Like That

Chapter 7 - The Inquisition

If there is no struggle, there is no progress - Frederick Douglas

Chapter 7 - The Inquisition

Emily's POV:

Sitting in the driveway with my head in my hands, I ready myself for the inevitable. As much as I'm not looking forward to facing my brother and the conversation that is about to take place, I know it's needed at least for his peace of mind. Everything that has happened today has been out of love, I know that...but it doesn't make it easier to deal with.

I am physically and mentally exhausted from Foster, and the night is still young.

A knock on the window brings me back; Mason stands at my door hold Peyton. "You ok Mom?" Mason asked with more concern than a 13 almost 14 year old should have for a parent. He should be more carefree instead of worrying about me all the time. Honestly until a little while ago, I didn't even notice how much all of this is affecting him. I guess I should get my head out of my ass and start paying attention to my son.

"Yeah, I'm fine, just tired. Where's Michael?"

He's in the living room. He heard you pull up. He asked me to see what's taking so long." I smiled at him and looked at Peyton in his arms.

"What going on with you, Little Man? Are you playing Mason's shadow?" Peyton jumped out of Mason's arms and into mine.

"Untle My-Kill is here. He wants to play wit me."

"Oh, he does?"

"Yep - cars. He got cars." The way to my boys' heart...cars, blocks, or sport equipment. Michael always seems to know how to engage the boys. I take a moment to look at Mason and wonder what he and Michael have been talking about...at least he now has people he can talk to.

As soon as we reach the front door, Peyton announces in his 'not-so inside' voice, "Untle My-Kill, I'm back. Let's play cars now."

"Ok Peyton let me say hi to your mom first."

"Before we start, Foster and Cooper are on their way over. I need to go clean up a little and change out of these clothes so I am ready for the 'inquisition'." Michael smiles and kisses my forehead.

"We're just worried about you."

"I know. Let me change. I'll be right back."

----

Showering helped clear my thoughts for the moment. I tried to figure out exactly how I wanted this night to play out while I changed into yoga pants and a wine colored hoodie. I was definitely going for comfort. I scrubbed all remaining traces of make-up from my face and pulled my hair from its bun. I brushed my hair and tied it into a high ponytail before stepping out of my room.

I'm still sure how I wanted things happen, but I knew I didn't want to launch right in to their questions. I know Michael and Foster mean well, but I do feel a bit ganged up on. I haven't been sleeping, I've lost weight, and I feel like I'm about two steps behind in everything I should be doing. I do need help...I just didn't want to ask. Now I have to deal with the protection squad. I blow out a breath and head down the hallway to the kitchen.

Michael and Foster were in deep conversation as I entered the room. Both gave an attempt at a real smile, but it fell a bit short. Foster immediately took my hand in his and I could feel the warmth and his strength.

I feel like a high school girl all over again just being around Foster. I was never the giddy little girl with him...he was my wonderful solid friend. He was a rock...my rock. It was like I instantly felt better when he was around. He didn't allow me to feel weak because he gave me his strength. I couldn't feel sad because he would act like an idiot just to make me laugh. He always knew what I needed and he always gave it willingly.