Back to You

Necessary Warnings

"Dear Jasmine, I hope this finds you well. Please let me be the first to say that due to a few concerning circumstances regarding those who can trust and love, I beg of you to keep a wary eye out. Whatever you do, just know that you have my full support and love, and I will be with you forever. You are among the bravest and strongest people I know. Always remember I will be here for you anytime you need a friend. You're a bright and shining star. Never forget that." I read aloud, finishing the last remaining words on the cream colored page.

I had been in my room since we'd been back from our mall trip, and despite my severe hatred and anger for Devin in doing something so low and pathetic to a girl who has a heart of gold...I remained calm and less suspicious by the time she returned from the store.

I knew I had to tell her in a way that didn't go into details.

Even though I didn't have full eyes and ears on the full scope of things, I was positive was happening behind closed doors and could feel in my gut that this was the best way to handle it if she checked it out for herself.

She at least deserved that.

So while she was downstairs watching episodes of 'One on One' with my Dad, I groaned at my desk disappointed folding the letter up neatly into four little squares—sticking it in a manila envelope, and writing in big bold letters a task I knew she would understand and actually do.

'DO NOT OPEN UNTIL 2016.'

That had been the year after Eloise was born and Jax was already two years old. This was the only thing I could do at this point, but I was glad I was able to do anything.

Quickly getting up and rushing to the living room, her vision was still concentrated on the TV. I then slipped the note into her colorful imitation Luis Vuitton designed purse where it wouldn't stick out too much amongst the many piles of shopping bags.

"Well! That does it for me!" She said jumping up. I moved over to the kitchen to grab some juice; my nervous breathing picking up. "Big night tonight, and I'm gonna need all the hours I can get if the Homecoming Dance is going to be the only thing that will carry me throughout the school year. At least until the spring formal, that is!" She exclaimed excitedly.

"Are you sure you don't need a ride back home?" My Dad asked. 

My eyes widened. That would be an interesting car ride for right now. It would be too risky. But if she truly needed it, I still wouldn't say no.

"Oh nah, I'm sure Faith here has a lot to do herself." She teasingly stated. "Me and Devin will meet you and Ryder at the front parking lot. I tried ordering a limo ride for all of us, but unfortunately by the time he asked you it was far too late. Not to mention Devin wasn't budging to put up more money to make an extra stop."

I cautiously shook my head. I wouldn't want him to do so anyway.

"Jaz, I don't mind. Ryder texted me and said he would be here within a few hours with some kind of surprise anyway, so we're fine." I ensured smiling.

She smiled back, hugging me. "Make me proud."

She meant by my hair and makeup. I took notes from my mini makeover before, so I hope I could. Defensively shrugging and stifling out a small laugh, I agreed. "I'll try."

Taking her bags and purse as I kept concentrating on the note that was stuck in place as it should, she ran out of the house while I sighed again but this time in relief.

"Is it time?" My Dad wondered, tilting his head back to me from the couch.

I grinned looking at the analog clock on the wall and nodded. "Oh yeah..."