when i turned 18

Echoes {Chapter 15}

Wednesday, September 18th, 2024

As I got ready for school, I still had those words echoing in my mind. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on my heart, making it hard to focus on the routine of my day.

I showered, styled my hair, and did my skincare routine with Kiehl's Facial Fuel and Baxter of California Under Eye Cream. Getting dressed, I threw on a black hoodie and grey sweats, finishing the look with my silver chain. I was too lazy to actually put in any more effort.

The reflection staring back at me seemed distant, a mere shadow of who I used to be. The weight of impending fatherhood, coupled with the uncertainties the technician had hinted at, gnawed at my resolve.

I headed into our bedroom and sat next to Cassidy to let her know I was about to head out. Gently rubbing her head, I whispered, "I'll see you after school."

She groggily opened her eyes, attempted a smile, and then fell back asleep instantly.

As I grabbed my backpack and headed out the door, I tried to push the nagging thoughts aside, reminding myself of the promise I had made to Cassidy and our daughter.

Entering my car, I realized I had almost no gas left—I wouldn't make it to school in time. The needle was hovering just above empty, and the nearest gas station was miles away. Panicking, I tried to think of ways to navigate this without being late. I could ask for a ride, I thought, but who?

I quickly rushed back into the house, hoping Cassidy's aunt might still be home, but the silence confirmed she was already at work. Heart pounding, I headed back into our room and gently re-woke Cassidy.

I calmly yet urgently shook her. "Cassidy, I don't have any gas and I need a ride. Do you have anyone I can call?"

Cassidy yawned, squinting against the light as she fumbled for her phone and handed it to me. "I don't know, look through my contacts," she said groggily.

I sighed, my hands trembling as I quickly scrolled through, trying to find someone—anyone—to call. I noticed Leia's name but knew that wasn't an option.

As she sensed my frustration, Cassidy turned over and mumbled, "Malachi. He could take you, right?"

I groaned, realizing that would've been perfect if he didn't have football practice. "Nope, he's at football practice right now."

She shrugged, her eyes barely open. "Just miss school."

"Cassidy," I began, my voice rising slightly with frustration, "I've already missed three months. I'm a senior and I need to graduate."

She yawned again, sinking back into her pillow. "Just call Leia."

Before I could respond, she was already fast asleep.

Desperation mounting, I quickly rushed out the door, dialing Leia's number as fast as I could, praying she would answer. My heart raced as the phone rang, each second feeling like an eternity.

"Hi," Leia answered, nonchalantly.

"Leia, thank GOD you answered. I need you to pick me up—I'm out of gas. Please," I said urgently.

"See you in 5," she replied, hanging up without even saying goodbye.

I stood on the sidewalk, feeling the cool morning air against my skin, waiting for Leia to arrive. The street was eerily quiet, with only the occasional rustle of leaves and distant hum of traffic.

Me and Leia weren't supposed to be talking, and it had been days since our last conversation. I shuffled my feet, feeling the weight of our unresolved tension. I hoped things wouldn't be too awkward when she got here. Despite everything, I did miss my friend. But I knew I had to put Cassidy first, always.