Waking up, Julie Grier didn't need to glance at the alarm clock to know it was too early for her to get up, however, her bladder insisted. Rolling out of her nice warm bed, she quietly padded to the bathroom.
After relieving herself, she cupped a hand and drank a little from the tap, washing the aftertaste of sleep from her mouth. She looked up and studied herself in the mirror. Her shoulder-length auburn hair perfectly framed her oval face, but in her opinion her facial features were too severe.
Stepping from the bathroom, Julie paused, smelling freshly-brewed coffee in the air. She put the idea of going back to bed out of her mind and headed downstairs.
Entering the large kitchen, she tiptoed across the cold tiles and went straight to the young man sipping a coffee at the oak dining table. She swooped down and stole his mug of caffeine-filled goodness, receiving a playful scowl in return.
"Good morning," she greeted, taking a long drink of her stolen coffee. She was feeling far more awake than her usual sluggish morning routine, despite the fact it was 6 a.m. "I hope I didn't wake you up."
Jake shook his head. "Not at all. I just got down here when I heard you getting up. I made another pot of coffee for you,but it doesn't look like you will be needing that." he smiled.
"Thank you. By the way" she grinned raising the mug and taking another drink. The coffee he made always tasted better than hers. Mug in hand, she joined him at the table.
Jake closed the college textbook he was reading and placed it on the table. His arm shot out and he swiped the mug out of Julie's hands, taking a large swig and emptying the remaining coffee, earning him a swat. Julie had barely bumped his arm but he winced and pain, letting the empty mug fall to the floor with a crash.
They had been best friends since they were kids, they were sensitive to each others moods, and ever since the car accident six years ago that nearly claimed their lives, they had an even stronger bond. She knew something was wrong.
"Jake..." she said gently, ducking to pick up the remaining pieces of the mug. "What's wrong?"
He tried to shrug, but winced doing so, "Nothing, really. I think I just slept wrong. That's all."
Damn. she thought. She should have known he wasn't feeling well when he went to bed early last night.
Shifting in her chair, she gave Jake a stern look. "Now don't think your going to get away that easily," she said, "Why didn't you tell me you were in pain last night?"
Shrugging, he winced again. "It wasn't too bad. I figured I'd get some sleep and it would be better in the morning."
"But it's not better, is it? I didn't think so. You've had this before, and you know I can help. I wish you would stop trying to pretend nothing's wrong."
Julie threw the remains of the ceramic mug in the trash and returned to take Jake's hand, pulling him from the chair. "Let's see if we can at least ease some of your pain. No buts, Jake. You know it worked before."
He followed her to the couch and pulled off his shirt, wincing in the effort it took. Only a week younger than herself, Jake was still thin as she remembered him in highschool, but every now and then she noticed he was developing a muscular build playing hockey. He was definitely attractive with his square jaw, and hazel eyes, there was a reason girls followed him around like lost puppies. However, it wasn't just his looks people noticed with his shirt off. Where she'd been lucky to escape the car accident when they were fifteen with nothing more than a faint scar inside her left thigh, he hadn't been so fortunate. His broad back was scarred in many places. While others cringed seeing it, Julie found they were badges of honor.
"This is going to hurt for a while," she warned, rubbing her hands together to warm the oil. "Try to relax and let my fingers do their work, okay?"
When he nodded in understanding, she started on the back of his neck, kneading firmly. His muscles felt like granite beneath her fingers, a sign he was long over-due for this. Though he tried to remain quiet, gasps and groans of pain still escaped. She hated the thought of hurting her best friend, but it was only temporary pain, and was beneficial.
Moving to his shoulders, the texture of the puckered scars felt neat under her fingers. The largest scar began on the right side of his rib cage and cut up over his shoulder blade to the front of his collar bone. As her hand ran over a circular scar on the ribs, Jake gave a short, harsh cough, his entire body spasming in pain.
"Oh God," Julie cried in horror, whipping her hands from him. "I'm sorry, Jake. I forgot it would do that."
"No problem," he managed through clenched teeth, his body sagging as the momentary agony passed. "It's just my body reminding me that I'm still alive," he chuckled, the pain in his voice robbing some of the humor from his words.
As much as the accident pained her to think about, she knew Jake had it worse. At the hands of a single drunk driver Jake has lost his parents, his little brother, and almost his life. They were on their way out to eat a celebration dinner. Jake's little brother David had just won a soccer tournament. He was so excited, he didn't even mind his brother's friend tagging along. No one had expected what came next.
Julie could clearly see the second long lance of metal he prevented from reaching her. The first had sliced upwards across his shoulder, but the second stabbed between his ribs, piercing a lung to emerge out the front of his ribs. Even now she recalled the bloody six-inch spike sticking from his chest as he hung over her, the echo of his scream as the wreckage impaled him. She remembered being trapped, before the paramedics came, not knowing if her motionless friend was dead. His blood trickling onto her, she'd screamed over and over, partially from pain, partially from the thought of Jake being dead. She didn't know if there was a higher power in the universe, but if there was, she was grateful it kept Jake with her.
"I'll be more careful," she said, hesitantly continuing the massage. Working slowly lower, his grunts lessened, strong muscles finally relaxing with the release of tension. She didn't know what it was but ther was something she enjoyed about massaging Jake. When the back was done, she leaned forward to do his arms, the oil allowing her fingers to slide effortlessly despite the pressure she applied.
"Jake, can I ask you something," she asked out of the blue.
"Sure," he replied. "You know you can anytime."
"Well," she began hesitantly, "Last night, as I was going to bed, I got to wondering. I've been trying to find a guy for a while now, granted without luck. But, except for the girl you dated at the start of college, I can't remember you dating anyone else. I can't seem to get that out of my head."
"Oh, that. It might take a bit to explain."
Julie grinned, "That's okay. I'm not letting you go for a while."
"Well, in that case," he sighed, "How do I explain? I think in part it's the girls I meet. At first all of them seem nice, but the moment they find out about my house and my truck, suddenly I'm the catch of the day, and they want to move right in. And of course, that means getting rid of you." He shook his head. "No way that's going to happen. I don't care how nice they seem."
Hearing the confidence in Jake's voice calmed her. It was a selfish thought, but she liked knowing just how much he cared.
She nodded. "I understand."
"And that would be all that you would understand." he said.
Julie frowned. "Come on, Jake, tell me the rest. You don't seriously think I won't understand, do you?"
"You're going to think it's dumb." he warned.
"Maybe," she said, "No matter what it is, you won't offend me. Jake, I'm serious."
"That's true," he said, taking a deep breath before explaining, "We've known each other, and been best friends for, what now, eighteen years? You've always been there for me, looked out for me, and looked after me. You and know me better than anybody ever could. More than a few times I've wondered if you can read my mind."
Julie laughed. "I've wondered the same thing about you sometimes."
"Exactly. This is going to sound corny, but I feel like you're my soul-mate. I can't imagine life without you around."
Julie's heart skipped a beat at his truthful tone. Did he really mean that? "I don't think it's corny. I think I have had the same sort of feelings," she admitted, "I never doubted we were meant to be best friends. Even mom has said many times we're two peas in a pod."
"It's true. In looking for a girlfriend, I guess I based the ideal one on, well, you."
"Flattery gets you no where." she whispered.
"If flattery is being honest, then guilty as charged. I know basing a possible girlfriend on you will leave me a lonely man. You're too special to compare other girls with because no one can come close to you. Ever since you moved in, I feel I don't need a girlfriend. Seeing you every day is more than I could ever ask for."
Leaning over, she gave him a long, heartfelt kiss, letting it speak for her. She had always loved Jake but she had always thought it was in a way that a sister would love a brother. Was it possible for that to change? As they parted, they were both flushed and breathless.
"Wow." breathed Jake, leaning in for more, but she backed away.
"Okay," Julie said, realizing her voice was husky and tried to calm her racing heart. "You've been looking for someone like me for a girlfriend? I guess I was doing the same with you, but for boyfriends. But what about how their appearances? You're girlfriends have never looked anything like me."
"Oh," he blurted. She could tell he hadn't given it much thought before, and it didn't surprised her. "Well, I was looking for someone with you know, your personality." Seeing her face fall he caught himself, "I gave up on searching for a girl who has your looks, your too beautiful. There was no comparison."
"Me?" she said raising a brow. Fighting a smile she shook her head in mock pity, "You have got to get out more, Jake."
"I think I get out enough to know a beauty when I see it." He grinned.
"Well you're not such a beast yourself." She said comically. Why was she suddenly putty in his hands? "I think know what you mean though, you're looking for a specific type of girl, but between the crazies and the gold-diggers, it hasn't worked out for you." He nodded. "You're scared, hell I'mscared, that looking anymore is only going to lead to disappointment. You decided it's better to wait until something happens naturally, rather than forcing it. And, you're content with me around, even though we're best friends and not dating. Does that sound about right?"
Jake nodded. "I couldn't have said it better myself."
At the sound of those seven words Julie's heart sank. Why had she even let the thought of him wanting her cross her mind? It was clear that the kiss didn't have the meaning she thought, it was clear he didn't feel anything that she did.
"I have a confession," she said. "It's selfish really. I'm glad you don't have a girlfriend, at least currently." Jake raised his eyebrows curiously. "How do I explain? "I suppose that if you had a girlfriend, I'd be jealous of her. Thinking about it last night, I was becoming jealous of an imagined girl, and damn if I didn't feel like a possessive hag. It's not that I don't want to see you happy or with some girl, but I guess the thought of, well, sharing you with another girl will take time to get use to."
A small smile played on Jake's lips as he spoke, "A while back I had the same thoughts about you. But I kept having this feeling like I was dishonoring our friendship thinking that way. But really, think about how much we have been through together, it's only natural."
Realizing Jake was right was like a weight lifting from her shoulders. Wrapping him up in a friendly hug, she felt another wave of affection wash through her. She was so lucky to have him. "Thanks," she told him. "I guess I just needed that off my chest."
"Anytime, Julie." he said breaking away and pulling his shirt back on, this time with more ease.
"By the way," Julie remembered suddenly, "Mom called last night. Do you have any plans today?"
"Not that I know of," he replied, "Why?"
"She was wondering if we could stop by and take a look at her truck. After the last time she brought it to the shop, she doesn't trust the mechanics anymore. If you wouldn't mind, that is."
"Not at all. I don't trust those buggers either. I don't know if I'll be much help, but I can give it a try."
"Great," Julie said. "She was also wondering if we could stay for dinner. It's pot roast."
"Well now," Jake said, cupping an elbow and put a finger to his chin as their professor did posing a theoretical question to the class. "Let's see. Dinner with two beautiful women, or a night wasted watching television. Decisions, decisions."
"Oh, you," she exclaimed, playfully slapping his thigh. "Does that mean you will?"
He nodded. "Definitely. Besides, I haven't seen your mom in at least a month now. Dinner would be great."
"I'm glad."
"Okay then," she said, sitting back on her heels. "Feeling better I hope?"
"Much better, thank you."
"You're welcome. Now go have a shower and change your shirt before the oil gets too sticky, or you'll become walking fly paper." she laughed.
Julie checked the clock to find it was nearly nine now, she decided she had better get ready to head out soon. Going into her room, she grabbed the cordless and dialed, her mother picking up on the second ring.
"Just me, mom," she greeted, tossing a pair of blue jeans on her bed. "I was wondering if you'd mind if we came over soon. Jake figures it may take the better part of the day if your truck needs work."
"Certainly, dear," her mom said. "I hope he doesn't mind doing it. It'll be cold out in the driveway."
"I don't think he minds. He's worked outside in colder weather."
Sitting on the edge of her bed, she pulled on her socks. "Also, would you mind if we had dinner early this afternoon? Jake and I got up pretty early this morning."
"That's no problem, dear. In fact, I'm nearly done preparing the roast as we speak. How does four sound? Or did you want it sooner?"
She had to wiggle herself to get into her jeans, and struggled with the phone. "Great mom. Need anything we can pick up on the way over?"
"Not that I can think of. Be careful though, it snowed quite a bit last night."
"Don't worry, mom. We've got four-by-four. We'll see you in about an hour or so. Love you, mom."
"I love you too, kitten. See you in a bit."
Hanging up, Julie slipped into the light blue sweater her mom had given her for Christmas a few years ago, finished brushing her hair, added a few dabs of perfume, and grabbed her small purse before heading downstairs.
By the time she descended to the landing, Jake was already in jeans and a heavy bush jacket, stepping into a pair of winter boots. Holding her long coat so it was easy for her to slip into, he made sure everything in the house was off while she slid into her favorite boots, the gripped low heels still not enough to bring her to Jake's six foot stature.
When he was done loading the cargo bench behind the cab, the pickup was already warmed up. Snow drifting down, she trusted Jake's driving and looked around at the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. Only the occasional car shared the freshly-plowed road. It was a short drive to Julie's mom's house, but they took it easy.
When they arrived, Marcia Grier greeted them at the door, ushering them in with a batch of hot chocolate. Though it was only just below freezing, their exposed skin was rosy stepping from the truck to the house.
For an hour they sat in the kitchen catching up before Jake excused himself, donning coveralls to go look at the Jimmy outside.
When he was gone, Julie turned to her mother with a somber expression. "Mom, can I talk with you?"
Putting the roast in the oven, Marcia nodded and sat again. "Sure you can, honey. This wouldn't be about you and Jake, would it?"
How did she know?
Marcia chuckled. "Wondering how I guessed? Maybe it's mother's intuition, but the two of you together this morning, I can sense something's different from before. I'm not sure what, but there's something for sure."
"Is it that obvious?"
"Not really. But you'll find out being a mother makes you very sensitive to your children. You tend to pick up on little things that anybody else would miss."
"That's true," said Julie, realizing she shouldn't have been surprised. "It's not that... well... we haven't... ah..." She bit a nail. How was she going to explain this?
"But you're giving it serious thought now."
"Yeah." Taking a deep breath to steel her resolve, Julie told her mom everything that happened that morning. Marcia listened attentively as her only child poured out her emotions and confusion.
"Then we headed here," Julie finished. "I don't know, mom, when I kissed him it was like magic and I think he enjoyed it but then we talked more. When I put what he was thinking into my own words I was half expecting him to tell me I wasn't right, that he wasn't content not having me as a girl friend. But then he told me that he couldn't have said it better himself and I couldn't help but think that he didn't feel the same way I did. I felt like he didn't . . ." she swallowed hard, "want me."
"I don't think Jake didn't want you," Marcia reassured her daughter. "I think he wanted you as badly as you did him, but honey, Jake respects you. Him not taking advantage of you doesn't surprise me. You've been friends almost your whole lives. He's not going to let unsure feelings lead him to do something which might hurt you or your friendship. That's part of why he's so special."
Julie nodded slowly, thinking of the countless reasons Jake was so important to her.
"I understand your fears. You're scared if it doesn't work out, your friendship will be ruined." said Marcia.
"If I lost him, I don't know what I would do. I can't lose him, mom. I can't."
Marcia placed a hand over her daughter's. "Don't fret about that sweetie," she consoled, "I don't think there's any chance you two would lose your friendship if it didn't work out. Jake cares about you too much, he's mature enough not to let something like that break you two up. After all, he admitted you were his soul-mate, right?"
Julie nodded.
"Besides, remember when you were fourteen, and you went out on your first date?"
Julie remembered. She and Michael had went to a movie, but a third of the way through, he'd tried feeling her up in the dark theater. She'd promptly put an end to that by punching him and walking out to call her mom for a ride. He had a shiner for two weeks and was the laughing stock of the school. When Jake found out, he was suspended three days for fighting, but Michael had two black eyes after that.
"I couldn't have been more proud of you," Marcia said, "But do you recall after that?"
"Yeah. I thought I hated boys, including Jake. I told him I hated him because he was a boy, and wished he was dead." She looked down at her hands, shamed from the memory.
"And . . . ."
Suddenly laughing, it took Julie a few moments to calm herself enough to talk. "That's right. He came here the next day in his cousin's dress and high heels. He even put on make-up." She was almost in tears laughing so hard, the memory so vivid.
"Do you remember why he did it?"
Sobering a little, she spoke, "He said if he had to become a girl to still be best friends with me, he would."
"What I was getting at is I don't think you have to worry about losing Jake if a intimate relationship doesn't work out. You mean too much to one another for it to happen. In fact, I'd bet he'd look at it as a wonderful experiment that happened not to work out, but enjoyed trying it." said Marcia.
"Maybe you're right." said Julie. Getting up, she hugged her mother fiercely. "Thanks mom. I needed that."
They were beginning to debate what to do until the pot roast was ready when Jake returned. Grease and rust streaked his face and coveralls, but he looked pleased.
"Hey there," he greeted them, "Mind if I use the phone for a sec?"
"By all means," Marcia said, gesturing at the wall phone.
Nodding in thanks, he punched in a number from memory. "Mac? It's Jake. No, mine's still running great, I'm working on a friend of mine's Jimmy.
While Jake was using the phone Marcia turned back to her daughter and whispered, "The longer you wait in telling him the harder it will be."
"Thanks Mac! I'm out in the driveway with it. See you soon." said Jake hanging up the phone.
Marcia looked concerned. "So you found the problem?"
"Yeah. The starter's gone. It happens, especially being fourteen years old. Mac's going to strip the one from the Blazer for me and bring it on his way home. Anyways, it will take me a while to rip out the old one and get the new one in, so I better get back to that. Now don't go having too much fun without me girls." said Jake, and with a wink he was out the door in search of his toolbox.
For three hours Julie and Marcia kept themselved occupied, they were long over due for a mother-daughter bonding session.
"That pot roast smells like it's almost done." said Marcia, screwing the cap back onto a bottle of nail polish.
"It smells delicious mom," said Julie, "I wonder if Jake's done. He's been out there quite a while."
"Yes, he has hasn't he," agreed Marcia, "Maybe you should go check on him dear, tell him supper is almost ready."
Julie felt her stomach grumble, "Whoa mom, might want to hurry on that supper thing!"
Marcia laughed and nodded, shooing Julie towards the door. "Go, now."
Julie slipped on her coat and pulled on her boots and headed out the door. The Jimmy was still in the driveway but Jake was no where to be seen.
T a closer look there was something off about the Jimmy. The front end looked a little lower than the back... Oh my god! Were those legs she saw?
Julie dashed back in the house, "Mom!" exclaimed Julie, "Quick call 911!"
Marcia rushed to her daughter's side. "What's wrong Julie? What happened?"
"Mom, it's Jake... I think... I think he's pinned under the truck."
To Be Continued
Also, Jake's injuries seem very severe... piercing through a lung, six-inch spike in his chest, one across his shoulder... maybe you could tone it down a bit so it's a bit more believable that he lived.