Jack is my best friend, actually more like an older protective brother. My name is Alexandra, but Jack has called me “Peanut” forever. He only calls me by my real name when he’s upset at me, being his usual “over protective brother” self. We talk about everything, from what we had for breakfast to our dreams and goals, and even relationship stuff. Jack is 22, just 2 years older than I. We’ve known each other for as long as we can remember, we grew up next door to each other. Many friends have come and gone as Jack and I have grown up, but our friendship has never faltered over the years. To tell you a little secret, I’ve always had a bit of a crush on Jack. He’s tall and has short brown hair, lightly tanned skin, and the most beautiful blue eyes a guy can have. He has the sexiest body, everything is in the right place if you know what I mean. He works out and eats right, he’s always been athletic and played a lot of sports in and outside of school. He’s very striking, and I admit that over the years growing up, I was always envious of his girlfriends, but I never let that stand in the way of our friendship.
College was only two hours away, and when he left for school, Jack always made sure to send me letters and emails, and to call whenever his studies allowed him a little extra time. That is, until I graduated and followed in his foot steps. Once I got there, Jack and I spent as much time together as possible, helping each other with our studies, watching movies, meeting new friends, going to the occasional party. You know, the usual college stuff. I’ve survived my freshman year which is Jack’s senior year, mostly thanks in part to Jack, the transition from home wasn’t easy for me.
On his graduation day, I received a bit of a shock. After the ceremony, Jack ran up to me and gave me a huge bear hug. “I posted my resume online, and I got a job! I’m so excited, I just couldn’t wait to tell you!” I told Jack that I was happy for him and that I was so proud of him as I hugged him back. “I start in a week.” He said.
“A week? So soon? Where will you be working?” I questioned, staring up into those blue eyes. I was scared, thinking that Jack would be leaving again. My best friend would be off to see the world, without me. He must have sensed my fear.
“Relax, Peanut. Don’t panic, I’m not going anywhere. I’m staying here in town, I got a job at the Physical Therapy Center across town. I may have my bachelor’s, but I’m not done with school just yet. I can work there while I finish going to school here for my master’s.” A sense of relief came over me and I hugged Jack. “Jack, I’m so happy. You’re my best friend and I couldn’t imagine spending time without you.”
“Peanut, don’t think for a minute that I could spend time without you either. Who would look after you and keep you out of trouble if I left town to go to another college or work? I’m not going anywhere. In fact, my roommate is moving out. Move in with me and out of the dorms. I’ll take care of the rent, you just stick to your studies.”
“I, uh……..Jack,” I just stammered. “Are you serious?” I couldn’t believe me ears. I just kept replaying the last few minutes in my mind. First he tells me he’s staying, then he tells me he wants me to move in with him. What is happening? I stared at him for a few seconds in disbelief, and when I realized I was staring, I turned my gaze to the ground in embarrassment.
Jack put his hand under my chin and lifted so I was looking at him. “Did I say something wrong?” “N..no,” I stammered, “I’m just in shock.” “Good then, it’s settled, you’re moving in with me,” he said as he hugged me. “We’ll move stuff tomorrow.” I didn’t have much with me in the dorms, mostly clothes and a little bit of linens, and a few personal belongings. Everything else was back at my parent’s house.