when i turned 18

Decisions {Chapter 24}

For the first time all week, I woke up in my own bed, relishing the familiarity of my surroundings. It was a welcome change from the haphazard places I found myself in recently - from strangers' couches to the cramped confines of my car. The comfort, however, was short-lived.

As I stood under the cascading water of the shower, I hoped it would wash away the mounting stress. But despite the warmth and the soothing flow, the tension persisted, clinging to me like a stubborn shadow.

Today, I realized, was decision day. Whether I liked it or not, the time had come to make a choice.

Cassidy or Leia. Their names echoed relentlessly in my mind, drowning out all other thoughts. I had meticulously weighed the pros and cons of each, hoping for clarity. Yet, even after countless mental debates and even resorting to a coin flip, the answer remained elusive, slipping through my fingers like grains of sand.

Navigating this emotional labyrinth felt like traversing a minefield of conflicting emotions. On one hand, there was Cassidy, whom I loved deeply, our history intertwined with countless memories. On the other, there was Leia, a cherished friend who held a special place in my heart, someone I couldn't bear to lose.

The weight of the decision pressed down on me, threatening to suffocate any semblance of peace or resolution.

I sighed, heading downstairs to maybe get some insight from Leia or my mom.

In the kitchen, I found Paul holding my mom's waist as they slow danced. It was a sight that made my stomach turn. Out of all the men she could have chosen after Dad, she settled for a generic white guy with a beer belly. Could she have gone any lower?

Ignoring them, I made my way to the living room to turn on my favorite show.

Paul approached me with what he probably thought was a warm smile. "Hey, kiddo. Long time no see! I hope you're doing well."

I looked at him, judging him from head to toe. "Don't call me that."

Awkwardly, Paul laughed, trying to get on my good side. "Want some sausage? I'm making a mighty fine breakfast with your mom."

"I'd rather starve," I mumbled to myself.

Paul squared his shoulders, attempting to assert some kind of pathetic authority. "Hey, I don't know what Eva lets you get away with, but I won't stand for your attitude. You live here rent-free, show me a little respect, kiddo."

Feeling defensive, I stood up, balling my fists. "I don't owe you jack shit, Paul. You're in MY home, and you have no right acting like you have any authority. You're fucking nobody. I give you a month before my mom gets tired of you."

My mom came rushing in, standing between us, "Boys, calm down, please."

Paul shook his head, judging me, "your son has ZERO respect, Eva."

My mom pointed him to her room, "Please, walk away. We need a moment."

He rolled his eyes, behaving more like a teenager than an adult, and walked towards my mom's room.

"Chico," she began softly. "I know it's a hard switch, but he's right. You live here rent-free. You can't decide who I love. I'm sorry, but you just can't."

Anger surged within me. "Love? Already? Jesus, mom. What are you, 13 and in middle school?"

My mom's face filled with anger, her voice rising. "You have no right. I have been here with you since day one, and you can't even respect my wishes! I am tired of your snobby attitude."

Angrily, I walked out, grabbing my keys and leaving. I didn't hesitate; I needed to get away. I drove straight to Cassidy's house.

Once I arrived, I opened her door and saw her on the couch, drying off her freshly painted toes. Without a word, I quickly walked toward her, opting for a hug.