~Abuse~

Chapter 88

Erin, Cassie, and Ashlyn were on route to the grocery store when Erin developed a dull headache.

"Mommy? I want a new truck!" Ashlyn babbled.

Erin stopped at the stop sign and leaned her head against the wheel.

"Shush! I don't think Mom's feeling well..." Cassie pointed out.

Ashlyn apologized and clutched her Tigger Bear tightly.

"Mom? You can go now..." Cassie whispered.

Erin lifted her head and shifted the car into gear.

Ten minutes later, the Halstead's were browsing the aisles.

Ashlyn spotted a new toy truck and looked up at Erin.

"Mommy! A new toy truck! Can I have it, please?" Ashlyn pleaded.

Erin shook her head and placed the pasta sauce and pasta in the cart.

"But—" Ashlyn halted mid-sentence.

Erin glanced up and exhaled sharply.

"Listen, I don't have time for an argument. We are not getting the truck," She said tersely.

Ashlyn's lower lip trembled, and she cast her eyes downward.

"Come on, let's go pay," Erin proposed.

Together, they proceeded to the checkout counter and settled the bill for their groceries.

Erin loaded her purchases into the grocery bags and placed them in the trunk.

"Cassie, do you mind if we skip the school supply shop? I need to go home," Erin asked.

Cassie shook her head and smiled.

"I have plenty of pens and pencils. The only thing I needed was a new schoolbag. It's all set. We can go tomorrow," Cassie responded, her smile unwavering.

Erin returned the smile and drove back to the apartment.

As Erin arrived at the apartment. The girls ran up and Erin slowly walked inside.

Jay rose, and the boys on the couch followed suit.

"Hi Bab-," Jay began but halted.

Erin set down the groceries and embraced Jay.

"Hey, what's up, Snuggles?" Jay murmured.

Erin cried quietly, and Jay lifted her into his arms.

"Guys, I think it's best if you leave now..." Jay suggested.

The boys agreed, bidding farewell.

Jay settled on the couch, tilting it back so Erin could rest on his chest.

"Is it your period?" he inquired.

Erin nodded, continuing to weep.

"Oh, Baby, it's okay..." Jay comforted her.

Erin sat upright, exhaling deeply.

"It's not! I lost my temper at Ashlyn over a toy truck..." Erin admitted, distressed.

Jay chuckled gently, drawing Erin close again.

"Aww, love, it's fine. She'll understand..." Jay consoled.

Erin shut her eyes, feeling Jay's fingers gently massaging her scalp.

"You're safe. Tough As Nails-Halstead. I'm right here," Jay whispered reassuringly.

Erin groaned, attempting to fall asleep.

Midday found Erin awake, busily preparing pasta.

Jay opened his eyes to find Erin's absence from his embrace.