"If I keep up with the meds and therapy, I will get better."
I smiled and Alice fluttered her wings, making my mother giggle.
"That's a relief, Mom. I'm really happy," I whispered.
Mom's hand brushed my cheek, rubbing it soothingly with her thumb, helping my fears and anxiety slowly dissipate.
"I'm happy too, and I'm so sorry for letting you go to Brighten. I know you went out of your own good will, but I should have never placed you in that position to begin with. If you don't want to go back, I can talk with the headmaster and get everything sorted."
I bit my lip, taking a peek at the five guys who'd gone from strangers to individuals who cared about me even more than my own relatives or previous classmates that I’d known for years.
They all wore sad expressions, even Nixon and Brax looked disappointed after clearly hearing my mother's comment.
Mother squeezed my arms, grabbing my attention.
"Don't worry, you don't need to tell me now. Let me know when you’re leaving, okay?"
"Okay. Thanks, Mom."
I hugged her again and tried to put the thought to the back of my mind until I could ponder it more. I wanted to come back home and stay with her, especially in this new rejuvenated state where we could enjoy walks and I could show her the town while the weather was warm, but my heart hurt at the thought of leaving the guys.
Was it weird that I already felt attached to them?
It would be my sixth week being in their lives, but it felt like it had been months and I enjoyed their company and love.
Would I really be able to abandon them halfway?
Mother patted me on the back and pulled away.
"Now, no more tears. You have to introduce me to my future son-in-laws."
The guys coughed and choked while I blushed in embarrassment.
"Mom!"
"Hoot Hoot!" Alice cheered, fluttering her wings.
"YOU TELL HER MOMMY. I want five weddings and cake. There has to be cake!"
You settle down. I will not have five weddings AND look who’s talking Miss ‘I'm all smitten for a certain bald eagle familiar!’ Don't think I didn't hear those noises las—OW!
Alice poked my head with her beak.
"Mom! Alice hit me," I whined.
My mom rolled her eyes.
"Work out your differences, but Alice no head hitting."
We both frowned.
"Meanie," I mumbled.
"She's like Switzerland,"Alice commented.
I nodded in agreement.
Always neutral in everything, jeez.