Flowers & Benches

Year Three (College) and Dandelions (Teaser)

Caitlyn leaves the house quietly and goes to sit on the front bench. Elisabeth was at class and Lianna decided to visit her parents while The Wild Things were visiting Caitlyn for the week.

'Speaking of the little buggers...' Caitlyn thinks ruefully as her step-siblings and brother come barrelling out of the house. "Cat!" Joey cheers at the sight of his older sister.

"Hey y'all! Good morning!" Caitlyn greets, the five crazies wave and greet their sister.

"What's for breakfast?" Ethan asks making them all laugh.

"You always think about food." Aurora points out sporting a smirk, Ethan sticks his tongue out at the little girl.

"We can go to Anna's if you'd like?" Caitlyn suggests, they all quickly agree, loving the small cafe. "Alright everyone, go get ready. Meet back here in twenty." Caitlyn instructs, they all agree running off to get it done.

Joey stays behind and sits beside his sister. He hands her a small dandelion, which makes her smile. "How long has this tradition been going on?" Joey asks softly but full of curiously, Caitlyn smiles sadly.

"About fifteen years now," Caitlyn replies softly, Joey just smiles listening to his sister's story. "He was so little back then. I gave him a bluebell because he was sad. He was worried that he wouldn't like kindergarten like his siblings had." Caitlyn continues quietly, not noticing her growing audience, her gaze focused on her small flower. "The next day he'd brought me a small blue flower, I don't remember the name, and it became our tradition. Every day, we'd meet at the bench, he'd have a flower and a hug. Eventually, it was a ritual, and even when I moved he'd gotten Li to do it. You too." Caitlyn continues even softer, "When he was sick, he would get his siblings to bring them to me, eventually Tommy and Li. If I was sick, he'd bring them to the house after school hours, getting a ride from his mom or siblings," Her voice began to shake as she keeps going, "He used to say that he loved e especially when I received a flower. That he'd do anything to keep that happiness present." Caitlyn finishes, it's silent. Dead silent.

Then a throat clears, Caitlyn's head whips up in surprise.

Alright, choice time!! Vote, should it be Carter or Caitlyn's new boyfriend?? Go! I'll post the next bit based on the results later. :D Have fun!