Maybe It's Real

I limp out of James house, texting my mom that I'm sleeping over Abbey's house and that I love her and Melody. I stuff my phone in my pocket, thanking God it was friday.

I walk to the neighborhood park, glancing at my phone for the time. It's far past midnight. I quietly walk over the the swings and settle down on one. I hang my aching head.

I let the persistent tears fall as I kick the mulch beneath my feet. I pray that things will change. That my daddy will come back and James will be gone.

But it is all hopeless.

My dad will never come back, and James will never, ever leave.

~

I remember the time we were at this very same park. That day, I didn't think it was possible to feel so scared and helpless. You went so far. So, so far. I remember trying to stop you, but you didn't listen.

You were so lucky no one was there. If anyone saw, you'd be in jail and maybe I'd be happy.

But I know that will never happen. Never.