Page 63 of Friend Me

With help, I could take care of him, couldn’t I?

I’d been sure I could…until Tyler agreed with me in that half-hearted way.

I shivered, even under the blanket. I’d find a way to take care of Dad. I was strong and independent, and I had the Taser to prove it.

Tyler came back from washing the dishes and moved toward Dad’s recliner, where he’d thrown his coat when he’d come in. He stood there for a few seconds before picking up his coat. “If you’re okay, I’m going to go.”

Strong. Independent. “I’m fine. Thank you again for coming over. I don’t know what I’d have done…” I tried to swallow down the lump in my throat.

He crossed to the sofa where I huddled under my blanket. “Anytime you need help, call me, okay? I’ll always be here for you.”

I blinked away the sudden wetness in my eyes, and my chin trembled so much I couldn’t get out another thanks.

He bent and kissed the top of my head, lingering a moment. Maybe I could get through this. Especially if I could call on my friends.

“Call me tomorrow, okay? Tell me how he’s doing?”

“Okay. Good night.”

I stood and bolted the door behind him. The stairs to my room were too far away. Besides, I couldn’t let Dad slip past me. I lay down on the squashy sofa, curled up under the blanket, and closed my eyes to welcome sleep.

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