Escaping Parker - F.T. Zele Page 0,64

you’ll see. You’ll actually get to experience seasons here. I think you’ll enjoy it.” He moves behind me, putting his legs on each side.

He leans back using the coffee table for support, and pulls me back with him, wrapping his arms around me. With just his touch, all my insecurities melt away, and I’m not sure that’s such a good thing. I’m thinking with my heart when I know I should be using my brain. My heart has gotten me into so much trouble before; it’s a scary thing to go by. For once, I want to be the logical thinker, know when danger is coming, and how to avoid it. Or maybe it’s the fact that I do know how to avoid it in this situation, and I don’t want to admit that.

What he’s hiding is big, because he wouldn’t be hiding it if it wasn’t. I just hope that I’m strong enough to accept it and help him move on and see better days without the weight of his past on his shoulders anymore.

“So, Black Friday shopping, yes or no?” he asks, nuzzling his chin between my neck and shoulder.

“Don’t you feel bad about all those people who have to work and not get to spend the time with their families?”

“Yes and no. Some might have to have that job to keep food on their tables, some depend on that income to pay rent. What if nobody went out and they didn’t get paid? That would be worse.” While I do see his point, I have my own.

“What about the ones who don’t have family and use that job to keep from thinking about how lonely they are? Or the ones who are threatened to be fired if they don’t go in?” I’m turning into a sap.

“If you feel like going after dinner, we’ll go. If not, we’ll hang out here together. No biggie.” He gives me a peck on the cheek.

We continue to silently sit by the fire, just enjoying each other’s company. Sometimes words aren’t needed, especially when there are plenty going through my head, and I’m sure his as well.

We’ve been cooking all day, Rig manning the turkey while I make sure everything else is getting done. The smells make me hungrier than I have been in a long time, and I can’t wait to finally sit down.

I’m excited to eat, and even more excited about the food coma that comes with it. I’ve been feeling like I haven’t been getting a lot of rest lately, but haven’t said anything to Rig. I don’t want him to think I can’t handle going to work all week, along with household duties.

“Everything is just about ready. I’m going to start to bring the food out to the table.” I let Rig know, and he helps bring out the turkey.

We fill our plates, and before he takes a bite I stop him. “I thought it would be nice to maybe say something we are thankful for. I know it’s just us here, so it doesn’t have to be long or anything like that.”

“Sure, why don’t you start?” He gives me the floor.

I take a moment to think about it, so many things going through my mind, so much I’m thankful for.

“Ok, well, I’m thankful for being able to have this meal in a new place, no longer being in fear, for meeting Andrew, and most thankful for having you by my side on this journey. I tried for a long time to get away and wasn’t strong enough on my own. If it wasn’t for you guys, I don’t know if I would even be around to celebrate this holiday, and for that I’m thankful,” I say, feeling all sentimental.

“Well, this isn’t really my thing, but I’m thankful for being able to help people. I’m thankful that I was assigned to your case, and I’m thankful that I get to spend the holiday with you so you don’t have to be alone.” I don’t get the warm and fuzzy vibe from him, but I’ll take it.

“Alright, time to dig in.” I taste my first forkful of the casserole I made.

Remembering the story Rig told me yesterday, I try and eat slowly so all of our hard work won’t be demolished in a matter of minutes.

“How is everything?” Rig asks, shoveling food in his mouth like he hasn’t eaten in days.

“Perfect, looks like you don’t mind it much either.” I motion for him to wipe the corner of his