Love Misunderstood

That's weird; I've been home for hours and Caden still hasn't shown up. He said he would, or am I thinking of the wrong day? ... No, I could have sworn it was today when he asked if he could come round. I've texted him, but nothing. I wonder if something is wrong. Since mom is home early today, she can look after Brody for once.

I decide I am going to head to his house and make sure everything is okay. I gather my things and write a note to put on the fridge saying that I am meeting up with Caden. My phone goes off, and I see it's a text from Clara.

Clara: Hey! Caitlin loved the present. Thank you so much!

Me: Anytime! Tell her happy belated birthday from me.

I get on the bus and head to the dark side of town, but I am not leaving until I know he is okay. I fiddle with my ring as I am starting to get more scared. Am I doing the right thing? Probably not.

I get off the bus, its pretty much pitch black. Perfect!

I see Caden's house in sight. I also see some graffiti here and there. I feel like my senses are that much stronger because I am more aware of what is around me. I can feel my heart pounding in my head. I head up his driveway, and I am praying he isn't angry that I am here to see him.

Okay, I can do this. Just press the doorbell. Come on. My hand hovers over the bell, overthinking everything. Ugh! Why now do I want to back out?

Three...two...one... Ding Dong!

Please, can his dad not answer the..

"Who are you?"

..door...

He looks like he hasn't slept in years; his eyes are bloodshot, and his hand is crusty, which I am assuming is from holding a bottle of alcohol since that is the only thing I smell coming off him.

"um... Is Caden in?"

"That shit? He is upstairs; be wise and leave him while you have the chance, sweetheart." He took a second to analyse me. Eyes looking me up and down.

I feel very uncomfortable. But not as uncomfortable as what is coming out of his mouth next. "Aren't you a pretty one, so why are you around my idiot of a son?" his smile when he says that makes me feel sick to my stomach.

I would reply by being very defensive about Caden if my hands weren't shaking inside my hoodie pocket.

"Lacey?" Never in my life have I been so happy to hear Caden's voice save me from this awkward moment.

I look at him, and I can tell he too hasn't slept. He looks between me and his dad, reaches for my arm, and drags me to his side.

"We are going upstairs," he says, leading me away from his father.

"Okay, but kids, remember to keep the door open; I don't want you to make a mistake like I did when I got your mother pregnant with you." At that, his dad laughs like it is the funniest thing in the world. I am appalled and so upset that this is what Caden has to go through. I look at him, and I can see this is common, as he doesn't even flinch at the insult.

As we are walking through the living room, I start to take in his home. It isn't the most friendly of places, but it is cozy in some ways. I can tell Caden cleans this place well, considering his dad can't get off his ass and help keep his house a home. I look at the walls, and there are squares where I am assuming a photo was, maybe of Rose and Caden with their mother.

We make it to his room, and I am shocked at how nice it looks. It is still a teenager's room because I see clothes on the floor and schoolwork on the desk and bed. I take a seat on his bed and watch him just lean back on his desk.