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My phone pings, snapping me from my thoughts.
Scarlett
See you then. I’ll bring ice cream!
I smile and place my phone down, then doze off to sleep.
CHAPTERTWENTY-FOUR
Thursday has arrived,and I’m suddenly roused from my slumber by a sharp knock at my door. As I regain consciousness, I notice that the sun has set, and the moon now dominates the night sky. Groggily, I reach for my phone, unlocking it to check the time: 7:50 PM.
I can’t believe it; I’ve slept the entire day away. I notice a text from Scarlett, saying she is on her way, that was sent 10 minutes ago.
I place my phone back on the coffee table, drag myself off the couch, and rub my tired eyes as I make my way to the front door.
“Hey,” Scarlett says with a genuine smile. “I brought the ice cream, just like I promised.”
“I’m sorry, I didn’t order or make any dinner.”
“It’s okay, we can order something.”
She carries the ice cream to my kitchen and places it in the freezer with a sense of familiarity, a routine we’ve repeated countless times. Then she opens the fridge and retrieves a bottle of wine. After pouring two small glasses, Scarlett heads into the living room, where I’ve managed to pull myself together enough to sit down. She hands me a glass and takes a seat beside me on the couch.
Scarlett’s eyes are filled with concern as she asks softly, “How are you doing, Hailey? I haven’t seen much of you in the last few days. I’ve missed our time together and want to catch up.”
Tears overflow from the corners of my eyes as I pour my heart out to her, recounting every painful detail of what has unfolded. Her face appears calm, yet beneath the surface, I detect an intense blaze in her eyes. She understands all too well the depths of my father’s cruelty and the scars he’s inflicted upon me.
She places her drink down, her frustration boiling over. “What the hell is wrong with him? I’m so sorry, Hailey, but I absolutely despise that man.”
I simply nod, my tears breaking free and streaming down my face. Her eyes soften, and she engulfs me in a tight embrace. “I love you, baby girl,” she whispers.
“It’s just not fair for me to have to sit through the pain he’s caused,” I manage to say, my voice trembling.
Without hesitation, she springs into action. “I’m getting us some Oreo cookie ice cream, and we’re going to watch a movie. I’ll also order pizza,” she says as she rises from the couch.
“That’s exactly why you’re my best friend,” I reply, a small laugh escaping my lips.
“Never forget it!”
Scar hands me a bowl of ice cream, sitting next to me once again. As I scoop up a spoonful, I can’t help but wonder about the idea of visiting my dad, to talk with him, confront him maybe. It’s a notion that lingers in the back of my mind. A part of me yearns for closure, to confront him and demand answers. But another part fears what I might uncover if I delve into the depths of his twisted mind.
As we settle in for our movie night, my mind remains consumed by thoughts of my father. The wounds he’s inflicted on my heart still ache, and the fire in my friend’s eyes mirrors the burning anger within me.
I share my thoughts with Scar. “You know, I’ve been thinking about confronting him.”
She turns to me, concern etched on her face. “Are you sure that’s a good idea? I mean, after everything he’s done…”
I pause, weighing the pros and cons. “I know it’s risky, and there’s a chance it could make things even messier, but part of me just needs to confront him, to make him see the pain he’s caused. Maybe… just maybe it could bring some sort of closure.”
She squeezes my hand reassuringly. “I understand. Just promise me you’ll think about it more before making a decision. Your well-being is what matters most.”
I smile gratefully. “Thank you. You’re always looking out for me. Let’s focus on our movie night for now, and we’ll deal with the rest when the time is right.”
CHAPTERTWENTY-FIVE
“Ah, goodness, that’s hot!”I say as coffee spills on my jeans.
“You alright?” Scar asks, emerging from around the corner.
