels like I slept forever" I say
"You tired Lex?" asks Ryan
"Not really...just bored so I figured I'd try to sleep" I say
"That's fun" says Eddie
"I feel so alone back here. Come back here with me Ryan...please" I say
The car we are in is a BMW SUV so it is pretty roomy. There are three rows in the car but I am sitting in the middle one but it is still not too close to the front. Ryan sits next to me.
"Sorry Eddie...for leaving you all alone" says Ryan
"Its itee. I am a big boy" he says and laughs and then puts the radio on
I lay my head on Ryan's shoulder and close my eyes.
"I'm gonna miss you" I say
"I know ... I am going to miss you too Alexa"
"Me too" says Eddie
"Aw I will miss you too big bro" I say
"We will try and visit as much as we can Lexa" says Eddie
"You better...I will visit you guys too so make sure there is room in your dorm and don't let all your guy friends know about me please" I say
"Yeah they will probably all try to get with you" says Eddie
"Yeah well I won't let that happen so..." says Ryan and I blush
I am still laying my head on him and he is rubbing my back.
"We have so many good memories" I say
"Yeah we do" says Ryan confidently
"Remember when we went to Miami and we all had to sleep on the beach that one night because we got kicked out of the hotel for trashing the room" I say and laugh
"Correction...we all got kicked out of the hotel because of the assholes that we were with trashed the room" says Eddie
"And the time when we were at your house Eddie and Pete walked in on your mom taking a shit and then tried the bathroom upstairs and Alexa he walked in on you taking a shower" says Ryan
"Oh my god yeah and I didn't even know he was in the bathroom and he stood in there and watched me in the shower the whole time. I was so mad at him for that" I say
"Yea I remember" he says
"Oh good times, good times"I say
"So what are you driving back with your cousin later" says Ryan
"Yup" I say
"Oh I don't want you to leave" he says in a sad voice
"I know...I don't want to leave you guys either" I say
"You better be going to FSU for college Lexie" says Ryan
"I'm gonna try Rye." I say
It is now 5:00. Ryan is driving and Eddie is way in the back taking a nap. I am sitting in the front with Ryan. I am so tired I am trying so hard to stay awake but I keep dozing off.
"Hey you aren't falling asleep on me are ya?" asks Ryan
"No...I am not"
"Why do you keep looking at me" I say
"Just taking you all in for the last time before I don't see you for a while" he says
"Aw. You really know how to make a girl blush...I can tell you that. That will help you pick up the girls" I say
"I'm not gonna pick up any girls Lex. I am waiting for you to get there" he says
"You are not Ryan... I won't let you do that. You are going to be in college. You are supposed to have fun and go out and hook up with as many girls as you can. What are people gonna say when you tell them you can't because you like a sixteen year old girl in high school. I mean seriously." I say
"I appreciate the offer Lexie but I am not giving up on you. Even if it has to be a long distance relationship. I mean I will still go out and party but I will not kiss any girls" he says
"You are crazy" I tell him
"No you are...because you don't believe me"
"I do though...listen I like you too Ryan...so much" I say
He leans over and kisses me.
"Once I settle down at FSU we are figuring this whole thing out alright" he says
"Deal" I say
TEN
It is now 8:00 and Ryan and I have passed out in the back. We have slept for like two hours while Eddie was driving. Oh I feel bad but oh well. We reach FSU and I meet my cousin Kristen there. The boys unload the car and bring all their stuff up to their dorm room. Eddie comes outside and tells me to go up there because Ryan wants to talk to me and say goodbye alone. I go up to their dorm room and Ryan is in there.
"Hi...wow this is nice and big" I say
"Yeah it's pretty sweet" he says
"What? You're gonna make me cry" I say and start to tear
"Come here give me a hug" he says and we hug
"Its gonna be okay. I am going to call you and text you everyday all day Lexie"
"I love you so much Ryan" I say
"I love you too and I really mean that Alexa"
"Me too" I say as I am sniffling
He is still comforting me
"So I guess this is goodbye" I say
"For now Lex...for now" he says
"For now... so, have fun ok" I say
"You too" he says and wipes my tears
He hugs me again and kisses me a lot.
"Thank you so much again for everything you did for me these past couple of weeks" I say
"My pleasure and if you ever need to talk or anything you just call me ok and if there is ever a real emergency I will be there in a heartbeat Lexie you know that" he says
"Okay bye Ryan I love you and be careful ok"
"Bye Alexa I'll miss you. Love you too"
We hug and kiss again and I got back outside to say goodbye to Eddie
"Bye Eddie. I love you so much have fun and be careful. I will miss you" I say as I hug him
"Bye Lexa. I love you too and take care of yourself ok stay strong kid" he says
"I'm falling for Ryan, Eddie" I say
"I know you are. I want you two to be together and I know it's hard but everything is going to work out ok. Don't worry I'll keep an eye on him" he says
"Yeah...thanks. Bye I love you" I say and hug him
And Kristen and I are on our way home, I have a feeling my life in the future is going to be very nice and I hope I become Ryan's girlfriend too. These past couple of weeks have made me a lot stronger and that's thanks to some very special people I am lucky to have in my life.
Ever since I was a little girl I have been searching for my prince charming. I would always play dress up with my cousins and we would pretend we were princesses and our brothers were the princes. It was so stupid yet so much fun and it felt so real. I always was a girly girl. I love clothes, singing, and dancing. I am good at managing all three. I am a pretty extraordinary person. Anyway that's enough about me. Let's talk about my family. I have a small immediate family: My mom, dad, my brother Eddie, and myself. My name is Alexa. I am sixteen years old. I am close in age with my brother Eddie. He is eighteen, only two years older than I am. My family and I live in Florida. It is really nice here and we live right by Universal Studios. It is so insane. It is summer time now and that means no school for three months. I am so excited for this summer vacation because my brother and his friends are going off to college in a few weeks and this is probably the last time we are all going to be hanging out together. My friends and his friends all hang out together. That is what I love about our relationship and ages.
Today is going to be fun. It is the big summer bash ...part 2. Every summer we all throw two huge parties. Part 1 is the start of summer and Part 2 is the end of summer. Well the end for them since they have to go to college earlier than I have to go back to high school. It is going to be so much fun this year because it is at our house. We are actually getting everything ready right now. My parents stay around while the party is going on since some of my friends and my brother's friends parents come too and hang with them in the house while all the kids are outside chillaxin.
"Eddie is everything set up and ready outside?" I ask
"Yeah pretty much, I just have to get everything ready for the barbecue. Do me a favor Lexie... call up Ryan and ask him to bring over extra bags of ice. Maybe his mom can get them on her way here." he says
"Should I call him on his cell or..." I ask
"Yeah try his cell first. Thanks Lex" he says
Ryan is Eddie's best friend. They have known each other since like fifth grade and now they are going to college together also. Every single girl likes him and that is not an exaggeration. I mean every girl. He doesn't have a girlfriend but he does like all the attention. I call him up.
"Hey Ryan, what's going on?" I say
"Oh hey Lexie, not much getting ready to head over in about ten minutes. Do you guys need anything?" he says
"Yeah actually I was going to ask you if you or your mom would pick up a couple of extra bags of ice on your way here. If you don't mind." I say
"Yeah sure no problem I'll bring them over when I come. My mom is probably coming a little later so I will get them now so that we have enough." He says
"Okay sounds good. Thanks Ryan I will see you in a little bit" I say and hang up.
The doorbell rings and some of our guests are now arriving. Well they aren't really our guests but more like our closest friends.
"Hey guys...what's up...come on in" I say as I greet peeps
"Alexa, is Ryan coming?" asks my friend Darlene
"Yes he is okay...tell all the girls to calm down...oh my gosh" I say and walk away. Some of these girls are so obsessive over this kid.
"Alexa, hey where is your brother" asks Brittany, Eddie's girlfriend.
Brittany and I are so close. She is one of my best friends even though she is the same age as my brother. They have been going out for like four years now. She is also going to the same college as Eddie and Ryan.
"Um hey I think he went upstairs for a sec" I say
"Is Ryan here yet?" she asks
"No not yet he should be here in like any second" I say
"Everyone keeps saying he likes you. These girls are so obsessed with him" she says
"I know...they don't even know what they are talking about"
I see Ryan's car pull up. I go outside to help him carry the bags of ice.
"Hey" he says and hugs me
"Hi, finally you are here. Just to warn you all the girls have been asking for you so be ready for some attacking" I say
"Are you serious...ugh everywhere I go Lex. When is this going to end" he says
"When you get a girlfriend Ryan" I say and walk into the house
TWO
The party is going really well. Everyone is having so much fun. The weather is nice too. It isn't too hot so if people don't want to go in the pool they don't have to sweat their ass off.
"Who wants burgers?" shouts my brother
There are so many people at our house right now. See that is the thing with these parties. Every time we have these bashes not only do all of our closest friends come but also the friends of them and of them and of them. Sometimes I don't even know who half the people are.
Everyone eats burgers and hot dogs. My brother and Ryan are working so hard to cook for all these kids. My dad isn't home or else he would be doing most of the work on the barbecue.
"Alexa, who are all of these people?" asks Brittany
"No idea Brit...you know how these parties are...random people show up" I say
"That's true. So when is everyone leaving" she asks
"I don't know, probably like 4. It is already 1 in the afternoon."
"Wait 4 pm right?" she asks
"Of course. This is a day barbecue ... there is no way they would all be staying till 4 am." I say
"True...so what have you been doing lately? I haven't seen you in like a week"
"Yeah I know, nothing really. Just hanging out you know...relaxing. Getting everything ready for today" I say
"Has Ryan been coming over a lot" asks Brittany
"Yeah. He has been here at least once every day so far" I say
"Oh that's good." She says
"Where are you getting at here Brit" I ask
"No nothing" she says
The party was a lot of fun. It is over now and I am so tired so I am going to go to sleep.
THREE
It is the day after the party. Boy am I tired. My house is a mess too and I have to clean it. The phone is ringing. No one wants to get it okay I guess I will then. Oh my parents aren't home that's right. My brother is probably sleeping still.
"Hello" I say as I answer the phone
"Hi Alexa how are you" says Ryan
"Hey Rye I'm ok...a little tired but okay...how are you"
"Pretty good, pretty good" he says
"I dreaded waking up this morning" I say
"Oh yeah, why?" he asks
"Because I have to clean my house. It is such a mess right now" I say
"Where's Eddie, sleeping?" he asks
"Yup."
"Do you need any help cleaning" he says
"No it's ok I got it" I say
"No I want to help Lex. I'll be over in like five minutes"
"Are you sure, you really don't have to" I say
"No its fine" he says
I start to clean my house. I don't know why Eddie isn't up yet. It is already one in the afternoon. He usually doesn't sleep this late. The doorbell rings five minutes later.
"Hi Ryan" I say and give him a hug
"You started already" he says
"Just vacuuming. I don't think you want to do that" I say and laugh
"Where's your brother"
"Sleeping still" I say
"Still?" he asks
"Yeah. I don't know why or how, but he is" I say
"That's rare of him Lexie" he says
"I know, let me go check on him" I say and I go upstairs
I am in his room now and he is still sleeping. I try to wake him up but he is not waking up. Oh my gosh what is wrong with him. He is breathing though so I don't know.
"Ryan! Come here please hurry!" I scream
"I'm here, I'm here. What's wrong Lexa?" he says
"I don't know but I can't get him to wake up" I say nervously
"Ok calm down...does he have a pulse" he asks
"Yes. He does. What should we do? Should we call my parents?" I ask
"No I think we should call 911 first ... go call and tell them to get here as fast as possible" he says
I call and an ambulance is on its way. I go back upstairs to Ryan and Eddie.
"They are on their way now. I called my parents too and they are going to the hospital so that they can meet him there. They want us to stay here in case anyone calls or something" I say and start to cry
"Come here Alexa, come here. Everything is going to be fine" he says as he hugs me
"Please ...he has to wake up" I say
"He will Lex, he will" says Ryan
Ryan let's go of me
"No, please hold me Ryan please" I say and hug him more
"It's ok Alexa, everything is going to be okay" he says
The ambulance comes and takes him to the hospital. Ryan and I are still at my house waiting for my parents to call us.
"What did they say?" I ask Ryan
"They think he might be unconscious, but they don't know how" he says
"When is he going to wake up" I ask
"They don't know yet, we are just going to have to wait" he says
"I'm scared Ryan" I say
"Don't worry. I called Brittany and she is on her way over here now. Do you need anything?" he asks
"A hug" I say and he hugs me as I cry in his arms
FOUR
Brittany is here now. We are both really upset and even though Ryan is trying so hard to be strong for us right now I know he is upset too.
"I just wish I can see him right now" says Brittany
"I know Brit, but we have to wait until they call and let us know when we can go there" says Ryan
"What if something happens to him" she says
"Nothing is going to happen to him Brittany. My parents won't let it. You know that" I say
"I'm just nervous" she says
"We all are" says Ryan
We are sitting in the living room watching TV although none of us are really watching it but just staring at it and thinking about what is going on. Then all of a sudden the phone rings and Ryan gets it.
"That was your dad Alexa. He said it is ok for us to go down there now. Eddie is still unconscious but they are running a bunch of tests to find out why"
"Okay come on let's go. Ryan is your car here" I ask
"Yeah come on I'll drive" he says
We go to the hospital. When we get there we go in the room Eddie is in. He is still not awake but he looks fine. My parents are talking to the doctor and Brittany is sitting next to the bed. She looks really upset.
"Lexie, come here can I talk to you for a second?" asks Ryan
"Yeah I am actually going to go down and get a snack so come with me" I say
We are sitting down in the lunch room eating chips and drinking soda
"What did you want to talk to me about" I say
"Oh um how do you think Brittany is doing?" he asks
"Not too good but I think she will be ok"
"I know you are trying your hardest to be there for her Lex I know that's her boyfriend and all but he is your brother. I know it's hard for you too so I just wanted to let you know that I am here for you. I'll help you get through this itee." Says Ryan
"I know...thank you. I know it's hard for you too. He is your best friend. He is like a brother to you too. And don't worry because he is going to make it through this Ryan. I know he is" I say
"That's all Lex, keep thinking positive. That's what will help. Trust me"
"I know...I know." I say and start tearing a little bit
"Listen don't cry though because it's not good for you. It just makes things worse. He is your brother Alexa, your older brother and he is strong and he is going to wake up. You just have to trust that and believe it" he says
"I know...thanks Ryan" I say
"Are those any good?" he asks as I am eating my pretzels
"Yeah they are. Try one" I say and give him a pretzel
"Mm. They are"
"I'm thirsty I should have got a drink" I say
"Go get one. Here take this money"
"No I'm not going to finish it anyway I just need a sip"
"Here, then have sips of mine" he says
"Thanks" I say after I drink his soda
"Come on let's go back up" Ryan says
FIVE
"Mom how is he doing" I say
"The same...the doctors are still running tests. They may not have the results for a couple of hours. They say he is definitely not waking up today but maybe tonight or tomorrow morning after reviewing his conditions"
"Oh really...is that bad"
"It's normal but until they find out what is causing this we just have to wait" she says
I go over and sit on the chairs in the lobby.
"Alexa, I have to run. I forgot all about the baby shower I have today. Please call me if anything changes ok. I will definitely be here in the morning" she says
"Okay bye don't worry okay just have fun every things fine" I tell her as she leaves
"Hey, how you holding up" says Ryan as he sits next to me
"Alright...you?" I say and look at him
"Alright too, I guess. Brit just left" he says
"Yeah I know she was just over here saying goodbye" I say
"Your parents are probably staying over here tonight. What are you going to do?" he asks
"I don't know yet. My dad wants me to go home but my mom doesn't want me sleeping there alone so one of them might come home" I say
"No that's silly...I'll stay with you tonight. Tell them to both stay here. They both should be here right now Lexie. I'll stay with you." He says
"You already have done so much Ryan...you really don't have to"
"Are you kidding me Lex...Eddie is my best friend and I would do anything for him and his family...especially you" he says
"Okay...if you can run it past my parents and make them agree then be my guest" I say
"I'll be right back" he says
SIX
So somehow Ryan managed to convince my parents to let him stay over with me tonight. They actually appreciated the offer and were happy that they both get to now stay at the hospital. After saying goodbye to everyone Ryan and I headed home.
"No change this song I hate it" I say
"Better?" he asks
"Yeah. So thanks for everything you have been doing. I appreciate it so much, my whole family does" I say
"No problem Lex" he says
When we get home I put on my pajamas and we are watching a movie on the couch.
"Do you want anything Ryan, a drink or something" I ask
"Nah thanks...if I do I'll help myself don't worry"
"Okay...make your self at home" I say
"Already have" he says and smiles
"Ugh I am so tired" I say
"It's been a long day. Come, sit next to me" he says and I go sit next to him on the couch.
"Are you okay?" he asks me
"I guess so. It's hard."
"I know. I should tell you this. A couple of years ago when I was about I don't know, 15 or so, me and your brother promised each other that we would always be there for each other through all the hard times because we are best friends and you know what he said?" he says
"What?" I ask curiously
"He said Deal, but on one condition, that you will always be there for Alexa no matter what happens in the future to me or anyone else in my family because you are the only person I could think of that is the most like me and I trust you with her so please look out for her. He said even look out for Alexa with me now so that she never ever has to deal with any drama or stuff in her life. Alexa, this is why you are so close with our friends too, you know" he says
"Sorry I can't help but cry a little .... Right?" I say
"No you let it out...but just know and I have told you this over and over and over again but what your brother asked for me to do three years ago I am doing and I will always be here for you Lexie....always" he says and hugs me
"Thank you so much Ryan...I love you so much" I say
Then I just realized what I said. I just told the kid I loved him. I meant it on a friendly level and hopefully he knows that.
"I love you too Lexie" he says and holds me in his arms
"Can we talk about something else now...a little happier" I say and chuckle
"Yah ... um...so did you have fun at the party the other day" he asks
"Yeah I did. I wish I was still there. I heard a lot of rumors that night too."
"Like what"
"Everyone kept telling me that they think you like me"
"Really?" he says in a happy way
"Yeah...all the girls kept getting jealous of me" I say and laugh
"Well you know that's a little true...I mean you are a beautiful girl Lexie" he says
"I know I know but we have talked about this so many times Ryan. I know we would both go out with each other."
"It's all about timing Lex...and in a couple of months everyone is going off to college and you will still be in high school"
"I know it sucks...I wish I was the same age as you guys. It would be so much easier you know" I say
"Yeah you can say that again"
"I am going to miss you when you go to college. Every girl is going to like you and I am going to become a jealous person" I say and laugh
"Shut up Lexie...you know I will never forget you" he says and kisses me on the lips
"Thanks for that..." I say and kiss him back
"See how nice this is...nobody ever said this relationship wouldn't work Lex"
"How about this....how about we talk about it all when everything is settled with my brother and back to normal ...k" I say
"K..."he says and he kisses me again
"I'm tired" I say
"Go to bed then I will be alright out here on the couch"
"Can I stay here with you? I would feel better"
"Absolutely" he says and I lay with him on the couch and we fall asleep.
SEVEN
The next morning I woke up to the smell of pancakes. Ryan must have made them.
"Good morning sleeping beauty...did you sleep okay?" he says
"Yes...good morning" I give him a hug
"Hungry?"
"Starving...aw you made pancakes how sweet...thank you Ryan" I say
"No prob. Do you want anything else?" he asks
"Nope this is plenty thanks" I say
We eat our breakfast. As we are eating Ryan looks like he wants to tell me something but he doesn't let it out. He looks very happy too.
"What's up? Is everything ok?"
"Yeah why..." he says
"You seem very jumpy I don't know" I say
"Well I did hear some news this morning" he says
"What? About Eddie... oh what, what"
"He woke up Lex...but they think he might have had a seizure or something that was going on in his head so they are still running more tests now that he is awake" he says
"Oh thank God...can we go there now?" I ask
"Your parents want us to stay here and wait for them because they are all coming home a little later anyway...Eddie too" he says
"Yay...oh I am so relieved. I want to call him though ... can I?" I ask
"Yeah go ahead"
I get my cell phone and call Eddie's phone at the hospital. I am so happy and relieved that he is conscious again.
"Hello"
"Eddie! Hey how are you feeling" I say
"Hi Lexa... I am doing ok. How bout you"
"Good...Ryan is taking good care of me so don't worry" I tell him
"I know I heard. Brittany says hi. She is here with me now so...but I will be home later tonight so wait for me there okay...tell Ryan to hang out a while until we come home"
"Oh he will ...ok I cannot wait until you come home. I miss you and love you bye see you later"
"Love you too Alexa...bye" he says and I hang up
"How is he doing?" Ryan asks me
"Good he sounds really good" I say and smile
"I am glad to see you happy again Lex" he says
I give him a hug. I love this kid right now. I get butterflies around him and I have known him for so long.
EIGHT
It has been one week since Eddie was in the hospital and he is doing really well. The doctors figured out why he went unconscious in his sleep. It was caused by a trigger in his brain that set off his equilibrium and made him have a small seizure. This is usually caused by certain foods you eat so he just has to be careful. It also can be caused by alcohol so he has to lie low on that too for a while, which sucks because they are all leaving for college tonight. Today is going to be a sad day because I am going to have to say goodbye to my brother and his friends...especially Ryan. I am going to miss them so much. They are going to FSU which is Florida State University. It is about a four hour drive from our town. It isn't that bad but I definitely won't be seeing them a lot in the next couple of months.
"Alexa, honey go and tell your brother that Ryan is here with his bags. He has to help him pack up his car. And come down too because Ryan's parents are here" says my mom
"I told him mom. Hi Christine and John" I say as I greet Ryan's parents
"Hi sweetie how are you doing" says Christine as she gives me a hug
"I'm ok...how are you"
"Good. This is going to be a tough day for you I hear huh?" she says
"Yeah kind of. All my friends are leaving...its crazy. I am going to miss these two so much" I say referring to my brother and Ryan
"I know so are we all" she says
I go outside to see Ryan. Eddie and Ryan are loading their car. They are driving up there and I am going with them for the drive because my cousin lives right by FSU and she is coming back home tonight so I will drive back with her later. At least I will have some alone time with the boys.
When I go outside Ryan immediately gives me a big hug.
"How you doing?" he asks
"Okay...how are you guys doing? Making progress?" I ask
"We are getting there. Did you see my mom and dad" asks Ryan
"Yeah...they are so funny. Your dad is a pissa"
"Yea he's been cracking jokes all day long" he says and laughs
"Lex hand me that bag over there" says Eddie and I give it to him
"Oh what was in that...a brick" I ask
"Its Ryan's" says Eddie
"Books are in there" says Eddie
"Wow" I say and smile
"So you are driving up with us right" asks Ryan
"Yes I am"
"Good you better be or else I would be so upset" he says
"I know you would...I'll be right back guys" I say and go inside
I am so not looking forward to saying goodbye to them tonight. I don't know what I am going to do without them. Especially my brother, he was always with me. We did everything together.
NINE
It is now four o'clock. We are getting ready to hit the road. The boys are saying goodbye to the parents.
"Bye mom, bye dad. I will call you guys when I am at Kristen's house and then I will call when we are on our way back" I tell my parents
"Ok bye be careful. Have fun boys we will miss you. Love you both" says my mom
Eddie, Ryan, and I get in the car and we are on our way. It takes about four hours to get their so we should be there around eight.
"Guys this is so sad. I can't believe you guys are going off to college. I am getting so old" I say
"You? How do you think we feel?" says Eddie
"That's true" I say
"Don't worry you will visit us up here; many weekends to party with us and our friends ...right Lex" says Ryan
"Oh yeah...most def" I say
"Yo do we got any food in here" says Ryan
"Yeah what do you want...here are chips" I say and hand him a bag of Doritos
"Oh not these then my breath is going to smell like cheese...gross. How about pretzels hand em over" he says and I give him the pretzels
"Do you want water...here" I say and give him a bottle
"Thanks" he says
I fell asleep for like a half an hour and when I woke up I had no idea where we were but it was getting darker outside. Eddie is driving by the way. Ryan was at first so they must have pulled over and switched.
"Morning" says Eddie
"What time is it?" I ask
"4:30" he says
"Wow I didn't even sleep that long. It feels like I slept forever" I say
"You tired Lex?" asks Ryan
"Not really...just bored so I figured I'd try to sleep" I say
"That's fun" says Eddie
"I feel so alone back here. Come back here with me Ryan...please" I say
The car we are in is a BMW SUV so it is pretty roomy. There are three rows in the car but I am sitting in the middle one but it is still not too close to the front. Ryan sits next to me.
"Sorry Eddie...for leaving you all alone" says Ryan
"Its itee. I am a big boy" he says and laughs and then puts the radio on
I lay my head on Ryan's shoulder and close my eyes.
"I'm gonna miss you" I say
"I know ... I am going to miss you too Alexa"
"Me too" says Eddie
"Aw I will miss you too big bro" I say
"We will try and visit as much as we can Lexa" says Eddie
"You better...I will visit you guys too so make sure there is room in your dorm and don't let all your guy friends know about me please" I say
"Yeah they will probably all try to get with you" says Eddie
"Yeah well I won't let that happen so..." says Ryan and I blush
I am still laying my head on him and he is rubbing my back.
"We have so many good memories" I say
"Yeah we do" says Ryan confidently
"Remember when we went to Miami and we all had to sleep on the beach that one night because we got kicked out of the hotel for trashing the room" I say and laugh
"Correction...we all got kicked out of the hotel because of the assholes that we were with trashed the room" says Eddie
"And the time when we were at your house Eddie and Pete walked in on your mom taking a shit and then tried the bathroom upstairs and Alexa he walked in on you taking a shower" says Ryan
"Oh my god yeah and I didn't even know he was in the bathroom and he stood in there and watched me in the shower the whole time. I was so mad at him for that" I say
"Yea I remember" he says
"Oh good times, good times"I say
"So what are you driving back with your cousin later" says Ryan
"Yup" I say
"Oh I don't want you to leave" he says in a sad voice
"I know...I don't want to leave you guys either" I say
"You better be going to FSU for college Lexie" says Ryan
"I'm gonna try Rye." I say
It is now 5:00. Ryan is driving and Eddie is way in the back taking a nap. I am sitting in the front with Ryan. I am so tired I am trying so hard to stay awake but I keep dozing off.
"Hey you aren't falling asleep on me are ya?" asks Ryan
"No...I am not"
"Why do you keep looking at me" I say
"Just taking you all in for the last time before I don't see you for a while" he says
"Aw. You really know how to make a girl blush...I can tell you that. That will help you pick up the girls" I say
"I'm not gonna pick up any girls Lex. I am waiting for you to get there" he says
"You are not Ryan... I won't let you do that. You are going to be in college. You are supposed to have fun and go out and hook up with as many girls as you can. What are people gonna say when you tell them you can't because you like a sixteen year old girl in high school. I mean seriously." I say
"I appreciate the offer Lexie but I am not giving up on you. Even if it has to be a long distance relationship. I mean I will still go out and party but I will not kiss any girls" he says
"You are crazy" I tell him
"No you are...because you don't believe me"
"I do though...listen I like you too Ryan...so much" I say
He leans over and kisses me.
"Once I settle down at FSU we are figuring this whole thing out alright" he says
"Deal" I say
TEN
It is now 8:00 and Ryan and I have passed out in the back. We have slept for like two hours while Eddie was driving. Oh I feel bad but oh well. We reach FSU and I meet my cousin Kristen there. The boys unload the car and bring all their stuff up to their dorm room. Eddie comes outside and tells me to go up there because Ryan wants to talk to me and say goodbye alone. I go up to their dorm room and Ryan is in there.
"Hi...wow this is nice and big" I say
"Yeah it's pretty sweet" he says
"What? You're gonna make me cry" I say and start to tear
"Come here give me a hug" he says and we hug
"Its gonna be okay. I am going to call you and text you everyday all day Lexie"
"I love you so much Ryan" I say
"I love you too and I really mean that Alexa"
"Me too" I say as I am sniffling
He is still comforting me
"So I guess this is goodbye" I say
"For now Lex...for now" he says
"For now... so, have fun ok" I say
"You too" he says and wipes my tears
He hugs me again and kisses me a lot.
"Thank you so much again for everything you did for me these past couple of weeks" I say
"My pleasure and if you ever need to talk or anything you just call me ok and if there is ever a real emergency I will be there in a heartbeat Lexie you know that" he says
"Okay bye Ryan I love you and be careful ok"
"Bye Alexa I'll miss you. Love you too"
We hug and kiss again and I got back outside to say goodbye to Eddie
"Bye Eddie. I love you so much have fun and be careful. I will miss you" I say as I hug him
"Bye Lexa. I love you too and take care of yourself ok stay strong kid" he says
"I'm falling for Ryan, Eddie" I say
"I know you are. I want you two to be together and I know it's hard but everything is going to work out ok. Don't worry I'll keep an eye on him" he says
"Yeah...thanks. Bye I love you" I say and hug him
And Kristen and I are on our way home, I have a feeling my life in the future is going to be very nice and I hope I become Ryan's girlfriend too. These past couple of weeks have made me a lot stronger and that's thanks to some very special people I am lucky to have in my life.
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