Until We Meet Again

Chapter Nine: So Long Ago

It was Sunday morning, and Allison, Olivia, and their mother were walking into town. As they turned the corner, they saw the little white church, and everyone was walking out. Allison glanced down at her turquoise-colored watch—it was eleven-twenty. A wave of sadness washed over her. She had always wanted to go, just once, and see what it was like inside. Mrs. Hayze noticed her daughter's lingering gaze.

"Allison!" she snapped.

"Yes?" Allison responded promptly.

"We've talked about this."

"Mom, I was only looking at the church. What's your problem?" Their argument was cut short when Olivia yelled out Kyle's name. She rushed over to him with open arms. Allison looked up, surprised to see Kyle standing there. He swept Olivia up into a huge hug.

What was he doing at church? she wondered silently. Kyle began making his way toward where she stood, and she waved as he came into focus.

"Hey there!" she said as she ran to embrace him. He immediately hugged her back. After what seemed like forever, they pulled apart, both realizing he was still holding Olivia.

"Allison, who's this?" Her mother gestured to Kyle, plastering a forced smile onto her face.

"Kyle, this is my mother, Leanne." Kyle politely extended his hand.

"Hello, Mrs. Hayze, it's a pleasure to meet you."

He's always a perfect gentleman, Allison thought silently, proud of him.

Mrs. Hayze didn't bother to shake Kyle's hand. She simply gave him a neutral expression, examining him from head to toe.

"Well, this was fun and all, but we need to go," Mrs. Hayze said, turning away sharply and starting to walk off.

"It was nice running into you, Als. See you tonight. It's going to be epic," Kyle said with a playful smile, jumping up and spinning around dramatically before crossing his arms and flashing her a grin.

"Show off," she mumbled, but before Kyle could respond, he noticed the worried look on her face.

"I never got your number to text you the address," she blurted, mentally kicking herself.

"No need, Allison." A smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

Confusion crossed her face. He always thought she looked cute when she was confused—only as a friend, of course.

"But you don't know where I live," she said, staring at him quizzically.

"I have your number, remember?" He winked, offering reassurance.

"Oh yeah! I'm sorry, I forgot." That was all she could manage to say before awkwardly waving goodbye. "Bye." With that, she took off after her mother and sister.

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When they arrived home, Allison, Olivia, and their mother went into the kitchen to grab a snack. As they entered, a shadow moved along the wall.

"It's me," a gruff voice said.

"Oh, hey Dad!" Olivia chirped. He completely ignored her greeting.

"Where's your mother?" he asked, sounding annoyed.

"I'm right here," Mrs. Hayze replied, stepping into the room.

"We need to talk."

"I'm here. Talk."

"I'll be working all next week and next weekend."

"What? You have to watch Olivia this week!" Mrs. Hayze argued, her voice rising in frustration.