Take My Hand

Eleven

Published: February 13, 2017

"Strength is the power to look past all your fears and past, for something greater." -Camry Ranstadler (me)

I didn't realize how scary the thought of leaving actually was until now. Where we are sitting in the living room getting ready to leave. The thought of leaving this place, Carter, it's frightening. I feel a little sick.

"Are you sure you want this Chloe?" Carter asks pulling me aside.

"I" I don't know what to say. I love him. Now that I know the meaning of the word I can put it to real true use. I really love him. My mouth is open and I'm trying to think of something to say.

"Chloe. It's ok. You can tell me anything." He says placing his hands on my face. And for once, I don't feel the need to flinch.

"I love you." I whisper looking straight into his eyes.

"You don't have to go." He whispers.

"We are happy with you staying Chloe." He adds.

"He's-he's family, Carter." I whisper placing my forehead on his chest.

"I don't know what to do." I say softly and wrap my arms around his waist. How do you choose between the one you love and your family.

"It's ok Chloe. Go with him." He says hugging me tight.

"I'll visit soon." He kisses the top of my head and pulls away.

"I love you too Chloe. Don't let anyone or anything tell you I love someone else." He says and I nod. He cups my face and leans down placing a soft kiss on my cheek and then moving to my lips. My eyes well up and I pull away.

"It'll be ok Chloe." He whispers and places a small piece of paper in my hand.

"Call me when you get home." He says and kisses my forehead. He grabs my hand and leads me back to the living room. Alph--Dad smiles at me and I slowly walk over to him.

"Ready to go chipmunk." He asks and I slowly nod. He holds his hand out and I place mine in his. The size difference is so wide, it's weird to look at.

"Let's go." He says and leans me outside where a driver is waiting to take us to the landing strip. Before I get in the car I look at Carter and he smiles at me. I smile back a small smile and I'm not sure if he can actually see it. I get in and close the door, the tinted windows don't allow him to see me but I can see him and I think I just saw a tear fall. Before I can get out and go to him, the car doors lock and the car slowly moves forward. As if it's on purpose to make the leave last for a lifetime.

~~~~~

When we get to the landing strip, Alphonso leads me onto the plane and shows me where to sit.

"Sit here while I talk to the pilot." He says showing me a seat and I sit down while he walks away. There are a few extra seats on his plane and come tables. I think I can see a fridge in the back but I'm not sure.

"Alright. We will be taking off soon." He says and I nod. I look out the window at the place that was home for 18 years. Even if it wasn't good to me, the last week or two was.

"You ok?" Alphonso asks placing his hand on my shoulder. I probably should call him dad, but it doesn't feel normal.

"Yeah." I whisper and look at him. He hands me a bag and smiles.

"Go get dressed in something comfortable. It's a long trip so you will probably fall asleep." He says motioning to the back of the plane where he earlier said is a bathroom.