Always

Chapter Eight: Misters & Pictures

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   “You shouldn't have!” My mom says as Brian hands her her birthday gift from us both. “It's so amazing, thank you so much!” 

   My mom holds the blue and white dress to her body. 

   “It's perfect for you Mom.” I smile up at Brian, thankful that he helped me with this. Especially finding something for my mom, who's my best friend. 

   “No problem Lucy, we just thought you'd like it.” 

   “Like it? I love it! Come here you two!” My mom holds us to her, making us all laugh. 

   I'm honestly glad that Brian's here celebrating my mom's special day. It takes my dad's empty space in our home. 

   “How much did it cost?” 

   “Not telling you that!” I butt in before Brian could tell her. 

   “On fine. But would you like to stay for dinner Brian? June's cooking my favorite: Homemade Hamburger Helper.” I felt my cheeks burns as my mom told him this, but he nods. 

   “I would love to.” 

   “Then you can help.” I look at my mom. “And you can go have your me-time while we cook.” “Oh, alright.” My mom heads towards her room, as I taught Brian to cook Homemade Hamburger Helper. 

   My dad taught me how to to cook before he got really sick. But Brian fills up that hole in my chest when my dad left the world without a simple goodbye. 

   “I think you did a really good job.” I say once it's all done. 

   “You mean we did a really good job.” I smile at him as we made plates, setting up the table.

   “Mom!” 

   “Coming Dear!” We all sit at the table. Brain sat in my dad's spot, filling up it's loneliness. I could tell my mom missed him being there. This was her first birthday without him since they got married. 

   “I love you Mom. Happy birthday.” 

   “Happy birthday Lucy.” 

   “Thank you for being here with me tonight you two. You both are my world.” That's when I knew my mom accepted Brian into her life. But I messed that all up on accident. I just wish that she could see him now. 

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