Whispering Pages

Memory lane

Ethan and Merida parked the car, eager to start their walk down memory lane. They stepped out, feeling the crunch of gravel under their feet as they set off on the familiar trail. The rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds surrounded them, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for reminiscing.

As they walked, Merida glanced over at Ethan, curiosity etched on her face. "Okay, Ethan," she began, "what's really going on? And why are you wearing sunglasses in negative sixty two degree weather?"

Ethan chuckled, "I just felt like wearing them to make me feel a little cooler." Merida grinned, "You're already cool, Ethan. No need for sunglasses to prove that!"

Ethan smiled, "Thank you, Merida." Just then, they spotted a bench they used to sit on all the time and decided to take a seat.

You know, my mom always used to tell me about the day I was born. She said she was so excited and couldn't wait to hold me in her arms. It's one of her favorite stories to tell.

That's so sweet. I remember her telling me about all the little things you did as a baby. She said you had the cutest laugh and would always make her smile, even on the toughest days.

Yeah, she always said that my laugh was her favorite sound. And she loved watching me sleep; she said it was the most peaceful thing in the world.

She really loved you so much. It's amazing how those little moments can mean so much. Even though she's not here, I bet she still feels the same way whenever she sees you from above.

Definitely. I think those memories are just as special to her as they are to me. It's nice to remember how much love and joy she felt back then. It keeps her spirit alive in my heart.

Merida looks over to see Ethan crying and then sobbing. She hugs him, wiping his tears.

"Hey, it's going to be okay. I'm here for you."

Ethan (sobbing) Merida, if you hadn't answered my call, I probably wouldn't be here anymore.

Merida shocked by Ethan's response asks "Why would you say that, Ethan?"

"Things haven't been the best since my mom died. My dad gets drunk every day, and he's becoming physically abusive. But there's this girl, Hailey, I met her at the new bookstore in town. She lives across the street from me and she's been keeping me happy at times. I also have a journal I write in; it helps me process everything."

"I'm really glad you have Hailey and your journal, Ethan. It's important to have someone to talk to and a way to express your feelings."

As Ethan and Merida resumed their stroll along the trail, Ethan's phone suddenly began buzzing incessantly. Ethan glanced at the screen to see multiple missed calls from his dad, Tom.

Merida noticed Ethan's expression and reached out to take his phone. With a determined look, she answered the call. "Hey, Tom! It's Merida. Ethan and I are out for a walk on the trail."

Tom's voice came through, sharp and irritated. "Where the heck are you, Ethan? I've been calling you for ages! You can't just disappear like that!"

Merida held the phone a bit away from her ear, wincing at the volume. "Tom, calm down. We're just walking the trail. Everything's fine. And by the way, Ethan's coming home with me tonight."

There was a moment of stunned silence on the other end before Tom's voice erupted again. "What? No, he needs to come home now!"

Merida stood her ground. "No, Tom. Ethan's coming with me. He needs a break, and I've got it covered. We'll talk later."

Ethan sighed, feeling the weight of his dad's words but also the relief of Merida's support. "Thanks, Merida."

She gave him a reassuring smile before ending the call. "Don't let him get to you, Ethan. We're having a good time, and that's what matters."

Ethan nodded, grateful for Merida's unwavering support. As they continued their walk, he felt a bit lighter, knowing he had a friend who truly had his back.

Ethan sighed, feeling the weight of his dad's words but also the relief of Merida's support. "Thanks, Merida."

As they walked back to the car, Ethan hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Hey, Merida, instead of going to your place, could you drop me off at a friend's place instead?"

Merida looked at him curiously. "What friend?"

Ethan smiled slightly. "A friend named Max."

Merida nodded, understanding. "Alright, Ethan. Let's head over to Max's place then."

Just then, Ethan tripped, and his sunglasses fell from his face. Before he could pick them up, Merida quickly grabbed them. As she handed them back, she noticed a black eye forming on Ethan's face.

"Ethan, what happened?" Merida asked, concern evident in her voice.

Ethan looked down, avoiding her gaze. "It's nothing, Merida. Just got into a little scuffle."

Merida frowned but decided not to press further. "Alright, let's get you to Max's place."

Merida and Ethan got into the car, and the drive to Max's place was mostly quiet. Ethan stared out the window, lost in thought, while Merida occasionally glanced over, concerned but respecting his silence.

When they arrived at Max's house, Ethan hesitated before getting out of the car. "Thanks, Merida. For everything."

Merida smiled warmly. "Anytime, Ethan. Before you go, I wanted to ask you something."

Ethan turned back, curious. "Yeah?"

"I've been thinking about going to therapy to sort out some things, and I'd really like it if you came with me," Merida said gently. "I think it could help both of us."

Ethan looked surprised but then nodded slowly. "Yeah, I'd be up for that. Just let me know when."