In Charlotte's Eyes

Only For Now

The pair spent the rest of the afternoon hanging out together. They silently agreed to keep it lighthearted. It was natural how well they blended back together. Charlotte couldn't believe where her life was only a few days ago. It was surreal. It was beginning to get dark out. She and Parker sat on the couch, watching a show on the TV. It was.. comfortable.

The doorbell rang. Neither were surprised by this; they were expecting Audrey. Parker stood up quickly and jogged to the door, Charlotte standing up much more gingerly. She looked at Parker’s carpet floor. Part of her didn't want to leave his home. It felt so nostalgically familiar. Even so, she followed Parker's trail. When she turned to the corner to the front door, Parker and Audrey had finished giving each other a hug.

“Thanks for taking care of her, Parker.” Her sister spoke with gratitude.

Parker beamed. “It was absolutely an honor. I still can't believe she's back.” He looked at Charlotte.

“It feels a little surreal, doesn't it?” Her sister chuckled. She looked at Charlotte. “I'm glad you decided to stay with me.” Her tone softened, genuinity taking over.

Charlotte looked at her sister, then glanced at Parker. “Yeah.” She looked down at the book in her hands. “Thanks.” She kept a small smile.

“It was really fun, Charlotte.” Parker put a hand on her side. She looked up at him. It was. “Goodbye.”

Why did that sound so sad?

“For now.” He added quietly.

That small comment brought an immediate smile to Charlotte’s face for whatever reason. She had to stop herself from laughing. She shook her head. “Yeah. Bye, Parker.” She hugged him. He fell into it naturally, seemingly prepared for it himself. Audrey watched with a smile, her heart melting at the sweetness of the moment.

Charlotte removed herself and stepped outside with her sister. Audrey stepped back. As Charlotte left, she took a look back at Parker, who looked down at her, waving. She returned it and off she went with Audrey.