Chapter 74: Too Painful, Part 1

Trent scooped me up in his arms, carried me to his truck, and then drove me home. He'd barely gotten the truck in park when Aunt Beth, Uncle Dean, and my father came running out of the house.

"Chloe. Don't you dare take off like that again," Aunt Beth admonished, but there was no force behind her words.

"Sorry. I needed some time."

"That's it. We're leaving tonight. Right now." Dad pointed to emphasize his words. "Get your stuff, Chloe."

"No." I took Trent's hand. "Not until I get a chance to say goodbye." Those words were vile on my tongue.

"So you can take off again? I don't think so. Get inside, young lady," Dad demanded.

"That's enough, Frank." Uncle Dean's voice boomed like a bullhorn. "She may be your daughter, but this is still my house." He turned to me. "Say your goodbyes, Chloe, and then come inside."

"Thank you." I frowned, fighting to hold back a fresh wave of tears.