Quarterback Dare

16

The next day after a peaceful night of stargazing and a morning of relaxation, I decided to tell my parents about my decision to move in with Hayden. I knew they would flip out, but I hoped they would understand. Hayen has been an important part of my life, and not just fake and I wanted them to see that.

I went downstairs and before I was noticed by my dad's office I took a deep breath to steady my nerves. My parents were always chill but my dad was always stern, especially with me. I just knew they would understand.

As I walked up to my dad's office I saw my dad working on paperwork, my mom standing by him serving him fresh lemonade. My heart is pounding in my chest. "Hey guys," I said, trying to muster a smile. "I need to talk to you about something."

My parents looked at me concerned. My dad nudges me to sit on the couch. My mom sits next to me. My hands clasped together. "I—I've been thinking about my future, and I've made a decision. Hayden asked me to move in with him and I said yes." I said, looking up at my parents. My gaze towards my dad.

The room fell silent for a minute as my parents looked at each other. My dad fell back in his chair and folded his arms across his chest. He sighed deeply. "Lillian, you've been dating Hayden for a short time—"

I nodded. "Daddy, I'm sure. Hayden is very important to me and I want to be with him."

My dad stood up walking towards me. At that moment I was scared of my dad. My dad still had his hands crossed, his face stern. "Living together is a big step. It's not something to be taken lightly."

"Dad, this is what I want. I think is best for me." I said, looking at my dad. "I have that about it a lot."

My dad's narrowed, my dad's voice dripping deep. "Have you? I just don't like it. You're too young to make such a big commitment. What if things don't work out?"

I felt a ping of frustration with my dad being so hard on me, but I kept my cool. "I understand your concerns and I think mom feels the same way but I'm still an adult. I can make my own decisions."

"Just because you're an adult doesn't mean you're acting like a child." He shot back, his voice venomous. "Don't ask to come back if he breaks your heart."

I look to my mom for support. She looks at me with disbelief. "Fine! I don't know why I told you anyway!" I jumped up. "I'll start packing and moving out as soon as possible," I said while going upstairs.

Once in my room I grabbed my phone and dialed Hayden's number. I needed to trust my instincts. As my dad's words stung, I knew I would be safe in Hayden's arms every day and all day long.