runaway

22 ~ isolated

song: gold rush by taylor swift
—> this chapter deals with the topic of parental death and the process of grieving. Please understand that all people grieve different. This may be a work of fiction, but that doesn't mean the topics discussed are not sensitive or valid. Thank you and I hope you enjoy the sentimental chapter !!

Dream's POV

- three days later -

I park outside of George's house, hoping that maybe he'd say something. I was hoping he'd at least say a "thank you" or even just a small smile would fix anything.

"George." I start, "you know if you need me, I'm here." He nods his head, but he keeps his eyes in front of us, looking at the small flat that held him and his mother for years.

I haven't heard him say a word for nearly two days. I'd ask him yes or no question and he'd just answer with a shake of the head.

"Do you want me to stay with you?" He shakes his head and looks over to me, the same doe like expression he always had was still there, it just looked far more tired. It looked sad.

I reached up slowly and cupped his cheek with my hand, hoping to feel the familiar warmth of his skin. It was useless.

"I love you. You know that, right?" George nodded again.

God, I want to hear him again.

I want to go back in time and go back before that stupid phone call. I want to be able to feel his grin on my skin, I want to be able to feel him again. I want to feel his warmth.

I lean over and rest my forehead onto his, feeling the overwhelming need to cry. I missed him so much.

"I'll call you." I confirm, "just to make sure you're okay. You don't have to—" I let out a sigh, "you don't have to talk or even say anything. Just answer me, okay?"

Another nod.

"I love you."

George's shaky hand reaches up behind my neck, cold to the touch. He slowly leaned up and pressed a soft kiss on my lips. It was so soft it felt apologetic; it felt like George. There was still someone in there.

When we pull apart, I look him in the eyes and give a weak smile. "Get some sleep, Darling."

His eyes started to water but left before there was a chance for tears to slide down his face. I stayed and watch him get into house, the kitchen lights turning on for a while before turning off. The house stayed still for a long moment before I notice George in the window where his bedroom is, it made me relieved to know he wouldn't be moping around the empty family room.

Ding

I fish my phone out of my pocket and look down at the screen to find a message from George.

George

Thank you for attending.
I love you so much

I smile down at the message before replying,

Always .
Sleep well, sweetheart :)

I turn off my phone then and look back at the window to find the blinds shut. I take a deep breath before starting the car again.

He's going to be okay.

—

My family and I sit at the table, and for the first time in forever, it was silent. There was no talking, or laughing, or even any awkward attempts of conversation. It was silent.