If Only

Chapter Thirty-Six: Internal Monologues

JADE

The final day of my stay had arrived. I spent most of my time ignoring Tyrone's texts and calls, unable to bring myself to face him after what had transpired. He kissed me, plain and simple. I didn't know how to address it, let alone face him.

I hadn't even told Jared about the incident, and I had no intentions of doing so anytime soon. Someday, perhaps, but not now.

I needed to get back home to celebrate the remainder of Thanksgiving with my mom. I couldn't bear the thought of her being alone in the house.

As I packed my belongings, a knock at the door interrupted me. Lizzy entered, wearing an apologetic expression.

"Tyrone's downstairs. He's offered to drive you to the airport," she informed me, taking a seat on the edge of the bed.

I paused in my packing, regarding her with a mixture of disbelief and frustration. "He really doesn't take a hint, does he?"

Lizzy threw her hands up in defense. "I promise I had nothing to do with this. I'm just the messenger. He seems genuinely apologetic."

I looked at her, still unsure of what to do.

She shrugged. "I'm not excusing his behavior. That kiss was way out of line. But you should talk to him when you're ready. He needs to understand that what he did was wrong, and it has to come from you."

I sighed. She was right, of course. But my flight was in about three hours, and I couldn't fathom facing Tyrone just yet. Would I ever be ready? Did I even want to? I knew I had to. Finishing my packing, I made up my mind. It was time to talk to him.

"Where is he?"

"Downstairs. He wanted to come up, but I convinced him to wait on the porch."

"Thanks, Liz. I appreciate you looking out for me. If he wants to talk, he'll have to respect my timeline..."

Lizzy smiled at me, a mix of pride and warmth. She patted my head gently, helping me with my luggage.

Sure enough, Tyrone stood just outside the door leading to the porch. He looked concerned, his hands tucked in his pockets. He seemed uneasy, which was fitting. I was relieved that he recognized his mistake and was willing to address it.

He hesitated to come inside when he saw me with my bags. I didn't acknowledge him, instead heading straight for the door. His pained expression didn't escape me.

Without pausing, I approached Uncle Tom and Aunt Meredith, hugging and kissing them, expressing my gratitude for their hospitality. Meredith's smile warmed my heart, and I didn't want to leave.

Just before they released their embrace, Uncle Tom whispered something in my ear.

"Don't be too hard on the boy. He's genuinely sorry... but it's up to you, okay?"

I suppressed a smile and nodded, bidding them all farewell. I hugged Lizzy one last time before stepping outside, where Tyrone awaited me.

Agatha and Drew were nowhere to be seen.

"They're still asleep. I tried to wake them up, but Agatha nearly cursed me off. I'll let them know you left early," Tyrone informed me.

I nodded and wheeled my luggage with me. Tyrone offered to carry one, and this time, I didn't refuse. He led me to a parked Tesla, holding the door open for me, trying to make amends.

"Thank you for offering to drive me to the airport," I said once we were both settled inside.

He smiled sympathetically, but the tension in the car was palpable, casting a heavy awkwardness between us.