Free Carter (The Harlow Brothers Book 1) by Brie Paisley Page B

legs in front of his headstone. I touch the words etched on the stone, wishing I had more time with him. I sigh deeply, feeling the sadness overwhelm me, and I don’t stop the tears from falling. It hurts to remember all the times Dad was sober. All the times I could rely on him, and would be the father every little girl needed. But as I got older, I noticed his drinking more and more. I noticed how he wasn’t my ‘Dad’ as much, choosing the bottle over spending time with me, or even helping me with my homework. I don’t know if he knew I saw the pain from my Mom’s actions. I knew my father loved her, and I’ll never understand why she didn’t love him the same. I have more bad memories than good, but I’ll always cherish the good times, and the times he was actually with me. Not passed out on the couch, or slumped over the toilet. It does seem bitter sweet how much he was himself before Mom left for a year. He was the perfect Dad then. He seemed happy and so carefree.
    “I’m sorry we didn’t have more time together. I know now that you did what you thought was the only option left. I know you battled your addiction every single day, but I can’t regret anything. Even some of the bad. I’m not angry anymore for you leaving me behind. I’ve forgiven you for what you did to that family. It’s taken me a long time to accept that you couldn’t help it, and I hope wherever you are, you’re finally at peace.” Somehow, I feel lighter and even though the pain is there, I know it’ll be more bearable than before. Maybe it’s knowing I can come here at anytime again that makes me feel this way. Maybe it’s knowing even though Dad isn’t here anymore, at least I have a place to come to talk to him when I feel so lost in this big world. I touch his stone one last time as I get up, and make my way back to Caden’s car. With each step, my chest loosens and my tears dry up. I wipe my face with the palms of my hands, and I smooth my two toned hair back from my face.
    I reach the car and see Caden leaning against the front waiting for me. He doesn’t say anything as he sees me. He walks to the passenger side, opens the door for me, and soon we’re heading back to Annie and William’s home. Caden rolls the windows down, and I lean my head back against the seat, letting the wind blow on my face. I close my eyes, holding my hand out the window, feeling free once again.
    And I realize, coming home was the best thing for me.
     

 

    I walk into the Waffle House and my mouth instantly waters. I nod and wave to all the Sunday regulars, as I make my way to our booth in the back of the restaurant. I slide in, not even bothering to look at the menu. I always get the same thing, and the only time Caden, Cason, and I have to tell the waitress our orders is if someone new has just been hired, or if they order something different. I enjoy coming here every Sunday with my younger brothers after our daily workouts. It’s become another tradition, just like us going to Mom and Dad’s every morning during the weekdays. Plus it’s nice to come to a place that has friendly service, and I can always count on seeing more than one person I know. Tables and booths fill the small area, and there seems to be more people here than last Sunday. The stools by the counter are all full, and the cooks behind the counter rush to fill orders. I’m surprised our booth is open, but I have a feeling our regular waitress had something to do with that. I see her wave at me, and I return the gesture.
    I look out the bay windows, seeing the heavy traffic. Rubbing my hand on my jaw, I realize I forgot to shave. I’ve had a lot on my mind, and Dad has been asking almost every day about my decision on taking over the firm. I know he’s ready to retire, and a part of me wants to say yes, more out of obligation than anything. I don’t know if it would be a good idea for me to say no because that would mean Dad would sell the firm. I sigh, hating how