Castle On The Hill

Chapter Thirty

Two Months Later

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would hold down an apartment on my own and have friends and a supportive family.

Mama Tina is still in jail and has ten months left. I offered my place to her if she needs it when she gets released. She gave me a home, so I'll give her one if she needs it.

Shane and I are still together and will celebrate nine months at the end of this month. He still lives with his parents, but he stays over often. 

Francesca and Nick are looking for a place together so they can raise the baby together. Since the pregnancy came out, they've been getting along a lot better.

Tammy is doing well raising her daughter in Batavia. We don't talk much, but I am happy for her.

Parker is going off to culinary school in Buffalo to become a chef. I didn't even realize how much he liked to cook. He and I aren't close, but know how to be cordial the few times we cross paths.

"Hey Tara, I'm here to take over cash." My coworker greeted, causing me to jump.

"Huh? Oh, thanks. I'm not used to mornings."

"You switched a shift, right?"

"Yeah. Now I'm going to go take a nap."

I closed my register and she went down to the other one to open. I definitely regret telling Darlene I would cover her shift! Once the drawer was balanced, I found Kyle in the break room.

"Are you leaving me for days?' He pouted.

"Hell no. I like closing. I'm not used to being up this early."

He grinned. "Good, because you're the best I have."

I blushed, clocked out and sat with him. I am in no rush to leave and walk home in the snow. He was eating chips, so I stole some.

"Hey!" He yelled.

"Hey, I'm hungry."

"Hey hungry, I'm Kyle."

We both laughed. I am so glad he and I get along like we do.

"Why did Darlene want her shift covered?"

"To take her baby to the doctor."

"That's right."

We carried on in conversation until it was time for him to clock in and start his shift. I put on my coat and decided it was time to head home.

As I was walking, I couldn't help but to stop and gaze up at the castle. That place become a safe place for me, and where Shane and I fell for each other. I have friends, family, a community and people I can rely on.  I feel wanted and accepted and have a place that I can call my home. If I didn't have that safe place to run to, I don't know what would have happened.

I have a place to call home and I can thank it all to the castle on the hill.