“We’ve had a rough few days, and hot cocoa always helps.”
I lowered myself into a chair at the small table. “Who was that outside?”
Laiken filled two mugs with milk. “No one important.”
“He didn’t seem like he was very nice.”
Her lips pressed together in a thin line. “The curse of small towns. Everyone has an opinion about everything, especially the people around them.”
I’d felt some of that. The weight of curious stares. Everyone knew who my father was, the things my family had done, how hateful they could be. I’d heard whispers of “not right in the head” or “that poor thing.” I wasn’t sure what was worse, the pity or the insults.
“They don’t know how much those words can hurt.”
The microwave dinged, and Laiken pulled out the mugs, mixing in a chocolate powder. “Sometimes, they just don’t care.”
She handed me a mug and sat down. I stirred the drink. “I’ve never had hot chocolate.”
Laiken’s eyes widened. “Never?”
“Nope. Wasn’t something my father liked or a necessity, so it wasn’t an option.”
“I hate to say this about anyone, but your dad sounds like a real butt munch.”
The laugh tore out of me as if I had no control over it. “Butt munch?”
She nodded and blew on her drink. “Only the classiest of insults for him.”
“I’m going to have to remember that one.” I took a sip of the drink. The chocolate exploded on my tongue. “That’s amazing.”
“It’s my favorite. Feels like a warm hug.”
“It does.” I would have to stop by the grocery store and get my own stash.
“What else are you wanting to try that you haven’t yet?”
I sipped more of my drink. “School.”
“Like college?”
“Eventually.” I stared down at the swirling chocolate. “I need to get my GED first. I got a study book from the library that I need to start. I was busy going over the driver’s-ed manual, but I think I’ve got that handled now.”
“I could help with the English piece of that. Maybe. Just don’t ask me for math help. I’m worthless.”
“Thanks. It’s silly, but I really want the certificate.”
Laiken rested her spoon against the side of her mug. “I don’t think that’s silly. You missed out on a lot. It’s like reclaiming a piece of that.”
“I like thinking of it like that. Like I’m putting together a puzzle of this new life.”
She smiled. “You never know what it might look like.”
I wouldn’t know, not for sure, not until the last piece fell into place. But I could see some of the image taking shape. It was beautiful. And I’d do anything to protect it.
29
BECKETT
I wasn’t sure what kind of mood I’d find Addie in when I got home. I feared she’d retreat into herself with Walter walking free again. I wasn’t expecting the scowl I got as I strode into the kitchen with a bag of takeout.