Tyler's Battle

Chapter 8 - Charlie

After dinner as everyone began to disperse, Charlie cornered Tyler.

What's going on with you and Jody? You are usually the best of friends but right now you are acting like you hate each other.

I dunno murmured Tyler awkwardly

Tyler

Just leave me alone retorted Tyler, pushing passed her and disappearing out the back door. Charlie followed determinedly.

Tyler. Whats going on? At this rate you are going to lose your best mate as well as your mum and I don't understand why

Do you think that's what I want responded Tyler his voice raised and quivering with emotion

No I don't think that's what you want. But at this rate I wouldn't be surprised if that's what happened. Why are you so angry with Jody? What happened is not her fault, don't blame her

I don't blurted Tyler

Then why are you giving her the silent treatment quizzed Charlie

Because every time I look at Jody, I think of how I chose to spend the day with her when I could have been with my mum. I could have stopped her but instead I was selfish and chose to hang out with Jody

Tyler, your mums death isn't your fault, and your choice to hang out with Jody was the right one. You chose to be a kid and hang out with your best mate, instead of breaking the rules and trying to look after your mum when she's meant to be the one looking after you. Besides you couldn't have known what was going to happen Tyler and even if you had somehow stopped her this time, there would probably have been a next time.

I guess

If you want to talk about it, you know you can talk me ok?

Yeah sure

Good. How about we go for a walk, some fresh air might help clear your mind