Semi-Edited!

Song above is...Lifeline by We Three (this song is everything) 

Thank you for the lovely cover! 

Happy Reading! :)

"Hope you have a great day." I smiled until the door closed with a ding. I sighed leaning against the counter. Checking the clock I saw I had another two hours before I could go home.

I worked at a local bookstore and it was probably the easiest job you could have. Sofie's was a cute little bookstore in downtown of Astoria in Oregon; a very little town. Astoria was a cute town near the Pacific Ocean. It was a pretty big touristy town with tons of historic sites.

While our town was kind of small we still hand plenty of grocery stores, a little mall about 5 minutes from the bookshop, tons of restaurants, and even another school. But with Portland only an hour away we didn't need more than that.

Even though it rained quite a bit here tourist came from all over to see things every time of the year. It was nice for our businesses but it sometimes got annoying answering questions over and over again. Even walking along the street you would get stopped by some tourist asking for directions.

Sofia's though depended on the tourists mostly. It was a little quaint place that was very homey. The moment I stepped in here freshman year I knew it would become one of my favorite places. Not a lot of kids from school came in here so it made working here even better. It was a place I could get away from it all. And who doesn't like being surrounded by tons of books.

"How's everything going Riley?" My boss, a sweet old lady named Helen. She's owned this book store for years and named it after her daughter Sofia. She was now getting too old to run the store by herself so I work everyday for a few hours and kept her company, which I didn't mind. Her daughter lived to far away with her kids to come and see her mom often.

I didn't mind hanging out with Helen actually. She was sweet and always had an interesting story to tell. And she always let me come in here to read whenever I wanted. When I did have a few days off, which was very rare, I still made a point to come by and make sure she was okay. 

"Good. We've had quite a bit of people come in and buy some books." I was slightly worried about the lack of costumers lately but it seemed Helen wasn't. She always waved it off when no one came in. Always stating that the store will be just fine. I, of course wasn't too convinced.

"That's great dear." She patted my hand as she walked slowly back. "Tomorrow is Friday, any plans?"

Helen knew little of what happened lately. All she knew was my boyfriend broke up with me and that I hated going to school to see him. She knew nothing about the bet, the hateful comments, the no friends. I wanted to keep it that way. I didn't need to bother her with my little problems.

"Probably just stay home, get some homework done and watch tv." I shrugged. That is mostly what my weekends have consisted of for the past 2 and a half weeks. 

"No parties to go to? I thought all you young kids went to that sort of stuff." I laughed shaking my head.

"I'm not the party type." Every weekend there was some kind of party but I rarely went, even when I 'dated' Mitch. I never liked going somewhere where people just got drunk, the music too loud to even think, and watching people dry hump each other. As someone who would rather stay home it wasn't any fun. 

It always use to piss Mitch off when I wouldn't go to a party with him. He use to use puppy eyes on me and it would work most of the time but I always hated going. Spending most of my time leaning against a wall watching everyone as I sipped my soda.

"You should go out and do something Riley. Live a little. You're 17."

I wish I could go out and do stuff around town but I didn't want to face anyone and hear the comments. I already heard enough at school as it is. I may act like none of the words hurt but they did. Going out just caused more problems than I needed. 

"My parents may be coming home this weekend." I lied.

"That's great dear!" Helen beamed at me. She knew of my situation at home, one of the reasons she let me work here whenever I wanted.

My parents, Kathy and James Carson, were both top surgeons at the local hospital but most often spent their time in Portland at the hospital there. They were so amazing at their work that they are always on call.

I use to hate them being gone all the time. Never home or never around for things but I knew it was their job. They had to make a living somehow. I didn't mind too much because my brother Trent was around. But he wasn't around anymore.

Trent went into the Marines about 2 years ago. When he turned 18 he decided he wanted to help our country instead of playing soccer. So he went to boot camp and is now stationed somewhere in Texas I believe. I made a mental note to call him later, since its been awhile. 

With him gone and my parents taking more shifts at the Portland hospital I was all on my own. I've gotten use to it but it gets very lonely living in a big house by yourself. And having no one to come home and tell about your day wasn't easy.

I never complained out loud about it but there were times I wanted to scream at my parents to stop leaving and taking so many shifts. Especially now with everything that has been going on. I was more alone than I have ever been.

"But really Riley you need to get out more."

"Your suppose to be on my side Helen." I gasped at her. Laughing she shook her head

"I am dear. I am." I opened my mouth to reply when the bell above the door chimed. I sent her a look to which she smiled and hobbled away. Shaking my head I turned towards the front.

My eyebrows raised as a really cute guy making his way to the counter. Sandy blonde hair that was shaved at the sides and long on the top. I tried not to stare as he walked towards me. I couldn't help but notice the way his grey t-shirt hugged his upper body. His wide shoulders letting it known he worked out.

The guy looked oddly familiar. He seemed about my age but I was pretty sure he didn't go to my school. Must go to Crescent High about 15 minutes from here.

When he stopped at the counter I found myself staring at a pair of really deep blue eyes. They were probably the prettiest eyes I have ever seen. They weren't just a deep blue, it almost looked like he had little specks of gold in them.

It took me a minute to realize he said something and was waiting for me to answer. Blinking I teared my eyes away from his.

"Sorry, what?" A small smile graced his lips.

"I was wondering if you guys had The Catcher and the Rye?" God even his voice was even hot.

"Uh, yeah. Here let me show you." I wasn't sure what I was doing as I got up and lead the guy towards the book section. I could have just told him where to find it instead of showing it to him. 

Feeling the guys gaze on me I felt myself blushing. Keeping my gaze straight ahead I lead him right to the copies of The Catcher and the Rye. I was surprised he was looking for this book considering it was a banned story for high school students to read.

"Here you go." I stepped aside and gestured towards the shelf. "Just let me know if you need anything." Not sticking around to embarrass myself, I slid past him and headed back to the counter.

The last thing I needed was to embarrass myself any further. Reaching the desk I shook my head at myself, inwardly yelling. Here I was lusting after some random guy I didn't know. I couldn't fall for anyone any time soon or ever for that matter. Any sort of feelings towards a guy was off limits!

A few minutes later the guy came back up the front, two books in his hands. Planting a smile on my face I moved towards the cash register.

"Find everything you need?"

"I did thank you." Grabbing the books from the him I avoided his gaze. I could tell he was trying to see if he knew me. I bet once he heard my name he would know who I am. It didn't take long for things to spread in this town. My fake relationship has been the topic of most discussions with all the teenagers, even ones who didn't go to my school.

"That will be 20 dollars even." The best part about Sofia's is she doesn't charge you an arm and a leg for a book, unlike the other book stores in town. 

I busied myself with packaging his books while he got his wallet out. The quicker he got out of here the less chance he will recognize me. I was not in the mood to be made fun of in person at the moment.

Forcing another smile I handed the guy his bag and his receipt. When he sent me a smile in return I felt my chest ache. If the guy knew my name he wouldn't be looking at me like that. No one looks at me in a friendly way anymore.

The girls turn their noses up at me, thinking of me as a huge slut that will steal their boyfriends. The guys look at me like they want to get in my pants because they thought I put out. In everyones eyes I was easy and slept with anything that walked. Couldn't be farther from the truth.

Before all this happened I was pretty much ignored but that wasn't horrible. I had a few friends that liked me, I didn't get bullied, I was just sailing through high school under the radar. I was content. Then Mitch had to go and fuck everything up. Now I couldn't even walk by anyone without getting stares or whispers following my every move.

"Thanks for all the help uh..." He trailed off waiting for me to supply my name.

"Riley." My name slipped out before I could stop it. Hopefully he doesn't put two and two together. I mean there are tons of people named Riley.

"Thank you Riley." With another smile he turned and left the store. I watched after him silently hoping he didn't know that I was Riley Carson.

With a sigh I leaned against the counter, counting down the minutes until my shifted ended.

* * * * * * * * *

The moment the clock got near 5 o'clock I started straightening things up. I put books away, cleaned the counter, wrote down the till and gave it to Helen, before I grabbed my things ready to go home.

After saying a quick goodbye to Helen I headed for my car. I was starving and I could practically hear my PJ's calling my name at home. It had been a long day and I wanted nothing more than to sit in front of the tv. Thankfully tomorrow was Friday so I only had to get through one more day before I was free for two whole days. Two whole days of lounging around the house in sweats eating junk food.

Before heading home I drove towards the local diner to grab something to eat. Monroe's Place had by far the best food in town. It was a locally owned diner that has been around since I could remember. They had the best milkshakes and hamburgers you'll ever have. People from Portland drive an hour to eat there sometimes, it was that good.

Because it had such good food and it was so popular, everyone I knew went there. It was the usual hangover for teens. After every football game everyone went to eat before going to a party. Because of that I rarely ate inside anymore.

Pulling around back to the employee entrance I hopped out of my car. Going through the back made sure no one would see me, something I loved.

The moment I opened the door I was met with the mouthwatering smell of hamburgers and fries. Of course the place sold more than just that was it was the most ordered thing off the menu.

Loud voices met my ears as well as clinking of people making food. The door barely closed behind me when I heard my name being called out. Everyone in the kitchen knew me by now as I came almost everyday.

"Riley." One of the head cooks, Marty, greeted me. Smiling I weaved around everyone, saying hello as I went. I leaned against the counter opposite of the grill.

"Hey Marty. How's it going?"

"Good good. Mel's due date is getting closer." I watched as his grin got wider at the mention of his pregnant wife. Marty and Melanie were a cute couple in their 40's. They were high school sweethearts and got married immediately after they graduated. When they found out Melanie couldn't have children they were both crushed. It was one of the reasons Marty treated me like a daughter.

But 8 months ago they found out Mel was suddenly pregnant. At the age of 43 they were worried about the baby but so far nothing has gone wrong and in a matter of a few weeks their baby boy was suppose to be due. You couldn't find another guy that was so excited to be a father. It was so sweet to watch.

"That's exciting." I beamed. "Have you decided on a name yet?"

"Mel wants to wait until he's here to see what name he fits more. But we have it narrowed own to James, Aaron, and Mason."

"Well I like all three so you can't go wrong." All I wanted was to hold the little bundle of joy.

"So, any big plans for the weekend?" Marty asked over his shoulder as he cooked.

"Just the usual. Netflix and study."

"As much as I love that you aren't a partier Riley, you need to go out more." I opened my mouth to argue but he cut me off. "You haven't gone out to do anything in weeks." He sounded just like Helen.

After the whole thing with Mitch I haven't gone out. It was easier staying home alone than dealing with everyone else. Marty of course knew nothing about what was going on at school so he didn't know why I was fine being home on the weekends instead of being out. It was just easier.

"Just think about it Riley." I sent him a weak smile. "Here are your chicken fingers with extra fries." Thankful that the food was ready I reached for the to-go box.

"And don't forget your milkshake." Patty, the head waitress strolled in, placing a big cup next to me. At the sound of a milkshake I perked up.

"Thank you!" I beamed at the two of them. They knew the way to my heart.

"Are you sure you don't want to go out there an eat it? Theres tons of kids from your school." Patty gestured out the door. Her words made me instantly lock up and want to say no. Not wanting to be rude I shook my head politely.

"I have a lot of homework to do." I grabbed my stuff wanting to get out of here before I was question any further. "Thanks for the food." Before either could say anything else I headed for the back door.

Shaking my head at myself I slid into my car, placing my food in the passenger seat. I'm fine being home by myself. I silently told myself. It's fine. I kept repeating that as I drove home but I knew I was just lying to myself.

* * * * * * * *

"I'm home." I muttered under my breath as I placed my keys in the bowl by the front door. My voice echoed through the empty house. Sighing I dragged my feet towards the kitchen. I had slightly hoped my parents would be home but it really shouldn't have surprised me. They've been gone for 6 months now so it wasn't anything new to me.

Grabbing some napkins, a knife and a fork I headed up the stairs to my room. I use to sit in the kitchen and eat but when it was just myself it just made me feel more lonely. So instead I ate in my room where I could at least watch tv.

I wouldn't say my house was huge but it wasn't small either. It was a pretty simple two story house. My parents bedroom was on the bottom level while my brother and I had ours upstairs. There was a guest room next to mine but it had been made into a gym for my brother before he left.

My room was probably the biggest upstairs with a bathroom attached and a small walk in closet. My queen bed sat in the middle of the room against the wall, facing my tv. My two night stands alongside it. Off to the left was a big bookcase filled to the brim with books. Off to the right was my desk and rolling chair.

Dropping my backpack on my chair I kicked my shoes off in my closet. I couldn't find it in myself to care about anything other than eating right now. I had some homework to do but that could wait.

With food on my bed, my phone and the remote, I was ready to stuff my face. Nothing better than eating your feelings.

Reruns of Friends played on the tv as I munched on some fries and dipping them in my milkshake. Watching Friends has always been a favorite past time of mine. I remember coming home from school and spending a good hour if not more watching it with my mom and brother.

Back when we were younger my parents didn't work as much. They made sure to be home on time from work, rarely worked weekends and when they did we would have sleep overs at friends house.

It was my sophomore year in high school that something switched in them. They suddenly started working more, not coming home for dinner as often. One day they told us they got a condo in Portland and would spend most of their time there.

Shortly after that my brother, Trent, enrolled into the marines. I guess with my older brother being gone they figured they could take more shifts, almost forgetting about me.

I couldn't complain much though about it. I was happy they had such great jobs saving lives and doing some good in the world. My parents did text me every once in a while and gave me money for groceries. When they did occasionally come home it was great because we could all catch up.

Most kids my age would kill for their parents to not be home. They would throw tons of parties and do whatever they wanted. Some times it was nice not having to be questioned where I was going, if I was doing good in school, etc. But being alone got boring quickly.

Things weren't bad when I had friends. Having them come over for sleep overs or going to their houses when mine felt too empty. They made my life easier and slightly more exciting. Now that I had no one I was stuck being in an empty house with nothing to do.

Shaking my head at where my thoughts went to I stood up from my bed. Last thing I needed was to go into such depressing thoughts at this time of night. Grabbing my garbage I quickly ran downstairs to throw it away and grab a water cup.

I hated being downstairs when it was late and dark. Even with lamps on it still spooked me to be down here alone. Running back up the stairs and slamming my door shut behind me I panted. I really needed to hit the gym more often. Just the thought of that made me laugh. Yeah right.

Seeing my backpack sitting at my desk I groaned. I was not in the mood to do any homework. With my sudden increase of time I'm now ahead in multiple subjects so it wasn't like I really needed to do any homework right now. God knows I won't do any this weekend.

Wanting nothing more than to just shower and lay around in PJ's before bed, I ignored my backpack calling out to me and headed for the bathroom. One night of not doing homework won't kill me.

As I got ready to shower I could hear my parents in the back of my mind. They were such perfectionists that they ingrained in my mind that I had to do well in school and get straight A's if I ever wanted to be something. Always pushing my brother and I to be the best. It was one of the reasons my brother enlisted in the Marines. He didn't want to continue hearing it as he went to college.

I can still hear my parents trying to convince my brother to apply to Harvard or Yale instead of the military. He didn't want to follow in their footsteps and I didn't blame my brother for his decision; even if I missed the crap out of him. 

Sighing out loud I finished getting ready for bed and slid between my sheets. Not even bothering to look at my phone, knowing there would nothing, I snuggled down into my bed to watch some Friends. At least tomorrow was friday and I could have the whole weekend to myself. A whole weekend to binge watch Supernatural and gush over Sam and Dean. Just thinking of the two hot actors made me smile as I fell asleep. 

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Guys we are already at 2.3k reads on this book! Can you believe that? Thank you guys so much for taking the time to check this new book out. It really means the world to me! 

Anyways, I hope you guys enjoyed this new chapter. Don't worry things will start picking up soon I promise! I just want to let you guys get to know Riley a bit and her situation before jumping straight into things. I won't be dragging things out too much which means this book will be pretty fast pace. 

Thank you guys so much for the support! You are all amazing and I cannot thank you guys enough for everything you do for me. Just a simple vote, comment, message makes my entire day! SO thank you!

Also! If you didn't know my other books-Something Inside, A Year Agreement, Silent Love, are all now PUBLISHED!! That is right! You can now own a physical copy or a kindle copy of those books!!!!!! If you have Amazon Prime you can get it for free for Kindle and cheaper price for Paperback. It is available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble! It would be the entire world if you guys went and got a copy! If you can't you can even just write A REVIEW! That helps out an author more than you'll ever realize. Each review bumps up the books rating which means if we get to the top 100 or lower we can make the BEST SELLERS LIST!! How awesome would that be?!
So, if you want to get a copy there are links on my profile or just type in: Kenadee Bryant, or the book titles! And make sure to leave a review! THANK YOU GUYS SO MUCH! <3 <3 <3

P.S Do you guys like it when I leave an Authors Note at the end like this? Or is it annoying? If so I will stop :D

P.P.S Suggest some songs to me! I am always looking for new songs to listen to and to add to stories! :)

<3 <3

-Ken