Page 16 of Shattered Dreams

My mom’s dying. She needed me there with her. I missed her and my dad. Hell, I even missed living in Port Stella.

I wished I’d never left, but I did and now it’s time to shit or get off the pot.

My cell phone vibrated on the bathroom counter. It’s a message from my dad letting me know there’s enough to come home.

Home was only two hours away and I couldn’t afford the gas to get there. My mind spun as I wandered through the house. I needed to find the title for the van. It’s been in my name since Johnny got his fourth DUI and we thought it was best.

The small box under the bed also held the kids’ birth certificates, social security cards, and immunization records. I tucked them safely in my purse, then grabbed a small bag and put some clothes inside for me.

A loud snore from the living room made me jump, but then I knew I had some time to get things done. I grabbed a bag and packed what I needed for Briar, walking it casually to the van, and then did the same for each of my boys.

I was six months along with this one, another girl. My mom’s name is Emma. I think that would be a fitting name. Then I needed to get my tubes tied. Five is enough. And even though being a single mom scares me, I have to do this.

My kids deserve better. I deserve better.

“Hey!” Johnny yelled, his voice echoing in the house. “Where the fuck are you?”

Stepping out of the baby’s room, I looked at him. “Cleaning.”

“Okay. That doesn’t answer where you were.”

I use both arms in a sweeping motion towards her room.

“You don’t need to be a smart ass, Lynn.”

Ugh. I hate being called Lynn.

“Did you need something?”

“Yeah. Get my overnight bag packed. Chris called. We’re going to a baggin’ tournament.”

If ever I needed a sign from the universe that I was doing the right thing, here it is.

“Sure, baby. When are you headin’ out?”

“When he gets here. Why are you grillin’ me?”

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to.”

I headed to our room, packed his bag, and sent my dad a text.

He’s leaving to go bag overnight.

Good deal. Money is there for you. See you tonight.

This is it. I was going home.

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