The End of Seventeen

Chapter Twenty-Four

After spending most of the morning with Parker and his mom, Lizzy found herself torn as she had to make her way back home.

"I really don't want to go," she expressed, wrapping her arms tightly around Parker's torso.

Parker, planting a gentle kiss on her forehead, reassured her, "You'll be back soon."

With a sigh, Lizzy replied, "I know, but I don't want to step foot back in that place."

Reluctantly letting go of Parker, she turned to walk out of the front door, waving goodbye to him before starting her journey back home.

Upon climbing through her window and checking if her door was still locked, Lizzy could hear the chatter from downstairs, feeling a pang of isolation as it seemed her absence had gone unnoticed by her family. Tears threatened to well up, but she refused to shed them for those who seemed indifferent to her presence, especially her own family.

Resolving to seek comfort elsewhere, Lizzy retrieved her special blanket and plushie from a chest given to her by her late grandmother. Finding solace in these items during tough times, she packed a few beloved books into an old backpack and slipped out her window once more, heading back to Parker's home.

When Lizzy arrived, Parker was already waiting for her in the living room. "Did your parents see you?" he inquired as he approached her.

With a shake of her head, Lizzy responded, "No, I don't even think they noticed that I was gone," seeking solace in his comforting embrace.

"Are you tired?" Parker asked, running a soothing hand through her hair.

Nodding wearily, Lizzy let him guide her to his room, craving the refuge it offered. As she settled in, sinking onto the bed, a mix of relief and exhaustion washed over her. "I just needed to get away for a bit," she murmured into the softness of Parker's pillow.

Parker sat beside her, his expression reflecting concern. "You can stay here as long as you need," he reassured her, his touch a source of comfort.

Grateful for his understanding, Lizzy confided, "I wish things were different at home," her eyes revealing a deep sadness.

Listening intently, Parker's presence was a steadfast support amidst her turmoil. "You're not alone, Lizzy. You always have me," he affirmed, his sincerity palpable.

A faint smile graced Lizzy's lips as she looked at him. "Thank you, Parker. I don't know what I'd do without you," she admitted, her eyes locking with his.

Embracing the tranquillity of the moment, Parker suggested, "Let's forget about everything else tonight. I'll make us some hot chocolate, and we can watch that movie you love," a spark of hope in his eyes.

Eager for the comfort his offer promised, Lizzy's eyes lit up. "That sounds perfect," she agreed, a sense of peace descending upon her.

As Parker prepared the hot chocolate, Lizzy changed into more comfortable clothes, then settled onto the bed, cocooned in the warmth of her grandma's blanket. Parker's gestures of care and warmth filled her with gratitude and a newfound sense of home.

As they watched the movie, Lizzy leaned against Parker, her head resting on his shoulder, the soft dialogue and gentle music enveloping them in peace. In the serenity of his room, amidst cherished tokens and the presence of a true friend, she found a sense of belonging she had yearned for.

Drifting off to sleep, Lizzy surrendered to the solace of the moment, wrapped in her grandma's blanket, cradling her plushie. Parker, pausing the movie and tucking her in, placed a tender kiss on her forehead before retreating to the kitchen.

Lizzy stirred, reaching out to grab his arm as he attempted to leave. "Can you stay?" she murmured, her voice groggy with sleep.

Softly, Parker replied, "Sure," joining her in bed, his arms encircling her as she nestled against his chest with her plushie, finding peace in his embrace as they both drifted off into a restful slumber.