Between the Bars

Chapter 1.

     My dad has been gone for twelve years. I don't remember much about him, just that I knew he tied our family together. The brick that holds the trailer up. I don't remember why he left, where he went... My mom and I are so distant; She won't tell me anything. I feel like it's her fault, you know, that he left. She's a hard woman to love, but once you've gotten to know her, you'll find the true meaning behind her ice cold, blue, eyes. 

       I was researching plane ticket costs when I heard Ned barking. "I'm coming, be quiet. You'll wake Suzanne and mom." I quietly snapped. Ned has been with me since day one. Well, not exactly. I received Ned as an early Christmas present when I was six. "You know, I can take you with me. We can do this together," I laughed a little. "Hounds are the most loyal, right?" I asked Ned. He just wagged his tail as I spooned leftovers and kibble into his bowl. I sighed, as I bent over to flop his floppy ears. "Why does it have to be this way, buddy?" I sheepishly asked him. I know he won't respond, but I always talk to him. 

     I sat on the couch as he ate, knowing he would need to be let outside afterwards. I checked my phone for any recent messages. I saw a text from Jazz. 

"Hai! What'r you doin'?" 

    Of course, this was sent to me three hours ago. I become so involved in something I forget to respond. I replied and let Ned outside. I lit a cigarette and inhaled the frigidly cold air. "Hurry up, mutt. It's fucking freezing!" I shivered. Ned did his business and followed me to my bedroom. I looked into the moonless, dark, sky. "I know you're out there... We aren't mad. Just come back.." I knew I was lying to myself, but something inside me was chewing me to say it. I've been pissed at my dad for a while, now, but something tells me all of my anger will fade when I get to hug him again. 

"Suppose I should go to be, now," I rubbed Ned's head. "Goodnight."