The Marionette

Chapter 18 A Dash Of Bravery

Madeline's POV

Sitting in my room, starring at a wall. For some reason, if I'm in total silence and all my attention is on a blank wall, I can think more clearly. I guess I'm weird like that.

Over these past years I've been thinking about everything. Is it wrong that I left him for so long? Am I making the right decision by staying away? Does he think I'll ever come back? Do the others think I'm going to come back?

UGH, it's so confusing! I don't know what I should do! I stayed away for this long, but it's not helping! I want to forget about Marionette but I can't! What am I gonna do?

"Can I please have a sign?" I asked to no one other than myself. I know it's a decision I have to make on my own, but happens if I pick the wrong decision? Will it make my life worse?

My thoughts ended when my phone started to ring. I got up from my bed and walked over to my dresser. I checked the screen; Skylar. One of my closest friends. I never told anyone about what happened that day, except her. She's the best friend someone could ever have, but she can be annoying at times. Now what does this girl want? I picked up my phone and swiped the answer button.

"Hello?"

"Hey Maddie! You won't believe what just happened!"

"Well, you sure seem excited about whatever it is. What happened?"

"I just got a job!"

"That's great, Sky. Where did ya get your job?"

"I got a job at Oakwood Café. One of our favorite places to go"

"Huh, didn't know they were hiring. Do they have any other job positions opened up?"

"Sadly, no. They were just looking for a cashier. But..."

"But...?"

"I did see a help wanted sign somewhere when I was walking to school this morning. If you're interested"

"Oh thank goodness! Where at? I don't even care if it's the junk yard, I need a job!"

"Freddy's..."

I paused for a moment. Skylar did not just say that. Why did I tell her I'd work anywhere?

"sky, I've told you a million times before but I'll tell you again, I'm not going back there. You know what happened! You know I can't show my face around...him"

"Come one Madeline! It's been six years! You need to go back to Marionette already! What if he needs you?"

"He doesn't need me, he's fine! He's out grown it by now! Don't you think it's time for me to do the same?"

"Madeline, he must be worried sick about you! Come on Maddie at least give it a chance."

"I don't know, just give me some time to think about it, okay?"

"Okay... Oh yeah and remember, today's Friday, and you know on Friday nights we always play Gmod with the others."

"I know, I know, just prepare to get owned at Prop Hunt tonight, okay?"

"Sure thing best- wait a minute, HE-"

I hung up on her and set my phone down on my bed. I didn't want to talk to Skylar when she's on full rage mode.
But, was she right? Is it time for me to be brave and go there?

I don't even know what job I'd get. Even if I do get a job there, I may be able to avoid Marionette. He's only supposed to go in his box. There's no way he can come out! So, if I'm a waitress, I just won't go to Prize Corner. Maybe it just might work!

I started to get high hopes. Everything was coming my way! I'll get a job and I won't have to face Marionette! It's perfect!

I grabbed my green jacket that was hanging in my closet. I grabbed my phone and put it in my jean pocket. Then, something caught my eye.

The music box Marionette gave me when I was younger.

I sighed and picked it up carefully. Even if I couldn't face my fear of him, it was still my good luck charm. Luckier than a four leaf clover or a rabbit's foot.

I walked out of my room and went downstairs. I saw my mother in the living room. Sitting in her red recliner chair and reading a book. I need to tell her I'm heading out, but keeping it a secret that I could have a job.

"I'm heading out mom, I'll be back soon" I called and opened up our front door.

"Ok sweetie, be safe"

I stepped outside and took a deep breath. Hopefully, everything will turn out okay, and if it does, I have Skylar to thank for that.

Thanks Skylar for boosting my confidence and giving me a dash of bravery!