Part 21: Oh, how I wish...

The living room was transformed into a cozy haven, far removed from the usual hustle and bustle. We had turned off all the lights, creating an ambiance that suggested an early bedtime or a quiet night in. However, the house was far from quiet.

In the center of the room stood our makeshift tent, built from sheets and blankets draped over furniture. It was our own little hideaway, complete with fairy lights twinkling like stars, casting a warm glow across the space. Inside, the floor was covered with a colorful assortment of pillows and blankets, creating the perfect setting for an indoor camping adventure.

We had packed the night with all our favorites: snacks, board games, and a fan set to full blast to mimic the chill of an outdoor night. Our plan was simple: to enjoy a movie marathon and relish the comfort of our little fort.

As we settled in for the night, the flicker of the laptop screen illuminated our faces. Lizzy had insisted on starting a horror movie—Bye Bye Man—which neither Carrie nor I were particularly excited about. We were already on our fifth night trying to finish it, and the chill in the air made the suspense even more palpable.

The wind howling outside seemed to join in the eerie atmosphere of the film. Each unexpected creak or rustle made us flinch, and we huddled closer under the blankets for comfort. Lizzy, on the other hand, was clearly in her element, reveling in the scares while Carrie and I were growing more apprehensive by the minute.

Then, without warning, the fairy lights and laptop went dark, plunging us into complete darkness. The silence that followed was quickly shattered by screams when Lizzy, ever the prankster, illuminated her face with a torch, sending us into a frenzy. As the lights flickered back on, Lizzy's laughter filled the room, and we shot her glares mixed with giggles, grateful for the brief distraction from the movie's tension.

"That was not funny at all!" I exclaimed, still catching my breath from the scare. Lizzy's laughter, on the other hand, was unabated. She seemed to find our terror particularly amusing.

"You two are such scaredy-cats," Lizzy chortled, wiping tears from her eyes. Her lack of remorse only added to our irritation. We were convinced Mr. Bye had cursed us with his sinister presence, and Lizzy's reaction was far from comforting.

Unable to tolerate Lizzy's antics any longer, Carrie grabbed a pillow and charged at her. Lizzy, however, was quick on her feet, dodging the attack and sprinting towards the door, laughter trailing behind her.

Not wanting to be left out, I grabbed my own pillow and joined the chase. The house echoed with our laughter and the sound of feathers fluttering through the air as we hurled pillows at one another. It wasn't long before we were all in stitches, our pillow fight turning into a full-blown, feather-filled melee.

Luckily, the house's soundproofing kept our chaos contained, sparing the neighbors from our ruckus. Eventually, we collapsed onto the couch, breathless and smiling. Lizzy was still chuckling, while Carrie had managed a contented smile. I, meanwhile, was sprawled out on my huge teddy bear, grateful for the carefree joy of the moment.

"You know, I still can't believe he bought you that gift," Carrie said, catching her breath as she lay beside me. "Have you tried calling him again?"

I shook my head, my fingers gently stroking the teddy bear's soft fur. "I've tried, but he's unreachable at the moment. I didn't expect him to take my offhand comment so seriously. It's a pleasant surprise, though."

Carrie nodded thoughtfully. "It's probably best not to push it. Sometimes it's better to let things unfold naturally rather than risk coming off as too eager."

"I agree," I said, leaning back against the couch. "I've already said thank you, and I'm not sure what else to say. It's probably best to give him some space."

Lizzy, propped up on her elbows, gave me a cheeky grin. "For a second there, I thought I'd be stuck alone tonight. Your 'predator' asking you out had me worried."

I rolled my eyes, tossing a waffle at her with a smirk. "As if you would be alone with your lover boy around."

Lizzy caught the waffle and grinned wider. "Touché, but not today. He is hanging out with the boys tonight. I would have loved to show him my appreciation for the gift." Lizzy pouted.

"At least I am not the only one sulking," Carrie grumbled. "I still can't believe he rainchecked me." She was lying on the couch, looking all grumpy and defeated. Seeing Carrie in this state was both pitiful and amusing.

Usually, she was the one to give her admirers sleepless nights by playing hard to get, but this time, it seemed like the tables had turned.

Just half an hour after she was invited for the date, the pastor guy did a rain check on her. Carrie couldn't believe it. I remembered her cursing at him in frustration. We decided on indoor camping to cheer her up so that she could shake off the disappointment.

Her reaction was a stark contrast to her usual confident demeanor, where she played hard to get and kept admirers on their toes. Now, it seemed the tables had turned, and she was the one left feeling defeated.

"Forget about him, sweary," Lizzy chimed in, trying to lighten the mood. "He's probably just intimidated by your awesomeness."

The comment brought out a round of laughter from us, a welcome distraction from Carrie's disappointment. The warmth of our shared amusement momentarily lifted the mood.

However, our laughter was abruptly interrupted by Lizzy's ringtone. Before I could reach for the phone, Lizzy snatched it from the table and ended the call abruptly. Carrie and I exchanged puzzled looks, sensing something was amiss.

Lizzy's expression shifted from cheerful to unreadable before she forced a smile. "Sorry about that, guys. Just some persistent admirer," she said, trying to brush off the matter.

"Huh? Since when did your dad become an admirer?" I asked, raising an eyebrow. We all knew Lizzy's dad, and he was definitely not the type to call repeatedly. Lizzy's smile faltered for a split second before she composed herself.

"Oh, you know how dads can be sometimes," she said with a shrug, but her attempt to downplay the situation didn't fool us.

"That's true, but we also know your dad isn't the type to bother you like this. And you've been getting a lot of calls from this 'admirer' lately. Not to mention how restless you've been," Carrie pointed out, giving Lizzy a knowing look.

Lizzy sighed and ran a hand through her hair, clearly frustrated. "Alright, fine," she relented. "I'll tell you the truth. My dad's been snooping around more than usual. It's getting on my nerves, and you know what that means."

Carrie and I nodded in understanding. Lizzy's father was a prominent politician, and their relationship had been strained for years. His unexpected interference was not only irritating but also a sign of underlying issues.

"It's just so frustrating," Lizzy continued. "I'm trying to keep my personal life private, but he keeps poking around. I don't know how to get him off my back."

Carrie and I exchanged a sympathetic glance, understanding that Lizzy's outburst was fueled by her long-standing frustrations.

"I get it, Lizzy," I said softly. "Family can be incredibly complicated. It's clear you've worked so hard to build your own path and prove your independence. It must be exhausting to constantly deal with his interference."

Carrie nodded in agreement. "You've come so far on your own. You've achieved so much despite all the obstacles. We're proud of you, and we're here for you, no matter what."

Lizzy's eyes softened, and she took a deep breath, trying to regain her composure. "Thanks, guys. It just feels like every time I take a step forward, he tries to pull me back. I've worked so hard to get where I am, and it's like he's always lurking in the shadows, trying to undermine me."

We all knew how much Lizzy had sacrificed to follow her dreams. She had worked multiple jobs and managed to secure a scholarship to People's University of Art, all while keeping her relationship with her father strained but manageable. Her strength and determination were admirable, and we wanted to make sure she felt supported, even when her own family couldn't provide that.

"Maybe," I suggested cautiously, "you should consider addressing this with him directly, when you're ready. Sometimes facing the issue head-on can bring some clarity, even if it's uncomfortable."

Lizzy shook her head. "I've tried before, but every time I confront him, it just leads to more arguments and stress. It feels like I'm constantly caught in a no-win situation."

"Understandable," Carrie said gently. "It's a tough situation. But don't forget, we're here for you. Even if you don't want to talk about it all the time, just knowing you have support can make a big difference."

Lizzy managed a small smile, her shoulders visibly relaxing. "I appreciate that. Really. It means a lot to know that I have friends who understand and care."

"Anytime," I replied. "That's what friends are for. And hey, let's try to enjoy the rest of our night. We've got snacks, games, and each other's company. We can use this time to distract ourselves and have some fun."

As the conversation shifted back to lighter topics, we continued to enjoy our indoor camping experience. Lizzy seemed to be in a slightly better mood, and the warmth of our friendship filled the room. We played board games, shared stories, and laughed until our sides hurt. The night turned out to be a perfect reminder of the strength of our bond and how we could find comfort and joy in each other's company, even amidst life's challenges.

He never approved of Lizzy pursuing the performing arts. But Lizzy was determined to follow her dreams, even if it meant going against her father's wishes.

According to what Lizzy had previously told us, she was wise enough to know that her father would never spend a dime to pay for her university while she pursued her interest, so, unlike other rich kids who always rely on their parents' money, Lizzy worked smart and saved up enough money to pay for her own education. She also passed her exams, thus receiving a scholarship at the People's University of Art.

Of course, her father tried to interfere with the scholarship, but she was fortunate to have a mother who always got her back. Ever since Lizzy started university, her interaction with her father has been minimal. Even when she visited home, the two didn't cross paths.

"Why is he calling you all of a sudden?" I asked, growing concerned. The last time he called like this was when he meddled in Lizzy's romantic relationships.

"I don't know; I don't want to know," Lizzy shrugged nonchalantly.

"Maybe you should just answer and see what he wants," I suggested tentatively. Lizzy shook her head firmly. "No, I don't want to get involved in his drama again. Let's just forget about it and move on." But I knew that forgetting about it wouldn't be so easy.

"Please don't do this. This is not how friendship works, Lizzy. Talk to us—"

"Cut it out, Carrie. Not everyone can air their problems out in the open for everyone to see." Lizzy snapped at Carrie, cutting her short.

"Now you're just being mean." I huffed, disapproving of Lizzy's way of shutting us out. Still, I understood that Lizzy wasn't someone who talked about her feelings easily.

"Look, Lizzy," I said gently, "We're not trying to force you into anything. But we care about you, and we want to help in any way we can. The least we can do is share your worries. This is what friends do. You can't expect us to confide in you if you can't do the same. That's being unfair."

Lizzy sighed and looked down at her hands, her shoulders slumping. I could see the internal struggle written all over her face. Finally, she let out a deep sigh and looked up at us.

"I know," she said softly, "and I appreciate it. It's just hard for me to open up sometimes." We nodded in understanding, giving her the space she needed.

"And Carrie, I'm sorry, okay? It's just that thinking about my father frustrates me to no end. Why can't he just let me be? Why does he keep meddling in my affairs if he can't support me? Am I even his biological daughter?"

Carrie and I exchanged amused glances at her last statement, then shook our heads. There was no doubt she was his biological daughter; the resemblance between them was undeniable.

Their fiery tempers, stubbornness, and sharp tongues were clear testaments to their shared genetics. But these traits also fueled the constant clashes between them.

Seeing our suggestive gazes, Lizzy pouted and huffed. "Fine, fine. I know, I know. Why didn't I take after my mother?" She sighed dramatically, which made us chuckle.

"I'm sorry, guys. I know I can be a terrible friend and a total biatch sometimes—okay, all the time—but I love you so much and care about you. So please don't be wary of this hedgehog."

"At least you know you're one," I snorted, earning a glare from her.

"Don't worry, love. No matter how sharp your thorns are, we'll still be here to embrace you when you need to cry," Carrie said as she moved to hug Lizzy. I wasn't about to be left out of the group hug.

Lizzy smiled at us, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "You guys are the best. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"You'd probably be in jail for murdering a poor girl who was hitting on your lover," I snorted sarcastically, attempting to lighten the mood. Lizzy chuckled and shook her head.

Lizzy was the muscle, never hesitating to be physical if someone crossed her. Carrie was the voice, and I was the brain. Together, we made a formidable team that no one dared mess with.

"Seriously though," I said, "just make sure your thorns aren't too sharp," I added, causing more chuckles.

"Are you getting back at me for always ruining your moments?" Lizzy asked, her voice laced with laughter. I grinned.

"Are you purring now? I heard hedgehogs love doing that when they're happy." Lizzy pinched me, causing me to flinch, and we all laughed.

"Barbie," I called her after a moment, and she grunted in response.

"Please don't get mad, but talk to your father. Tell him all your grievances and let yourself cry so he'll see how much you're hurting." Lizzy didn't respond, but I knew she heard me and was considering my words.

"I know," she said softly, allowing us to hold her.

I know our parents can sometimes seem like obstacles to our dreams, but deep down, they love us in their own unique way. They always have their reasons and our best interests at heart, even if we don't always see eye to eye with them.

We stayed in comfortable silence for a few moments, enjoying each other's warmth. The night was serene, with only the distant chirping of crickets breaking the silence. This peaceful moment was suddenly interrupted by my phone buzzing. Carrie and Lizzy groaned in irritation.

"I swear you're taking revenge," Lizzy murmured, causing me to chuckle as I broke the hug.

"Aha, look at that. Seems like your guy next door is calling," Carrie teased, snatching my phone before I could grab it. I rolled my eyes and tried to retrieve my phone, eager to hear from Nick, but Carrie darted behind the couch, evading me.

"Impatient, are we now? What happened to not coming off as desperate, huh?" She taunted, while Lizzy picked up the bowl of waffles, made herself comfortable on the couch, and enjoyed the live show at my expense. I groaned in frustration, glared at her, and continued chasing Carrie.

"I must say, I am disappointed at how you saved the hot hunk. Guy next door, seriously? No pet name? Lizzy was right after all: You are rusting."

"Carrie," I warned, "give me back my phone!" But my friend just kept running in circles.

"Go, go, go, Carrie!" Lizzy cheered, clearly enjoying the chaos.

"Oh, anxious that he won't call back?" Carrie asked, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Don't worry, what are friends for?" She added, and my eyes widened in horror when she went ahead and answered my phone.

"No, don't—" Too late!

"Hello, neighbor. Sorry to disappoint, but it's not kitty. I'm the pretty friend." Carrie's eyes sparkled with laughter as she responded to Nick's voice.

Seeing my chance while Carrie was distracted, I lunged for her, only for her to dodge and climb onto the table.

"I must say, you're doing a great job of turning my friend into a blushing mess," Carrie teased, her eyes alight with mischief.

Carrie's antics knew no bounds, and she seemed to delight in making me squirm. "Carrie!" I protested, my face burning with embarrassment as I desperately tried to figure out how to escape. She was relentless, hopping off the table with a gleeful laugh that filled the room.

"Who's more pretty between us?" she taunted, her eyes gleaming with mischief. My cheeks flushed even deeper as I struggled to control my rising frustration.

"My, my, my... you certainly know how to make one's heart flutter," Carrie continued, her laughter bubbling up once again. Irritation surged within me as I shot daggers at her with my eyes, silently pleading for her to stop tormenting me.

"Alright, dark knight, I'll hand the phone to your kitty before she scratches me." Oh my goodness!

I'm going to kill Carrie! I screamed in my head before grabbing the phone from her and running into my room, leaving my friends laughing their heads off.