Run

Chapter Twenty-Two

RUN

By Elissa Evenson

Chapter Twenty-Two: STELLA

Stacy was running about the room, panicking. She had braided her hair into one French braid. She had a light blue flower at the end to match the tight, light blue V-neck shirt that went up to her elbows. She was also wearing a pair of faded, dark wash jeans, and a pair of black converse.

"Do I look ok?" She asked me frantically gripped my arms with a vise-like grip. "Is my hair messed up? Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my-"

"Stacy!" I yelled. "Just calm down, ok?" She nodded her head. "Alright, now just take a deep breath. You look fine." She took a slow, shaky breath.

"Your right, I'm sorry. I'm just really nervous I guess." She admitted.

"You'll be fine. Just relax. It's a party, remember?"

"Right, you're supposed to have fun at parties." She gave me a small smile. "Well I guess I should get going now. Mason is probably waiting. I'll see you later tonight." She grabbed her coat and left the room.

I was pretty jealous that she got to go to the party, but I would be the youngest there and I wouldn't want to embarrass myself. I hope Stacy will have fun. She needs it after looking after me for three years. I don't know what I would've done if she hadn't been there for me. I sighed.

I went into the library and picked out a children's book. I was starting to get better at reading now. I couldn't wait until I could read the chapter books. Although it was fun looking at the pictures, I just really wanted to be able to read. I never got the reason why Mason hated school. In school you can read and learn! Something I never really had the chance for.

Jane opened the door and poked her head in. She smiled when she saw me reading.

"I thought I might find you in here. Did Mason and Stacy leave yet?" She asked. I nodded my head and looked up at her. "Do you want to do something fun? Maybe bake some cookies?" I nodded my head eagerly. I haven't made cookies since... my mom died. I felt a pang of guilt at making cookies with Jane. Am I letting her replace my mom? I can't do this to my mom. I felt so guilty. Jane seemed to see my sudden change in mood. She came in and sat in the chair next to mine.

"Sweetie, if something's bothering you, you can tell me." I looked up and I saw love and concern in her eyes.

"It's just... It's just..." I struggled to find the right words. I didn't want to hurt Jane, but I didn't want to betray my mom. "It's just... I miss my mom." I finally said. Jane said "Oh honey," and gave me a tight hug. I felt tears burning my eyes, but I didn't want to cry in front of Jane.

"Honey, you're not betraying your mom if you bake cookies with me." My mouth dropped open.

"How did- how did you-" I gaped. She let out a small chuckle.

"Believe it or not, I lost my mother at a young age too. My dad remarried and so I had a step-mom. She was a very nice lady. Whenever we went out somewhere to do something as a family, I always felt like she was replacing my mom, and I didn't want that. But I learned that no matter what, my mom would always be with me in my heart. I wasn't betraying her by having a good time with my step-mom. In fact, I'm pretty sure my mom would be happy that I was having a good time. I'm sorry if you feel like I'm trying to replace you mom, but just know that I'm not. " Jane gave me a sad smile.

I was amazed. Jane knew exactly what I was going through! I was so glad that I had this talk with her. I feel so much better now. I smiled at Jane and gave her a hug.

"Thank you." I said softly.

"Your welcome. I'll be here for you if you ever need anything, ok?" She whispered and I nodded my head. I'm glad things are ok between us now. I pulled away from her and smiled.

"Now let's go make some cookies!" She chuckled and took my hand as we went down to the kitchen.

***

*3 hours later*

I broke off a chunk of the warm, doughy cookie and dipped it into my glass of cool, bubbly milk. (Makes you want a cookie, doesn't it?) I bit into the warm deliciousness and a chocolate chip oozed onto my tongue.

"Mmmm," I said in satisfaction. "These cookies are absolutely delicious!" Jane chuckled.

"They are, aren't they?" I nodded my head eagerly. These cookies were absolutely the best! I quickly finished two cookies, but Jane wouldn't let me take anymore.

"It's time to go to bed now, ok sweetie?" I nodded my head reluctantly and went upstairs. I changed into my pajamas and snuggled into bed. I had to admit, it felt good to be in bed. I was almost asleep when I heard the door slam open.

"How was the party?" I asked sleepily. Stacy made a noise that sounded like a whimper, but I couldn't be sure because I was so sleepy. I turned over to look at her.

"T-terrible." She whimpered. That was when I saw the tears streaming down her face.

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Cliffhanger! dun dun duuuuun! I am so cruel :D I don't think I'll update for a little while because tomorrow is Easter and then I go back to school! I will try to update as soon as possible because I'm eager to finish the book! I'm not even exactly sure what I want to happen, so we will find out soon! (hopefully)

~Happy Reading

P.S. try not to die of suspense, 'kay? :D