𝑳𝑼𝑺𝑻𝟺𝑳𝑰𝑭𝑬.

GOD KNOWS I TRIED.

Nov, 27. Monday 8am.
Pov: Elizabeth Grant.

I stood before the men who were dressed in all black. They look like everyday people. Who would've guessed it head on that they were indeed the cause of generations worth of trauma. "I will give whatever it is that you want, but you yourself must promise that this wicked tradition will no longer thrive on our Arcadian acres."

"Young lady, we would like the money we were owed. Forty-thousand dollars," the old man croaked, as he took a stance with his cane wobbling beneath his weight.

"I've got the king's ransom at my hands, it's nothing I can not accomplish. You will only receive your wishes when my brothers Scottie and Kieth are free." It was never their fault they were stolen into this mess. Pushing everybody away will do nothing but harm. Our mother needs us and I need my family back.

Next stop; close down the lair of which was supposed to be heaven, but instead burned with secrets and awaiting living hells. Though he brought his lady along I felt this was a journey for both my father and I to end alone. I can only do so much.

The police were dealing with the downstairs as none of it belonged to us. We were only grabbing things we supplied with. I guess there will be no continuation of Grants Arcadian Church. Midge went to haul things into the car, so my father came over resting his hand on my back. The same way he did when he told me that dreadful lie that I believed with my whole heart. "Elizabeth, this may upset you darling, but Midge and I are staying together."

My heart cracked, a piece stricken at just the right moment with just enough pressure to chip hopefully the right piece that'll shape my character into something stronger than I am now. It hurts, but I'm not doing it for my father nor anybody else. I'm doing what's right to and for me. "If that's what calls to your heart, follow it. I'll be taking care of mom when she's emitted."

"I'm really sorry," his voice cracked as if he were about to cry. He quickly sucked everything in when Midge came chirping a song from around the corner.

"If you leave me now, you'll take the biggest part of me. Ooh ooh, no baby please don't go." She kissed my father to then turn her attention back to me. "Ready to quit that old job?" I give her a nod paired with a small smile. The least I can do is be kind to her.

We drove to the coffee shop, I can't even remember my last day behind the counter. This is all where it started though where I met the key; Abel Tesfaye. I went in with my head held high. Everybody thought I was coming in for my shift a little later than expected, but nope I was just quitting. I know it's best to put in a two weeks notice, but I don't think I'll be getting another job.

Walking out I bumped right into him. "Well it's pleasant to meet you." the stench wafting into my nose was like an entire drug house of marijuana. Dark rings circled his eyes, he wasn't even in his usual put together look. He wore something casual; a hoodie and some navy joggers. "Just grabbing a beverage?"

"Hey Liz, I was hoping to see you. Yeah, I'm just getting a drink before I head in for therapy. Where are you going this early?"

"I actually quit today. I'm going to the lake to catch up with my younger brother." I pulled him in for an embrace. "I hope your therapy goes well. You and Ali are in my prayers."

____________________________
Nov, 27. Monday 9:23.
Pov: Abel Tesfaye.

"You're being a great father Abel. Ali is most likely coping and it surely isn't your fault. Things happen therapy can be great for the both of you if you'd ever like to bring her in for a session. You're coping right now as well and there are far better ways than self harming. Try taking a walk, working out, talking with someone, or even spending time alone. If it makes it easier then it's coping." She glanced at her smart watch. "Our session is up in a minute or so. Any last questions or concerns for me?"

"I might go back to my hometown to get help from my mother. How will all this work out?"

"Don't worry about that no matter what, we'll figure it out. Do what you have to do for your daughter. Just promise you'll let me know what's going on at least a few days before our next session so I can find an alternative?"

"Promise."

Pulling into the dirt packed driveway I throw it in park and whip my phone out to call my mom. Last time It went to voicemail, hopefully I can get to her. I dialed and waited to hear the automated message, but it rang. I waited a few seconds before it picked up. "Hello," she sang it like a song.

"Mom," my voice cracked, shook, then it caved in as the tears came.

"Oh my goodness." She broke into tears right along with me.

"Can I come stay with you? I just need some help for a while." Sniffling, trying to keep everything under control I manage to briefly explain myself. She's never met Ali. I think she'd love her.

"Yes! Whenever you want. You come down here as soon as you can."

After a brief talk I got out heading into Carmen's house. Upon entrance she greeted me with a smile as she was setting bowls on the table. Taking a deep breath I took in the warm scent of apple cinnamon that I loved. Sitting down my body relaxed a little bit more as I saw Ali climbing up to the table to a bowl of Cheerios. I was hoping she was going to take a handful and stuff her face like usual, but there was none of that, just sitting there waiting for Carmen to sit down.

"Carmen, I'm going back to Toronto with my mom. I can't do it here anymore and you know I don't really have help. I think that's what's best for her anyway." She handed me a spoon nodding as she took a bite.

She was fairly silent and her face was at its resting point. I didn't know what might come out of that mouth of hers. One minute she's as sweet as candy and next thing you know she's taunting you, holding your past over your head as if its the next torture device. Taking a bite, the oatmeal took me back to the sunrises of long nights, trying to hurriedly find something to eat before Ali woke and needed attention. She was just a baby, my little girl.

She was also silent. Picking up one ring of puffed up cereal at a time slowly eating them.

"Well I mean," she swallowed, grabbing her drink, "If you think that's best." She nodded to herself once more with her eyes traveling up to the left of the room as if she were still thinking.

I zoned out myself thinking of what to say. I wanted her to come with, so she can still be with her daughter, but my mother really never liked Carmen. I want no more shit to deal with. When I tapped back into reality I noticed I was staring right at her lips. The kiss replayed in my head. It was all in slowmotion like a replay on Tv that everyone is either going to replay for the rest of your life to laugh at or one you replay alone to reminisce.

"Is mommy going?"