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Looking down at her phone, Storm exhaled deeply and leaned back in her chair, looking out at the gray day just beyond the café window. The smell of strong coffee was as pungent as freshly cut grass in the Spring, but it did nothing to inspire the confidence of the latter. She’d never particularly enjoyed coffee, the caffeine set her nerves on edge, and the taste had to always be hidden behind creamer and sugar. There was no point to it. If one needed a quick burst of energy, all you had to do was run around the block. That, or confront the man who had impregnated you.
This wasn’t how it was all supposed to go.
Two months ago she’d graduated top of her school and had offers from Harvard and Northeastern State University. She planned to take time to go to England, study the old castles and the history of the monarchy, maybe enroll in Oxford, or get an internship with a council dedicated to history. She'd graduate, and maybe stay abroad, find a house in London, live a quiet life away from the chaos at home. The minute that test turned positive, her world flipped, and came crashing down. Her dreams were over.
A friend had told her to consider abortion, but she knew she’d never be able to look at herself in the mirror again, knowing she’d killed something innocent. Adoption sounded preferable, but she’d heard horror stories of children being abused, sometimes murdered, at the hands of people who only wanted them for money. Her nerves pulled her in eight different directions. There was still time to decide, but at least she could do right by one person today. He didn’t have to suffer her fate.
When she’d met him, it was a party thrown by a mutual friend. Too much drink had been consumed, and they’d wound up in the upstairs bedroom, throwing caution and reason to the wind. When it was over, they’d gone their separate ways without promises to reconnect. It was just a night of fun before settling down to the task of figuring out your future, and putting those plans into action. He still had options, and with her decision to go it alone, his future could still shine.
Storm’s heart leapt as she gazed at the corner, watching him cross the street towards the shop. He’d gotten the text. This time, she wouldn’t have the buzz of alcohol to give her courage. As outgoing as she normally was, she was every bit the coward today. There was nothing she wanted more than to leave him a note and run out the back door, but it wouldn’t do any good. He wouldn’t hear her reasoning, or have someone to answer his questions, should he even have any. No doubt he’d be relieved. No man wanted to be a father so young, but unlike others, he had a “get out of jail free” card, handwritten by herself to expunge him of any guilt or wrongdoing.
It was only today she had to get through. Then, they’d never see each other again.
"Mom!" he called out into the backyard through the screen door. He knew his mother would be outback doing some kind of lawn work. He couldn't understand why his mother prided herself with lawn work. He wanted his work to be shown off, on the road. "Mom... I'm going out. I will be back in a few." he stated again. He pushed the screen door open, and peered around. He sighed and turned around into the kitchen, letting the screen door snap close behind him. He wasn't going to waste anymore time. Liam was curious about what was going to happen today. A simple text message from a beautiful women he meet a few months back from a party popped up on his phone a few days prior. He remembered good chunks of that night, but he himself will admit that he had one to many drinks.
He planned to go to college and get a engineering degree, with business management. His grandfather knew how to build and take apart almost anything his hands could get on. Liam learned from the best, and wanted to build and remodel cars and mainly bikes. The night of his graduation from high school a few students were putting together a graduation party, no parents around, lots of boozes and nothing but fun away from the stressors of life... seemed like a great idea that night. When he woke that one morning, pounding headache and dry mouth consumed him. That is when he realized that someone else was in bed with him, both nake and seemed to have snuggled together for warmth. Liam pushed her hair to the side of her ear to have a better look at her face. He sighed and wished he could remember the events leading up to them in bed together, knowing what went on that previous night.
When he received the message from her, he agreed to meet up with her. He asked to meet him at the coffee shop near his job, since he was working the night shift that night to finish a huge project for a client. He was looking to make good money with the project to help pay for some of the college he had enrolled himself into a few weeks prior. Liam grabbed his wallet, and headed out the front door to begin his short journey. The summer time was the one time of the year he hated. It was to damn hot, teenagers filled the streets like ants, and the days were longer. When he began to leave the housing area, he started to look around for anyone he knew. He knew she wanted to keep this conversation private, and didn't want to run the risk of running into someone.
Liam walked another two blocks, til he spotted the coffee shop. He took a deep breathe and crossed the street, spotting her. His nerves began to heighten. He wasn't the nervous type, more outgoing than anything. But why now, was he getting nervous to see her. He bite his lip and made his way to the table Storm was sitting at. He peered down at her and forced a small smile. "Hey.." he could gather together. He put his hand behind his neck and looked over at the menu inside the building. "Do you want anything Storm?" he asked his softly, almost mumbling.
Taking in a shuddering breath, Storm tracked his movements, but refuse to rise. She was certain he'd be able to hear her heart beating from across the city, and she didn't need her knees shaking to become part of the equation. Seismologists were probably tracking the ground shaking movements, and that was enough embarrassment to be had. At this point, there was a high chance they wouldn't even support her weight, and increased attention, especially from the café dwellers, was definitely not desirable. "Just play it cool", she told herself, gripping her shirt tightly to keep hands from shaking. Now that he was here, there was no turning back.
"No. Thanks. I already have something", she stated, running a hand through her hair. He was being kind, but it wasn't going to last. His whole world was going to come crashing down, and she was the means of destruction. She could have done with more of what they drank at the party. Liquid courage seemed to ease any situation, though losing your virginity to a boy you'd barely ever spoken to was nothing compared to this.
That night, she'd watched him with his friends, drinking as little as possible. The intent on staying lessened as the hour passed. Her own friends were already smashed, making out in every possible corner. When Liam had spoken to her, the alcohol flowed like fine wine, and the buzz ran its course till it consumed her. She found herself in his lap, shamelessly kissing to the point that the pleasure rose, and she didn't care where they had to go. They'd climbed the stairs, and the rest, well, a blur didn't really cover it. Neither woke until the next morning, and once they parted ways, she didn't bother to message him. A one night stand, and it was back to reality.
Today was going to be the same. Once she dropped the bomb, she'd walk out those doors and face the music at home. They wouldn't be pleased, but there was nothing for it. Adoption was going to be likely, but she'd be pregnant until that stage. If she kept it, she'd have to find somewhere else to live. The thought of the child growing up in the same conditions she'd endured was appalling. She'd cross that bridge when she came to it. There were bigger fish to fry.
"I called you down here because, well... This isn't easy", Storm stuttered, digging her nails into leg to stop herself from stalling. He had places to be, and there was still a lot to accomplish in her own world. "I... um... I'm..... pregnant, Liam. Two months....". She gave it a moment to sink in before rushing the rest, not giving either of them a moment to run for the door. "I just wanted you to know. I don't expect anything from you. I don't know what I plan to do, except follow it through. I know that... You're working towards a career and I'm not going to take that from you. I just wanted to gives you a heads up in case it shows up at your door one day". He was going to lose it, but it was better than finding out after all was said and done. She had some money saved up, and she'd continue to work until she wasn't able. The thought of single parenthood wasn't the greatest, but it was better than ruining the prospects of two individuals.
When Storm declined the offer for a beverage, Liam pulled one of the metal chairs from the table and sat down. He sense something was terribly wrong. Her body language and how hesitate she was speaking to him. He was surprised how nervous he was becoming, not like the night of the party. It seemed to be easy to go up to her and start a small conversation, which lead to another completely different world. He didn't think she would ever contact him, since it was in the past. However, little did he know the past always catches up with you, sooner or later.
"I... um... I'm..... pregnant, Liam. Two months....".
He drew his breathe back and was silent. Not sure what to say, or even think, he ran his hand through his hair once again and looked away from her. No way, for being his first time experiencing what he hoped was a great night, would haunt him for ever. He looked back at her and went to say something, however she cut him off. Listening to her statement, he nodded. He was in the free, and the only thing he could think to do was... RUN! However, both his father and grandfather taught him different. "St-storm..." he mumbled, "How is this fair to you? I mean, you have hopes and dreams too... not just mine. We can certainly work this out. I appreciate the get out of jail option, but..." he trailed off. He leaned back into his chair, not knowing how to handle the situation. He folks would have a hay day with this news. "Ho-how are you handling this?" he mumbled at her.
What was the next step? Was there even a next step? "Thank.. you.." He said gently. "Thank you for telling me." He said, looking her in her eyes. "I would rather know now, than 18 years from now and... ahh.. he? she? comes knocking on my door. I don't want you taking all the responsibly, since it does take two to.... umm... well you know." not completely sure if a joke was appropriate in this situation. He nodded his head and once again, looking away. Liam bit his lip in frustration and confusion. "Honestly, I don't know what to say. I'm just rambling...".
His phone jingled in his pocket. He jumped and let out a harsh breath and shook his head. "Dammit!" he mumbled as his pulled the phone out and sighed. Message was from Jax, his manager, "Where the fuck are you dude". Liam hit reply and said, "OMW". He immediately looked up at Storm and sighed. "Another time?". He asked in hopes maybe she would change her mind.
Hopes and dreams... Those had been nice, but there was no way she was boarding a flight to England now. Not only was it was dangerous during the first trimester, the morning sickness alone was enough to put her off most major travel. This was as far as she was willing to go without being unconscious.
She wanted to spill it all; the stress, fear, anxiety, sleepless nights praying she was wrong, and then the awful finality that, no, things were changing and if her family wasn't on board, she would more than likely be homelesss by tonight. Thankfully, he began speaking before she had the chance to break down.
Poor guy was beside himself, as she'd expected. You don't hear this kind of news at such a young age and be right as rain. Kids came when you were settled, not getting started. However, she wasnt willing to back down. He wouldn't have much to do with this.
He was running late, and from the looks on his face, it wasn't good. At least she'd been able to tell him what was needed. Pushing herself to stand, Storm trashed the rest of the tea, her nerves firing. It was time to face the music at home. "Yeah. I'll, uh, keep in touch". How easy it was to lie... She was just the same as her parents.
Moving swiftly out the door, Storm moved down to the bus stop and boarded with the other patrons. In half an hour, she'd find out where the ground lay.
Liam stood up and went to grab her hand, but she was to quick for him. He stood there and watched her board a bus, wondering how things were going to be different. His phone vibrated in his hand, and he shook his head. 'Boy! We can't waste time on this project!'. A little bit of rage grew in his chest when he read the message from Jax. "Fuck off Jax." He mumbled and went to the counter to order a drink for the two of them. "Two large coffee's. Make them strong, please." He said to the barista. The pretty young lady behind the counter began to make his drinks. He pulled his wallet out of his back pocket and dropped a $10 onto the counter. When the lady was done pouring the hot cups of coffee, he grabbed two lids and reached out to get them from her. He placed the lids onto the cups and looked up at the barista, "Keep the change." He mumbled to her, turning to leave the coffee shop.
He raced down the street to get to the bike shop, knowing the ass chewing he was going to get from Jax. He hated his boss, but respected him because of his honesty and cruel attitude towards everything. He walked 2 blocks before reaching the bike shop. Jax had the garage door open, working on a bike that they promised to have ready in a few months, and the clock was racing. It didn't seem like they were making any progress. "Here." He shoved the coffee in Jax face and went over to his station, and placed his coffee down and running hand through his hair. "Boy! I swear to god, you ever come into my sho--"
"Shop again, you will kick my ass. Ya, I got it." Liam interrupted him, taking a sip of his coffee. "Look, today is not the day to make idle threats." He say, turning around and looking at Jax. "I have some shit going on at the moment."
Liam placed his coffee down, grabbing a wrench and going on the other side of the bike Jax was working on. "We cannot wait any time on this project. It will either make or break the fucking bank and I don't know about you, but I want the fucking money. I don't give a shit what is going on in your life, but you will be at work, on time. I have no issues docking your cut of this bike, or replacing you with another rookie. Got it?" Jax said threw his teeth, and looking over the bike to Liam. "Ya, whatever..." He said softly.
As he began to work on the bike, a small panic came into his chest. He realized that he couldn't play around anymore. Whether Storm decided to adopt or keep the child, he was still becoming a father. He was unsure whether she really out stay in touch. He could't believe she let him off the hook. Still, he wanted to do the right thing and do right by her.
| 2 Months Later |
Settling back against the brick wall, Storm drew her hood up over her hair and settled for a moment to let her nerves find some rest. The last shop she'd visited hadn't been exactly welcoming, and had turned down the offer of employment as soon as she'd gotten a look at her rounding belly. The day had only started an hour ago, but it was already promising to be filled with trials and tears. Temperatures had dropped overnight, and though she wanted to believe that with it only being late September the day would grow warmer, she wasn’t fool enough to hope for it. She’d been proven wrong before, and was done with trying to force a sunny outlook on life. It just wasn't going to happen.
Two months ago she'd been sitting in a warm house, surrounded by luxuries, telling her parents that she’d gotten pregnant at an end of school party. She'd stated that she wasn’t going to terminate the pregnancy, but would do everything she could to work and take care of it herself. That day, her perception of what a family was supposed to be was shattered, and the world turned on its axis to dump her headlong into the mud. Both of her parents had come unglued. Detrimental words were spoken, names were called, and by the night, she was sitting in the shelter of downtown Chicago, filling out paperwork for temporary residence. They had one last bed in the day room, and she’d opted to take it until she could find some place else to go. Without money, or a recommendation, however, she'd been forced to take to the streets the following week, and try to learn as much as she could to survive the changing elements.
It hadn't been as bad as she'd thought.
One of the women took pity on her; showed her the best places to sleep, the business who would give food for services rendered, and others who would give you actual cash for working there for a day. She started to save what she could to afford a room at a motel and get out of the cold, but she had also started working multiple temp jobs to get an apartment, something more permanent and without the constant threat of bed bugs, lice, and roaches. A free clinic helped her through the early stages of pregnancy, gave her regular check-ups, sanitary items, and now at four months, her belly was growing and the baby was thriving. At this point, it was all that mattered. In another few months she wanted to have enough for a place to live, even a flat, somewhere all bills paid, then she could look into a crib, and an actual bed. If not… She’d have to either put the child up for adoption, or…. No… She couldn’t call him. The promise of him being off the hook still stood. He needed to stay on the course for his career, not falling back to help her… Well… The kid he never asked for. She was irrelevant in all of this. There was still time to decide, but the knowledge that she was only six months from giving birth made her heart hammer.
Pushing up from the alleyway and shouldering her bag of dirty clothes, Storm heading in the direction of the local YWCA. They'd allow her to take a hot shower, wash her clothes, and if she could make herself look presentable enough, she'd head back to the café and apply. Although it was right around the corner, kids from her old high school still frequented the area, and she couldn't handle them seeing her like this. Yes, they'd already know, but with cell phones readily at hand, it was better to keep a low profile.
"Liam!" Jax screeched through the shop.
"God dammit Liam!? Where is the fucking part for this bike!" He damn near screamed out. "Cool it Jax, it's just a damn part. And would you stop treating me like a piece of shit. Without my help, we wouldn't be this far into the project!" Liam said, and began to look around the shop. "Where is the la-"
"AH HA!" Jax said. "Found the motherfucker. Right under our noses!" He said in excitement. Liam rolled his eyes and took a seat in one of the corners, and pulled out his phone. It fiddled with it before turning it on and clicking the messaging app. He sighed and was still curious why Storm hadn't texted him. He had made a appearance at her house a few weeks after they had the discussion. He got her address from a old high school friend. He was turned away and was told to never step foot on there door step with no information on Storm, he grew worried. He shut his phone off and crossed his legs, watching Jax put a part onto the bike.
"Hungry?" Liam said softly to Jax. Jax grunted towards him, fighting with the part. "Kay..." Liam mumbled. "New taco plac-"
"Get whatever Liam. Food is food.." Jax trailed off, not breaking his concentration from the now difficult part. Liam sighed and pushed himself out of the chair and walked pasted Jax. "I'll be back soon." and again he received another grunt.
He walked out of the bike shop through the garage door, looking around. He pushed his hands into his pockets and began to walk towards the taco shop. Liam was looking ahead, noticing a mother and child walking together towards him. He stopped and watched them walk past him. He wonder if that would be Storm someday. He shook his head and continued to walk, trying to figure out where she would had gone. Maybe to one of the adoption houses to take care of her, or maybe moved out of state to another families house. Unsure, he was frustrated he didn't try to reach out to her sooner.
Liam stopped at one of the intersections, and pressed the button for the crosswalk. He looked over to his left and noticed a young lady holding bag of clothes. He shook his head and sighed. Homeless in Chicago was skyrocketing and he felt sorry for whoever she was. He pulled out his wallet and saw he had $32.00. He pulled the $20 and pocketed his wallet. He waited for a moment to watch her movements, to make sure she wasn't drunk or high on drugs. Closely watching her, he noticed her belly. He gasped and sighed, immediately turning and walking to her. "Ma'am." He called out softly.
When he came closer, he had a sense he knew her. Then it hit him.. the hair. Her hair. He froze and his body produced goosebumps. "St-storm?" He said, wide eye. "Is.. that you?" He asked, knowing well who she was.
What a fucking day. Cold as all hell, and even if she got clean, she'd be headed right back to the alleyway and the dirty linen she managed to snag from a thrift store dumpster. It seemed almost counterproductive, but then again, businesses didn't care what kind of state you lived in, so long as you showed up clean, presentable, and ready to work. If the boss was agreeable to give her a chance she'd have to go and buy clothes. Already her pants were tight, and the button on her good pair of jeans no longer closed. If anything, she'd ask her doctor the best places to get free clothes. Didn't matter the look, so long as she stayed warm. The weather was only going to get worse before Spring came, and she didn't want to be found frozen to death in her meager home.
Tightening her hold on her bag, Storm kept her gaze on the ground and pushed through the crowd. She wondered, in a moment of horror, how many times she'd walked these streets and passed by Liam. Would he recognize her, or count her as one of the homeless? Her clothes didn't exactly fit, there was no hiding her belly, and she hadn't had a proper shower in days. If she did cross him, how would she explain that she didn't message him? It wasn't like her phone had service, but if he still went to the café, she could have left a message. It wouldn't have been plausible. If he lived with his family, there was no possible way they'd allow her to stay. Had they heard the news? Was he in the same position? Usually, the father's side was more understanding. After all, it wasn't their body and life that changed as drastically as the mother's. Besides, she'd given him the pass, which meant he was free to live.
"Ma'am". Who said that nowadays?
'What else would you call an elderly woman?' she chastised herself, running a hand over her hair. Someone was probably being kind and walking an elderly woman across the street. It amazed her to think that there were still good people in this world.
If only that were the case.
Stopping short, Storm's eyes lifted, immediately rounding. Why hadn't she been paying attention?
"Li", she whispered, taking a few steps back. Her hand laid across her belly, weighing her options. Running was out of the question, and if she turned now, he could just grab her. Too many people around to try anything drastic. She was screwed.
"I... um... I'm sorry, but... I... Have somewhere to be". Quickening her steps, she brushed past him. If she could walk fast enough, she'd be across the street before the light changed.
When Stormed pushed past him, he stood there for a moment. He couldn't think what to do. He turned and watched her scurry off into the crowd. "Oh no..." he mumbled. He began to chase her through the crowd. "Storm!" He called out to her. Knowing damn well she wasn't going to stop. "Dammit Storm!" He said, finally getting caught up to her. He placed his hand on her shoulder and stepped in front of her. "Wh-why are you walking away from me?" He said. He pushed the $20 into her pocket and pushed some hair behind her ear.
"Why didn't you call?" He asked her. If he had known her family pushed her out onto the streets, he would had tried anything to help. Of course, he didn't have the heart to talk to his parents yet. His family was going through some stuff, and a unplanned pregnancy would not help the overall situation. However, his mother was a nurse with a huge open heart.
"Look, I know you let me off the hook... but this isn't right. How can your family turn on you?" He said softly. "Is the baby ok? Are you getting medical help, and your prenatal's?" Liam asked, wondering if her overall health was okay. He grabbed the bag of clothes and placed it on the ground. "Where are you staying today?" He asked, knowing that Jax wouldn't have a issue with her taking the back room, since that is where Jax goes on the weekends he gets plastered drunk.
Too fast; turtle and the fucking hare. His hand gripped her shoulder tightly, preventing her moving forward. As expected, no one in the surrounding crowd turned to do a damn thing about it. Just like New York, no one gave a fuck what the hell happened, so long as they weren't caught in the crossfire. It didn't matter if she tried to pull away; he'd always have the upper hand. "I told you. I have to be somewhere, and it's not like they're open all day". Granted it was only nearing noon, and they'd be open until at least 5pm, but the shops wouldn't accept a person walking in later than three to try to find work. In her position, she had to stay ahead of the game.
Her cheeks reddening, Storm pulled the phone from her pocket, and showed him the triangle at the top of the screen. He didn't know her circumstances, but since her account had been inactive for so long, how hadn't be put two and two together? "Kind of hard to message someone when you don't have service and most respectable libraries and businesses won't let someone of my stature indoors", she snapped, taking a step back from him. As she replaced the phone into the pocket of the jacket, her hand brushed across a bill that hadn't been there this morning. He was trying to pay her off, give her some kind of compensation. She didn't want it, but she wasn't in a position to say no. A load of bread and peanut butter would go a long way right now.
"They've always been that way", she started, dropping her gaze. It was no excuse, but in her mind it was nothing new. Anything that didn't go according to their plan was failure, and she'd bitten the big one.
"It's fine, and yes. The clinic I go to doesn't charge. Everything is handled, so you don't have to worry". Why was she still standing here? The light had already gone through another change. All she had to do was hurry and he wouldn't be able to follow. At the last minute, however, he'd grabbed her bag and placed it near him. So much for that idea.
"I... have a place nearby. It isn't much, but it keeps me out of the elements". To an extent anyway. The wind blew like a gale, but once inside the box, she was shielded from the brunt of it, and the same women who had helped her find the charities gave her a fleece blanket she'd found for cheap at a thrift store. On that front, she was more than set.
"Look, I don't need your help, alright? I have this in hand. Everything is being taken care of. Besides... Once the baby goes up for adoption... Everything will be fine". The thought of giving up her own child put her heart in a vice, but what else could she do? This was no place for a kid, and it wasn't their fault. For the first time in her life, she wasn't going to be selfish. Leaning against the wall of the restaurant, Storm quickly wiped away the tears, shaking her head. She was such an idiot.
"Go back to work, Li".
He felt horrible that he even accused her of not staying in contact, not realizing that she couldn't. He bit his lip and listened to her explain her situation. He knew damn well that she was lying. He wasn't going to take no for a answer. He picked up her clothes right as the light turned green and started to cross the street. "Storm, come on." He mumbled right before he started to walk. Knowing it was either all of her possessions in one bag or they needed some cleaning, he knew she would follow. She couldn't afford to loose what little she had.
He slung the bag over his shoulder and continued to walk. He pulled out his phone and texted Jax. 'Something came up, and I'm no use at the shop til you are done with that part. Call me when your done.' He clicked his phone off and shoved it back into his pocket. "Look, I don't care what your trying to do, but you need to stop." He stopped and turned to her, "You are four months pregnant, not getting the best healthcare possible, and god knows where you live. I doubt you will even tell me, let alone.. show me." He bit his lip and shook his head.
"I'm not needed at the shop right now, and you look like you need lunch. Please, let me get you something and talk. Give me that much since you think running from this situation is the best." He sighed and was determined to win this fight. She ran once, but she wasn't going to get away so quickly this time. "Honestly, I don't mind either way about the baby. If you put that baby up for adoption, then you need to take care of yourself. If for some reason you want to have the child in your life, then you will have to deal with me too. You aren't alone in this situation." Liam began to walk once again with the bag of clothes still hanging off his shoulder. "New taco place opened, we can talk more there." He said, basically telling her she had no choice in the matter.
She made to grab her belongings and hurry back the way she came, but he beat her to the punch. The moment he started to head off, she had no choice but to follow. Her whole world was in that bag; ID, pre-natal vitamins, WIC vouchers, other medications, toiletries, clothes, and what food she did have. Without it, there was no job, no change of clothes and she'd starve to death before she'd be able to get another set of checks. Her appointment wasn't for another two weeks.
Silently, Storm followed in his wake, allowing him to chastise her. He was right; she wasn't going to show him where how she lived, let alone where. If she managed to get back there tonight, he'd just follow her and a new round of trouble would start. Her parents wrath would probably be sweet in comparison. He'd never let her out of sight then. She wanted to jump in and either defend herself or agree, but now wasn't the time. The silence didn't last.
He wasn't needed at the shop, a big lie. More than likely he'd just texted his boss and told him he wasn't coming back in today. He was making a mountain out of a molehill. Yes she was homeless, but so were a lot of people. It wasn't new. There were even pregnant ones staying at the shelter or the mission. What of it? They got the same healthcare by the same people, and they were a lot less intrusive. At least none of them gave you a verbal lashing for your personal choices.
"I don't have a choice do I?" She mumbled, tying her hair back and pulling up the hood of the jacket. No child deserved to be raised a street kid. Most were taken by CPS anyway. At least this way the kid would be placed with a wonderful family and not be sent to a group home. His final words, however, sealed it. She was stuck with him for the long haul today. The moment she was able, she'd swing by the YWCA and hit he café. The other places would have to wait until she was able to shower again.
As he continued to walk to the taco shop, he chuckled. "Of course you have a choice Storm!" He said with a smile. "Stop whatever you are doing and just hear me out.." He looked over at her. He turned the corner and spotted the taco shop. His stomach growled, and he turned slightly red. He knew that wasn't making matters any better. Liam looked over at her and softly smile.
Liam walked up to the taco shop, and opened the door, gesturing her to walk in before him. Once she was in, he walked up to the counter and sideways looked at Storm. "My treat, and I will not accept no for a answer. I don't care what you get, but please eat something for our baby." He said. He put the bad down on the other side of him, holding onto it, so she wouldn't run. He hated the idea that he was holding her whole life as a bargaining chip to get her to talk to him. "Can I get 3 of your street tacos, a large side of chips and queso, and a medium coke," he told the young man at the register, "and I am buying her meal, whatever she wants!" he smiled at Storm.
When the total came up on the register, he pulled his wallet from his back pocket and slipped his debt card out, swiping it against the reader. He placed the card back into the wallet and held his hand up to pass on the receipt. He picked up her bag again, walking to a table. He pulled out a chair and sat down, putting her bag of items next to her chair. "Listen, is your place at lease somewhat permanent?" he said softly so no one could overhear. "Because I know somewhere you can crash temporally, til I talk to my folks." He leaned back into his chair and sighed. "I not trying to make you feel any type of way, I am just trying to help. I want the best for the baby, and not saying your not doing that, but you have options if you so choose to let me help you out."
He didn't understand; choices were for those who had actual standing and the means of accomplishing them. He had a job, money, and a family support system to get him where he needed to be. She had what money he'd put into her pocket and a box on the street for warmth. How lucky was he that he could speak so simply of everything.
Following into the shop, it took everything in her not to vomit. The smell was nothing but grease and fatty meat, mixed with a heavy scent of onions. How had she eaten this before? Was it actually healthy? No wonder many doctors preached against fast food... No war it could be good for the baby, but she had to eat something, and he wasn't letting her decline his offer. Grin and bear it. If she threw it up later, so be it. Hopefully her body would get what nutrients it could. There was still a lot to do and he held her posessions like a jailer. Damn him... Ordering one street taco and a Sprite, she sat down at the table. It felt nice to sit on a cushioned seat for once. No hard backed chairs or concrete.
Shaking her head, she pulled at a loose thread on her shirt. "No. We've had the cops break up our encampment before. It can happen again". They hadn't been nice about it either. The ones who had tents had been worse off. The police slashed them and sent them on their way with little to keep them going. And yet, she'd discovered the truth. He hadn't told his parents anything. He'd be lucky if he didn't end up in the same position. Yeah, that'd give her SO many options to chose from.
"Stay where?" She asked, looking up to him. Would it have an actual bed, or another concrete floor. Not that it wouldn't be nice to be somewhere warm and out of the elements, but if his parents didn't know, then where was he trying to take her?
"At my shop, Jax's office. He made himself a nice bed in there for the nights he gets drunk and walks from the bar to the shop. He has a open door policy, regardless who you are. I'm sure he would take you in." Liam said, shifting in his seat. "He's kinda of hard to get use too, but he does have a soft side." He leaned forward and put his arms onto the table and looked at her. "Look, I am willing to help out. I haven't told my parents because my aunt has cancer and they are dealing with that, at the moment." He said, dropping his head. "I-i love her as a second mom, and don't want to add anymore stress to her current state." he sighed.
Between his family helping her fight cancer, he was unsure how to bring up a subject like that. "My mother always talks about me and my future, and she is expediting me to produce grandchildren. I just don't think she would be very happy to have one now, but I think overall, she would be happy for us Storm." He said, looking up at her. "You have to realize, you aren't a burden nor do I feel obligated to help out. I want to help, there is a difference. Whether I can help you for the next 5 months, or longer..." he paused when the young man from the register came over to the table to deliver the food.
He leaned back and smile at the gentleman. "Thanks..". He grabbed his coke and took a sip. "Your stubborn, and there is nothing wrong with that. That will help you in life, but right now... you can't be stubborn about what I am offering here." He reached for a chip, dunked it into the queso and bit into it. "Mmmm.." he mumbled. He swallowed the chip and picked at one of his tacos. "I just want to be there, and honestly... in anyway possible."
The back of a bike shop with a person she didn't even know. It didn't sound very safe, but neither was her current location. If the guy had a soft side, then maybe he'd take a taxi home on the days he was drunk and she wouldn't have to deal with him. AN actual bed sounded pleasant, and access to hot water and clean facilities. Her back was only going to get worse the bigger her belly became. It was a temporary solution, but not a fix. They'd have to discuss that at a later date.
"I can't stay there forever, and it's no place to have a kid". She couldn't expect to go to his home, not with so much going on. It was likely he wouldn't even tell them. He wouldn't have to if she didn't keep it. "I'm sorry about your aunt. I wouldn't even know where to begin. That's why it's probably best that you not worry about this. You have a lot going on". It wouldn't be fair for his focus to shift, especially for something that hadn't happened yet.
The food arrived not long after. The Sprite was a welcomed relief from the constant water and juices she'd been forced to down. Her body needed a lot of liquid to stay hydrated, and three bottles of water a day was becoming annoying. She picked at the taco, eating small bites, but largely ignoring it. She wasn't used to it anymore, and the taste wasn't as great as she'd imagined.
"I don't think either of us are ready for this, but I don't have a choice", she whispered, pushing her tray away. Her appetite had sunk below the depths and she couldn't force herself to take in more. "I don't know what you want me to say. I can take the temporary bed, but what next? I'm looking for work, but do you know how hard it is to find a job while pregnant? I doubt your boss will let me stay when I'm too big for much movement". Did he truly know what he was getting into?
Liam leaned back and thought about it for a moment. Of course she couldn't stay long term at the shop. It was a short fix for the time being. "Don't be sorry about my aunt. Life happens, and we have to find ways to cope and live on." He leaned forwarded and dipped another chip into his queso, mainly to play with it. "Jax won't mind if you stay for a while. I know it's not ideal, but I can help you out in the mean time. Fresh clothes, either help you find a job or..." He bit his lip. He knew he was being pushy about a situation she wanted no help in. "...or ah, I can help out til the baby comes."
He had been saving money since she told him about the baby. "I know your going to a free clinic for your needs, but I want the best and I am willing to pay the bills if you choose to go get more help." He said. He pushed his tray away and ran his hand through his hair. Then it dawned on him. He looked at her in the eyes and smiled. "I have a idea... only if you want too hear it." He hoped she would listen. "Look, take this time to get off your feet. I will wash your clothes, get you some hygiene items for you if you choose to go to the shop, and I'll buy some extra food. No worries to pay me back. You need to have some rest, and think about what I want to ask you." He smiled softly.
"I know that your parents didn't care, and this was the last thing on earth you wanted to happen, but we both need to come to terms and work together to make this process as easy as possible for you and the baby!". He sighed leaned back into his chair. His father always to ow up to any mistakes, and even though this wasn't a mistake in his mind, he was owning up. In good faith, he couldn't see the mother of his child go back to the streets, even with winter approaching.
He was wanting to help her in any possible means; food, clothes, helping her out until she found a job, even giving her some time to rest and get her strength back. It had been lacking lately, and both she and the baby were suffering. The WIC checks kept her with food to sustain them both, but the constant trek across the city, sleeping in the cold, being kicked out of more than one location, and having to ration her items to make them last was exhausting. She never understood how great a life she'd had until the moment it was taken away.
"I have WIC checks that can cover food. I'm not lacking for that", she whispered, smoothing a hand down her belly. The baby was developing perfectly, but the constant worry about being robbed and shanked kept her up most nights. He was right; she needed a break. "If... If you're serious about this.... Then.... We can give it a try... See what happens after you tell your parents about all of this". If anything, she'd be sharing the space with him until they found a place to go, or the child was put up for adoption.
"What do you want me to do?"
"Come with to the clinic my mother works at. She can get you some stuff for the baby, and I might be able to convince her to let you hear the heart beat. I ah..." He placed his hand behind his head. ".. think it might be the only way I could tell my mother. She can handle my father. He's out for a couple months for his job anyways." He stated. "We could tell her together." He bit his lip, not completely sure if it was the best idea, but he could snag a chance to hear the heart beat and get a peace of mind knowing she would be getting more help at the clinic. He stood up, and picked her bag and smiled. "Come on, the shop isn't far. Just 4 blocks back. Oh, and.. I'm not holding your bag hostage anymore. If you need anything out of it, let me know. But you don't need to be carrying this around right now."
Liam held out his hand to help her up from the chair, giving it a small squeeze. "Thank you..." he paused "...for not being so stubborn Storm." He released her hand and turned to exit the taco joint. A rush of cool air hit his face, and he took a deep breath in. It was the start of a new beginning. Unsure how the outcome would change his life, but he was ready. He would make sure she was properly taken care of in the mean time till the baby was born. He walked her pace, letting her know to take her time, and on her terms. "Please don't ghost me..." he mumbled and sideways looked at her.
When they came to the crosswalk once again, his heart raced. What if he didn't leave the shop for some greasy tacos, or took this route. Would he have ran into her sooner or later? He shook his head and pushed it off. What mattered now is, she was safe for the time being. When the light turned green, he slowly stepped into the street and watched Storm crossing with him. For a brief moment, he didn't want to keep his eyes off of her, in fear she might run from him. They continued on a couple blocks, til they reached the shop. He put the bag down near the front door, and turned to Storm. "Don't take anything personal about Jax. He's a asshole. But again, he has a soft spot." He smiled and put his hand onto her should and squeezed it. "Your safe now..."
He dropped his hand and turned to the open garage door and sighed. "Jax?" He called out.
"WHAT!!!" screamed Jax. "What the fuck do you need Li? Either get in here and fucking help me or move on!" he said loud enough, the whole neighborhood could hear. Liam looked at Storm and smiled. "See, an asshole. Come on!" He reached his hand out, offering to hold it for comfort to tackle Jax and his potty mouth.
GM: World Traveler
Currently Still Accepting People and Putting it together!
Currently Still Accepting People and Putting it together!
| Finished Roleplays |
None.
