Where The Lights Are {Sequel to Paradise} {COMPLETED}

Chapter 12

Alan's POV

"You wanna swim now, darling?" I ask. She shakes her head, "No, I'm okay." I nod, "Okay dear, stay strong."

I get back into the pool with the girls and Chad. "Is she okay?" Chad whispers in my ear. I sigh, "I dunno Chad, I really don't." He shakes his head, "Poor kid. She tries so hard." I nod, "I know buddy, just pray for her. God can heal her broken heart."

We splash around for a little but longer, then decide to leave. Mia has her earbuds in, and a blank expression on her face.

"Hon, we're leaving," I inform her. She nods, and swiftly gathers up her stuff.

"Bye kid, I love you, keep on fighting," Chad says, hugging her.

We get home and she goes straight up to her room. Brycie comes over and stands next to me, "I'm guessing you already tried talking to her?" I nod, "Yeah, she won't really open up. I'm worried." She places her hand on my chest, "Pray. She's gonna be just fine."

I kiss her forehead, "Thanks babe, you're the best at giving me advice."

I change out of my pool clothes and knock on Mia's door. When she doesn't answer, I let myself in. She's crying, ever so silently.

"I think we need to talk," I say sitting on the edge of her bed. She shakes her head, "I'm okay."

"I know you're not," I say. "Alan, I'm fine, please leave me alone," she pleads. I shake my head, refusing to leave. "Alan! I'm fine! Just leave okay!" She yells. I nod, and leave, but I know she's not okay.

Mia's POV

There I go being an idiot and yelling at him again. He's everything to me, yet I scream at him all the time. He's just trying to help me, but I block him out.

I can't stand to hurt him, but I'm not leaving again. I pull my phone out of my pocket and call Caleb.

C- Hey kiddo.

M- I need a favor.

C- What's that?

M- I need to stay with you, just for now.

C- Why? You in a fight with Alan?

M- Sorta, I yelled at him again.

C- And you're afraid?

M- Yes.

C- I'll be right over, but you'll have to tell Alan or Brycie that you're staying with me.

M- I'll tell Brycie. Thanks dude, I really appreciate it.

C- Anytime kiddo, love you.

M- You too Caleb, bye.

I lug my duffel bag from the closet, and toss the stuff I'll need into it.

I rip a page from one of my journals and leave a note for Alan.

Alan,
when you get this, I'll be at Caleb's house. Don't worry, I'm okay. I just need to stay there for a while. It's not your fault so don't blame yourself. I love you and need you in my life. Please, just pray for me. I'll be back soon.
Xoxo
~Mia

I tape the note to Alan's door, "I'm sorry Al, I love you," I whisper. I grab my bag and walk outside to wait for Caleb's car.

He pulls up and I get in the front seat. "Did you tell somebody you're leaving?" He asks me. "It's all taken care of, Caleb, trust me."

He places his free hand on my knee, "Okay kid, I believe you."

~*~

Alan's POV