Mistreated
Demons - Part 2
December 26th Continued
Harry’s POV:
“Bye,” Iris said obnoxiously before she hung up the phone. She’s such a dork, but she’s an adorable dork.
I sighed and finally dragged myself out of the bed. I threw on a white t-shirt and put on some jeans before limping to the bathroom and running a little gel through my hair. Then, I grabbed the petition off the end table, stuffed it in my pocket, put on a jacket, and made my way down the stairs.
“Waffle?” Perrie’s mum offered as I walked into the kitchen.
I grinned, “Yes please.” She nodded and poured the batter she had mixed into the waffle maker.
“So what’s the plan for today?” Perrie asked as I sat onto the barstool next to her, leaning my crutches against the counter.
“I’m going to my mum’s,” I groaned.
Perrie snickered until she realized I was serious. “Wait, really?”
“It’s just something I need to do,” I sighed.
“I agree with Harry,” Mrs. Edwards pointed a spatula at me. “As much as I love having him over, I think he needs to talk to his family.”
Perrie placed her hand on my shoulder, “Well good luck.” I nodded. “I guess I’ll have to call Iris and see if she wants to hang out with me,” she stated, putting emphasis on the word ‘she’.
I laughed, “Too bad that’s not happening. She’s going to her parent’s place today.”
“Dammit,” Perrie groaned and placed her head onto the cold counter.
“What about Zayn?” Perrie’s mum handed me my waffles and I nodded to her in appreciation.
“He’s rehearsing with the boys for the talents show.”
“Wait? They’re doing the talent show too?” I chuckled as I took a bite of the delicious waffle. Perrie’s mum is the best cook.
I watched as she propped her elbow onto the counter and placed her head onto the palm of her hand, “Yeah and because Iris and I won’t give a preview of our act, the boys won’t let me go to their rehearsals.”
“Serves you right,” I smirk, receiving a slap on the chest from her. “Hey!” I chuckled and poked her side. “No hitting the injured guy.”
“You’re barely injured anymore,” she rolled her eyes.
I shrugged, “Still am.”
After an hour of eating breakfast and chatting with the Edwards, I finally headed out. I honestly just want to get in and get out as soon as possible so I can spend the rest of the day with Iris. I walked with my crutches, knowing she’d be worried if I didn’t. It’s nice having someone to worry about me here and there.
When I finally reached my house, I debated on whether I should go in or not. I could just forge their signatures, tell Iris I saw them, and be done with that shit. Sadly, that won’t work since Iris can read me like a book, she knows when I lie. I let out the biggest breath and finally found myself knocking on the door. I'm not sure what came over me but I suddenly started knocking annoyingly until the door flew open and I just held my hand frozen in the air.
“Harry?” Gemma was shocked to see me.
“I-I,” I couldn’t find the words. What do I say?
Her shock subsided and she happily wrapped her arms around me. “I was starting to think you’d never come back.” I never wanted to come back.
“Gemma, who’s at th-“ my mum stopped speaking as soon as she saw me. She immediately joined Gemma in hugging me. I finally brought my hand down so I was able to hold the crutch that was being balanced by my armpit. “I’m so glad you’re back,” my mum whispered.
I honestly have no words. I don’t know why I’m here. Oh yeah. I shoved my hand in my pocket and pulled out the petition from it, “I need you to sign this.”
Gem and my mum took a step back from me, exchanging puzzled looks with each other, but I honestly didn’t care. I wanted to leave.
My mum took the paper and read it, her eyes widening each time she read another sentence. “You want to fire your principal.”
“He’s a dick,” I nodded.
“Language, Young Man,” she scolded me and I rolled my eyes.
I sighed, “Please just sign it so I can go.”
“No,” Gemma snapped. “You are going to come in, have a cup of tea with us, and talk about things in a mature matter.”
“I’m done trying to talk,” I shook my head. “I’ve tried talking and look where it got me.”
“Would it help to know that your father no longer lives here?” my mum crossed her arms.
I scrunched my face, “What?”
“I kicked him out the day you got released from the hospital,” she rolled her eyes. “You would know that if you would’ve listened to me.”
“How about mentioning that first rather than saying he was going to be here,” I retorted.
She exhaled in attempt to calm herself down, “Just come inside so we can discuss this.”
I groaned but finally accepted the invitation. I went to the living room and sat on the couch my mum sat in while I was fighting with my father. Seeing 'his' couch made me cringe at the memory. Stupid Bastard.
While Gemma made us tea, my mum joined me on the couch to talk.
“Seeing you and your father fight and knowing what he did to Gemma, I knew I couldn’t be with him anymore,” she sighed. “I can’t do that to you two and I can’t do that to myself. We weren’t even a family anymore and it was about time that I fixed that.” Tears rolled down her cheek, so I placed my hand on her knee to comfort her. She slightly smiled and placed her hand on mine, “The things that went down in this house weren’t acceptable and I just allowed it to happen. I was stupid and blinded by what I thought was love.”
“You aren’t stupid Mum,” I wrapped my arm around her and pulled her into a hug. “I’d be lying if I said you weren't blind though.”
She nodded into the hug, “I hope that one day you can forgive me.”
“I already do,” I pulled away and genuinely smiled to her. “All I’ve ever wanted was for you to see what I see. I’m just happy you finally do.”
“Good,” Gemma grinned as she walked in with the tea. We all sat in silence for a little bit, sipping away at our tea.
“So what now?” I chuckled, breaking the quietness.
My mum shivered, “Well I don’t know about you but this place gives me the creeps.” Gemma and I laughed. “I think we should move, but nowhere too far since you still have school.”
I nodded, “Sounds good to me. Oh yeah, so will you sign the petition now?” My mum held up her finger and left the room for a second, coming back with a pen to sign it.
“Why do you want your principal gone anyways?” Gemma asked while crinkling her nose.
“I know someone who got beaten up on campus and no one helped her,” I told her one of the many stories. I’m pretty sure Iris would never want me explaining she’s been raped, especially to my family. “There’s no cameras around the school, no fire drills, no security. Basically the place is shady as fuck.” My mum glared at my word choice. “Sorry,” I mumbled.
Gemma frowned, “That’s terrible. Can I sign too?”
“The more the better,” I shrugged. Then, both of them signed it. I should get Perrie, Perrie’s parents, Zayn, and Niall to sign it. I’m sure Eleanor has Louis, Liam and Sophia since she’s been complaining about the school to them forever.
“So do you want to help me look at houses online?” my mum asked as she took a sip of her tea.
I thought about it, “Maybe later. I have plans with Iris.”
“Oh,” she crossed her arms and raised her brows. “The girl who broke you out of the hospital?”
I chuckled, “Yup. That would be her.”
“You know I had to pay for that chair right? That was hospital owned,” she shook her head with disappointment all over her face. “They were going to give you a free one.”
“Oops?” I tried playing innocent. “I’ll pay you back.”
“With what money?” Gemma laughed. “Her’s?”
I placed my index finger to my lips, “Shh.” They had a good laugh over that.
“Here,” Gemma handed me the petition. “Hey, you should bring Iris over. I’d still like to meet her.”
I tapped my finger against my chin, “If I can borrow your car today then yes, I’ll bring her.” I don’t feel like walking to the track. I just walk to think. There’s nothing to think about now, other than how things went with Iris, but I’ll be seeing her soon.
She groaned and covered her face, “Fine, but I’m so getting you a bike.”
I parked along the sidewalk and stepped out of the car before pulling my crutches out and shutting the door. After locking the car, I headed towards the track. It’s sort of a long walk since the track is hidden within what looks like a forest. I wonder how things went with her and her parents. I wonder how she’ll react to the news I got today. Most of all, I’m just anxious to see her. I miss her, even if we just saw each other yesterday.
I finally reached a clearing where there’s grass that leads to gravel which sits under and next to the track. Usually the grass is completely covered in yellow flowers, but they haven’t grown here for about a year now. When I first came here, that’s all there were, yellow flowers everywhere. It was almost as if they died out with my happiness, but I know that’s a silly thought. I guess I just like to think that’s what they symbolized. I was happy when I first came, but that was before Gemma left and my dad went psycho. That’s how this place became my hideout. It helped me reflect on my life and cope with things. However it wasn’t really working, but it led me to Iris.
Speaking of Mercy, I found her balancing on the rail of the track, her back to me. I noticed she kept one of her arms close to her for some reason, which is odd since she’s trying to balance.
“Hey, guess what?” I smiled when I reached her. She didn’t turn around, but she also froze in her position. “Angel?” Nothing. I walked around to face her and that’s when I saw it. She was holding a knife against her chest. She cut, didn’t she? Her hair looked like a mess, but only as if she took is out of its ponytail. She had been crying, her eyes puffy and her make-up smeared down her cheeks. The weird thing was her face was emotionless.
“You think I’m crazy,” she stated, still no emotion showing.
I shook my head, “Of course not.” I worriedly examined her more. Her wrists had no blood and no cuts. Maybe she hasn’t done it yet, but she has a strange look in her eyes. Something tells me she was debating whether she should cut or end herself.
“I think I’m crazy,” she shrugged as if the conversation was casual. “They are all in my head.”
“Who?” I furrowed my brows.
“Scott, Riley, Andrew, Liam, Janice, everyone at school.” Who’s Janice? Wait, I think she told me that’s her mum’s name. Wait, did she say Liam? “All the people who have ever looked down on me. Their voices and their faces replay in my mind over and over. I just want it to go away.”
I frowned, “Then let me help you. Just give me the knife.”
She shook her head, “No Harry. The only way to make them disappear is to cut. I just want to cut until all the pain is gone.” The pain won’t just disappear…she really is trying to kill herself.
“Then cut my wrist,” I held my wrist out for her. This is probably the stupidest plan I've ever had.
Her face saddened. Emotion. “What?” she whispered.
“Mercy, if you’re hurt, I’m hurt. If you’re going to cut, then so am I.”
“No,” she sniffled. “I won’t let you do that.” Is this really working?
“Then don’t do it. Don’t do that to yourself,” my voice stayed gentle. “Just tell me what happened.”
“Th-they…” she paused and plopped to the ground, releasing the knife from her grip and allowing it to drop to the gravel.I felt a wave of relief rush through me. “They’re getting a divorce Harry. I broke them up. I just wanted them to l-l-“ she started crying. “I just wanted them to love me.”
That’s when I sat down next to her and pulled her into my lap. I cradled her and ran my fingers through her hair as she sobbed into my chest. “Angel, you didn’t break them up. It’s not your fault. I’m sure they love you with all their hearts.”
She shook her head against my chest, “She told me I was a mistake.” This infuriates me. How could someone be that cruel? Iris is so fragile, her mum should know that. She’s just breaking her more. “Maybe this is why everything is happening to me, because I ruined her life. Maybe I do deserve everything. And now…” she let out a few sobs. “Everyone wants me dead,” she whimpered. I'm guessing she's talking about the people at school...
“Hey, hey, hey,” I cupped her face and lifted it from my chest so she’d look at me. “That’s not true. I don’t want you dead. Perrie doesn’t want you dead. Zayn, Niall, Eleanor, and your sisters don’t want you dead. I don’t want to hear you say that. You belong in this world just as much as everyone else. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”
“I didn’t even get the signatures…” her voice trailed off as she laid her head onto my chest.
“That’s okay. I’m sure two signatures won’t make a huge difference.”
“Harry?” she sniffled.
“Hm?”
I felt her sigh, “You make the voices go away.” I didn’t know what to say after that. We stayed like this for a long time. Just like when we first started hanging out here together. As much as we enjoy speaking up now, it’s still nice to have a little peace every now and then. I guess she hasn’t had quiet in a long time, not with everything that’s going on in her mind.
“Can you walk me to my sister’s place?” she whispered.
I slightly pulled away from her, “Why don’t you come with me to my place?”
“I don’t want to go to Perrie’s,” she frowned.
“We’re not going to Perrie’s.” She appeared to be dazed. “Just trust me. Let’s head to the car.” I continued to cradle her, standing to my feet. I hissed at the little pain that shot through my leg.
She fought out of my grip and set herself to the ground, “I don’t want you to walk without the crutches. I can walk myself.” And with that, she headed to the car. It’s amazing how after all that, she still is worried about me. Why does she do that?
At the corner of my eye, I noticed the shiny knife still sat on the gravel. I grabbed it and placed it into my jacket pocket before catching up to Iris. Why did I grab it? I don’t need Iris coming back here and seeing it. Also, I have plans for it.
To Gemma:
Don’t bother Iris. Something’s wrong.
I pressed send on my phone before stuffing it back in my pocket and stepping out of the car. Iris got out on her own, not even waiting for me to open her door for her.
She joined me on my side of the car, “What about your dad?”
I smiled and pulled the crutches out of my car, “He’s not home.” Then, I shut the door and locked it. We walked up to the front door and I saw Gemma looking through the blinds in the window at us. Of course she has to be nosey.
I opened the door and ignored my mum and Gemma’s stares as I led Iris up the stairs. I took her straight to my room and closed the door behind us. I rummaged through the dresser for a t-shirt and some sweats for her to change into.
“Here,” I handed them to her. I walked into my bathroom and pulled my razor off the counter and placed in my pocket successfully without her noticing. I pulled a towel out of the cabinet and set it on the counter for her. “You can take a shower if you want, I don’t mind. Not that you need one, I-“
She lightly giggled, “Its okay, I know you don’t mean anything by it. I think I’m going to take one though.”
I nodded, “Okay.”
As I walked out the door, she grabbed my wrist. She smiled as she stood to her tiptoes and kissed me on the cheek. “I’m lucky to have you,” she nodded. With that, she closed the door.
Lucky. If anyone’s lucky, it’s me.
“Harry?” Gemma walked into the room. “Is she okay?”
I bit my lip. What do I say? I can’t tell her what just happened. For all I know, she could take Iris to a mental institution. “She’s just not feeling well,” I lied.
“Does she need anything?”
“No,” I sighed. “But in like an hour will you come back up?” As confused as she was, she agreed to it. I didn’t tell her anything else and had her leave. Iris needs space.
I just took off my jacket and sat on the edge of my bed as I waited for her.
“Hey.” I looked up to find Iris walking out of the bathroom. She looked good in my clothes, even if they were huge on her. Her beautiful blonde hair was a couple shades darker from the dampness. Even with no make-up she still managed to look incredibly stunning. I loved the way she pulled the sleeves over her hands and held them against her chin as she examined my eyes.
“Hey,” I smiled. “Let’s sleep, yeah? You look exhausted.”
She nodded and walked over to my bed. I stood up and lifted up the covers for her, allowing her to get in before I pulled them back over her and tucked her in them.
“Can I listen to music?” she asked.
I smiled, “Of course.” I pulled my phone out of my pocket and handed it to her. While she flipped through the songs, I grabbed my headphones off the end table and untangled them for her before handing them to her as well.
“Thanks,” she smiled her sweet smile. “Will you lay with me?”
I nodded and she scooted closer to the wall, holding up the covers for me to climb in with her. Once I was situated, she handed me her hearing aids so she could put the headphones in her ears and I carefully placed them on the end table. She turned her back towards me, grabbed my arm, wrapped it around her waist, and held it in place as she stared at the wall. I wonder what she’s thinking, or are the voices back in her head? She doesn’t look emotionless like earlier but I still can’t seem to read her. What is she feeling?
Once she fell asleep, I carefully slid out of the bed, being sure not to wake her. I walked over to the other side of the room and found myself sliding down the bedroom wall to the floor. I cried. I almost lost her today. What if I can’t ever help her? She’s so scared and to be honest, I’m fucking terrified. I don’t know what to do. I feel like she can’t even be left alone anymore. Anyone would look at her and say she’s insane and she needs professional help. She doesn’t though, she just needs love and a little glimmer of hope.
After crying for a good couple of minutes, I brought my white t-shirt to my face and wiped the tears away. I shook off the sadness and got up to go sit at her feet. I watched her sleep for what felt like hours but probably was only seconds. Even in her sleep she looked so broken.
“How’s she doing?” Gemma whispered as she quietly snuck in the room.
“Better, I guess,” I sigh. “Can you stay with her? Like watch her and make sure she doesn’t…” I paused to swallow. “…do anything?”
She furrowed her brows, “Yeah, but why can’t you?”
I stood up, “I have something to do. Don’t leave this room until I get back.” And with that, I walked out.
I decided to take a drive to Iris’s house and give her family a piece of my mind. Why do they continue putting her through this shit, even after finding out what she’s been through? They are nothing but monsters, just like my father. I took a deep breath and rang the doorbell. They better be home.
“I believe this is your’s?” I glared as Iris’s father opened the door.
He scratched his head awkwardly, “Oh uh, yeah.”
“Can I come in?”
“Yeah, yeah. Sure,” he nodded and stepped out of the way. Well, so far this is going better than expected. I assumed he wasn’t gonna let me in and I was going to have to scream at him in front of the whole neighborhood. “Harry, is it?”
“Uh, yeah…” I’m confused. The last time he saw me, he couldn’t wait for me to leave and now he’s suddenly being sort of nice.
He held is hand out for the knife, “Thank you, for stopping her.”
“You know you’re lucky right?” I growled and placed the damn thing in his hand. He just shot me a questioning look. “She wanted to kill herself. You’re lucky I even got to her before she did. She didn’t even call me. She didn’t want anyone to know. She just wanted to cut until she no longer existed.”
Her mother walked into the room with wide eyes, “What?”
“You were the main reason,” I pointed to her. “You told her she was a mistake and now she’s got it in her brain that that’s why all these bad things are happening to her! Well I have news for you!” I stepped closer to her. “She still fucking cares for you for some goddamn reason! You don’t even deserve the love she has for you!”
“I-I,” she stammered.
“She had bruises on the back of her legs, she was limping, and she was always crying. You didn’t see it like I did. She was in so much physical and emotional pain from the rape. I dealt with that asshole myself since no one else would. Not you, not the principal, not anyone. She was alone and you fucking left her that way. She wouldn’t even let anyone touch her. She lost all trust in people, scared she could get screwed over again. Did it look like she was joking? Because all I saw was misery in her eyes. She needed you.”
Tears filled her mother’s eyes, but I didn’t care. She deserved to feel guilty. She deserved any hurt that was flooding through her.
“Those bruises on her face? Someone beat her up and left her laying in the school hallway. They weren’t fake, they were real. She was never seeking attention like you all thought she was. Although, she does want her family to give the slightest fuck about her. Do you think you can do that? Because the next time this happens, I may not be able to stop her. You don’t know how many times I’ve had to tell her she’s not alone. You don’t get how scared she is. You don’t understand how shattered she is. She breaks at every bad thing that's thrown at her. You guys are supposed to be her security: the people she can talk to and get guidance from. Not whatever the hell you are right now. She still needs you.”
“Where is she?” her father spoke up. “Can we see her?”
“Fuck no,” I scoffed. “I think you’ve done enough for one day.” Then, I left, slamming the door before I awkwardly limped away. This damn fucking leg can’t let me look good as I proudly walk away. I just hope I got to them and I didn’t just screw things up more. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea...
Harry’s POV:
“Bye,” Iris said obnoxiously before she hung up the phone. She’s such a dork, but she’s an adorable dork.
I sighed and finally dragged myself out of the bed. I threw on a white t-shirt and put on some jeans before limping to the bathroom and running a little gel through my hair. Then, I grabbed the petition off the end table, stuffed it in my pocket, put on a jacket, and made my way down the stairs.
“Waffle?” Perrie’s mum offered as I walked into the kitchen.
I grinned, “Yes please.” She nodded and poured the batter she had mixed into the waffle maker.
“So what’s the plan for today?” Perrie asked as I sat onto the barstool next to her, leaning my crutches against the counter.
“I’m going to my mum’s,” I groaned.
Perrie snickered until she realized I was serious. “Wait, really?”
“It’s just something I need to do,” I sighed.
“I agree with Harry,” Mrs. Edwards pointed a spatula at me. “As much as I love having him over, I think he needs to talk to his family.”
Perrie placed her hand on my shoulder, “Well good luck.” I nodded. “I guess I’ll have to call Iris and see if she wants to hang out with me,” she stated, putting emphasis on the word ‘she’.
I laughed, “Too bad that’s not happening. She’s going to her parent’s place today.”
“Dammit,” Perrie groaned and placed her head onto the cold counter.
“What about Zayn?” Perrie’s mum handed me my waffles and I nodded to her in appreciation.
“He’s rehearsing with the boys for the talents show.”
“Wait? They’re doing the talent show too?” I chuckled as I took a bite of the delicious waffle. Perrie’s mum is the best cook.
I watched as she propped her elbow onto the counter and placed her head onto the palm of her hand, “Yeah and because Iris and I won’t give a preview of our act, the boys won’t let me go to their rehearsals.”
“Serves you right,” I smirk, receiving a slap on the chest from her. “Hey!” I chuckled and poked her side. “No hitting the injured guy.”
“You’re barely injured anymore,” she rolled her eyes.
I shrugged, “Still am.”
After an hour of eating breakfast and chatting with the Edwards, I finally headed out. I honestly just want to get in and get out as soon as possible so I can spend the rest of the day with Iris. I walked with my crutches, knowing she’d be worried if I didn’t. It’s nice having someone to worry about me here and there.
When I finally reached my house, I debated on whether I should go in or not. I could just forge their signatures, tell Iris I saw them, and be done with that shit. Sadly, that won’t work since Iris can read me like a book, she knows when I lie. I let out the biggest breath and finally found myself knocking on the door. I'm not sure what came over me but I suddenly started knocking annoyingly until the door flew open and I just held my hand frozen in the air.
“Harry?” Gemma was shocked to see me.
“I-I,” I couldn’t find the words. What do I say?
Her shock subsided and she happily wrapped her arms around me. “I was starting to think you’d never come back.” I never wanted to come back.
“Gemma, who’s at th-“ my mum stopped speaking as soon as she saw me. She immediately joined Gemma in hugging me. I finally brought my hand down so I was able to hold the crutch that was being balanced by my armpit. “I’m so glad you’re back,” my mum whispered.
I honestly have no words. I don’t know why I’m here. Oh yeah. I shoved my hand in my pocket and pulled out the petition from it, “I need you to sign this.”
Gem and my mum took a step back from me, exchanging puzzled looks with each other, but I honestly didn’t care. I wanted to leave.
My mum took the paper and read it, her eyes widening each time she read another sentence. “You want to fire your principal.”
“He’s a dick,” I nodded.
“Language, Young Man,” she scolded me and I rolled my eyes.
I sighed, “Please just sign it so I can go.”
“No,” Gemma snapped. “You are going to come in, have a cup of tea with us, and talk about things in a mature matter.”
“I’m done trying to talk,” I shook my head. “I’ve tried talking and look where it got me.”
“Would it help to know that your father no longer lives here?” my mum crossed her arms.
I scrunched my face, “What?”
“I kicked him out the day you got released from the hospital,” she rolled her eyes. “You would know that if you would’ve listened to me.”
“How about mentioning that first rather than saying he was going to be here,” I retorted.
She exhaled in attempt to calm herself down, “Just come inside so we can discuss this.”
I groaned but finally accepted the invitation. I went to the living room and sat on the couch my mum sat in while I was fighting with my father. Seeing 'his' couch made me cringe at the memory. Stupid Bastard.
While Gemma made us tea, my mum joined me on the couch to talk.
“Seeing you and your father fight and knowing what he did to Gemma, I knew I couldn’t be with him anymore,” she sighed. “I can’t do that to you two and I can’t do that to myself. We weren’t even a family anymore and it was about time that I fixed that.” Tears rolled down her cheek, so I placed my hand on her knee to comfort her. She slightly smiled and placed her hand on mine, “The things that went down in this house weren’t acceptable and I just allowed it to happen. I was stupid and blinded by what I thought was love.”
“You aren’t stupid Mum,” I wrapped my arm around her and pulled her into a hug. “I’d be lying if I said you weren't blind though.”
She nodded into the hug, “I hope that one day you can forgive me.”
“I already do,” I pulled away and genuinely smiled to her. “All I’ve ever wanted was for you to see what I see. I’m just happy you finally do.”
“Good,” Gemma grinned as she walked in with the tea. We all sat in silence for a little bit, sipping away at our tea.
“So what now?” I chuckled, breaking the quietness.
My mum shivered, “Well I don’t know about you but this place gives me the creeps.” Gemma and I laughed. “I think we should move, but nowhere too far since you still have school.”
I nodded, “Sounds good to me. Oh yeah, so will you sign the petition now?” My mum held up her finger and left the room for a second, coming back with a pen to sign it.
“Why do you want your principal gone anyways?” Gemma asked while crinkling her nose.
“I know someone who got beaten up on campus and no one helped her,” I told her one of the many stories. I’m pretty sure Iris would never want me explaining she’s been raped, especially to my family. “There’s no cameras around the school, no fire drills, no security. Basically the place is shady as fuck.” My mum glared at my word choice. “Sorry,” I mumbled.
Gemma frowned, “That’s terrible. Can I sign too?”
“The more the better,” I shrugged. Then, both of them signed it. I should get Perrie, Perrie’s parents, Zayn, and Niall to sign it. I’m sure Eleanor has Louis, Liam and Sophia since she’s been complaining about the school to them forever.
“So do you want to help me look at houses online?” my mum asked as she took a sip of her tea.
I thought about it, “Maybe later. I have plans with Iris.”
“Oh,” she crossed her arms and raised her brows. “The girl who broke you out of the hospital?”
I chuckled, “Yup. That would be her.”
“You know I had to pay for that chair right? That was hospital owned,” she shook her head with disappointment all over her face. “They were going to give you a free one.”
“Oops?” I tried playing innocent. “I’ll pay you back.”
“With what money?” Gemma laughed. “Her’s?”
I placed my index finger to my lips, “Shh.” They had a good laugh over that.
“Here,” Gemma handed me the petition. “Hey, you should bring Iris over. I’d still like to meet her.”
I tapped my finger against my chin, “If I can borrow your car today then yes, I’ll bring her.” I don’t feel like walking to the track. I just walk to think. There’s nothing to think about now, other than how things went with Iris, but I’ll be seeing her soon.
She groaned and covered her face, “Fine, but I’m so getting you a bike.”
I parked along the sidewalk and stepped out of the car before pulling my crutches out and shutting the door. After locking the car, I headed towards the track. It’s sort of a long walk since the track is hidden within what looks like a forest. I wonder how things went with her and her parents. I wonder how she’ll react to the news I got today. Most of all, I’m just anxious to see her. I miss her, even if we just saw each other yesterday.
I finally reached a clearing where there’s grass that leads to gravel which sits under and next to the track. Usually the grass is completely covered in yellow flowers, but they haven’t grown here for about a year now. When I first came here, that’s all there were, yellow flowers everywhere. It was almost as if they died out with my happiness, but I know that’s a silly thought. I guess I just like to think that’s what they symbolized. I was happy when I first came, but that was before Gemma left and my dad went psycho. That’s how this place became my hideout. It helped me reflect on my life and cope with things. However it wasn’t really working, but it led me to Iris.
Speaking of Mercy, I found her balancing on the rail of the track, her back to me. I noticed she kept one of her arms close to her for some reason, which is odd since she’s trying to balance.
“Hey, guess what?” I smiled when I reached her. She didn’t turn around, but she also froze in her position. “Angel?” Nothing. I walked around to face her and that’s when I saw it. She was holding a knife against her chest. She cut, didn’t she? Her hair looked like a mess, but only as if she took is out of its ponytail. She had been crying, her eyes puffy and her make-up smeared down her cheeks. The weird thing was her face was emotionless.
“You think I’m crazy,” she stated, still no emotion showing.
I shook my head, “Of course not.” I worriedly examined her more. Her wrists had no blood and no cuts. Maybe she hasn’t done it yet, but she has a strange look in her eyes. Something tells me she was debating whether she should cut or end herself.
“I think I’m crazy,” she shrugged as if the conversation was casual. “They are all in my head.”
“Who?” I furrowed my brows.
“Scott, Riley, Andrew, Liam, Janice, everyone at school.” Who’s Janice? Wait, I think she told me that’s her mum’s name. Wait, did she say Liam? “All the people who have ever looked down on me. Their voices and their faces replay in my mind over and over. I just want it to go away.”
I frowned, “Then let me help you. Just give me the knife.”
She shook her head, “No Harry. The only way to make them disappear is to cut. I just want to cut until all the pain is gone.” The pain won’t just disappear…she really is trying to kill herself.
“Then cut my wrist,” I held my wrist out for her. This is probably the stupidest plan I've ever had.
Her face saddened. Emotion. “What?” she whispered.
“Mercy, if you’re hurt, I’m hurt. If you’re going to cut, then so am I.”
“No,” she sniffled. “I won’t let you do that.” Is this really working?
“Then don’t do it. Don’t do that to yourself,” my voice stayed gentle. “Just tell me what happened.”
“Th-they…” she paused and plopped to the ground, releasing the knife from her grip and allowing it to drop to the gravel.I felt a wave of relief rush through me. “They’re getting a divorce Harry. I broke them up. I just wanted them to l-l-“ she started crying. “I just wanted them to love me.”
That’s when I sat down next to her and pulled her into my lap. I cradled her and ran my fingers through her hair as she sobbed into my chest. “Angel, you didn’t break them up. It’s not your fault. I’m sure they love you with all their hearts.”
She shook her head against my chest, “She told me I was a mistake.” This infuriates me. How could someone be that cruel? Iris is so fragile, her mum should know that. She’s just breaking her more. “Maybe this is why everything is happening to me, because I ruined her life. Maybe I do deserve everything. And now…” she let out a few sobs. “Everyone wants me dead,” she whimpered. I'm guessing she's talking about the people at school...
“Hey, hey, hey,” I cupped her face and lifted it from my chest so she’d look at me. “That’s not true. I don’t want you dead. Perrie doesn’t want you dead. Zayn, Niall, Eleanor, and your sisters don’t want you dead. I don’t want to hear you say that. You belong in this world just as much as everyone else. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”
“I didn’t even get the signatures…” her voice trailed off as she laid her head onto my chest.
“That’s okay. I’m sure two signatures won’t make a huge difference.”
“Harry?” she sniffled.
“Hm?”
I felt her sigh, “You make the voices go away.” I didn’t know what to say after that. We stayed like this for a long time. Just like when we first started hanging out here together. As much as we enjoy speaking up now, it’s still nice to have a little peace every now and then. I guess she hasn’t had quiet in a long time, not with everything that’s going on in her mind.
“Can you walk me to my sister’s place?” she whispered.
I slightly pulled away from her, “Why don’t you come with me to my place?”
“I don’t want to go to Perrie’s,” she frowned.
“We’re not going to Perrie’s.” She appeared to be dazed. “Just trust me. Let’s head to the car.” I continued to cradle her, standing to my feet. I hissed at the little pain that shot through my leg.
She fought out of my grip and set herself to the ground, “I don’t want you to walk without the crutches. I can walk myself.” And with that, she headed to the car. It’s amazing how after all that, she still is worried about me. Why does she do that?
At the corner of my eye, I noticed the shiny knife still sat on the gravel. I grabbed it and placed it into my jacket pocket before catching up to Iris. Why did I grab it? I don’t need Iris coming back here and seeing it. Also, I have plans for it.
To Gemma:
Don’t bother Iris. Something’s wrong.
I pressed send on my phone before stuffing it back in my pocket and stepping out of the car. Iris got out on her own, not even waiting for me to open her door for her.
She joined me on my side of the car, “What about your dad?”
I smiled and pulled the crutches out of my car, “He’s not home.” Then, I shut the door and locked it. We walked up to the front door and I saw Gemma looking through the blinds in the window at us. Of course she has to be nosey.
I opened the door and ignored my mum and Gemma’s stares as I led Iris up the stairs. I took her straight to my room and closed the door behind us. I rummaged through the dresser for a t-shirt and some sweats for her to change into.
“Here,” I handed them to her. I walked into my bathroom and pulled my razor off the counter and placed in my pocket successfully without her noticing. I pulled a towel out of the cabinet and set it on the counter for her. “You can take a shower if you want, I don’t mind. Not that you need one, I-“
She lightly giggled, “Its okay, I know you don’t mean anything by it. I think I’m going to take one though.”
I nodded, “Okay.”
As I walked out the door, she grabbed my wrist. She smiled as she stood to her tiptoes and kissed me on the cheek. “I’m lucky to have you,” she nodded. With that, she closed the door.
Lucky. If anyone’s lucky, it’s me.
“Harry?” Gemma walked into the room. “Is she okay?”
I bit my lip. What do I say? I can’t tell her what just happened. For all I know, she could take Iris to a mental institution. “She’s just not feeling well,” I lied.
“Does she need anything?”
“No,” I sighed. “But in like an hour will you come back up?” As confused as she was, she agreed to it. I didn’t tell her anything else and had her leave. Iris needs space.
I just took off my jacket and sat on the edge of my bed as I waited for her.
“Hey.” I looked up to find Iris walking out of the bathroom. She looked good in my clothes, even if they were huge on her. Her beautiful blonde hair was a couple shades darker from the dampness. Even with no make-up she still managed to look incredibly stunning. I loved the way she pulled the sleeves over her hands and held them against her chin as she examined my eyes.
“Hey,” I smiled. “Let’s sleep, yeah? You look exhausted.”
She nodded and walked over to my bed. I stood up and lifted up the covers for her, allowing her to get in before I pulled them back over her and tucked her in them.
“Can I listen to music?” she asked.
I smiled, “Of course.” I pulled my phone out of my pocket and handed it to her. While she flipped through the songs, I grabbed my headphones off the end table and untangled them for her before handing them to her as well.
“Thanks,” she smiled her sweet smile. “Will you lay with me?”
I nodded and she scooted closer to the wall, holding up the covers for me to climb in with her. Once I was situated, she handed me her hearing aids so she could put the headphones in her ears and I carefully placed them on the end table. She turned her back towards me, grabbed my arm, wrapped it around her waist, and held it in place as she stared at the wall. I wonder what she’s thinking, or are the voices back in her head? She doesn’t look emotionless like earlier but I still can’t seem to read her. What is she feeling?
Once she fell asleep, I carefully slid out of the bed, being sure not to wake her. I walked over to the other side of the room and found myself sliding down the bedroom wall to the floor. I cried. I almost lost her today. What if I can’t ever help her? She’s so scared and to be honest, I’m fucking terrified. I don’t know what to do. I feel like she can’t even be left alone anymore. Anyone would look at her and say she’s insane and she needs professional help. She doesn’t though, she just needs love and a little glimmer of hope.
After crying for a good couple of minutes, I brought my white t-shirt to my face and wiped the tears away. I shook off the sadness and got up to go sit at her feet. I watched her sleep for what felt like hours but probably was only seconds. Even in her sleep she looked so broken.
“How’s she doing?” Gemma whispered as she quietly snuck in the room.
“Better, I guess,” I sigh. “Can you stay with her? Like watch her and make sure she doesn’t…” I paused to swallow. “…do anything?”
She furrowed her brows, “Yeah, but why can’t you?”
I stood up, “I have something to do. Don’t leave this room until I get back.” And with that, I walked out.
I decided to take a drive to Iris’s house and give her family a piece of my mind. Why do they continue putting her through this shit, even after finding out what she’s been through? They are nothing but monsters, just like my father. I took a deep breath and rang the doorbell. They better be home.
“I believe this is your’s?” I glared as Iris’s father opened the door.
He scratched his head awkwardly, “Oh uh, yeah.”
“Can I come in?”
“Yeah, yeah. Sure,” he nodded and stepped out of the way. Well, so far this is going better than expected. I assumed he wasn’t gonna let me in and I was going to have to scream at him in front of the whole neighborhood. “Harry, is it?”
“Uh, yeah…” I’m confused. The last time he saw me, he couldn’t wait for me to leave and now he’s suddenly being sort of nice.
He held is hand out for the knife, “Thank you, for stopping her.”
“You know you’re lucky right?” I growled and placed the damn thing in his hand. He just shot me a questioning look. “She wanted to kill herself. You’re lucky I even got to her before she did. She didn’t even call me. She didn’t want anyone to know. She just wanted to cut until she no longer existed.”
Her mother walked into the room with wide eyes, “What?”
“You were the main reason,” I pointed to her. “You told her she was a mistake and now she’s got it in her brain that that’s why all these bad things are happening to her! Well I have news for you!” I stepped closer to her. “She still fucking cares for you for some goddamn reason! You don’t even deserve the love she has for you!”
“I-I,” she stammered.
“She had bruises on the back of her legs, she was limping, and she was always crying. You didn’t see it like I did. She was in so much physical and emotional pain from the rape. I dealt with that asshole myself since no one else would. Not you, not the principal, not anyone. She was alone and you fucking left her that way. She wouldn’t even let anyone touch her. She lost all trust in people, scared she could get screwed over again. Did it look like she was joking? Because all I saw was misery in her eyes. She needed you.”
Tears filled her mother’s eyes, but I didn’t care. She deserved to feel guilty. She deserved any hurt that was flooding through her.
“Those bruises on her face? Someone beat her up and left her laying in the school hallway. They weren’t fake, they were real. She was never seeking attention like you all thought she was. Although, she does want her family to give the slightest fuck about her. Do you think you can do that? Because the next time this happens, I may not be able to stop her. You don’t know how many times I’ve had to tell her she’s not alone. You don’t get how scared she is. You don’t understand how shattered she is. She breaks at every bad thing that's thrown at her. You guys are supposed to be her security: the people she can talk to and get guidance from. Not whatever the hell you are right now. She still needs you.”
“Where is she?” her father spoke up. “Can we see her?”
“Fuck no,” I scoffed. “I think you’ve done enough for one day.” Then, I left, slamming the door before I awkwardly limped away. This damn fucking leg can’t let me look good as I proudly walk away. I just hope I got to them and I didn’t just screw things up more. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea...
Notes
Sorry I posted this so late. I'm not feeling well and my brain decided it needed to run slower because of it. I was trying to function it, but I'm like half asleep as well. If there's any mistakes, I'm so sorry, I just kind of scanned through the chapter.
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Do you think Harry's confrontation with Iris's parents worked?
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11/18/17