Forlorn and Forgotten

When the idea first popped into my head, I was hesitant, but then I thought, to hell with it. So I packed a suitcase. I brought every shade of blue I could, even my prom dress. Blue was his favorite color on me. Something about the tones had caught his eye that accentuated my pale skin.

I was quietly rethinking my decision as I make dinner for Charlie. I realized that he could take care of himself. He doesn’t need me. I was trying to fabricate a good lie when he walked inside. “Bells?” he called…this seemed pointless because of course I was there…I barely left the house in four months.

This made Charlie uneasy. He was easily upset with me these days and I wasn’t making things any easier. Then I realized that I had never answered him. “Yeah Dad, I’m in the kitchen.” I answered. I was trying so hard not to sound distracted or distraught.

“What’s for dinner honey?” Charlie asked routinely.

“Umm,” I answered finally looking at what I was making, “It looks like roast with carrots and potatoes.” I said slightly surprised at myself.

“Smells good, Bells, when will it be ready?” he asked routinely again.

“About twenty more minutes, Dad,” I answered with a slightly warmer tone than necessary. Yep, I thought now I’m busted.

“OK, honey I’m just gonna catch the end of the game” he said absently.

OK I thought, as a wave of relief passed over me, back to fabricating the lie.

I’ve never been a good liar but now I would have extremely convincing. For Charlie’s sake let’s hope this works…