2 Start (2/2)

"Jack, listen. I had nobody else to go to. If I told anyone about this, they would've locked me up. You're the only chance I got. Please. I never asked you for anything since we split, just help me this one time, and I'll stay away from you forever." Jason promised.

Jack took a moment. He only stayed at this job because of Lexi, and he knew that she would have questions. He sighed and nods, looking at Jason.

"Fine. I'll help. But this doesn't change anything. I'm holding you to that promise. This is only to save your ass. I get out at nine. Meet me at the back of the store at nine thirty and we'll go from there." Jack said.

Jason nods, "Got it. Thank you, Jack." He smiled weakly before heading off.

Jack took a deep breath and watched as Jason left. He walked out of the storage room.

He had a lot of explaining to do.

-----

"I don't understand. You said you'd never help him." Lexi looked over at Jack.

"I know, but he's a father, Lexi. I can't just let a child die. Plus, we both agreed not to get back together. After this, we never speak to each other again." Jack explained, cleaning up the tools off the counter.

"I know but.. what if you get hurt?" Lexi asked, worried.

Jack looked over at her as he put the last tool in a drawer. "I won't get hurt. I've known Jason for a long time. He wouldn't let anyone hurt me. It's what he.. always promised." Jack's voice turned softer as he looked down.

Lexi sighed and pulled her friend in for a hug. Jack hugged back.

"I know you're still hurting. I know you still care. But remember, he broke your heart once. He can do it again. I just don't want to see you hurt again. You're like a little brother to me." Lexi sighed.

"I know. I know. It just.. seeing him again today just.. made me feel heartbroken all over again. But, I can't hold that against him forever. He's moved on and so have I.. I just wish.. that day went smoother.." Jack felt a knot in his throat and tears in his eyes.

"You got every right to be pissed and upset with him. But, you won't feel this way once everything is over. Sure, it takes time to grief, but you'll be okay." Lexi said, trying to comfort Jack.

Jack nods, wiping his eyes as he pulled away. Smiling sadly. He looked at his watch.

"Shit, I gotta go. Jason is gonna be here in five. You gonna be okay when I'm gone?" Jack asked.

"Yeah, it's just a normal day. Be sure to text me when you guys stop for rest or gas." Lexi ruffled Jack's hair.

"I will. I promise. Love you Lexi." Jack hugged his best friend one more time.

"Love you too, biscuit." Lexi smiled.

The two best friends separated, gave one last wave, and Jack was outside in no time. Lexi took a deep breath and whispered:

"Be safe."

------

Jack walked to the back of the store to see Jason already there, leaning against his car. Jason looked up as he saw Jack.

"Hey."

"Hey."

Both boys sighed and got in the car, Jason in drivers, Jack in passengers. Jason started the ignition and looked at Jack.

"You ready for this?"

Jack looked at him, nodding.

"We got work to do."