I know what he means. I get up and help Mom with the dishes, and then I curl up on the couch in my usual spot to write.
I’ve written a couple more paragraphs for my fake article on the campground when Ben appears in front of me.
“Are you coming to the bonfire tonight? Last chance.”
I start to say no like I always do, but then Colton Wild’s happy face flashes in front of me. He’s so full of life, so irritatingly bossy and yet sweet.
“Yes,” I say as I stand up to go get ready. “I think I will.”
Mom turns around and looks at me from the sink, her expression clearly surprised. I shrug and go into the bathroom with a tank top and cut-offs. I work on my hair for so long that Ben starts knocking on the door.
“Coming!”
I open the bathroom door, but only Mom is there.
“The boys stepped outside to wait for you,” she says. “You look very pretty, honey.”
“Thanks.”
“I like that tank top. The shade of green really shows off your eyes.”
That’s why I chose it.
I smile at her and go to leave, but she takes my arm.
“Sky? I realize life isn’t fair right now and hasn’t been for a while.”
I give her a kiss. “It’s okay, Mom. We’re all doing our best.”
“I want you to have a normal life as a teenager. And you will. But for now, we have to remain careful.”
“I know. I am being careful.”
“Skylar.” Mom gives me a knowing look. “Did you meet a boy?”
“No,” I say too quickly. “Why would you ask that?”
“I recognize the signs.” She smiles. “You’re going to the bonfire for the first time all trip. And you’re dressing up.”
“Mom, I’m not dressing up…”
She hugs me hard. “The timing may be off. That’s all I’m saying.”
Tears clog my throat as she holds on a second longer.
“I know it’s not fair,” she says. “I’m so sorry, honey. Just…if you’re going to go, have fun, but be safe. Okay?”
I nod. “It will be all right, Mom.”
Chapter Seventeen
Skylar
Nighttime reminds me of my father’s drunken tantrums. So, normally being outside at night could throw me into a panic attack. But it’s a full moon, and that helps. Plus, the warmth from the bonfire makes everything feel a little safer.
And the truth is—I can’t stay away from Colton Wild.
Even though I know I have to. Our lives depend on me listening to my mother. This is no time to be rebellious and do normal teenage things like ignore your mother’s warnings. This is the time to pay attention to every single thing she says and make sure you follow them.
