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Thanks!! <33
one thing I’ll suggest, is that I feel like you don’t really introduce the family to us in the first few chapters. At first I wasn’t even sure if Blake was their sibling or not XDXD
They do have a HUGE family, so setting a solid foundation and making all the siblings and the parents unique and established in our minds would be a big thing you could work on that would be helpful!!! I could see people getting confused and overwhelmed since there’s so many of them hahaha
Ohhh yes. Very true. I was tryna make the first chapter from Easton’s POV a little chaotic since they’re this big family all trying to get to church on time. But yeah, I need to include them more along with some descriptions as the story goes on (especially with all the other characters, lol!). I’ll see what I can do! Thanks for pointing that out!!
Ok awesome! Thanks so much!! <33
Write what should not be forgotten. — Isabel Allende
@savannah_grace2009 @theducktator @grcr @smiley @keilah-h @theshadow @trailblazer
A lot of this is actually first draft material since I was adding in stuff, so bear with me 🫣 But I didn’t want to keep y’all waiting. 😉
Chapter 10
“We’re not picking them up, right?” Easton watched Hallie through the rear view mirror.
“No, they’ll meet us there.”
Even though she was clearly trying to hide it, Easton could tell Hallie was still a little upset by the fact that she wasn’t allowed to ride to the mall with her new friends. He didn’t understand what could be so bad about pulling up in a Thunderbird, though. Hoping to perk up her mood, he turned the handle on the inside of the car door and rolled down the window, cranking up the radio. Tyler caught on and did the same.
From the backseat, Hallie gave Easton a small smile. The last few seconds of the song played and the host’s excited voice came on. He announced the next song and Hallie and Jennifer exchanged looks. __________ by _______ started playing and within a few seconds Hallie and Jennifer were belting it from the backseat.
Easton couldn’t help but grin and sing along, even getting Tyler to join in. It was karaoke the whole drive and by the team they arrived at the mall, Hallie seemed to be in much better spirits.
Easton and Tyler led the girls into the mall, the former of which was bursting out in laughter about something. Easton turned around, a small smile on his lips. “Hey, you guys have to be somewhat mature now. We’re in public, remember?”
The two straightened up, laugher still contained behind their closed lips. Easton shook his head, turning to Tyler to say something, but Tyler was on a mission. His gaze fixed straight ahead, he marched through the rivers of people.
“Tyler… What are you going?”
“Give me two minutes. I wanna go buy a sandwich real fast.”
Easton shrugged and followed along, even though he knew Tyler had eaten less than an hour ago. “You two don’t have to come along if you don’t want to.”
Hallie just shrugged. “We don’t have to meet up with Katrina for a little bit. It’s fine.”
After Tyler bought a sandwich from the nearest restaurant, he didn’t stop moving and headed straight for the exit.
“Tyler, please explain.” Easton hurried to keep up with Tyler’s fast pace.
“There’s someone I want to give this to.” They stepped out into the warm New Mexican sun, Tyler immediately taking a sharp turn to the left.
Easton’s face lit up with understanding as soon as he saw who Tyler was talking about. A middle-aged man sat in a shaded corner, dressed in a t-shirt and shorts coated with a thin layer of sandy dirt. The breeze played with his dark, oily hair and a tanned face peered through matted bangs and a rough beard. A suitcase sat beside him, stacked with loose articles of clothing and mismatched shoes. The crowds passed by him without even so much as a passing glance, despite the cardboard sign propped up next to him, asking for money. Tyler fixed his gaze upon the man, undeterred by the people who walked the opposite direction of him.
Easton exchanged glances with the girls. He made sure they stood a little bit behind him. This man could be perfectly safe, but Hallie and Jennifer were his responsibility. Tyler crouched down in front of the man and handed him the sandwich with a smile. “I know it’s not the ideal breakfast, but—” He shrugged. “It’s my favorite from Subway.”
The man slowly accepted the sandwich, a look of surprise growing on his face. “You noticed?”
“Of course.”
The man’s bloodshot eyes looked around at Easton and the girls before he slowly unwrapped the foot-long. As soon as it opened, he bit into it, clearly satisfied. He swallowed, meeting Tyler’s gaze. “Thank you.”
“Anytime, man.”
“How old are you?”
“Seventeen.”
The man laughed a raspy, surprised laugh. “Really? I didn’t think you kids went to the mall to offer sandwiches to people like me.”
“I didn’t plan to, but you know, can’t let a fellow man go hungry.”
Easton couldn’t stop the tears that pricked his vision as Tyler seated himself next to the man against the wall.
“I’m Tyler.”
The man reluctantly shook Tyler’s outstretched hand. “My name is Jeffrey.”
“Nice to meet you, Jeffrey. If you have the time, I have a story I’ve been wanting to share.” Tyler pulled a leg up and rested his arm across his knee.
“I have all the time in the world,” Jeffrey replied with a sarcastic laugh.
Tyler seemed unfazed. “It’s about a guy named Jesus. He didn’t have a home either. But that was because He was on a mission.”
From then on, Tyler began to tell the gospel story, sharing with Jeffrey how Jesus came to earth to save us from the curse of sin. Despite Jeffrey’s sarcastic remarks, Tyler pressed on. Easton had to admit, Jeffrey started to seem genuinely interested.
Easton knew this was taking up valuable time that they needed to go shopping for suits for the dance, but he also knew that the matter of this man’s eternity was much more important.
Easton couldn’t have been more proud of Tyler for stepping up and standing out.
***
Hallie blinked away the tears that blurred her vision. She didn’t care if their little group looked awkward standing around Tyler and this man. This was a special moment. What did it matter what everyone else thought?
“Hallie, what time is it?” Jennifer whispered.
Hallie’s gray eyes widened. “Ohh, we’re so late.” She stood on her tiptoes to tell Easton they were leaving and the two girls rushed into the mall.
“We’re supposed to meet them over by Cinnabon, right?” Hallie ran her fingers through her hair as they hurried up the escalator.
“I think so. I bet we’ve been making them wait for at least five minutes.”
Hallie bit her lip. She hoped not. They finally came to a halt as soon as they saw Katrina, Renee, and Lori.
“Sorry we’re late.”
Katrina’s smile seemed forced. “No biggie. It’s only been a few minutes.”
Good. “My brother’s friend was just giving a sandwich to a homeless guy outside the mall and telling him about Jesus. It was really cool.” The beauty of that moment came back in the form of a smile on her face.
Katrina’s own smile faltered. “Oh.” She let out a little laugh, almost a scoff. “Okay. Anyway, we have lots of stores to get through, so let’s get going!” She turned on her heel and led the way into the first dress store.
Hallie exchanged a glance with Jennifer, unsure of what had just happened. Why had Katrina been so turned off about what Tyler did? Anyone would have to admit that that was a pretty good excuse for showing up late.
Katrina led them into the first store like she was showing off her bedroom to her friends. “Well ladies! Let’s go!”
A whole section of the store contained only dresses for the local high schools’ homecoming dances. Katrina dug into the racks like she knew exactly what she was looking for, quite comfortable among all the sparkles and satin. Hallie didn’t even know where to start.
Katrina pulled out a couple of dresses, holding them up to Renee or Lori. All three of them had chosen a couple to try when Katrina finally acknowledged Jen and Hallie. “Alright ladies. Hallie, I think you should try a dark purple. Maybe blueberry? That would look great with your hair. If you went for a shade of blue, it would bring out your eyes.” While saying all this, Katrina went through the racks of dresses, pulling out one, holding it up to Hallie, shaking her head, putting it back, then pulling out another one. She finally settled on a silky navy blue dress.
Hallie forced a smile. “I’ll try it.”
Then they went through the whole process again for Jennifer. Their shopping trip took much longer than Hallie expected, but she had to admit she was grateful for Katrina’s help. Who knows, if Katrina wasn’t there, she might have chosen a color that clashed with her skin tone.
Easton and Tyler ended up waiting half an hour for them to finish up before driving home. They dropped Jennifer off at her house first. Hallie walked her to the door. “I can’t believe we were able to settle on dresses within one shopping trip.”
“Yeah.” Jen’s smile wobbled.
“What is it?”
“Nothing, nothing. I’ll see you tomorrow at church.”
Hallie slid into the backseat of Easton’s car, chewing on her lower lip. Jen usually didn’t mind letting her opinion be known. What made it different this time?
But Hallie forced the worries out of her head. They had had a good time with today and there was no reason to ruin it worrying about something Jennifer would probably forget within a day. Besides, maybe Katrina would prove even better of a friend than Hallie had thought.
Chapter 11
“Easton, I think you need to be more specific.” Dr. Adams set down the paper Easton had given him, full of Easton’s ideas for the scholarship essay.
“More specific? What do you mean?”
“You have great ideas, but they aren’t personal enough. Anyone could say that. Doesn’t everyone want to change the world in some way? Get specific. Tell me why you want to change the world, how you plan to change the world through this scholarship. Why will going to college and learning to be a doctor help you reach your goals? Get personal. Maybe include a personal story about how a doctor has impacted your life.”
Easton leaned back in his chair with a sigh. “I can’t really think of anything.”
“Or… include a story about how you were able to impact somebody’s life and how this scholarship will help you to do that even better.”
Now that got Easton thinking.
“I’m sure you’ll come up with something. You have time. Don’t rush it just because you’re excited. You can make this the best essay you’ll ever write, I’m sure of it.”
Easton nodded, leaning his arm on the armrest of the chair in front of Dr. Adams’ desk.
“I wish we could discuss this longer, but I have papers to grade.” Dr. Adams stood. “Keep working at it, Easton. You’re doing great.”
Easton smiled softly. “Thank you, Dr. Adams. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Goodbye, Easton.”
Easton drove home, pondering Dr. Adams words. A personal story… How had he impacted someone’s life? He supposed he could ask Mom and Dad, but he didn’t want to sound too arrogant in his essay.
There wasn’t any great way he had changed somebody’s life. Besides, when he became a doctor, he planned to change more than just one person’s life. He was going to change the world, no matter what it took. He’d find a cure for something, create a vaccine, or provide healthcare in rural villages in Africa.
Something. He’d do something to make a difference in this big world. So many people around the world were hurting and broken… and their brokenness broke his heart. He longed to do something to change it. If only there was some way to reverse the damage of a broken spirit…
Even if there wasn’t, Easton knew he was going to make a difference somehow. He was going to change the world, even if it took his whole life. He didn’t want his life to be pointless.
Still chewing on these thoughts, he silently entered the house and went up the stairs to toss his bag into his bedroom.
“Easton!” A little voice whined.
Easton exited his room to see his seven year-old sister standing outside his door.
“Will you play a game with me and Ruby?” Willow stared up at him with her big blue eyes and for a moment Easton decided he could forget his homework.
“Okay.”
Willow squealed and ran down the stairs, celebrating her victory with Ruby. Ruby might have shared similar facial features with her brother, but she and Tyler couldn’t be more different in the personality category. Sometimes Easton wondered how Tyler managed to keep up with her.
“Ha! I win!” Ruby announced ten minutes later. She crossed her arms, a smug look on her face.
“Fair and square.” Easton tossed his Uno cards onto the table. “Good job, Ruby.”
Her smirk grew into a wide grin and she clambered around the card table kneeling beside Easton. “You let me win.”
“He totally did,” Willow echoed.
“What? Why would I ever do that?” Easton pasted on an innocent expression.
“Because you’re too nice.”
“Too nice?”
“Yeah,” Willow agreed again. “If Tyler were here you wouldn’t have let him win.”
“Maybe I’ll just have to call him and see if he’ll come over so we can test that theory.” Easton stood to walk to the phone.
“Tyler’s not home.” Ruby played with the cards scattered across the coffee table.
“Not home?”
“Yeah, he had to go to a doctor’s appointment.”
“Oh… what for?” Not the Ruby would necessarily know, but she might be able to give a clue.
She shrugged, a dark pigtail slipping off one shoulder. “Don’t ask me. I’m just a little girl. Maybe he’s sick. Because he already went a while ago. He wouldn’t tell me. Big brothers are annoying like that.”
Willow knelt beside Ruby. “Yeah, Easton never tells me anything either. Teenagers.” She rolled her eyes dramatically, looking over at Easton to see if he noticed.
Easton was too lost in thought to care. Even though Tyler was his best friend, Easton still didn’t expect him to tell him every detail of his life. But—if Ruby was telling the truth—two doctor appointments in a row didn’t sound like a good sign. He shrugged it off. Maybe he had hurt something while playing soccer during recess today. If it was something serious, Easton trusted Tyler to tell him.
***
Easton tried not to worry all day, but he had a nagging feeling in the back of his mind that he tried to call something other than worry. It was Tyler’s third day absent from school in the past month. The first one hadn’t been so odd. Just a doctor’s appointment, he had said. But the second absence he gave no reason, according to Ruby, just like this third time.
He decided not to ask about it when Tyler showed up the next day at school. He wouldn’t bring it up if Tyler didn’t. And it went like that all day. But something still bothered Easton. Tyler seemed like his usual self, if not more outgoing than usual. A wider smile, brighter eyes… But it didn’t seem quite right.
So by the time school let out, Easton followed Tyler out to his car, ready to ask him what was going on. “Tyler, what’s up?” It was more of a statement than a question, and after Tyler’s face showed he was confused, Easton softened his tone. “You just seem kinda off today.”
Tyler’s mind went somewhere else. Easton had no idea where, but the way Tyler’s eyes clouded over and his expression faltered, Easton knew something heavy was on his mind.
“It’s… it’s nothing to worry about.” Tyler forced a smile—a wobbling smile.
“Are you sure?”
Tyler took a shaky breath. “Yeah. I-I’m sure.”
Easton wasn’t so convinced. “I don’t want to pry, but you’re really worrying me. What’s going on?”
“Easton…” he ran a hand through his thick brown hair. “I… I promise everything’s okay. Alright?”
Easton pressed his lips together, considering whether to push the topic more, or let it go. “Alright.” He gave Tyler a solid nod. But that short-lived conversation didn’t make him feel any better. He decided to bring it up with Dad as they worked on Easton’s car together that Saturday.
“Dad… Have you talked to Mr. Bailey recently?”
“No, why?”
“Tyler’s been acting kind of odd. He won’t tell me what’s going on, which is okay but…”
“But it’s not okay?” Dad brought his head out from underneath the hood, cocking an eyebrow.
Easton half-smiled and shrugged. “Yeah. I don’t want to pry, but I think something’s actually wrong.”
“Have you sat down and talked with him about it?”
“I’ve tried.”
“But he won’t give you any clue?”
“Nothing. He just promises he’s okay.”
Dad sighed, wiping his hands on a rag. “Well, the best you can do is pray for him. That’s the best help you can give him right now, especially if he doesn’t want to disclose whatever’s going on.”
“Alright.” Easton sighed. “Thanks, Dad. I’ll do that.”
And he did. Every day he made sure he didn’t forget to pray for Tyler. A whole week went by and everything seemed back to normal. Tyler didn’t drift off into his own world like he had been doing and his smile seemed genuine now. For now, Easton was satisfied.
But apparently Tyler still had a few problems of his own.
“I haven’t asked her yet.”
Easton felt his eyes grow wide. “You haven’t asked her yet.”
“No…” Tyler shook his head, a sheepish grin on his face.
Easton couldn’t help but laugh. “You’re kidding.”
“I’m not… But every time I get to talk with her, there’s never a good time to—”
“Tyler, there’s never going to be a good time, is there? Especially with you.”
“Yeah but—”
“You’re asking her before the end of this week, got it?”
Tyler sighed, a smile creeping onto his face. “Alright, fine.”
Easton laughed again as he looked over Tyler’s shoulder. “Don’t look now, but I think you just got your chance.”
Tyler furrowed his brow and Easton turned him around.
“Oh! Miranda. Hi, hey.”
“Hi, Tyler.”
“Hi Miranda.”
This conversation was already going downhill and forced Easton to intervene, give them a little help.
“Miranda, we were just talking about homecoming. You and Autumn went dress shopping last week, didn’t you?”
“Yeah! Has she shown you what she’s wearing yet?”
“No, apparently it has to be a surprise. All she told me was to wear a dark green tie.”
Miranda laughed. “Sounds like her. You two will look great together. I’m not sure who I’ll go with though. I have a few friends who are going in a group, but we haven’t really talked about it yet.”
Tyler still stood there, simply watching Miranda.
Easton cringed inwardly. She was practically baiting Tyler and he still hadn’t caught on.
“Um, Miranda?”
“Yeah?”
“You, um… Will…” Tyler straightened and cleared his throat. “Would you want to come to homecoming with me?”
Miranda’s face absolutely glowed. It was clear she had been waiting for this moment for a while. “I’d love that!”
As their conversation kickstarted, Easton slowly faded into the background and made his way to his locker to let them enjoy their conversation together.
A few minutes later, Tyler ran up to Easton, a wide smile on his face, a piece of dark hair across his forehead like a little boy. “She said yes.”
“Yeah I know, I was there.” Easton chuckled.
“Oh yeah, yeah. Is it normal to be this excited?”
“Is this why you’ve been acting weird these past few weeks?”
Tyler’s smile faded. “Um… no. I don’t think so.”
Easton immediately regretted letting that slip out. “Sorry, Tyler.” He held out a closed fist to the side, then opened it, as if dropping something on the floor. “Here, topic dropped.”
Tyler half-smiled. “Thanks, man.”
Chapter 12
“Hallie!” Antonio raised a hand to catch her attention among the river of students and ran to fall in step beside her.
“What’s up?”
“I’ve been looking for you all morning.”
Hallie smiled. That was sweet. But they never had any classes together until after lunch. “Really, why?”
“I’ve been meaning to ask you something.”
Hallie slowed as they entered the cafeteria. Antonio led them off to the side so they wouldn’t block the way of any other students. ”What is it?” Hallie tried to hold back a smile. This was it. She had been waiting for it and now the moment had finally come. The cafeteria was kind of an odd place to do it, but hey, she didn’t care where he asked her as long as he was asking her.
“Well, first I have some bad news.” A little bit of the sparkle in his chocolate-brown eyes faded.
“Bad news?”
He nodded. “I can’t go to homecoming.”
Hallie debated whether to not allow her disappointment to show or let her emotions match her expression. The result was a mix of a smile, furrowed brow, and a tilt of her head. “W-why?”
“It is Día de la Independencia.”
“What’s that?”
“It is like how America celebrates July 4th. Normally that wouldn’t keep me from going with you, but my abuelita and my tía’s family are coming to visit. Mamá said I could still go to the dance but…”
Hallie tried not to be mad. If he could still go then why was he choosing not to?
“Everyone is still grieving from Papá’s death and…” He took a deep breath, his dark eyes filling with tears. “We all need to be together.”
Regret filled Hallie’s heart. She had no right to be upset before hearing the whole explanation. “I understand.” She offered an encouraging smile, despite the little flicker of disappointment that still lingered.
“But.” He blinked away the tears, pasting on a smile. “If I was going, you’d be the one I’d ask to go with me.”
Her smile grew wider. “Thanks, Antonio. I would have said yes.”
“I still have a question for you though. How about going to the football game with me on Friday? It won’t replace the dance, but it might make up for it.”
She laughed. “Sounds perfect.” And for the rest of the day she was dancing on the clouds.
Hallie spun around in front of the floor-length mirror, letting out a carefree giggle as the navy blue fabric of her homecoming dress fell in waves around her waist. Although Mom had seen the dress, this was the first time she had seen it on her.
“You look beautiful!” Her mom proclaimed, looking just as excited.
“Antonio would think so too,” Courtney added from her upside down position on Hallie’s bed.
Hallie blushed. “Well, he’s not going.”
“Not going!” Courtney pulled herself into an upright position, her sandy blonde hair swooshing across her face. “Why not?”
“He has family in town. I think it was very mature of him to choose to be with them instead of trapped in a gym with a bunch of sweaty high schoolers.” When she described homecoming like that, it suddenly sounded more like a basketball practice than a semi-formal dance.
“But you were hoping he’d ask you to the dance, right?” Mom had a knowing look on her face.
“Maybe…”
Courtney laughed softly. “Of course you were, silly.”
“He did say that if he was going, he would have asked me.” Hallie bit her lip, a smile growing on her face.
Mom shared a small, excited laugh with her, but her expression still lacked a look of approval. Which made Hallie even more nervous to ask her about going to the football game with him Friday night. But it was now or never, and much better to do it in front of Courtney, who, although she could be an annoying twelve year-old at times, knew when Hallie wanted her to stay quiet. It was sisterly intuition. And Hallie would graciously return the favor.
“Mom, speaking of…”
Mom cocked an eyebrow.
“Since Antonio can’t go the dance, he wants to take me to the football game Friday night.”
“Just the two of you?”
Hallie shrugged. But when her mom said it in that tone, she made it sound bad or something. “Yeah, I guess.”
“I’m not sure. I’ll have to discuss it with your dad first. Maybe we can talk about it during dinner.”
As much as Hallie hated to have a conversation like that over dinner in front of all her siblings, she didn’t protest. The fact that is wasn’t an automatic no was already a good sign.
Hallie waited on Mom to bring it up though as the family sat around the table that evening. Finally the topic of homecoming came up and Hallie exchanged a look with her mom. Mom only raised her eyebrows, urging Hallie to say something. As soon as she opened her mouth though, Willow spoke up. “Dad, Antonio is going to take Hallie on a date Friday night.”
Silence fell over the table as all eyes fell on Hallie’s burning face. She slowly set down her fork, shooting a glare over at Willow, who sat there with a satisfied grin on her face, twirling a red pigtail.
Dad looked between Hallie and Mom. “Really?” It was more a statement than a question.
“Not really. Well, yes really. But only if you say yes because Mom wasn’t sure when I asked her but Antonio couldn’t take me to homecoming so he wanted to take me to the football game Friday night but I need your permission even though I already told him yes because I didn’t want to disappoint him and I’m sure you’ll agree.” She repeatedly tucked the same strand of ginger hair behind her ear, looking between her parents.
A small smile grew on Dad’s face and Hallie wasn’t sure whether to feel relieved or worried. “Can someone translate that for me?”
Hallie offered a lopsided smile. “Sorry. I was trying to ask if I could go with Antonio to the football game Friday night. He has a holiday he’s celebrating with his family on Saturday and can’t take me to homecoming. That’s why he asked if he could take me to the game. I asked Mom earlier but she said we need to discuss it with you.”
Hallie could feel the curious, snickering gazes of her five other siblings boring into the back of her head as she watched Dad for a reaction.
“Well, I don’t know.” Dad leaned back in his chair. “We didn’t let your brothers date until they were sixteen.”
Hallie bit her lip. Fair point. “We won’t be alone. And we’ll be home by curfew.”
“Won’t be alone?”
“It’s a football game. We’ll be surrounded by a bunch of crazy high schoolers.”
That earned a little smirk. Good sign. “I still don’t know, Hallie.” He exchanged glances with Mom.
“You know Antonio. He’s a good person. Easton thinks so too.”
Easton gave Hallie a look that warned her to keep him out of this decision.
Dad’s gaze shifted to Easton. “Maybe if Easton goes with you.”
Hallie smiled. “Yeah that’s fine.” Her brother was like a best friend, and if all she had to do was bring Easton along in order to go on a date with Antonio, then she wouldn’t even think of complaining.
“Wait, I wanted to go,” Blake said from across the table. His blonde hair, darker at the roots, stuck out in all directions as he crossed his arms.
“But you wouldn’t be able to sit with us,” Hallie quickly said. “They don’t let middle schoolers in the student section.”
“That’s what they say but Josh told me they don’t really check.”
Hallie bit her lip again.
“Well take both your brothers then,” Dad said with a shrug. Ok, Hallie could deal with that. Blake would go off with his friends and Easton would understand how much this night meant to her.
“If Blake’s going then I want to go too,” Courtney added. Hallie shot her a betrayed look. She thought Courtney was on her side, but apparently the chance of going to a high school football game had shattered all loyalties.
“I don’t see why not. But you two can only go if you pay for your own tickets.”
Blake and Courtney gave Dad enthusiastic nods.
“Oh wait.” Mom laid a hand on Dad’s arm. “We have a church meeting that night. Willow and Cody can’t stay home alone.”
At the mention of his name, five year-old Cody’s head shot up, his reddish-blond bangs brushing across his forehead. “What?”
“Then they can come too.” Hallie surprised herself as the suggestion flew out of her mouth, but by the looks on Mom’s and Dad’s faces, they seemed to be okay with it. After an agonizing five seconds of silent conversation between the two, Dad finally looked back at the kids. “As long as you keep an eye on them.”
Hallie inwardly celebrated. It wasn’t quite the victory she was expecting, but it was a victory nonetheless. She shared a smile with Mom before glancing over at Easton. He winked. She winked back just for the fun of it, trying to convince herself that even with five siblings tagging along, Friday was going to be a wonderful evening.
Write what should not be forgotten. — Isabel Allende
Noooo, poor Tyler. 😭
“I’m not sure. I’ll have to discuss it with your dad first. Maybe we can talk about it during dinner.”
As much as Hallie hated to have a conversation like that over dinner in front of all her siblings
Hallie could feel the curious, snickering gazes of her five other siblings boring into the back of her head
She winked back just for the fun of it, trying to convince herself that even with five siblings tagging along, Friday was going to be a wonderful evening.
THIS is why I’m not dating until college. 😂 I think I’d be allowed before then…but the sibling awkwardness is too much.
“If I was going, you’d be the one I’d ask to go with me.”
*squealing* I can forgive him for not taking her. He has a good reason.
Hallie bit her lip, a smile growing on her face.
*tries that* Can you really smile when biting your lip?
Willow spoke up. “Dad, Antonio is going to take Hallie on a date Friday night.”
I didn’t think Willow was in the room when that conversation happened…
To err is human; to arr is pirate.
Poor Hallie, hopefully her siblings don’t embarrass her (right?). Nice job, the chapters are good. One thing I did notice though is that in a couple of sentences you explain why a character is doing something, like “to ___” and I think you could leave that out sometimes for the reader to figure out why they’re doing something for themselves.
“Our house is full of ducks!!!!”
THIS is why I’m not dating until college. 😂 I think I’d be allowed before then…but the sibling awkwardness is too much.
For real thoughhh 😂 I know in some family’s it’s not awkward, but I decided to go for it with Hallie’s family. XD
*squealing* I can forgive him for not taking her. He has a good reason.
🤭
*tries that* Can you really smile when biting your lip?
🤣
Yeah I think so. I’ve done it before. XD XD
I didn’t think Willow was in the room when that conversation happened…
Oops… I’ll have to mention something about her eavesdropping, lol
Thanks for pointing that out! I’ll try to keep that in mind!
@ducktator @shadow @trailblazer @savannah_grace2009 @grcr @smiley @keilah-h
next chapter dump! I’m actually finished with the second draft, so I’ll just continue slowly dropping the chapters chunk by chunk
Also, I apologize if there’s a spot that seems like it needs to have italics. I don’t think I caught them all XD
Chapter 13
Tonight was going to be amazing. After finally settling on an outfit—quarter-sleeve baby blue sweater, acid-wash jeans, and her favorite Nikes—she hurried down the stairs, bringing with her the scent of coconut, eucalyptus, and oak, her favorite body spray.
Antonio would arrive any minute. When he had called earlier in the week asking what time to pick her up, she had told him five, if he could only fit five other people in the car. It was decided that Antonio would come over to their house at five and Easton would drive all of them in the transit van to the game.
Antonio made no mention of all the extra people tagging along and treated it like they had planned it like this all along. Hallie appreciated his attitude, especially when both Willow and Cody insisted upon sitting next to him on the car ride there. They arrived at the field later than they had planned, courtesy of Courtney being unaware they were leaving at five instead of five-thirty.
As Hallie hopped out of the van, she took a deep breath, grabbing Cody and Willow’s hands. She tried to ignore the fact that it could have been Antonio’s hand she was holding instead of her little siblings’. All that mattered was that she was here and she was still with Antonio, even if she had to keep an eye on the littles.
Cody begged Antonio for a piggy-back ride and Antonio graciously complied. Hallie gave him an apologetic smile, but the only hidden message in his smile was telling her that this was great and everything was totally fine.
Being the oldest, Easton led the way to the gate and made sure everyone got their tickets. The smell of stadium food greeted Hallie’s nose and the deep sound of the marching band met her ears. As soon as they found their seats, Blake and Courtney ran off with a group of friends, leaving Easton and Hallie to make sure Willow and Cody stayed out of trouble.
Easton expertly maneuvered the seating arrangement, putting him at the end, followed by Cody, Willow, Hallie, and then Antonio. Hallie gave Easton a grateful smile. He understood.
Within a few minutes of sitting down the two littles started whining that they were hungry. Hallie stood to take them to the concession stand, but Easton took over, letting Hallie stay with Antonio. She sighed as she sank back into the seat. Finally a moment to breathe now that the littles were solely in Easton’s hands.
“What’s it like having so many siblings?” A piece of dark hair fell across Antonio’s forehead as he tilted his head. Hallie couldn’t hold back the smile that started to grow.
“It’s never boring at home, I’ll tell you that,” she answered with a short laugh. “You don’t have any siblings, do you?”
“Nope. Just me and Mamá. And our perrito.”
“Perrito? Oh, puppy?”
“Sí. He was hanging around our house all the time when we moved, so when nobody ever claimed him, we took him in as our own.”
Hallie scrambled for something to carry on the conversation.
“Oh! Hey, Hallie girl!”
Hallie’s brow furrowed at the sound of Katrina’s voice. She turned around to greet Katrina and her loyal duo.
“Oh, hi, I didn’t know you guys were going to be here tonight.”
“Every game!” She answered with a little laugh. “I see you brought along a friend. Tonio, right?”
“Um, Antonio,” he corrected with a friendly nod.
“Right.” She smiled, climbing over the row of seats, making herself comfortable next to him.
“Except, I brought Hallie.” Antonio gave Hallie a warm smile, melting some of the icicles of anxiety that had sprung out of nowhere the moment these girls had joined their conversation.
“Oh, I see.” Katrina gave Hallie a knowing look. “I guess this isn’t the type of football you’re used to, is it, Antonio?”
“I guess you are right. I’m more familiar with fútbol. Not American football.” His laugh seemed so nonchalant in the light of the fact that Katrina was clearly trying to steal his attention. But Hallie didn’t know what to do about it. She had thought Katrina would back off if she knew Antonio truly had an interest in Hallie.
“I bet Hallie knows nothing about it either.” Katrina’s giggle made it sound to the casual listener that she was making a joke, but Katrina’s words cut a little deeper than Hallie expected them to. She felt her defenses rise.
“That’s not true. I have brothers, you know.” She matched Katrina’s casual laugh, making sure to catch her eye.
“Oh, right. Well, my brother’s the quarterback, so I can tell you everything you want to know about American football, alright, Antonio?” Her smile was poisonous.
“Alright. But, um, you might not want to sit next to me during the game. We Mexicans sure know how to cheer.”
Katrina gave another laugh that sent a shiver up Hallie’s spine. “Oh, I’ll be alright. So do we Americans!” She gave him a playful nudge in the arm. She scooted closer to him, opening her mouth to say something, but was interrupted by a burly young man who walked up behind her.
“You sitting here?”
Katrina whipped her head around. “Of course.” Her playful tone had vanished.
“That’s my seat.”
“Does it have your name written on it?” Katrina’s high-pitched laugh did nothing to change this guy’s expression—or his mind.
“We bought tickets. Will you move already?”
Katrina sighed and climbed back over the seats, picking her way over people’s knees to get to the other side of their row. The guy, who Hallie thought was a senior from their school, took the seat with a grunt.
“She’s not very good at it, is she?”
The soft voice made Hallie jump and whip her head around.
“Oh, sorry,” Lori said, tucking a wispy strand of brown hair behind her ear. “I was talking about Katrina. Her plan’s not really working.”
“What plan?” Hallie felt her eyes narrow, almost like in a spy movie or something. She softened her expression. “What do you mean?”
“She saw you guys down here and—”
“Move it,” Katrina said, under her breath, but just loud enough that only Lori and Hallie could hear it. Lori scooted a seat down and Katrina plopped herself between them with a frazzled sigh.
“Seniors. Pffsh. They think they have all the rights in the world.” She patted down her hair and nestled into her seat. But after only a few moments of silence, she shot right back up again. “I’m hungry. I think I’ll head to the concession stand. Anyone wanna come with?”
Hallie was sure Katrina’s expectant gaze lingered a little longer on Antonio.
“I’ll go with you,” Renee offered. It was as if Katrina didn’t even hear her.
“Anyone else?”
“I’m okay. Thank you though,” Antonio answered with his always friendly smile.
Hallie tried to be just as polite. “I’m good too, thanks.”
“Alright.” And with a tiny shrug and a turn of her heel, she was marching up the aisle with Renee close behind.
Hallie let out a sigh she didn’t she had been holding.
Antonio bent his head closer to her, lowering his voice so Lori wouldn’t hear. “Do you really hang out with those girls?”
“Sometimes.” But now Hallie was beginning to regret it. Katrina’s odd behavior tonight had her doubting her friendship.
“…Okay.” Antonio still had that faint smile on his lips, but this time it wasn’t as strong, like something was on his mind.
“Why? Do you think I… shouldn’t?”
Antonio shrugged. “It’s up to you who you hang out with.”
Hallie hated the awkward silence that followed. Maybe it was only awkward to her. Did Antonio feel that way too? She felt like there was some unresolved conversation here, something she was missing.
“But you must tell me…” Antonio leaned over to her again, this time a playful smirk dancing across his lips. “Is that what you Americans call flirting? Because that would turn any guy off.”
Hallie laughed, one that wasn’t tense or forced. And it felt good. “That’s Katrina for you.”
“It’s okay. I am proof of bullets to her flirting.”
Hallie tilted her head. “You mean bullet-proof?”
“Oh yes, right. I am bullet-proof. Her words wash over me like water on a chicken’s back.”
“Ok you’re doing this on purpose now.” She smirked.
“Ok, you’re right.” He mocked her expression, then let out an easygoing laugh. “That’s because you looked a little tense. How do they say it? Loosen up. Chillax. Besides,” he pointed behind them where Katrina stood, talking with another guy, constantly tilting her head and giggling. “I think Katrina has found someone to sit next to tonight.”
They shared a laugh until Hallie noticed Lori watching Katrina with a look of dejection.
“Hey, Lori, we both know Katrina’s not coming back. You can stay with us.” Easton and the kids wouldn’t mind sitting one seat down.
“What will she think?”
“I think she’ll be too preoccupied to care.”
A smile crept onto Lori’s face as she slowly scooted down a seat. “Okay. Thanks.”
“Now tell me… Does Katrina really know as much about football as she says she does?”
Lori laughed. “Only when it’s convenient.”
Hallie smiled. Yes, this was going to be a great night after all.
Chapter 14
“What do you mean you’re not coming tonight?” This had to be a joke. Easton took the wireless phone to his bedroom.
“I just… I wish I could tell you, but I’m—”
“Tyler, I hate to break it to you, but you can’t just not go. We’ve been planning for weeks and you can’t let Miranda down like this. That’s just not cool.”
A heavy sigh from the other end. “Easton… you know how you said I’ve been acting odd for the past few weeks?”
He gripped the phone tighter, lowering his voice. “Yeah…”
“Well, with everything going on, I don’t think it will be worth it to take Miranda. I don’t want to… let her down.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about. Why don’t you just tell me?” Easton tried to keep his tone light, but he felt his frustration rising.
“I don’t want to tell you until I know for sure.”
“You’re keeping this pretty vague. Should I be concerned?”
“No,” Tyler’s answer came before Easton could barely finish his question. “No… Don’t worry at all.”
“Then what’s all this about disappointing Miranda?”
A pause… “Nevermind. Skipping was a stupid idea. I’ll go, I’ll go.”
“So you’re telling me that all this talk was just because you’re nervous.” Easton smirked.
Tyler laughed, a good sound after the tension in his voice only a moment ago. “Naw, I’m not nervous. Why should I be?”
“Because you’ve never taken a girl out before.”
“What?! Not true.”
“Pretty much.” Easton leaned back in his chair, satisfied.
“I’m not arguing that again.” Easton could hear Tyler’s smile through the phone. “Thanks for talking me out of not going.”
“That’s what I’m here for—keeping you from chickening out.”
“You jerk.” The line clicked as Tyler hung up. Easton set the phone on his desk, a smile playing on his lips, but worry still nagging at his heart. This was the weirdest Tyler had acted yet and now he had Easton truly concerned. Once more, Easton brought his worries to the Lord. But he still felt a burden of concern on his shoulders. Tyler was his best friend and Easton needed to know if anything was wrong. Then maybe he could help.
He hated this familiar feeling of helplessness. This urge, this drive, to do something, but being completely unable too. He didn’t know enough of what was going on with Tyler to have even a glimmer of an idea of what to do. All he had to do was sit and wait. And he hated it.
Easton walked back downstairs, returning the phone to the receiver with a soft sigh.
“Easton, you look sad.” Cody’s big blue eyes looked up at him.
Easton swept Cody up in his arms, pasting on a smile. “Of course not buddy. Why should I be?”
“I don’t know.” He shrugged. “I have a question.”
“What’s that?”
“Does Hallie love Tantono?”
Easton suppressed a laugh at Cody’s mispronunciation and his assumption. “I don’t know. That sounds like a question for her.”
“I think Tantono does. He held her hand.” A satisfied little smirk twisted his lips.
“Oh.” Easton raised his eyebrows, debating whether that information should be broadcast through the household later. He thought about how Hallie would feel and decided against it. “Well, maybe Antonio’s hand was just cold.” Easton winked and set Cody down.
“Then is your hand always cold?”
Easton cocked an eyebrow.
“Because you hold Autumn’s hand a lot.”
A laugh finally escaped. “You know what, I think it is.” Easton walked away, still laughing. If Cody was noticing, then maybe he should keep the hand holding to a minimum. He wanted to be gentle with Autumn’s heart and keep their emotions from becoming too entangled.
He smiled at the thought of Autumn. He wanted to be like her. She made a difference wherever she went. If only he could figure out how to do the same thing, just on a larger scale—make a worldwide difference.
He felt a pinch of stress inside. The scholarship. His unfinished essay had sat on his desk for the past few days, untouched. He needed this scholarship. This was a once in a lifetime opportunity that would open the door to hundreds more opportunities in the future.
Even though it was Saturday and he knew he’d have a long night tonight, he went back up to his room, sharpened is pencil, and started writing.
***
“Hallie girl!”
Hallie forced a smile from the other end of the phone. “Hey Katrina. What’s up?”
“I know this is last minute, but some people from our homecoming group are doing their own thing, so I was wondering if you and Antonio wanted to join us.”
The sincerity in her voice was undeniable, but it also worried Hallie. Katrina had been acting odd around Antonio and Hallie was struggling to read what it all meant. “Oh, well, I already have plans set with another group.” It had been decided that Hallie would go with Jennifer and her date, along with Javier, Danielle, and their older sister Monica. She didn’t want to drop out on them. “And, um… I’m not going with Antonio.”
Hallie wished she could have seen Katrina’s expression, but she could only guess it through her tone of voice. “Oh…” A little bit of surprise. Maybe satisfaction? “Really?”
“Yeah. He had family in town and they’re celebrating a Mexican holiday together.”
“Oh, that’s too bad.” But Katrina didn’t sound too disappointed. “Listen, I know I said Antonio really likes you, but…”
“But what?” Hallie’s walls immediately rose.
“I don’t think he’s good for you.”
Who was Katrina to tell her who was good for her or not? She kept the annoyance out of her voice. “Why do you say that?”
“He’s got his focus on the wrong things. You want people to like you, right?”
“I guess.” Hallie spun back and forth in the chair at her desk.
“Antonio won’t help you with that. He’s not exactly the popular type, ya know? If you want to have a good standing in this school, you have to hang with the right crowd.”
Hallie bit her lip. What was that supposed to mean? Antonio seemed like a great guy to her.
“That’s why I wanted you as my friend, Hallie. You have so much potential, but when you spend time with the wrong people, you’re not reaching that full potential.”
Katrina sounded genuinely concerned for Hallie’s social standing. Was it really that important? “I didn’t know I had so much potential,” Hallie replied with a small, nervous laugh.
“Yes, Hallie girl!” Katrina laughed. “If you let me help, you’ll be everybody’s idol at school in no time. You don’t want to spend the rest of your life being a nobody, do you?”
Hallie found herself chewing on her bottom lip again. “I guess not.”
“Perf. I’m glad you’re seeing things from my angle now.”
But what exactly that angle was, Hallie wasn’t sure. She sat at her desk for the next ten minutes, mulling over Katrina’s words. Katrina had been treating her like one of her own. She complimented her outfits and hair often, giving suggestions on how to do her makeup to enhance her natural features. She would invite Hallie to sit with them at lunch if Hallie’s usual group wasn’t there or ask her to come along when their friend group was going out. Maybe Hallie did have more potential than she realized. But there was no way Antonio was the one holding her back. Katrina’s opinion of him didn’t explain why she had been trying to steal his attention. Maybe she was trying to bring him into the right crowd too.
She decided right then and there that she would let Katrina help her out. But no matter what Katrina tried to do, Hallie determined that she’d keep her long-time friends close. As long as she kept her priorities straight, then being a little more popular wouldn’t hurt anybody.
Chapter 15
Easton took a deep breath, tapping his fingers against the steering wheel. Why was he so nervous? It was just Autumn. This was normal. He was simply taking her out for the night. They had even gone to homecoming and prom together last year. Maybe it was because this was his last homecoming dance. He didn’t think he’d get all sentimental. If anything he should be excited to finish high school.
No, the nervousness wasn’t from his own sentimentality. He wanted to make sure Autumn’s last homecoming dance was perfect. They still had prom—that would be a big night—but Easton decided to look at this as the warmup.
He pulled up by her house, taking one more deep breath. He walked up to the front door, adjusting his tie, straightening in his suit jacket. Then knocked.
“Come in, Easton!” Autumn’s mother greeted him with a smile, opening the door wide.
Easton stepped inside the familiar home. “Thank you, Mrs. Taylor.”
“Autumn will be here in just a moment.”
“And he’s back again.” Mr. Taylor sauntered into the front room with an exaggerated sigh.
“Yes sir. You know how your daughter is. Always dragging me to these fancy events.”
The two laughed, Mr. Taylor giving Easton a friendly pat on the shoulder. “I know we’ve been through this, but a reminder won’t hurt.” He winked. “She’s to be home by two, and I’d better not see you parked outside my house with her for more than five minutes.”
“Of course.” Easton nodded, containing a smile.
“And I’m sure you’ve got this down by now, but don’t forget to treat her like a princess.”
“Like a queen.”
Mr. Taylor gave him a nod of confirmation.
“I think her majesty is coming now,” Mrs. Taylor said with a small smile.
Easton held his hands together in front of him, a smile growing on his face as Autumn rolled her wheelchair slowly down the hallway.
Her light golden hair was pulled up into a soft, glamorous bun, a few strands left out to frame her glowing face. The silky, emerald dress she wore fell across her lap in gentle folds. She looked beautiful.
Easton went one knee and grabbed her hand, brushing a kiss across her knuckles. “Your highness.”
Autumn laughed softly. “You look like royalty yourself.”
Easton stood, smiling. After Mrs. Taylor got pictures she was satisfied with, the two were off, with the radio accompanying them on the short ride to school. After they got there, they were able to find Hallie and the rest of them in the dimly lit room.
Music blared from the stage set up at one end of the gym where a DJ bopped his head along with the requested songs he played. Colorful lights sprinkled across the gym floor, illuminating faces and reflecting off of dresses and shined shoes.
“Would you believe me if I said I brought a date tonight?” Javier asked, cocking an eyebrow.
“No, why?” Easton cocked his own.
“Man, I was wondering if I could trick you.”
“We all know you’re hopeless J,” Hallie said, giving him a sympathetic pat on the shoulder.
“Woah, woah, woah. Hopeless?! That seems like an exaggeration.”
Hallie’s expression made it clear she didn’t agree.
“I bet I can get more than five different girls to dance with me tonight.” He crossed his arms.
“Alright, you try that.” Hallie laughed.
“I will. You’ll see.”
Hallie shook her head, then turned to Autumn. “You look gorgeous! That color looks amazing on you.”
Autumn smiled and grabbed Hallie’s hands. “Thank you! You look so lovely too! Is Antonio here?”
Hallie’s shoulders fell slightly. “No, he couldn’t make it.”
“Aw man, well, I’m sure you’ll still have a wonderful time.”
Hallie smiled and nodded.
“Have you guys seen Tyler and Miranda yet?” Easton asked.
Hallie pointed over to the table lined with food and drinks. “Over there.”
“Thanks.” Easton walked Autumn towards the punch bowl where Tyler and Miranda stood.
“‘Sup guys,” Easton greeted them with a chin-up gesture, trying to speak loud enough to be heard over the music.
Tyler slapped him his signature high-five. “Hey guys. Did you just get here?”
“Yeah, a few minutes ago.”
“Cool, cool. We’re about to head back onto the dance floor. Wanna join us?”
Easton exchanged a look with Autumn. “Sure, let’s get this party started.”
They found a spot on the dance floor with enough room for Autumn’s wheelchair and joined the other high schoolers jamming to Cotton-Eyed Joe.
“Maybe I should wait until the slow dance, so you don’t feel left out,” Easton said.
Autumn tucked her chin, raising an eyebrow. “I think you’re just trying to avoid dancing, aren’t you?”
Easton smiled. “Maybe.”
“Dance. It will make me happy.” She straightened in her chair.
“You just want to laugh at me.”
Autumn matched his clever smile. “Maybe.”
Easton complied, following along with the others, taking Tyler’s advice every now and then. And yes, Autumn did laugh at him. But it made her eyes sparkle just so perfectly that Easton didn’t stop.
The night wore on, the music kept playing, laughter still echoed every now and then through the gym. Easton and Autumn sat at their table for most of the time, talking with friends and eating some snacks. It wasn’t what most everyone else was doing, but as long as Autumn was content, so was Easton.
The first slow dance song of the evening started playing and Easton again bowed playfully by Autumn’s wheelchair. “May I have this dance?”
She smiled, a beautiful, slow, steady smile. “It would be an honor.”
He pushed her onto the dance floor, spinning her gently to the swaying music, bending his head close to hers. He let his head hover just above her shoulder, gently pressed against the side of her head. He breathed in the fresh scent of her hair—she smelled like she had just run through a meadow in full bloom shortly after a spring rain.
“What’s that?”
“Lilac.”
“I like it.” He pulled her closer, just so slightly. This was perfect. Everything was perfect.
After the song ended, he led Autumn back to their table, a warm smile on his face that matched her own.
“How does something to drink sound?”
“Wonderful.”
“Will Coke be fine?”
“Whatever you want.”
Her sweet smile didn’t leave his mind the whole way over to the refreshments table.
“You guys looked so sweet out there.”
Easton only smiled at Tyler’s comment. He leaned against the wall beside him, turning his head to look at him. “Where were you and Miranda?”
“We were there.”
Easton paused, tilting his head. “Is something wrong?”
When Tyler turned to look at him, the colorful lights reflected off of fresh tears that lingered in his eyes.
“Tyler.” Easton set the two Cokes down on the table and grabbed Tyler’s shoulders, forcing their eyes to meet. “What is going on?”
“I’m fine… right now.” He wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. “It’s just… You won’t tell Miranda?”
Easton looked over his shoulder, where Miranda stood across the room, chatting with Autumn. He shook his head.
Tyler sucked in a shaky breath, tilting his shoulders back and regaining his composure. “There’s a lot going on in my life right now, but I want to make this one of the best nights of Miranda’s life. It’s just hard to do that when there’s a million other things I’m thinking about, you know?” Even in the dim lighting, Easton could see the crease between Tyler’s eyebrows that had been there for the past few weeks deepen.
And although Tyler’s shoulders relaxed, he rolled his foot back and forth on the heel and his fingers tapped against his soda can. His explanation may have been true, but maybe it wasn’t the whole truth.
Easton hated the feeling that crept inside of him as he studied Tyler. Something was seriously wrong and Easton was incapable of helping. It was the same exact feeling he had gotten the past few years whenever world crises came to mind. Incurable diseases, not enough clean water, starving children… The world couldn’t escape the consequences of the Fall, and at this moment, Easton was convinced that Tyler hadn’t escaped them either.
“Just…” Easton didn’t know how to pry without being rude. He had prayed and prayed and he had thought it did something. He thought Tyler was okay now. But apparently, he had been wrong. “I want to help.”
“I know you do, but you just…” Tyler sucked in a breath and let it out with that painful word, “can’t.”
Easton let his arms drop to his sides and turned to watch the couples and groups of people on the dance floor. He shoved his hands into his pockets, rising up and down on his toes a few times.
“Easton, I know you’re frustrated but—”
“Do you not trust me?” Easton didn’t take his eyes off of the dance floor. His voice was low enough that no one could hear it but Tyler.
Tyler let out an exhausted sigh. “Easton, I trust you. I trust you as much as my own family, but—”
“So why won’t you just tell me what’s going on?” He spun on his heel to face him. “I’m not trying to pry. I just want to help.”
“You can’t.”
“I know but…” He tilted his head back, taking a deep breath as he carefully considered his words. “You don’t understand… I want to help so badly that…” he shook his head. “I don’t know why I’m like this, but when there’s something wrong I want to fix it so, so badly. When I hear about children in Africa starving, I want to send them fleets of ships that have the most amazing food they’ll ever have. When I hear the statistics of people who die every year from incurable diseases, I want to go create that cure. When I hear about pointless wars and conflicts, I want to go resolve those somehow. When I— When…” He felt the energy drain from his mind and body. What was he saying? None of this mattered. None of it mattered because he was only complaining about things he’d never be able to fix.
Easton hadn’t noticed that during his useless rant he had stepped forward until Tyler stood against the wall, his jaw set, his eyes carrying a look of hurt.
“Tyler… I’m sorry—” He backed down.
“No.” He held up a hand. “You’re right. I should have told you from the beginning, I know how much I hurt you.”
“You didn’t really, I only—”
“You want to hear what’s really going on?”
“No, no, I was rude. You can keep it to yourself if you want.” He waved a hand through the air and turned, trying to regain his wits.
Tyler scoffed. “Are you kidding?”
Easton furrowed his brow. Tyler’s tone worried him. It was a mix of frustration, but also hurt… maybe even confusion?
“You know what, I’ll just tell you anyway. Because… because…” As Tyler’s voice rose, he placed himself in front of Easton. “Because I can’t fix it either, okay? You’re not the only one.”
The intensity in Tyler’s voice made Easton back down, taking a step back. “Tyler—”
“You want to hear it?”
He was seriously waiting for an answer. Easton gave a slow nod.
“I’ve been diagnosed with stage four cancer and there’s nothing I can do about it.”
Easton felt a rock drop to the bottom of his stomach. “No…”
“No? Well, yes.” Tyler’s nostrils flared, his chest heaving. “And I feel the exact same way you did just a second ago. I’m completely helpless, Easton.” A tear slipped down his cheek. “Completely helpless.”
“Tyler, I’m so sorry.”
“But you still can’t do anything about it, and neither can I.” His voice finally broke and he backed into the corner, sliding down the wall until he sat on the floor, burying his face in his hands.
Easton crouched beside him, tears blurring his vision. “I’m so sorry. I shouldn’t have pushed you. I shouldn’t have complained.”
“No, no.” The strength had completely left Tyler’s voice. He shook his hanging head limply. “It’s not your fault. I shouldn’t have gotten mad.”
Easton wet his lips, trying to hold back the sobs that choked his throat. “I… Tyler, I don’t know what to say.”
“I know.” He lifted his head, wiping away tears. “Neither do I.”
Easton felt a gentle hand on his shoulder, just as he placed his own on Tyler’s. He looked behind him where Autumn sat in her wheelchair, a look of concern on her face. She studied Easton’s face for a moment, then reached out to rest a hand on Tyler’s shoulder. Miranda, who stood nearby, did the same, although she looked a little more confused than Autumn.
And then Autumn prayed.
And prayed.
She didn’t care about the weird looks from the students who passed by, or the gossiping whispers. She only prayed over Tyler, not fully knowing the situation, but her words were like a balm to the wounds of their hearts.
Easton didn’t know how long it had passed when her gentle voice finally faded away. He stood, pulling Tyler up with him and into a tight hug. “I’ll be praying. We’re going to get through this, okay?”
Tyler stepped back with a nod. “Okay.”
Easton squeezed Autumn’s hand. “I think we should be getting home now.”
She nodded.
“Us too,” Tyler said to Miranda.
“I’m not the only one who’s confused, right?” Though her question brought tight laughter, her expression was genuine.
Autumn smiled. “Don’t worry, I am too.”
“There’s something I need to tell you,” Tyler said, gently guiding Miranda towards the exit. He turned back and waved at Easton, then disappeared out the door.
“Here’s your Coke,” Easton said, a lopsided smile making its way onto his face.
Autumn cocked an eyebrow. “Thanks, but what I also would really like right now is an explanation.”
“Oh I thought you knew. Led by the Spirit to pray and all,” he said, repeating what she had said earlier in her prayer.
Her jaw dropped. “Do not mock me.”
Easton smiled and started pushing her towards their table. “I guess I’m just trying to make light of the situation.”
“But you shouldn’t?” Autumn finished for him, casting him a questioning gaze.
He sighed. “We’ll talk about it in the car.”
Chapter 16
Biting down on her lip, Hallie watched the four clustered in the corner. Something was wrong. Definitely wrong. Tyler sat in the corner while Easton, Autumn, and Miranda surrounded him. And only moments before it had looked like Tyler and Easton were having an all-out argument.
Someone scoffed beside her. “Can you believe them?”
“Hmm?” Hallie turned to look at Katrina, her blonde hair like silk drapes over her shoulders, her baby pink dress falling in folds just above her knees.
“Have you not heard?”
“No, what?” Easton and Autumn made their way towards the exit. Hallie turned to watch them.
“They were praying over there.” Katrina laughed.
Hallie’s gaze whipped back to the conversation. “Praying?” Yes, something must be seriously wrong if it called for an impromptu prayer meeting. Although with Autumn involved, it shouldn’t have surprised her.
“Yeah. Weirdos.” Katrina scoffed again, sharing a laugh with the guy who stood close behind her. Hallie recognized him as the guy Katrina had sat with during the football game last night.
Hallie offered a weak smile, watching Easton and Autumn disappear out the door and out of sight. She was tempted to follow after them and see what was going on.
“Hallie girl.”
“What?” Hallie met Katrina’s shocked expression.
“Don’t tell me you’re sympathetic towards those Jesus freaks.”
Hallie stared at the floor, shifting her gaze from her shoes to the condensation on her soda can.
“You’re not one of those Jesus freaks, are you?” Katrina lowered her voice, sounding almost offended.
“I don’t think that freak is the—”
“Hallie. If you want to have any standing in this school, in life, then you need to spend your time on more important things. Not praying over people and washing feet. We already talked about this.”
Was that why Katrina thought Antonio wasn’t good for her? “Katrina, we don’t—”
“Do you get what I’m saying?”
“Yes, but—”
“Now that we’re on the same page, come with me. I want to introduce you to somebody.”
Hallie reluctantly followed her, scanning the students to see if Tyler and Miranda had left too. Yep, no sign of them either.
“Hallie, this is Patrick Stevens.”
Hallie forced a smile and looked up at the six-foot something guy standing in front of her. She thought she vaguely remembered seeing him play basketball last year. And that last name sounded familiar… Actually, his whole name sounded familiar. He had hair the color of a latte and a spattering of freckles across the bridge of his nose and under his deep-set, striking blue eyes. In fact, he looked a lot like Lori. Her brother maybe?
“Patrick, this is Hallie Woodbury.” Katrina took a step back, casting a smile between the both of them.
“Nice to meet you, Hallie. You’re friends with Lori right?”
She nodded.
“Yeah, she’s my sister.”
That’s why that last name sounded familiar. “Your sister is great,” she said with a smile. Which was true, but if it was Katrina’s brother… maybe not so much… “I’m hoping it’s hereditary?” She hoped her joke would turn him off.
“Let’s find out, shall we?” He motioned to the dance floor, then held out a hand. Hallie reluctantly accepted his offer. She needed to get home. She was still worried about what was going on with Easton and Tyler.
It felt weird to be dancing with a guy she had only just met, so she made sure to keep a comfortable space between the two of them. Sure he was good-looking, but— A thought bounded into her head like a deer through the forest.
Patrick was her middle school crush.
Except in seventh grade he had gone by Trick because of his prankster personality and she had never known his last name. Her heart started pounding and she hoped her palms weren’t beginning to sweat.
She remembered hoping back in middle school that if she could get his attention she’d be one of the most popular girls in school. But he had given her less than a passing glance in the hall or lunch room. Since he was a grade ahead, he had reached high school before her. After that, she had given up hope of ever getting his attention.
But here she was at her sophomore homecoming, dancing with the guy she had liked for two years.
Maybe a friendship with Katrina wasn’t going to be so bad after all… Just because she hung out with her didn’t mean she’d start acting like her. And getting to know Patrick wouldn’t be so bad either. She felt petite next to him, although she had never been the tallest girl around at five feet four inches.
Antonio wasn’t that tall. Hallie guessed that he couldn’t be over five feet ten inches. Although she found his dark hair and eyes and his defined facial features attractive, Patrick’s freckles and expressive blue eyes—eyes bluer than the New Mexican sky—gave him a playful, boyish look that made her want to smile every time he did. He looked like a little boy who had just come in from playing in the forest.
“Hallie?”
“Sorry, did you say something?” She looked up at him, grateful that he had interrupted her comparison session.
He grinned, a boyish grin that sent her heart into a fluttering frenzy. “I asked you if you’ve been having a good night so far.”
“Oh, yeah, definitely.” She smiled. She tried to forget about what she had seen go on between Tyler and Easton and enjoy the rest of her night. She ended up dancing with Patrick the rest of the evening and found that he was actually really nice and not as snarky as he was in middle school. Conversation flowed between them easily. Patrick never let an awkward silence last for too long and always seemed to know what to say to make Hallie feel like she was being listened to. It made her listen to what he had to say more intently every time he spoke.
As the dance began to come to a close, Patrick walked her off the dance floor, collecting their trash and tossing it into a nearby trash bin. “Hallie, would it be okay if I drove you home tonight?”
As much as she wanted to say yes, she knew Mom and Dad wouldn’t approve. “Thanks, but my parents don’t know you so…”
“I understand.” He smiled down at her. “That’s what I appreciate about you, Hallie.”
“What?” She tilted her head.
“I’ve only known you for a few hours, but you’re honest. Authentic. You don’t put up any pretenses. It’s like I can trust you.”
Hallie smiled, flattered with the compliment. She felt like it had more layers than one and planned to think through it later.
But a million other thoughts took up her brain space on the ride home with Javier, Danielle, and Monica. The whole ride home Javier was bragging about the fact that he had danced with five different girls, one of them more than once, but Hallie tuned it all out as thoughts of Patrick floated through her mind. Her attention snapped back to the present when she heard Easton’s name though.
“Easton?”
“Yeah.” Javier cocked his head. “What was going on there with him and Tyler? Miranda and Autumn too.”
“I’m not sure,” she mumbled. But she definitely planned to find out. Her worries about them that had been buried earlier tonight resurfaced and fiercer than ever. As soon as she got inside, she got a drink of water, rushed up the stairs, and tiptoed down the hall towards Easton’s room, holding her shoes in one hand.
But instead of a light coming from underneath his closed door, the door was wide open, only his lamp on, and him laying on top of his covers, his legs dangling over the edge of the bed.
Hallie couldn’t help but smile and pulled a blanket over Easton, switched off the lamp, and slowly crept out of the room, shutting the door behind him. Apparently he had a tiring night as well.
Hallie changed quickly and quietly in the bathroom and tiptoed into the room she shared with Courtney. After a few minutes of trying to sort out her thoughts, she succumbed to her exhaustion and fell asleep with a mind and heart full of hope, confusion, and worry, with a side of guilt for what she couldn’t quite figure out.
***
“I know this wasn’t exactly the kind of night we had planned,” Easton said, reaching over to touch Autumn gently on the shoulder.
She shrugged, wiped her eyes, and smiled. “I suppose God’s plan was different from ours.”
Easton smiled softly. Always trusting the Lord. “Yeah. I’m not sure if I really like it though.” He signaled to turn at the intersection. They had been driving around for the last half hour discussing what had gone on that night.
“It’s like that a lot isn’t it?” She leaned back on the headrest.
“What do you mean?”
“God’s plan is often the way we don’t want to go. At least to begin with.”
The corner of his mouth quirked up in a half-smile. “How do you do it?”
“Do what?”
“This.” He gestured towards her. “I just told you life-altering news and you seem so calm.”
“I know the One who holds our lives in His hands. And…” she rested her hands on her lap. “I’ve had practice.”
Autumn’s legs had been paralyzed ever since a car accident when she was ten. Easton was aware of the fact that it had been hard for her, but they had never discussed it in detail.
“Did you… Was that… hard?” He took another corner instead of heading straight home as he had been planning to only a moment ago.
Autumn sighed. “Yeah.” A heavy weight clouded the car, but Easton didn’t regret what he had asked. “Really hard. I fought God’s will for so long. After the first year or so I pretended like everything was okay, but it wasn’t. Inside… I couldn’t get over the fact that God had let that happen to me. Me. I thought I was one of His most faithful followers.” A sad sort of smile made one corner of her mouth tilt up.
“How did you come to terms with it?”
“The Lord brought me back to Him. Through my parents, my friends, and other family members. I was even squirming during some church services because I knew what the pastor was talking about I needed to listen to. Eventually, I was so torn up inside that I finally decided to listen to what the Lord was trying to tell me. He softened my heart over time and brought me where I am today. And…” she sighed. “I also had to realize that I couldn’t make my situation any better or change the past.” At the stoplight, red light filtered through the windshield, reflecting in Autumn’s dark green eyes.
“Once I got over the fact that I never could have prevented that other driver from running into us, I found peace. I trusted in the Lord’s plan. I also realized that God let that happen on purpose. So instead of focusing on trying to change my circumstances or the past, I focused on how I could make others’ lives better, bring a little more light into their circumstances even if I didn’t understand it.”
Easton slowly let out a sigh through his nose, swallowing down Autumn’s story. Finally he said, “Really?”
Autumn laughed softly. “Really.”
“It didn’t kill you to think that there might have been one way that you could have changed or prevented what had happened?”
“Well that’s my point. I couldn’t. I can’t change the will of the Lord. It’s pointless to fight the Ruler of the world. So I chose to trust Him and make the most of my situation. I don’t mind missing out on sports if I am able to bring God’s love and light into someone’s life because of where He’s put me.”
Easton let her words roll around in his head, yet again amazed by this godly young woman. It was what had first attracted him to her. He found her gentle spirit, her unconditional love, and her non-judgemental and fair mindset some of the most beautiful things about her. He kept glancing at her as they drove home.
She finally noticed and cocked an eyebrow at him.
He just smiled, shrugging one shoulder. He pulled up beside her house and helped her back into her wheelchair and wheeled her up to the porch. They stood in front of the door, the two of them illuminated by the one porch light and the faint glow coming from the half moon in the sky.
He crouched down in front of her, holding her soft hands in his. How beautiful she looked, her pure heart and her face.
I could spend the rest of my life with her.
His own impulsive thought shocked him and he quickly buried it. He wasn’t thinking straight after all the emotions that had rocked his good judgment these past couple of hours.
Yet one question still nagged him until he could no longer keep it to himself. “Can I kiss you goodnight?”
Autumn seemed shocked for a moment, but her expression quickly formed to a little, gentle smirk. She leaned forward and offered the side of her face.
Easton bent forward and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek. He pulled back, the two smiling at each other. Easton reluctantly stood and wheeled Autumn into the house. With one more smile and a hug he backed up to the door. “See you at church tomorrow.”
“Bye, Easton.”
He drove home with a contented smile on his lips, but his heart still raged with turmoil. Too many emotions and thoughts to consider in one night. He sat on his bed and bent down to untie his shoes, but before he knew it, he had lain back and fallen fast asleep.
Write what should not be forgotten. — Isabel Allende
ahhhh, Cody’s “Tantono” sent such a warm feeling through my heart… that was so cute!! ❤️
[…] with a side of guilt for what she couldn’t quite figure out.
Hallie… you know why. don’t give me that.
“Can I kiss you goodnight?”
Excuse me? In front of her father’s house?? Uhm, absolutely not! lol kidding kidding
Just a little note-ish question… is it kinda strange to have another Easton/Autumn scene right after Hallie just saw him in bed? It feels a little off………………
Hallie’s side of the story with Katrina and all feels so relatable in these past few chapters… I’ve never been in any situations like hers, but still. I really feel it. Good job, Esther!
If you pluck them, they explode. Goro.
ahhhh, Cody’s “Tantono” sent such a warm feeling through my heart… that was so cute!! ❤️
Aww, yay! ☺️ That was a scene that wasn’t in the first draft, but when it came together, it made me smile inside. 🥰
Hallie… you know why. don’t give me that.
😐
🤫
😂
Excuse me? In front of her father’s house?? Uhm, absolutely not! lol kidding kidding
Lolll. That was me trying to get into a guy’s head, based upon stories I’ve heard. So I was like, Bro’s gonna ask. But I knew what Autumn’s reaction would be. 🤭
Just a little note-ish question… is it kinda strange to have another Easton/Autumn scene right after Hallie just saw him in bed? It feels a little off………………
Hmm, i think I meant to switch that and forgot. Or maybe I did switch it and I meant to change the ending. idk 🤣 Taking note on that for the third draft! XD
Hallie’s side of the story with Katrina and all feels so relatable in these past few chapters… I’ve never been in any situations like hers, but still. I really feel it. Good job, Esther!
Aww, thanks! That makes me so happy! <33
Write what should not be forgotten. — Isabel Allende
Hallie NO. I spent that whole scene with that sinking feeling that a character was about to do something stupid and she did. *sigh*
She felt petite next to him, although she had never been the tallest girl around at five feet four inches.
Antonio wasn’t that tall. Hallie guessed that he couldn’t be over five feet ten inches.
My dad is only 5’8” and he’s still 10 times the man that your Patrick is, Hallie. *glares*
Easton however, good job. You’re awesome. He kissed Autumn! 😁
“Nice to meet you, Hallie. You’re friends with Lori right?”
She nodded.
“Yeah, she’s my sister.”
That’s why that last name sounded familiar. “Your sister is great,” she said with a smile. Which was true, but if it was Katrina’s brother… maybe not so much… “I’m hoping it’s hereditary?” She hoped her joke would turn him off.
Wait…he is Lori’s brother right? I’m confused.
To err is human; to arr is pirate.
Hallie NO. I spent that whole scene with that sinking feeling that a character was about to do something stupid and she did. *sigh*
👀🫢
🤭
My dad is only 5’8” and he’s still 10 times the man that your Patrick is, Hallie. *glares*
Lemme just say, if there’s ever a sequel, Patrick’s coming back…
And you’ll prolly see what I mean by the end of the story…
Also, it took me a second to figure out what was normal heights and what was considered short and tall for this part 🤣 I’m in a tall family and around a lot of tall guys, so a six-foot high school guy is normal to me XD
Easton however, good job. You’re awesome. He kissed Autumn! 😁
Hehe, I loved writing that part 🤭
Wait…he is Lori’s brother right? I’m confused.
Yes. Sorry, I think I included a couple extra lines that didn’t really add anything to the story and only made it confusing. My baddd 😛 (and the top three lines of the part you pointed out might have made it confusing too)
Write what should not be forgotten. — Isabel Allende
@theducktator @savannah_grace2009 @trailblazer @smiley @grcr @keilah-h @theshadow
Chapter 17
Easton hated the tension that had hung between him and Tyler all throughout church that morning. They didn’t sit with the rest of their friend group like they normally did, which Easton appreciated. Last night had mentally exhausted him and getting up early to make it to church on time left him physically exhausted as well. But a conversation with Tyler couldn’t wait. That morning Easton made sure that Dad was okay with him driving separately so he could talk with Tyler over lunch.
Easton wasn’t sure if Tyler wanted his news to be spread around yet, so he promised Dad that this conversation was important and he would provide an adequate explanation later. Dad had stood there for a second, his brow furrowing as his light blue eyes searched Easton’s.
“I trust you,” he had said with a nod.
And now Easton marched up to Tyler. “We need to talk. Let’s go to lunch.”
Tyler’s brow furrowed and he looked back at his parents.
“Sorry.” Easton loosened up and managed a chuckle. “Let me start over. Hey, Tyler, we need to talk. Wanna go out to lunch?”
Tyler half-smiled. “You paying?”
Easton scoffed. “Never.”
“Sounds great.” He looked back at his parents for confirmation, earning their nods of approval.
And with that, any tension that may have lasted from their argument the night before immediately disappeared. Easton drove them to their favorite sub place downtown, neither of them speaking. But it felt right.
After building their subs through the glass window, they found a table, said grace over the meal, and dug in. After a few bites, Easton put down his sandwich. “Alright.”
“Alright.” Tyler did the same and rested his crossed arms on the table with a shaky sigh.
Easton opened his mouth to speak, but only laughter escaped. “I’m not actually sure what to say.”
Tyler joined his laughter, but as their laughter faded, Easton felt tears prick at the corners of his eyes.
“Is it serious?”
Tyler sighed again. “That’s what the doctor says.”
“What treatment will the doctors give?”
“Probably chemotherapy, but… they aren’t one hundred percent certain it will work.”
Easton hated the sound of that. “Then we’ll just have to make sure it will.”
Tyler’s brow furrowed. “How?”
“One, I’m going to make sure your parents don’t go into debt to pay for your treatment. And two, we’ll flood the gates of heaven with prayers.”
A grin crept onto Tyler’s face. “Good plan.”
“I always have good plans.” He took another bite of his sub sandwich.
“Sure, you’re the one who forced me to ask Miranda out to homecoming.”
Easton met his eyes. “Did you tell her last night?”
Tyler nodded slowly. “We decided it would be best not to go out any more. We agreed we’d stay friends but… we don’t want to get too emotionally attached when… when my future is uncertain.”
“Aren’t all our futures uncertain?”
“You know what I mean.” Tyler gave Easton that tucked-chin, raised-eyebrow look. “Besides, who would want to go out with a—”
“Ah! Don’t you go developing a victim complex on me.”
Tyler’s face twisted into a confused grin. “Victim complex?”
“Yeah, you know, the ‘I’m a loser. Nobody likes me anymore because of my circumstances’ mindset.” Easton shrugged like this was something everyone knew.
Tyler threw his balled-up straw package at Easton, narrowly missing his face.
“Woah, resorting to violence I see?”
Tyler laughed. “Yes, you jerk. You’re supposed to pity me.”
“Nope, no pity from me, you jerk. It will only encourage your victim complex.”
“Victim complex,” Tyler repeated under his breath with a scoff. “You trying to sound smart?”
“Tyler. You know I don’t have to try very hard.”
“Hey, speaking of intelligence, Mr. Know-It-All, how’s that scholarship essay coming along?”
Easton shrugged.
“Okay, I literally pour out my guts to you last night and now all I get is a shrug?”
Easton tossed him a half-grin. “I guess it’s just coming along then.”
“Not great?”
“Not horrible either. I guess I’m just waiting for inspiration to strike or something. Last time I talked to Dr. Adams about it, he said I should try to include a personal story or example to support my reasoning. Apparently the desire to change the world isn’t enough to win a scholarship.” He sighed and took another bite of his sandwich.
Tyler studied him for a moment. “That makes sense though. Everyone wants to change the world in some way or another. You just have to tell them specifically how.”
“Yeah, that’s what Dr. Adams told me.”
“Just wait. I’m sure you’ll find a way to do it. You’re smart, aren’t you?”
Easton chuckled. “Now I have a name to live up to.”
They ate in silence for a moment or two before Tyler finally spoke up again.
“I’m scared…” His voice was small… like a little boy confessing his fear of the dark to a parent.
“Yeah… I kinda am too.”
“I just don’t know what to expect, you know?”
He nodded. “But God is in control. He has a plan.”
“Right.” Tyler nodded a few times, as if trying to convince himself of it.
“You should talk to Autumn. She told me some things that might really encourage you.”
Tyler cocked an eyebrow, but shrugged and nodded when he got used to the idea. “Maybe I will.”
For the next half hour, they talked like they used to, like Tyler hadn’t been told life-changing news this past month. It felt good. It felt right.
But Easton had a feeling this was only a calm before the storm.
***
“How was homecoming?”
“It was fun.” Hallie smiled and slung her backpack over her shoulder. She felt guilty for dancing with Patrick, but she wasn’t sure why. They were just hanging out. Antonio and she weren’t even officially going together, so it wasn’t like she was betraying him or anything.
“How could you have fun when you spent the evening sitting in the corner, all alone?” Antonio pressed his hand to his chest like a dramatic actor, then laughed. But when Hallie only offered a half-hearted laugh, he tilted his head. “Oh, so you did hang out with other people?” He grinned, still playing along with his own joke.
Hallie nodded. “Yeah.”
“Javier was bragging about dancing with five different girls. Don’t tell me you were one of them.” His expression turned faux serious.
Hallie chuckled. “No, I was not.”
“I bet Easton offered you a dance or two.”
She shook her head. “He was… distracted.”
“Oh.” Antonio had a knowing twinkle in his eye, but Hallie knew they weren’t thinking the same thing. It was Monday, but Easton still hadn’t said anything about what had happened at the dance. Hallie saw him talking alone with Dad or Mom a few times, but that was it. And it seemed like everything between him and Tyler had smoothed out.
“So who’d you dance with?”
Hallie knew Antonio wasn’t asking because he was jealous or anything, but she still felt weird telling him. “Um, a guy named Patrick. Lori’s brother.”
“The one on the basketball team?”
“Yeah.”
Antonio just nodded. Hallie searched his face for any indication that he might be jealous or concerned, but his expression gave her no sign whatsoever.
“Well I’m glad you had fun.” He offered a friendly smile. Maybe Hallie was seeing something that wasn’t actually there, but Antonio’s smile didn’t seem quite as warm. She shook her doubts out of her head. What was she thinking? They were just pals. Friends. Buddies. Nothing more. …Right?
Yeah. Right.
A few hours later, Hallie walked into the lunchroom, feeling much better after letting her emotions settle during her past few classes.
“Hallie girl!”
She winced at the nickname but pasted on a smile. “Hey, Katrina.”
“So… did you go out with Patrick yesterday?”
Her smile faltered. “No… why?”
“And he hasn’t asked you out at all?” Katrina acted like this was the end of the world, detrimental to Hallie’s high school years.
“Um, no.”
“Oh no, well, Hallie girl, you better sit with him during lunch all week.”
“But my friends—”
“He is your friend now. We’re your friends now. We’ll all sit together. Besides, my boyfriend is friends with him.”
Hallie didn’t like the sound of this, especially as she spotted most of their regular group grabbing seats at their table. “Katrina, maybe not today.”
“Hallie! Are you crazy?”
Hallie just shrugged sheepishly. Was she?
“Patrick is one of the most popular guys in school. You can tell he likes you at least a little bit. So capitalize on that. You can’t let him go, Hallie girl.”
“Katrina, I don’t need a guy. Okay?”
Katrina stepped back, offense twisting her perfect features. “You’re in high school. You’re a sophomore. You’ve got two more homecoming dances and two proms before you. You can’t just go around dateless.”
Hallie just wanted to be dateless for the rest of high school just to spite Katrina. Right now she couldn’t deal with Katrina’s plan to “help her out.” But instead of speaking her mind, she forced a smile and managed a somewhat polite tone. “I appreciate the advice, Katrina. And I might think it over. But I have lunch to eat. So if you’ll excuse me.” She pushed past Katrina and her duo and started toward her table, taking a deep breath.
“Hallie!”
She paused and turned around, not too quickly she hoped. “Patrick! Hi.” She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
“Are you sitting with us today?” He pointed a thumb behind him.
“Um…” she stood on her tiptoes, pretending to see who he was talking about, although she knew very well who he was pointing to. “I don’t know…”
“Aw, come on, please?”
That boyish, crooked grin got her this time. “Alright,” she gave in with a half-smile.
He led her over to their table, introducing her to two of his buddies who also joined their group.
Once they all took a seat, Hallie sandwiched in between Katrina and Patrick, Katrina unwrapped her sandwich and started the conversation. “I don’t know about you guys, but I definitely slept in yesterday morning.” She gave that little giggle of hers.
The others agreed with a laugh or a ‘yeah.’
“What about you Hallie?”
Hallie knew Katrina was purposely putting the attention on her. “I um, couldn’t, really. I had church in the morning.”
A horrified look clouded Katrina’s eyes, but Hallie only caught a glimpse of it before Katrina laughed. “I would have just skipped if I were you.”
Hallie started to get the feeling that Katrina wouldn’t be seen anywhere near a church building to begin with.
The others laughed with her, like she had just told a joke, but Patrick gently nudged her arm to get her attention. He gave her a soft, encouraging smile that made Hallie’s cheeks warm. She looked away and took a bite of her sandwich before he noticed her pink face.
Hallie managed to survive the rest of the lunch hour and somehow avoided joining in on the conversation except to provide a nod or laugh where appropriate. She guessed that Katrina was just too scared to include her again in case she gave another answer like she had earlier.
As soon as Hallie walked to her locker and away from that group, it felt as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. Maybe she shouldn’t hang out with them. Did they really care about her like Jennifer or Javier or Autumn did?
As Hallie closed her locker, she decided right then and there that she’d stop hanging out with them. No more associating with them as their friends. Yes, completely opposite of what she had decided only a few days ago when she was on the phone with Katrina, but Katrina had been getting on her nerves.
Yet as Hallie walked down the hall, she noticed people that had ignored her completely last year and the beginning of this year saying hi, acknowledging her with a nod, or waving. There was only one reason for that.
Katrina.
“Hallie, wait up.”
Hallie slowed and let Patrick fall in step beside her. “What’s up?”
“So, um, what you said at lunch about church…”
Hallie’s heart rate picked up. Would he make fun of her for that too? Maybe he’d say he couldn’t hang out with her if she went to church. Then what? Patrick was a nice guy, she didn’t want to never hang out with him. But if he agreed with Katrina, then… “Yeah, what about it?” She hoped her tone sounded unassuming.
“Well…” He pushed a hand through his hair and his sandy locks fell perfectly back into place. “You know, Katrina and them, well they—”
“Patrick, could you excuse us for a moment?” Katrina butted in with a smile and dragged Hallie a few yards away.
“What were you thinking back there?” She hissed.
“You mean when I answered you question?”
“Yes! If you’re going to be cool, don’t talk about church.”
What if I don’t want to be cool? But if Hallie really was to admit it, then she’d say that yes, she did want to be cool. More than she realized. “Well…” she sighed.
Katrina sighed as well. “Okay, maybe I shouldn’t have put you on the spot like that, but I want you to be in all the important circles in this high school. And that’s definitely going to happen if you get people’s attention, specifically Patrick’s.” She nodded behind her with a tiny smirk. “Now listen, I can either help you get in all these circles, or I can leave you on your own. I’ve been trying to help you, but you’re not listening.”
I don’t know if you’re really helping. Hallie bit down on her lower lip, slowly tapping her foot.
“You know how I’ve been trying to get Antonio’s attention?”
Hallie’s gaze snapped up and she nodded.
“Like I said, he’s not good enough for you. My plan was to get his attention, then drop him once you had, you know, upgraded.” She motioned with her eyes towards Patrick. “Then if he really wanted you, Antonio would have to catch up and drop all the Jesus stuff.”
Hallie wasn’t sure what had just pierced her heart after hearing that confession, but it wasn’t comfortable. “Katrina…”
She rolled her blue eyes. “Ok, so you don’t have to drop all the Jesus stuff, but keep quiet about it. You can worry about all that later. Right now your focus should be on other things. I don’t care if you still go to church, but don’t make a big deal about it, okay?” She cocked her head, her hoop earring dangling just above her shoulder.
Hallie tried to silence her conflicted thoughts and feelings. But before she could make any decision, the bell rang signaling three minutes before the next class. “Thanks, Kratrina, but I have to go.” She turned on her heel and marched down the hall before Katrina could say anything else. Hallie wasn’t thinking straight. Right now was not a good time to make decisions.
“Hey Antonio.” She fell into the seat behind him with a huff.
“Where were you at lunch today?” He didn’t ask in an accusatory tone, but as if he were simply asking her how her day had gone.
“Katrina invited me to sit with their group.” She pretended to dig through her backpack for a pencil to avoid any other questions.
Antonio gave a little “hm” sound and faced the front of the room.
“What?”
“What what?” He tilted his head back, cocking an eyebrow.
“You just… never mind.”
There was no room for further conversation as the teacher stood up to begin the lesson, but the conversations from earlier in the day kept floating through her head. Was it wrong to hide her Christianity? It wouldn’t hurt anybody after all. In fact, Katrina made hiding it sound like a good thing. Besides, if she was able to become popular like Katrina, then when she had a lot of influence, she could tell others about Jesus. Nothing wrong in that. But something still felt off.
For the moment, she pushed the worries out of her mind and forced herself to focus on conjugating verbs. Right now, that seemed a lot more simple than trying to figure out all her other problems.
Chapter 18
Easton set down his fork, not feeling up to eating. It was Friday evening at dinner and Tyler had given him the go ahead to tell his family about Tyler’s diagnosis. It had been somewhat easy to tell Autumn, having just heard the news, and he knew that he could trust Autumn to keep the news private. But having to tell his family meant that this was real. This was reality. And at this moment, Easton really wished it wasn’t.
“Dad?”
“What’s up?”
“I have something to tell you…all of you.”
It must have been Easton’s expression or tone of voice, because Dad slowly set down his fork and leaned back in his seat, resting his folded hands on his midsection. The others caught on and stopped eating, all their gazes cast his direction.
Easton played with the end of his sleeve with his right hand, rubbing it in between his fingers and his palm. He swallowed a choke in his throat. “You know how I said Tyler’s been missing a few days of school?”
“I didn’t—” Cody started, but Dad silenced him, giving Easton a nod.
“Well… those were doctor’s appointments.” He took a deep, shaky breath. “Tyler’s been diagnosed with stage four cancer.”
A silence deeper than Easton had ever heard clouded the room. No one made eye contact, all of them suddenly fascinated with their half-empty plates.
Dad cleared his throat. “How long has he known?”
Easton regained his strength now that the hardest part was over. “I’m not sure. But he says the doctors are going to try chemotherapy.”
Dad nodded slowly. The way his gaze shifted to the table, Easton knew he was deep in thought.
“How are his parents?” Mom asked.
Easton had to give a little smile. Of course Mom would ask. “I’m not sure either, but I’m sure Mrs. Bailey would love a visit from you.”
“Of course. Did Tyler tell you any way we can support him?”
“Prayer. Number one, definitely. He mentioned something about his parents starting a campaign to raise money for his treatments. Though I don’t think he’s the biggest fan of that.”
Mom nodded. She set her napkin down and hurried to the upstairs phone. “I’m going to call Caroline.”
Easton let out a sigh as the table fell silent again. He looked up at Hallie just as she looked up at him.
“Was that what… at homecoming?”
Easton nodded, still regretful of the way he had pushed Tyler into telling him. He was in a bit of daze the rest of dinner, the bad news finally sinking in. He vaguely remembered Dad saying something about praying for Tyler and his family. Easton went to his room after dinner, answering Hallie in a mumble when she offered to do the dishes for him.
He laid on his back in his bed, trying not to think too hard or too far ahead in the future. His mind kept going to the worst case scenario and how he could prevent it. Except in this case, he couldn’t prevent this worst case scenario.
A soft knock sounded on his door.
“Come in.”
“Wanna go for a quick hike?” Hallie asked, Canyon’s leash in her hand.
Easton sighed as he sat up. “That’s a good idea.”
In the past, the two of them went on hikes all the time through the desert and cliffs surrounding their little town. Sometimes they talked about everything and anything, other times, they simply walked in silence.
Easton thought this was one of those times, but apparently Hallie needed to talk. As soon as they made it to their self-made trailhead, Hallie let out a sigh and said, “Can I ask you what happened at the dance the other night?”
Easton pushed a hand through his hair. “I had known something was going on with Tyler, but he wouldn’t tell me. So when I saw him zoning out at the dance, I got frustrated. I pushed him into telling me what was wrong and that was when I found it.”
Hallie nodded, her eyes fixed on Canyon’s blonde, swooshing tail. She stayed that way for so long that after a few minutes, Easton nudged her, a smirk on his face. “You find Canyon’s tail fascinating?”
She shot him a confused look, then it made sense and she shook her head with a small smile. “No… I was just thinking…”
“Thinking about what?”
Typically Hallie wouldn’t hesitate to answer that question, but this time it took her a second.
“I… well, people. Conversations.”
Easton cocked an eyebrow. “Is it something I can help with?”
“The whole, ‘my friend is going through this thing, what should she do’ scheme won’t work here, right?”
“Ah, Dr. Woodbury can see right through those.” He tilted his glasses down, pretending to search her eyes.
She laughed. “Is that what you’ve decided? You gonna be a mind reader?”
“Psychiatrist. But no, I don’t think I’ll do that. Even if I was, it doesn’t matter because you’re trying to change the subject. What’s up?”
She started at Canyon again, opening her mouth to speak, but changing her mind.
“If you don’t want to tell me, that’s fine. I understand.” He smiled softly.
Hallie wasn’t sure if she wanted to, but she needed to tell someone. “No, it’s just… Well… Do you know Katrina? Katrina Matthews?”
“Maybe. Blonde hair? The one you’ve been hanging out with lately?”
“Yeah that’s her.” Hallie didn’t like how heavy her sigh sounded.
“What about her?”
“She’s just been giving me some advice that… I don’t know… I’m not sure if it’s good advice.”
“Like what?” Easton tried to catch her eye.
“She thinks… She wants me to be popular and apparently I’m doing the wrong things.”
“Hm…” Easton looked straight ahead.
“Great.” Hallie huffed. “You sound like Antonio.”
“Oh, you’re going to him for advice now? Is Dr. Woodbury not good enough? You falling for the Mexican ones?”
“No!” Hallie laughed and pushed him with her shoulder, temporarily knocking him off the trail.
Easton grinned. “I’m just kidding.”
Hallie fixed her gaze on the ground again, but this time to give her face a chance to return to its normal shade.
“Hallie, think about what Katrina’s telling you. First of all, does it line up with your values and goals? Actually, before that, does it line up with what God says?”
Hallie thought about those the rest of the hike and the rest of the evening. Well, God never said it was wrong to be popular, right? No verse saying you had to be unpopular to be a Christian. God wanted what was best for her. Being popular wasn’t bad in any way… At least that’s what Hallie made sure to convince herself of. And just because she didn’t tell everyone about her faith didn’t mean she was no longer a Christian or anything.
Alright, the second question… Did Katrina’s advice line up with Hallie’s values and goals? Well, what were her goals? Being popular and well-liked wasn’t a bad one. Everyone wanted to have lots of friends in high school. Nobody wanted to be unpopular, so why should she be the one to want the opposite or not want it at all? Maybe Katrina’s advice wouldn’t be that bad after all. Patrick seemed like a nice guy, so hanging out with him wouldn’t do her any harm.
And Katrina didn’t have any bad intentions. In fact she wanted to make Hallie’s life better. So being friends with her wouldn’t hurt. Renee didn’t talk to Hallie much and Lori was sweet. Hallie didn’t know about the other people Katrina hung out with, but by the end of Hallie’s little self-searching session, she was convinced that following Katrina’s advice wasn’t a bad idea. In the end, she’d be more popular. Nothing wrong with that. And maybe that would give her a foothold to invite some of these people to church. Yeah. She had everything figured out.
Until Monday morning at school.
Antonio approached Hallie with a question she wasn’t expecting. “Do you like Patrick?”
Hallie didn’t mean to physically take a step back, but she did. She pasted on a smile and hoped her cheeks didn’t turn too red. “Why do you ask?”
Antonio tilted his head, his dark eyes searching her gray ones. “Just wondering. You’ve been talking with him a lot.”
“He’s just friends with my friends, that’s all.” She shrugged, hoping he’d drop the topic.
Antonio followed her down the hall, even though their next classes weren’t the same. “What friends? Katrina doesn’t really seem like a true friend, does she?”
Hallie hated how deep that question cut. “Leave her alone.”
This time Antonio took a step back and the two stopped walking. Hallie’s sharp tone immediately melted. “Antonio, I’m sorry, I just—”
He held up a hand. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.”
“No, Antonio—”
“It’s okay. You know her better than I do.” He shrugged and offered a small smile.
Hallie didn’t feel like smiling, even just a little bit. She didn’t know what to say and just stood there, staring at her shoes. Great, she had worn her high-top Converse today. Katrina had suggested Nikes with this outfit. Hallie wouldn’t be surprised if this day got any worse.
Antonio cleared his throat. “Anyway, I wanted to tell you that I can’t study with you at all this week.”
No. This was because of her snappy reply. What had she done? “Oh… Antonio, I’m sorry.”
“No, no, no.” He shook his head, giving her a smile that meant everything that had happened in the last minute was cleared up. Hallie wasn’t quite sure of that. “It’s not because of that, Hallie. Never because of that. My abuelita is staying another week and Mamá wants me to be able to spend more time with her.”
Hallie took a silent deep breath, managing a smile. “Okay. I hope you have a great time.”
Antonio nodded and started to walk away.
“Oh, wait.”
Antonio turned.
“I just have one question.” Hallie smirked. “Can your abuela bake me up some Mexican dessert?”
Antonio laughed. “Yes, of course! She’d love to. Maybe your family can come over for dinner.”
“That would be great.” Although Hallie smiled as she walked away, she still felt a little bit of uncertainty lingering. There was no way that hanging out with her new friends would separate her from her old friends, right? No way.
Now if she could only convince herself of that.
Chapter 19
Hallie felt like a robot the rest of the week, doing this and that according to Katrina’s advice. Sometimes Hallie started to regret agreeing to listen to her, but when the compliments showered over her and people she wished she could hang with had conversations with her, not an ink of regret blotted her happiness. This was perfect. She felt happy and, with the influence she was gaining, she could witness to others.
And she still had her other friends. Since Antonio wasn’t available to study with her all week, she managed to find some studying time with Katrina, Renee, and Lori, even Patrick a few times, and Jennifer came along with her a few days. But by the end of the week, she didn’t quite feel fulfilled. She hadn’t had a long conversation with Jennifer all week, Antonio and she didn’t talk as much, and Javier treated Katrina like a disease, even after all of Hallie’s explanations why she wasn’t.
Her life felt so unbalanced. Yeah, she hadn’t exactly lost her old friend, yet something was still wrong. But she had no idea what it was or how to fix it. It was way past time to talk to Mom. She found a chance to bring up the topic as she helped Mom fold linens Wednesday afternoon.
“Mom, do you know Katrina?”
“The girl you’ve been hanging out with lately?”
“Yeah…”
“What about her?”
“She’s… Well, she’s been trying to help me make more friends.”
“Oh? I thought you were content with your circle of friends.”
“I am, I am. Katrina just thought that I needed to get to know other people.”
Mom set down a folded sheet and rested a hand on her hip, studying Hallie’s face. “Is this about a boy?”
Hallie’s cheeks immediately warmed. “No, no. Well, yes, but no. Not really.”
Mom cocked an eyebrow.
“Okay, sort of yes.”
“Alright.” Mom pushed the folded linens out of the way and sat cross-legged on the bed, like a best friend waiting to hear a secret. “Let’s talk about it.”
Hallie scooted herself onto the bed, sighing. “Antonio and I haven’t been talking a lot lately.”
“Hallie—”
“No, what I mean is, I think I did something that he doesn’t like.”
Mom tilted her head, her graying-red bangs falling across her forehead.
“We’re just—” she sighed again, uncertain how to phrase her thoughts. “Hold on, I’m gonna rewind.” After a deep breath, she continued, the awkwardness slowly fading when she met Mom’s open expression. “Homecoming. Antonio wasn’t there.”
“Right. And you danced with some guy named Patrick.”
“Yeah. Well, Katrina said I shouldn’t ‘let him go.’ She said I should capitalize on the opportunity to be with one of the most popular guys in school.”
“Ah.” Mom leaned back, a knowing look in her eyes.
“Katrina’s been trying to help me get into her circles, but apparently I haven’t been cooperating. Until… now.” She sighed again, suddenly feeling embarrassed.
“Okay… What do you mean?”
“I finally feel like I’ve been accepted into her inner circle, Mom. I’ve been able to spend time with people I only wished I could a year or two ago. And Patrick seems to like hanging out with me and I like—” Her cheeks burned and a small smile crept onto her lips. “I do like hanging out with him. But…” Her smile disappeared. “I feel like my other friends are… I don’t know. Slipping away. And it wasn’t supposed to be like that.” She dropped her hands into her lap, hoping her jumbled words managed to make some sense.
Mom rested her hands—much more gently—into her own lap, a gentle smile crossing her face that calmed Hallie’s confused emotions. “It seems like you’re at a crossroads.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, you can go down one path and get one thing, but you can go down another and get something else.”
Hallie wasn’t quite following and her expression must have shown it.
“Let’s say one path is going along with Katrina and her friends, but the other path is continuing to invest in your already established relationships.”
“So it’s one or the other?”
“Not necessarily.”
“I’m a little confused.” She half-smiled.
Mom’s eyes roamed around the room for a moment, like she was looking for the right words to say. “Think of it this way… You still have the two roads to choose from and they lead to different destinations, but—” she held up a finger, “another difference is in who you take with you on that path.”
The pieces were slowly falling in place in Hallie’s head. So it was either popularity or unpopularity? That didn’t seem fair.
“What are you thinking?”
She hesitated a moment. “What are the two roads?”
“What do you think?”
“Popularity and unpopularity?”
“Well, is that what that’s really about?”
“Antonio or Patrick?” She joked, smirking.
Mom chuckled. “No, I don’t think that’s the main issue here either.”
Hallie let out another deep sigh. “I… I’m not sure.”
“I’ll tell you what. Give it some thought.” Mom stood, extending a hand to gently pull Hallie off the bed. “I’m glad you talked to me about it though. That’s what I’m here for.”
Hallie melted into her mother’s embrace, wishing she could stay there forever, because in her mom’s arms it felt like all her problems just disappeared. She suddenly felt like crying and she wasn’t sure why. As she pulled away from the hug, she swallowed the choke in her throat and willed her tears away. “Thanks Mom.”
“Anytime, Hallie. Be wise.” She playfully tugged at a strand of Hallie’s hair. “Now get going or you’ll be late for youth group.”
Although Hallie still had a lot to think about, her heart and mind felt much lighter as she, Easton, and Blake drove to church for their weekly youth meeting. After a competitive game—which the rules of said game Hallie was sure changed each round— and everyone had found a snack and comfortable seat, their youth pastor, Greg, started his lesson. He was a young adult only a few years out of college, with too many gray hairs for his age, and who still dressed like everyone two decades ago. But despite his quirks, Hallie appreciated him and wouldn’t have traded him for any other youth leader.
Tonight, he was teaching out of Matthew, the book of the Bible they had been going through for the past few months.
“Enter by the narrow gate,” he read from Matthew 7. “For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”
Hallie’s mind was immediately filled with a vivid picture of the two paths that she had been talking about with Mom less than an hour ago.
“Imagine a fork in the road,” Greg said, setting his Bible down on the table next to him. “On one side, you’ve got a wide path lined with a blooming meadow and filled with lots of sunshine. But on the other side, you’ve got a real narrow path that’s overgrown with weeds and blocked with fallen trees. You can barely even see where that path starts because there’s a fog that kind of covers the start. You dig?”
Hallie nodded along with the rest of them.
“Most people would choose that easier path right? The one with flowers and sunshine? Okay, but here’s the thing that travelers don’t see. That easy path leads right off a cliff. And you can’t tell until you’re there. Once you’re off that cliff, there’s no going back.”
That earned a little chuckle, but everyone seemed to understand that Greg was serious.
“But that other path—the one that doesn’t seem very appealing—is difficult. Real difficult. But…” He made sure he had all of their attention. “It leads to the greatest place you’ve ever seen. You picking up what I’m putting down?
“At the beginning, one path looks like the better option. It’s easier, more comfortable, and seems a lot safer. But the other path is uncertain, uncomfortable, and even dangerous. So which do you choose? According to this verse, Jesus says to choose that harder path. Why? Because it leads to life.
“Throughout your life, you’re going to come to many crossroads like this where you either choose the easy path, or choose the hard path and follow Jesus. Only one will bring you life and true fulfillment. When you come to these decisions, you have to ask yourself what’s really worth your life. What to you is worth the world? Following Jesus? Or satisfying your own worldly, temporary desires?
“Guys, get this, okay. The easy path is not always the right path. Following Jesus isn’t always going to be sunshine and roses. And if there are roses, there are going to be thorns.”
Hallie adjusted in her seat, feeling guilty, but trying to ignore her convictions.
“But every moment of your life spent following Jesus and striving to serve Him is one hundred percent worth it.” A smile spread across Greg’s face. “It may not make sense. His way may not seem like the best way to go, but trust me guys, it is. Besides, you know that fog, overgrowth, and fallen trees in the narrow path? God put those there on purpose. If you follow Him through that path and let Him lead you, you will make it through.
“So this calls for a decision, doesn’t it? Which do you choose? The wide gate, the wide path, that leads to destruction? Or the narrow path that’s not always easy, but leads to life?”
Hallie wasn’t sure she could honestly answer that question.
Chapter 20
The days went by too quickly. Easton felt like he was running out of time. As soon as he was able, he started a campaign to raise money for Tyler’s treatments. The school rallied around Tyler and his family, promising their support during this time. Autumn started a before-school prayer time dedicated specifically to Tyler. It grew so big that instead of meeting in a classroom, they chose to meet around the flagpole in front of the school.
Easton had never felt more fulfilled as he worked hard to make sure Tyler’s family was supported, taken care of, and shown more love than they had ever known. In all the rush, he had almost forgotten about the scholarship essay he was supposed to be working on. Somehow he managed to fit that in his busy schedule which was already full of school, work, and family.
The month of October breezed by in a flurry of homework, quizzes, family, and campfires in the desert on chilly nights. Despite the looming cloud of darkness as Tyler began his fight against cancer, Easton could honestly say that life was good. Tyler’s health hadn’t dropped dramatically and he consistently went to the hospital for his treatments. Although he wasn’t able to attend school as much, Easton made sure to visit him often.
School proved to be more difficult now that many other things vied for Easton’s attention and brain power. But studying at least an hour each night before bed proved to help him keep his grades as steady A’s. His job at the diner down the road understood where he was at and was flexible with his hours as long as he proved to be a diligent worker.
Finally Easton felt like he was making a difference, doing the world some good. Sure he wasn’t changing the world, but he was helping Tyler fight something that seemed impossible to overcome. They both fought on their knees, understanding that this battle couldn’t be won by mere human strength. Working towards a goal like this made Easton feel fulfilled and purposeful.
November came and went as quickly as October, Tyler’s health steady and nothing changing with Easton’s workload or schedule. He felt more tired in the mornings when he woke, but a little tiredness wouldn’t stop him from reaching his goals. Waking up early was worth it to pray with fellow students about Tyler and a myriad of other subjects that came up during their prayer times. School became more difficult as midterms approached, but Easton continued to study consistently and made sure he never got behind on his homework.
Thanksgiving break gave Easton a chance to catch his breath, but he didn’t stop spreading the word about Tyler’s campaign and coming up with new ways to raise money. As soon as Thanksgiving break had started, it ended, shoving Easton into the final sprint before midterms and Christmas break. He had never felt so tired in his life. It felt like crossing a finish line when he got his semester report card, saw the straight A’s, and collapsed into the couch at home, feeling his shoulders lighten.
“And he finally stops moving,” Dad said, walking into the family room. “It feels like you haven’t taken a chance to rest since before October.”
Easton let out a deep sigh. “Yeah.”
“Take it easy over Christmas break, okay?”
“But Dad.” He sat up. “I need to keep raising money for Tyler’s treatments. Christmas is when people are feeling most generous anyway.”
Dad sat beside Easton and gave him that look he always had whenever he was about to say something wise. “God will provide.”
“I know. But… what if His way to provide is through me, and other people. I can’t just stop.”
“But you need to rest. Physically, mentally, and emotionally. You’re going to burn yourself out. If you haven’t already.”
Easton sighed again, running a hand over his face. “Maybe you’re right.”
“Start with the physical rest. Dinner’s going to be a little later tonight.”
“How come?” Easton stood and slung his backpack over his shoulder.
“I’m making dinner.”
“Where’s Mom?” He headed towards the stairs.
“She’s at the hospital with Caroline.”
“Did she remember the check I wrote with the money raised last week?”
“Yeah…”
Easton paused with one foot on the landing. He turned back to look over at his father. “What is it?”
“The Baileys appreciate all you’re doing for them, they really do, but…”
“But what?”
Dad leaned back on the counter, folding his arms over his chest. “Just remember that there are other ways to help them besides the financial aspect.”
Easton slowly walked up the stairs, biting into the apple he had grabbed from the kitchen, letting Dad’s words roll around in his head. How else could Easton help them? He was no doctor… yet. And women from their church had meals covered.
But before Easton could ponder it any further, he flopped onto his bed and fell asleep within the minute.
***
Easton woke up on Christmas morning to the sound of the doorbell ringing. He glanced at his clock as he rolled out of bed. Seven o’clock. Who would be visiting this early?
Easton hurried down the stairs as quietly as possible and peered through the peephole. The widest smile stretched across his face and he fumbled to unlock the door fast enough. He whipped the door open, letting in a stream of cold air. A laugh fell from his lips as the visitors let out a cheery, “Merry Christmas!”
Easton pulled Tyler into a tight hug. “You’re home!”
“If those nurses made me stay in the hospital on Christmas I would have rolled my own hospital bed back home.”
Easton stepped back, his hands still on Tyler’s shoulders. He looked past him and his parents as if looking for someone. “Did you bring one of them back?”
“One of who?”
“A nurse. You know, getting extra attention from the ladies now that you’re an invalid.”
Tyler grinned. “Even that doesn’t work.”
Ruby popped out from behind his leg. “But I’m here!” She clung tightly to Tyler’s hand, a beaming smile on her face.
Easton looked Tyler over, certain his own expression matched Ruby’s. Tyler wore a beanie over what little hair he had left, he was bundled up against the winter chill, and he seemed a little thinner, but the twinkle in his eye and the smile on his face was unmistakable.
Easton led Tyler and his parents into the house as Mom and Dad came down the stairs. They greeted the Baileys with as much enthusiasm and excitement. Mom made sure the Baileys stayed for breakfast and even for the present opening since she had some presents for them in the closet that she had planned to bring to the hospital later that day.
The Baileys ended up staying the whole day and enjoying Christmas dinner with them and the Woodbury grandparents. Easton was sure this day couldn’t have been more perfect. More than once, Tyler’s parents expressed their gratitude to the Lord for bringing Tyler healing. He wasn’t at the finish line yet, but the doctors were giving more and more positive reports.
Easton was sure he didn’t stop smiling all day. This present was better than any under the tree that morning. As he and Tyler sat in Easton’s room later that day, Tyler’s happy mood seemed to disappear. Easton sensed it as soon as their conversation came to a lull. His smile faded and a heavy sigh escaped his lips.
“You good, Tyler?”
“No.” He shook his head, his gaze dropping to the floor.
“What’s wrong?”
“Easton…” Tyler leaned back in his chair. “I’m scared.” His voice was practically a whisper.
Easton felt his brow furrow. “But… but everything’s going well. What do you mean?”
“What if it goes downhill?”
“Tyler, what are you talking about? This doesn’t sound like you.”
Tyler dropped his hands into his lap. “There was a sermon from a couple months ago that stuck in my mind. Pastor was talking about how following God wouldn’t be easy and that the Christian life will have trials.”
“Yeah…”
“Well, I had thought that getting cancer would be a trial.”
“It was though, wasn’t it?”
“Yeah, I guess so. But Pastor also said something about still serving the Lord within the trials. I felt like I haven’t been doing that.” He hung his head.
“And why should that worry you?”
“I prayed that because of my cancer, I would be able to change somebody’s life. That hasn’t happened yet.”
“You may not know that.” Easton tilted his head as he sighed. “You’ve had a good attitude this whole time. I’ve literally never heard you complain. Surely someone has taken notice.”
“Yeah but I want people to see the Lord through me. I want to be able to change someone’s life through my example.”
Easton stood and offered Tyler a hand to pull him up out of the chair. “Stop beating yourself up.”
Tyler grabbed his hand and stood, letting out another sigh. “That’s not a request, is it?”
“Nope.” Easton grinned and pulled Tyler into a hug. “God’s going to do something great through this, if He hasn’t already.” He stepped back. “Trust me. Actually, don’t. Trust Him. Don’t worry about the future. He’s already seen it. Just keep following Him.”
Tyler nodded, a smile forming on his face again. “Alright.”
Write what should not be forgotten. — Isabel Allende
Sorry this took so long to get to. Everything’s looking good (although Hallie is frustrating me a little bit rn). Seriously Hallie, don’t fall for the trap!!
Anyway, the part in chapter 19 when Easton is doing all that stuff over the months, it feels a bit impersonal. Maybe if you wanted to show his character more you could have a scene or two of those months going by. Idk, that’s just a suggestion though. Also, is Patrick going to turn out to be not that great? I have a bad feeling about him…
“Our house is full of ducks!!!!”
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