THE LONG WAIT

Chapter 24: One night with you

Ben and Shelley sat in the comfortable interior of his car, merging onto the highway that would take them out of the bustling city. The skyline faded into the distance, leaving behind the noise and chaos that had recently consumed Shelley's life. Just days ago, David had suggested to Ben that taking Shelley away for a few days might do her good. He had proposed that they visit her parents, believing the change of scenery and the warmth of family could help soothe her troubled mind. It was a plan that matched their intentions anyway, as they had always wanted to spend some quality time with her family.

As they drove along the highway, Shelley gazed out of the window, her expression distant and contemplative. The scenery outside shifted from towering buildings to open fields, but her thoughts were far from the picturesque view. The past few days had weighed heavily on her, leaving her uneasy and hyper-vigilant. Several times, she had left her house only to find herself glancing over her shoulder, haunted by the fear that Nathan might be lurking close by, ready to strike. This anxiety had affected every aspect of her life, even creeping into her work at the hospital. The new doctor she worked alongside, noticing her unrest, had recommended that she take a leave of absence to recuperate and regain her stability.

When David suggested the idea of visiting her parents with Ben, it felt like a lifeline chance to escape her worries and connect with the people who cared for her unconditionally. She welcomed the suggestion with open arms, eager for a break from the suffocation of her recent experiences.

Now, sitting next to Ben, the man who had stood by her side through thick and thin, she felt a flicker of hope. They were on their way to her parents' house, a place filled with love and security. Shelley had already called ahead to let her parents know they would be visiting, and she could picture the smiles that would greet them upon arrival. The thought brought a small sense of comfort, overshadowed by the uncertainty that still lingered in her heart. Despite the heaviness of her circumstances, there was a sliver of anticipation in the air, and she hoped that the visit would help her find some semblance of peace.

As the clock struck 10:00 p.m., Ben pulled up to the familiar charm of the Dickson family home, a warm glow lighting the windows. He and Shelley stepped inside, greeted by the welcoming smiles of Mr. and Mrs. Dickson. The late hour called for rest, and they were gently ushered to their respective rooms.

Mrs. Julia Dickson, with her nurturing demeanor, broke the silence, "I'm sure both of you must be tired after your trip. It's late, so I've prepared your rooms. Since you two are dating but not married yet, Shelley, you'll be in your room, and Adam, you'll take Sam's room."

Mr. Dickson, sensing the tension, couldn't hold back. "Oh come on, Julia! Which century are you living in? Give these two a chance to be together. Who's to say they aren't already..." His words trailed off with a cheeky grin.

Mrs. Dickson shot back, her voice firm yet playful, "They're under my roof, and in my century, they'll follow my rules!"

Mr. Dickson raised his hands in mock surrender, chuckling, "Whatever you say, dear. You're the boss."

Ben watched this delightful exchange, unable to suppress a smile. Their lively banter filled him with warmth, and he found Mrs. Julia's old-fashioned notions about chastity amusing.

Once settled, Ben dropped his bag in his room before helping Shelley with her luggage, their shared laughter echoing through the cosy house. The evening promised an adventure, and he couldn't wait to see what the next few days would bring.

Once inside Shelley's room, Ben couldn't help but be captivated by the simple yet charming décor. The walls, painted in a soft turquoise, harmonized beautifully with the neatly arranged bedsheets spread across the bed. "Nice room," he remarked, admiring the ambience. After dropping her luggage on the bed, he leaned down to plant a gentle good-night kiss on her forehead, heading towards the door.