A New Life

Temporary Guardianship

It has been two weeks since I arrived at the O’Hara’s, I got really lucky being put here. Everyday we get up at the c***k of dawn and do some of the hardest work I’ve ever done. I’ve even gained some muscle in my arms and legs. I can’t imagine how Scarlett does everything here alone. 

As I walk from the stables after cleaning up one of the horses stall, I see a car in the drive. I walk in the back door and announce myself. “Scarlett I’m all done in the stables!” 

Scarlett replies, “Awesome girl, I don’t know what I’m going to do without you.” As she walks into the kitchen, behind her I see Sarah. 

“Hello Sophia, I have some news for you.” Sarah says. 

“News? Is it about my parents? Did they find out who did it? I ramble frantically. 

Sarah hesitates, “No, uhm this is only in regards to your guardianship.” She frowns and continues on “ A friend close to your family filed for temporary guardianship and you will be placed with them.” 

Nothing she said relayed to my brain. How could there still be no information on what happened to my parents. Why isn’t anyone trying to figure out what happened to them.

Then Scarlett interrupts my thoughts, “Sophia, hun, are you ok?” 

I look at Scarlett and I just can’t form words. I feel the tears building and I just can’t stand there talking to them anymore. I run off to my room and throw myself on the bed. I let all the tears flow out, I haven’t cried since the first night here. I keep telling myself I have to be strong and not let the pain consume me, I can’t be vulnerable. But look at me now, I lost all self control. 

I hear a knock at my door and Scarlett peaks in. 

“Hun, you ok ? Can we talk about it?” Scarlett asks. 

I look at her and nod yes while wiping the tears from my eyes. 

“I know this is all overwhelming right now, you’re just getting comfortable here and now you got to go somewhere else. But being with people you know maybe what you need right now.” Scarlett says, giving me a reassuring smile.

I then realize Sarah was saying someone got temporary guardianship of me. 

“I was upset that no one has any news about my parents. I didn’t even pay attention to that or think to ask who.” I reply. 

Scarlett patted my back, “It’s ok, I’m sure she’s used to this kind of thing.” 

We walk out to the kitchen where Sarah is sitting and she smiles in our direction. 

“Sorry Sarah, I was feeling very overwhelmed.” I said. 

Sarah replied, “It’s ok, your reaction is completely understandable.” 

I halfway smiled. 

This woman is like a damn robot, it’s like every response is automated. 

“So who are these family friends that have gotten guardianship?” I asked.

Sarah looks through her file with my name on it, “Mr. Caldwell, James Caldwell.” She says.