Taken In

I didn't really want to go home after that, so Henry took me to his house. I'm not a fan of his family seeing me like this, but it's fine.

I just really need a real friend. And I really hope I have one there.

"Sweetie, what happened?" asked Martha the moment she saw me.

I start explaining what happened, keeping hold of Henry's hand. Martha gave me a hug and Tom said some kind words, but it was Emily who really stepped in.

"You're a diamond in the ruff, Rose. One of the kindest people I've ever met. You deserve so much better than a shallow bitch like her," she said. I couldn't help but chuckle despite my tears. To my surprise, Emily pulled me into a hug.

"You'll always have me and Henry," she said.

"Thank you."

...

We turned it into a pretty nice night. The five of us watched a funny movie and they told me embarrassing stories about Emily.

Turns out she managed to be both a girly girl and came home covered in mud most days.

But it was all interrupted by a knock on the door.

"This is the police," came the booming voice of an officer. Immediately, all our eyes went to Emily.

"Wasn't me. This time," she said. We went to the door and Tom opened it.

"How can I help you?" he asked nicely. There were two officers, one slightly older and another one that looked fresh out of the academy.

"Is Henry McNeil here?" asked the lead officer. I instantly grabbed Henry's hand.

"Yes, is there a problem?" asked Tom.

"We got a call that he sexually assaulted a girl today, and we're hear to take him in," said the rookie.

It can't be. She wouldn't stoop to that.

Would she?

"That's impossible, I've been with him all day," I snapped. Emily put her hand in front of me before I continued.

"Officer Nolan, I assure you my brother didn't do that. That bitch is just spiteful," she said, getting chastised by Martha.

"Emily, long time no putting you in the drunk tank. But I'm afraid this isn't negotiable. He's being brought in for questioning," said Officer Nolan. Henry kissed my forehead and gave me a smile. Wait, what?

"I love you," he said before letting go of my hand.

"If I'm just being brought in for questioning, then I'll go peacefully. I'm innocent, which means I have nothing to hide," he said.

"NO," I snapped. I tried to reach for him, but Emily grabbed me.

"Don't fight it Rose. Trust me, he's doing the right thing," she said. Tom and Martha were yelling at the officers while the rookie led Henry away.

"I understand your anger, but I'm just doing my job. If you want to help him, provide evidence and get him a good lawyer," said Officer Nolan.

Oh, you better believe I will. I know the best lawyer in town. I grabbed my phone and called him.

"Hi daddy."