Mysterious Romance

Emma

I debate on whether to say anything to Elijah about how Caleb was in school, just a few years ago. But in the end I can't think of anything I want to say- and much as I don't believe people's morality can completely change, I have to give Caleb a chance.

"Have a good evening!" I say, waving to Elijah.

"Thanks!" he says.

I'm just going to watch. I'll be there whenever Elijah and Caleb hang out, and I'll do what I can.

I only hung out with Elijah occasionally before this. We were more acquaintances than friends, but I hope it doesn't seem too weird that I'm showing this sudden interest in hanging out with them.

I sigh, driving on autopilot as my mind travels back to my days in school, the mocking, toxic friend group that I distanced myself from.

I was able to distance myself from them, but George was still friends with them, and when he most needed support they turned on him and mocked him.

I try to quell my anger as the memories flood back.

I specifically remember a post Caleb made.

"You're an idiot, that's all. Only an idiot would fail the GED. You should give up and take over for the school janitor, because you'll never be able to get a good job." I repeat to myself out loud. "I'll never trust him. I don't believe that people like that change. And it wasn't just that one thing, either. He was always saying things like that, hurting people and laughing about it."

I take a deep breath and focus my eyes on the road so I can drive safely.

"Those people just don't have consciences like ours. They're dangerous, and I don't need to see them as people."

I was too comfortable today. Being taken in by the friendly side of him, while knowing full well what he does to people when they need help. It was like that in my early school years, too, I wanted to be part of that group when I saw them laughing and doing things together, and I had to learn what lay underneath it.

I pull up in front of the house, and find that Taylor's car is here. Is it really that late? I was out longer than I realized. He works at a grocery store on most days of the week. He says he's working on getting another job, but nobody's hurrying him.

Mom, dad, and Finn, the oldest, all have good jobs, and mine is decent.

I pull my keys out of my purse and let myself into the house.

Cynthie is running around yelling,

"I beat a high level player in FortCraft!"

She runs up to me, and I listen to her talk about it as I hang my purse by the door and sit down on the couch.

When she's finished her play-by-play of the match I find myself smiling fondly.

"Good job, Cynthie." I say, clapping her on the shoulder.

She beams at me, and I feel better. I can almost forget meeting Caleb.

"Dinner will be ready in fifteen minutes!" May yells loudly from the kitchen.

"Almost done!" Mom yells from upstairs.

She's at her computer working on a case- mom is a private investigator.

Dad comes out of the master bedroom wearing his slippers and yellow duck pajamas.

"It's my Emma! How was your day at work?" he says, plopping onto the couch and turning on the TV.