The Beast of Bleak

Part Two

After my long workday was over, I made my way back home.

"Rebecca, I'm back," I announced, hanging my snowy coat on the rack.

"My friends and I are going on a hike," she said, appearing out of nowhere.

"Well hello to you too. I'm great, thanks for asking," I said sarcastically.

"I- sorry. My friends and I are just really restless, so we're going out soon."

"A hike...in this?" I pointed outside to what seemed like a waterfall of snow falling down.

"Yeah, we thought it would be fun. We're running out of time for this weather to turn around before I go home, so... we thought it was a good idea."

I broke my gaze from her suddenly. I hadn't realized we were at the point of the summer where she would be leaving soon. 

'Back to being alone soon.' 

I looked back at her and ruffled her hair in an attempt to lighten the mood.

"You kids are something else."

She giggled and began to shuffle around the house, searching for her winter gear.

"Ugh, where is my hat?!?" she groaned.

I chuckled quietly in reply, not knowing if she was asking me or just talking out loud. She returned later, all bundled up and looking like the Jet Puff Marshmallow Man. I slyly brought my hand up to my mouth to try and cover the ridiculously wide smile on my face.

"Found the hat, I see," I said, attempting to control my laughter.

"I can tell you want to laugh. Just get it over with," she rolled her eyes, smiling slightly.

"No, no laughing, promise."

"You literally look like you're about to burst out laughing."

"I wo- n't, I won't! I pro-miSE!" A chuckle slipped through my teeth.

I widened my eyes as I realized I had broken that promise almost immediately. My cover was blown. She glared at me in disappointment, but before long, she started chuckling too.

"Okay, I've really got to go now, I'm already late!"

She smiled and started for the door, then stopped suddenly. She turned around so fast that her boots let out a horrible screech on the floor. She about crashed into me and gave me a quick hug before running back towards the door.

"OKAY BYE, DAD! I'll be back later!"

Before I could reply, she was gone. I smiled awkwardly, unaware of what to do next.