Chapter 4: Leaving Home, Chasing Tomorrow

Thirty-Three

Time flew—two days passed in the blink of an eye.

The days blurred together—full of last-minute packing, long hugs goodbye, and promises I hoped I could keep.

At the front porch, Grandpa and the others came to see Henry and me off as we left Maple Heights.

The porch steps creaked as everyone gathered—Jamie, Grandma, Grandpa, Dad, even Buddy the dog, wagging his tail mournfully.

We claimed to be checking on the county parks near Riverbend, but in truth, we’d skirt the edge of Pine Valley and slip into Quinn Foster’s territory.

Dad winked at me, like we were in on a secret. The excuse was thin, but no one asked questions.

Jamie had already packed my food and luggage—since the journey was long, everything was simple and minimal.

He tucked a note into my bag, along with a bag of homemade cookies and my favorite scarf.

He stood at the door now, his eyes full of reluctance and love.

He tried to look brave, but I saw his hand tremble as he waved.

I went over and hugged Grandpa and Grandma tight. Grandma’s eyes were already wet, but she was so strong-willed that she forced herself not to cry, not wanting me to worry while I was away.

She squeezed me tight, whispering, "Come home safe, baby."

It was kind of embarrassing—barely two weeks together, and now we were parting again.

I laughed through my tears. "We’re like a couple of lovesick teenagers."

Who knew when we’d reunite next—three months, half a year, or even longer, depending on Quinn Foster’s response.

The uncertainty gnawed at me, but I tried to smile for Grandma’s sake.

Dad came over, helped me up, and patted my shoulder. "Good Lila, off you go."

He ruffled my hair, his eyes shining with pride.

His beard was messy, but his eyes crinkled with a smile.

He pulled me into a quick hug, whispering, "Make us proud."

"Grandpa and Dad are here. Just do what you need to do—don’t worry about home."

His words settled my nerves, like a warm blanket on a cold night.

I nodded, glancing once more at Grandpa and Grandma.

I tried to memorize every detail—the way Grandpa stood with his hands in his pockets, Grandma’s floral scarf fluttering in the breeze.

"Grandpa, Grandma." My heart was heavy. I exhaled slowly, then reminded them, "I’m leaving now. Don’t worry about me—just please take good care of yourselves."

I squeezed Grandma’s hand one last time, fighting the urge to cry. I didn’t want to let go. Not yet.

Grandma stroked my face. She was just as sad as I was, but forced herself to comfort me. "Good girl, Grandpa and Grandma know."

She pressed a kiss to my forehead, her lips cool and soft.

Not everyone makes it to seventy. Old Mr. White down the street passed at sixty, and everyone called that a good, long life. Grandpa and Grandma were both over seventy—a real blessing.

I tried to count every birthday candle, every laugh we’d shared. Time was precious, you know?

But age takes its toll. Grandpa was still in good shape, but Grandma, after years of hardship, had lingering ailments and needed constant medicine.

I made a mental note to call every week, just to check in.

Thankfully, this time they’d stay in Maple Heights and wait for my return, with Jamie there to care for them. That eased my mind.

I knew Jamie would make sure they took their medicine, ate well, and got their rest.

Dad planned to visit Mom in Pine Ridge, then head straight to the northwest border of the county with the crew.

He promised to send postcards, just like he used to when I was little.

The next time he returned to Maple Heights would be for my wedding.

The thought sent a thrill through me—something to hold onto in the months ahead.

I said no more, just climbed into the pickup truck.

The seat was cold, but I didn’t mind. Henry gave me a thumbs-up from the passenger side.

The sooner we left, the sooner we’d be home.

I took a deep breath, ready for whatever lay ahead.

I turned and saw Jamie lower his head in disappointment—he must have thought I’d left him behind.

He shuffled his feet, looking lost.

Feeling mischievous, I called out to him like I did as a kid.

"Jay!"

He looked up quickly, already a little embarrassed.

His cheeks turned pink, but he hurried over.

Sitting in the truck, I grinned at him. "Come here, I have something to tell you."

He pressed his lips together, a secret smile on his face, then came over, trying to play it cool.

He leaned in close, trying to act cool.

"Lila…"

My love.

He froze.

His eyes went wide, and for a second, he forgot to breathe.

Seizing the moment, I wrapped my left arm around his neck and planted a kiss on his forehead.

The guys in the back hooted, but I didn’t care. Jamie’s face turned bright red.

"…Wait for me to come back and marry you."

I whispered it just for him, my heart pounding.

Knowing how shy he was, I didn’t say it loudly. The kiss on his forehead in front of everyone was already bold—I didn’t dare tease him further.

He smiled, shy and proud all at once.

Besides, that was all my heart could manage—wasn’t I embarrassed, too?

I ducked back inside, feeling my face burn.

I straightened up, didn’t linger, and the truck rolled out, my face burning red.

I waved out the window until Jamie was just a speck in the rearview mirror.

As we exited the street, I couldn’t help glancing back.

The morning sun caught Jamie’s hair, turning it gold. Grandpa and Grandma stood on the porch, arms around each other, waving until we disappeared from sight. I wanted to remember that image forever.

Grandpa, Grandma, and Jamie were still there. Jamie hadn’t moved. Our eyes met for a second, and suddenly, I understood that line of poetry—

It felt like there was a river between us, but our eyes still found each other.

It felt like my heart was tethered to his, no matter how far I went.

I wanted to marry Jamie, to be with him—not just because I liked or relied on him, but because I truly loved him, just as he loved me.

It was as clear as the sky after a summer storm.

Thinking of that filled me with joy. I gave him a mischievous smile.

I pressed my fingers to my lips, sending him one last kiss.

The group moved forward—no reason to look back. But it didn’t matter. Jamie would always be waiting for me. One day, I’d find the words.

I promised myself I’d find the words, no matter how hard it was.

Sweet Jay, my love.

When I come home, let’s get married.

Thirty-Four