When Hope Ends by Freya Barker

Author:Freya Barker [Barker, Freya]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Freya Barker

Jude

* * *

I watch from the window as she comes walking out of the restaurant, her phone to her ear.

Steve’s already gone. He popped by on his way out, but he picked up on my unwillingness to talk pretty quickly. He said his goodbyes and left.

My brother is gathering up his family right now, ready to head out. They’re about half an hour north of Boston, so they won’t be home before midnight as it is.

Kelty fell asleep on the couch next to her grampa, who’s been nodding off as well. I’ll get both of them to bed as soon as Ethan’s gone.

“Sure you’re okay, Jude?” he asks for the second time. I’ve done my best to put on a normal face, but he knows me well.

“Just some stuff I need to deal with tomorrow. I’ll be fine.”

“Okay. We’re ready to get out of your hair. Was good seeing Kelty so much better, man. Happy she’s doing so well.”

I return his one-armed hug, kiss Libby, and share fist bumps with the boys before walking them out.

I’m still standing in my driveway when their taillights disappear. My gaze drifts to the cottage and I notice the bathroom light is the only one on. Is she still up?

It’s probably a good thing I have to get my daughter to bed, or I might be tempted to go knock on her door. I’m still trying to rein in my emotions so it’s probably best I don’t.

Inside I say good night to Dad, get Kelty to bed, and after tidying up and turning off the lights, head upstairs myself.

Instead of turning on the lights in my bedroom, I walk straight over to the window and peek over at the cottage. It’s completely dark. She must’ve gone to bed.

I strip, and slip between the covers, without bothering to brush or wash up.

Right now I’m beyond caring.

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