Paper Butterflies

Chapter Seventeen

I'm sorry it took me a while to update. I had college orientation and I've also been lazy...it's my last summer before college, I just sleep all day. Anywho, it's late but hope you guys enjoy.

               “You have to calm down, honey.” Melissa spoke.

I shook my head. “I feel like I’m going crazy. Every time I close my eyes, or even blink, I see him. And my heart stops the same way it did when he hurt me. A-and, it’s like he’s reminding me of the rules, of what I’m supposed to do. The only thing I’m good for.” I said with my mind calming as I spoke.

               “Ashton, you’re worth way more than whatever your father drilled into your head.” Scott told me as we sat down on the couch in the living room. Melissa stood in front of us. After what happened earlier the others had left to deal with pack stuff, which Scott was supposed to join them on.

I quickly stood up. “No, I get it now. I’ve been telling myself that I’m okay with taking care of other people but I never accepted it. I’ve been cleaning and cooking my entire life, that’s what I was taught to do. And I just have to accept the fact that it’s the only thing I’ll be good for.” I explained. How else was I supposed to get rid of these images of my father?

               Scott sighed. “Mom, you gotta talk some sense in her, I have to go talk with the pack.”

“But you’re her…right, okay. Go ahead.” Melissa agreed.

               “Thanks. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” Scott said, turning to me.

“I’ll be fine.” I told him. He looked hesitant but left.

               “Ashton-”

I cut Melissa off. “You don’t have to talk to me about anything, I’m perfectly fine. Nothing you say will change a thing.” I finished before walking away.

               “Please, Ashton. We can get you help; make sure you never have to feel that pain again.”

“There’s nothing wrong with me. I just had to face the truth, that’s all.” I spoke, facing Melissa. “If you don’t mind, I have a bathroom to clean.” I said before walking off towards one of the main floor bathrooms, the first of two.

               “Ashton!” I heard her yell before calling Preston and David. I grumbled under my breath but ignored them. I grabbed the cleaning supplies from under the bathroom sink and went on my knees, ready to scrub the floor spotless.

When I heard the boys and a sobbing Melissa I didn’t hesitate in shutting the door and quickly locking it.

               Letting out a breath I pulled out a sponge and dipped it into a bucket of soapy water. I began scrubbing the floor, Preston and David banging on the door behind me. Soon enough Scott had joined them.