Chapter 23— Fractured Hearts (Extended Version)
The morning sun spilled across the school grounds, but for Jay, it was dim, muted. She walked through the hallways like a ghost, ignoring whispers, stares, and the concerned glances from Section E. Every step felt heavy, every laugh around her like it belonged to someone else.
Alys caught up to her near their lockers, careful not to crowd her. "Jay…" she began softly.
Jay's eyes didn't meet hers. "I don't… I just… don't," she muttered, voice cracking.
Alys didn't push. She just matched Jay's slow pace down the hall, their shoulders brushing occasionally. Neither spoke much, but that quiet solidarity was enough for now—enough to let Jay feel less alone, even if only a little.
Quiet Comfort Between Friends
By mid-morning, they slipped into an empty classroom. Alys grabbed a seat near the window, Jay sitting across from her, head in her hands.
"You don't have to talk if you don't want to," Alys said gently. "But I'm here."
Jay's lip trembled. "It's… it's just too much, Alys. Keifer… the plan… everyone. I can't…"
Alys reached over, tentatively taking her hand. "You're allowed to be sad. Cry if you need to. I'll just… sit here with you."
Slowly, Jay let out a shuddering breath, tears sliding down her cheeks. Alys stayed quiet, letting her friend grieve, letting the heartbreak settle between them like a heavy but familiar weight.
An Escape with Percy
Later that evening, Percy showed up, waiting in the car outside Jay's house. "You don't have to stay in your room tonight," he said softly. "Come with me. Just… go somewhere far away. Clear your head."
Jay hesitated, then nodded. She had no energy left to fight.
They drove to a quiet, upscale bar Percy knew of—a place far enough that they wouldn't run into anyone they knew. The dim lights, soft music, and anonymity were a balm.
Jay sipped her drink quietly, Percy watching her carefully. "You okay?" he asked softly.
"I don't know what 'okay' feels like anymore," she admitted.
Percy chuckled faintly, gently nudging her shoulder. "Well, tonight, let's just pretend we're okay. No plans, no pressure. Just… fun."
And for a while, Jay let herself laugh. Tiny smiles broke through her sadness as they played pool, teased each other over bad jokes, and shared quiet conversations far from the judgment and expectations of school, Section E, or even Keifer.
A Small, Temporary Escape
Jay leaned back in her chair, finally feeling some of the tension in her chest loosen. Percy raised his glass. "To forgetting everything for a few hours."
Jay clinked her glass against his, a faint smile finally tugging at her lips. "To forgetting," she echoed.
The night was fleeting, a small pocket of happiness amidst the chaos of heartbreak and betrayal. But deep down, Jay knew the storm outside this bar, outside this night, was far from over.
The temporary laughter faded into quiet as they left the bar. The world awaited them outside—heartbreak, drama, and challenges ahead—but for tonight, Jay let herself be… just a little free.