forever// 5SOS

52

Ashton

When I picked Ava up from mum's, it was clear she felt no better. As soon as we were in the car, she burst into tears.

I felt so desperate. I didn't know how to help.

"I don't feel well,"

"Probably because you've been crying all day," I sighed, "we will have an easy tea,"

"Sandwich,"

"Alright then,"

"My face is sore,"

"Use a tissue instead," I said, passing them to her.

"I'm so stupid today,"

"No you're not, you never are," I assured, pulling out of the drive. She gently wiped her tears and looked down.

"Can all the guys come over?"

"Will that make you feel better?"

"I just want to feel less alone, even if I don't talk,"

That made me want to push for this dog even more, and I was reminded to check my emails at home. She wanted company, but didn't have the energy for something big.

I got Ava to text them all, all of them saying yes, before going up to the apartment. She got changed while I went on the computer, seeing a new email from the school.

Dear Ashton,

I don't usually write to parents about this, but I felt the need to. As you know, the end of term is coming up, which I imagine Ava is excited for. As it's a two week holiday, we do a small awards assembly. Similar to our summer one, but a winter one.

I have got the final list of students, and I am pleased to tell you that Ava has been chosen by her drama teacher for this award. This has nothing to do with me, but that she has shown hard work and dedication worth noticing.

Due to the circumstances, I understand that this could be overwhelming for Ava, so if you could ask her how she'd feel to get infront of the school, and let me know, I'd appreciate it. If she wishes not to go up, she can just in her drama class.

Parents don't usually come to these things either, however we do need a few volunteers to run a fair that day. It did surprise me to see a large amount of your staff on the list, including you, but I'm not sure if you're even aware yet. Many parents help run it during the morning, before the assembly in the afternoon. Whatever the case is, you can stand in the hall durning the assembly to see her collect the award.

If it can be kept a secret, that would be lovely, but I understand if not.

Best wishes,
Mrs Lockheart

I smiled, my mood lifting. I was so proud of her, and her resilience. She joined in the class, made friends, and had impressed me a lot.

This was the cherry on top.

This could show her that it wasn't just me telling her she was clever, and that she was talented; I didn't blame her for needing that extra push.

As she wandered back through to the kitchen, I closed the email, pulling her in for a hug. She was smiling a little, looking at her phone, but quickly shut it off.

"There's nothing to panic about, there's nothing to be afraid of, and there's nothing we can't speak about because this is your home, okay? You are safe here,"

"I know," she whispered.

"I reckon they'll be here soon,"

"Did I stop them eating tea?"