The Dreamer

Chapter 3

Michael and Lynn Ryland basically threw Travis and Britt out of the house when they were accepted into CSU. Travis never really got along with his mom, and Britt was constantly arguing with her Dad about seemingly anything and everything. The Ryland’s never clicked as a family. They each preferred to be two separate units. Children and parents. Travis and Britt got along great, and so did the parents. But the four of them didn’t come together as a family. In fact, when Britt and Travis moved out, it seemed like a relief to everyone.

          And now the elder Rylands were coming to visit their son? After what seemed to be a “minor” accident? Travis couldn’t make sense of it.

          “Remember when you were taken to the hospital from heat exhaustion during softball season?” Travis reminded Britt.

          “Yeah. They only came because the doctor needed their signature.” Britt’s voice hinted disgust.

          “Exactly. And now, when we’re in California and they’re in Arizona, they suddenly care about what happens to us? We practically had to raise ourselves when we lived at home!”

          Britt shook her head. “I don’t know. Maybe they missed us while we’ve been gone the past year and a half.”

          “Do you believe that?”

          She didn’t answer him.

*        *        *

          After two hours of watching television and taking pain medication from the nurse, Travis decided to go to bed.

          “Britt, it’s almost 10. You should be getting back to your dorm.”

          “I was actually thinking about sleeping here.”

          “What? Why? I’m fine, really. You need the sleep more than I do. You have classes tomorrow.”

          “I’m not going to my classes. My teachers will understand,” Britt responded.

          “They MIGHT understand. You know the standards here. I’ll get one day pass, only because the hospital won’t release me until then. But you should go.”

          Britt paused, and then said, “What about Mom and Dad?”

          “I’ll text you when they get here. I don’t know how long they’ll stay, but you don’t have to stay the whole time they’re here.”

          She didn’t reply.

          “Come on Britt. Seriously, you should get back.”

          She sighed. “Alright, alright. But if you need anything, or if anything new happens, call me, okay?”

          “You know it.” Travis smiled.

          “…you won’t call me, will me?” Britt challenged.

          Travis laughed. “We’ll see what the time is.”

          “Whatever, jerk. Get better. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

          Britt gave a little wave, then left.

          Travis rolled over shut his eyes, trying to induce sleep. Reality was, he wasn’t tired at all. He only mentioned it because it was the only way to get Britt back to her dormitory.

          Sometimes Travis thought that his sister worried too much about him. Sure, he appreciated the care and support, but too much made Travis feel like a child. He was younger, but only by 13 months. He could watch out for himself. Actually, he should be looking out for her, if anything.