Speed Queen (GxG)

Chapter 16: Last Chance

It was the last week of summer and with the racing season finally over, Judy and I found ourselves with lots of free time.

So much so, that we didn't know what to do with it all.

But, I was able to spend it all with her, no more fear looming over my shoulders. It was a weird feeling, but one I could definitely get used to...

We sat at the kitchen table, just finishing up breakfast.

I glanced up at her. "So, what's there to do around here now that racing season's over?"

She smiled wistfully. "Well, Halloween's a pretty big deal around here and every year they host a big pumpkin carving contest in the center of town."

I returned her smile, envisioning all the fun, small town things we'll get to do together.

"I bet we could do pretty good in a contest like that." I said.

She folded her arms over her chest. "You really think so?"

I nodded. "We make a great team, no one would be able beat us."

She laughed lightly as she stood, grabbing our plates. "You make a great point."

As she rinsed the plates, I found my thoughts drifting to how different life would be without my father around.

Part of me would miss him, but the other part has been begging for this freedom for most of my life. The chance to be my own person.

"What're you thinking about?" Judy asked as she sat back down.

I took a quick glance at her. "Just the future, I guess."

"How's it lookin'?"

I smiled a little, more images dancing through my mind. "Fun. Exciting... Different."

She stared at me, a look behind her eyes I couldn't quite read.

"Angela... Are you sure this is something you wanna do? I know what it's like having to leave your parents behind and it's not easy..."

I looked down, playing with the hem of my skirt. "Judy, all I've ever wanted was independence... The chance to live my own life, my way. I love my father... But, this is exactly what I need. Exactly what I want... Without you, I have no life, not anymore. So, whether you like it or not, you're kinda stuck with me."

She giggled as she stood, pulling me up with her, looking deep into my eyes. "Trust me, I like it..."

Her lips softly grazed over mine. "... I like it a lot.

I ran my hand up her arm, capturing her lips with mine. "I love you..."

She smiled. "I love you to."

Then, a knock at the door rang out, interrupting our little moment.

We shared a quick smile.

"That must be Rex. I best go let him in." She said.

I planted a quick kiss on her lips. "Hurry back."

She just nodded, walking off towards the front door while I retook my seat.

Just as I sat down though, she called my name.

"Uh, Angela, could you come here for a second?"

I stood back up and walked over. "What's wrong?"

She moved over, pulling the door open all the way.

My eyes widened when I saw who was standing on the other side.

"Can we talk?" Trisha asked.

I took a quick glance at Judy, who gave me a nod.

"Uh, sure." I said, following Trisha outside, where my fathers car sat.

He still sat inside, refusing to look over at me.

"How can I help you?" I asked Trisha.

She let out a sigh. "Sweetie, your father and I can appreciate what you're doing, but we miss you and we want you to come home with us."

I folded my arms over my chest, letting out a scoff. "I didn't hear him say that."

She looked over at the car. "I know he has a hard time showing it, but he loves you and he just wants what's best for you."

"Could've fooled me." I replied bitterly.

She looked between me and the car before marching over to it, opening the passenger door. "C'mon, Cal, I can't do this on my own."

My father lowered his head, but didn't get out.

I shook my head. "I appreciate the gesture, but I'll be staying here with Judy."

Then, I turned on my heel and started heading back towards the house.

I was almost there to, when I heard my fathers voice. "Angela... Please reconsider..."

I stopped in my tracks, but didn't turn around. "So, he does speak."

He walked up behind me, resting a hand on my shoulder. "Angela, you've made me think about my actions and I realize now that I can't force you to live a life you don't want. All I want is for you to be happy and if she makes you happy, then so be it... But, I'm not ready to lose you yet... I've already lost one woman I care about, I can't lose another... I know you're not very happy with me at the moment, but I'm asking you from the bottom of my heart, please come back with us..."

I finally turned around, looking up into his eyes. "I wish I could trust you, dad, I really do. But, I've already given you enough chances to change and you couldn't do it, what makes this time any different?"

He lowered his head. "I know I messed up and pushed you away, but I'm working on it. I promise, I can be better for you... Please, just give me one more chance."

I felt a few tears well up in my eyes. "I'm sorry, dad... But, I don't think I can... I've found my place in life and that's right here..."

He just nodded, dropping his hand to his side. "I understand... Take care of yourself then..."

I nodded back. "You to..."

Then, he turned on his heal and started heading back to the car.

I bit my nail as a few tears leaked down my cheeks. "I love you, dad..."

He stopped and turned around. "Pardon?"

I shook my head before running up to him, pulling him into a tight hug. "I love you..."

He patted my back. "I love you to, sweetheart."

When we finally pulled apart, I turned my attention to Trisha. "Watch after him for me, will you?"

She smiled and nodded. "Sure thing, sweetie."

I took a step back, looking between the two of them. "Maybe I'll see you guys another time..."

My dad smiled a little. "The doors always open."

I smiled back. "Goodbye..."

He just waved before getting back in the car, Trisha following behind him.

With one last look, he started it up and drove off down the street.

I watched him go, Judy walking up next to me shortly after.

"Hey, you ok?"

I just nodded, taking her hand in mine. "I'm great..."

She gave my hand a squeeze before wrapping her arm around my shoulder, staring out down the road with me...

   My father may've finally had a change of heart, but it was just a little to late. I had already found my place and I wasn't planning on leaving it.

   Not now... Or ever...