Flipped: Back Again (L.T. Sequel to Flipped)

Chapter 33: She is...

<LOUIS' POV>

"Louis!" The shrill of laughter from my sisters steal the attention from my fleeting guest. I understand Eliza's timidness but I had hope her trust in me would overcome it. In retrospect, giving her time to build up the confidence needed to face my opposing family isn't the worst idea either.

"Ai, Lou you're just in time. Your mum made a right breakfast." I overhear my father's bellowing voice from the kitchen. The old man appears just beyond the corner, looking over his shoulder as he pulls me aside. "So, any update Romeo?"

"Well, she did arrive with me but hid in my room shortly after." I say with a small sigh. "Definitely not what I expected but getting there I suppose."

He nods, giving me a sympathetic look. "She's probably tryin' to avoid hurricane Jo. Your mum isn't much of a fan. At all." He later adds in a whisper. "The woman wouldn't shut up about'it all night. Damn near talked ma' ear off."

"I know, she told me about their li'le encounter. Can't really blame 'er but I still wish she'd be right here instead of locked in over there." I want to give Eliza space but I can't suppress this nagging thought to go after her. In the past I've always pushed Eliza and it ultimately drove her away from me. There are several times  I wish I would've kept my mouth shut instead of constantly battling with her over nonsense. I need to learn to keep my distance when necessary. If she's not ready, she's not ready and I need to respect that.

"C'mon then," my dad pats me on the back, gesturing toward the dining area. "The family awaits."

As I enter the room, my sisters are thrilled to see me. Never has there been a day when they didn't tackle me with hugs and hellos as I entered the room. My mother is the next to join the welcome wagon and places a kiss on my cheek as he greets me with a warm embrace.

"Nice to see you as always, Lou. Take a seat, I'll make you a plate." She says sweetly.

"'Preciate it mum. So girls," I pull out a chair next to my sisters, wanting to catch up on missed time. "What's new in your lives as young teens?"

Leah is eager to speak up and totally mutes her sister to answer my question first. "Mum's letting me join a club for footy! Soon I'll be even bett'r than you Louis." She claims, her self-confidence almost nauseating but all too familiar.

"I'm counting on it." I say, smiling down at the ambitious girl. "And what about you my sweet Lily. What are you going to beat me at?"

She chuckles, amused by my comment but shakes her head. "I'm just doing art. Less competitive but still just as enjoyable to me; hopefully I'll be an artist." Her statement hits a sore spot. If Eliza were here, she'd be elated by the news of Lilly wanting the same career path. I can see them both littered with paint, sliding their brushes all over the walls of her studio. Eliza with my family creates the perfect picture in my mind and fuels my impending desire to solidify our relationship. If only I could share the sweet dream with my mum; maybe we would get somewhere.

I understand she's angry. My mum knows the hardships I went through after Eliza disappeared better than anyone. Although I found success in footy, it consumed me and replaced the happy-go-lucky spirit I once had. I became so reckless and lost my sense of self. My top priories became practice, booze, and whatever pretty face I could shag that night. In my head, love and happiness were rare tokens I could never possess without Eliza. Even while heartbroken, I knew no matter how much I hated her, she was the only one who could ignite such feelings. My mother will probably never fully accept Eliza again; but maybe with time, they can learn to tolerate each other.

"Well it's funny that you bring up art 'cause I have the perfect teacher for ya if you're interested."

"Who?" Lily quizzes, suddenly intrigued.