Almost Easy

Chapter Eighty-Three:

Zacky’s POV

“How are you holding up, Sweetie?” Holly asked me. I looked over at her. I was perched on the edge of Lydia’s bed. I shrugged.

“I know that we didn’t spend loads of time together, but I miss her. You know? I’ve never had a sibling before. I like having a sister. It’s nice having her around. She’s like the glue that I didn’t even know we were missing. I mean, my friends are great, but it’s not the same. My dad and I have always been close, but adding Lydia to the mix improved things. It’s a whole ‘nother dynamic. And when you and everyone else got here, it really started to feel like a real family.”

“I feel the same way, Baby.” Holly told me as she put her arm around me, pulling me into a hug. I leaned into her and accepted it. She is the mother I never had.

“It’s not fair that someone can just come in and take her. They took her away and everything is different, now. I feel so fucking helpless. I hate it. I have never felt like this. Is this how my Dad feels?” I asked her. She kissed the top of my head and sighed.

“I imagine it’s a bit worse for Doug… For a parent, it feels like it’s your job to protect your children at all costs. When something happens to them… you take it personally. When, I found out that Hayden’s father was hurting him like he was while I was away… I lost it. I couldn’t understand how someone could put their hands on their own child, their flesh and blood. I came home as fast as I could and I left him. I kicked him out and told him never to even look at our son, again. I felt worthless and guilty. I mean, how could I not see how much he was suffering? A mother should be able to tell what’s happening to her own son. I have never forgiven myself for letting him get hurt that way. I don’t think I ever will. Your father has one of the biggest hearts I have ever known. If he feels anything like I do, and I know he does, then he’s blaming himself for all of this. He isn’t going to ease up on himself or listen to reason until he knows that she is safe.” She explained to me, quietly. I nodded.

“What do I do? I’m trying to be there for him, but he’s so wrapped up in his own head.”

“Just let him know that you’re here and you aren’t going anywhere. I know it’s difficult, but he’s doing his best to stay busy and try and get her back. He may act like he doesn’t notice what you’re doing, but I promise you that he appreciates you. When everything is said and done, he will realize how much your support helped. Don’t give up on him. It’s okay to feel what you’re feeling, Zacky. There’s no right or wrong way to feel in a situation like this. We’ll get her back. We have to.”

Notes

Brian's POV tomorrow!:)

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Chocolate things and eye candy for all,
Katie