Chapter 19. Holding in the Fear

Waking up, Jackson is not in bed. Smiling, I get out and dress. Walking downstairs, I see Jackson and Marcus talking. I remember that now Jackson is staying, Marcus will be leaving. I need to be strong. I can’t let Jackson see just how much it hurts to see him walking away, or how much it scares me that he might not return.

Looking at the clock, it is 12. I have slept half the day away, but tomorrow is Christmas Eve and I can’t wait for Christmas Day, especially to see what Jackson has planned for our night. Walking in the kitchen, I start cooking. I should eat. I have hardly eaten at all. Jackson walks through smiling.

“Going to go get the girls. Marcus will stay here with you to make sure you’re okay.”

Kissing my head, he smiles, and I have a feeling this is where Marcus says he is leaving and when. Watching him walk out, I don’t say anything else, just staying quiet. I finish cooking and sit down to eat. Marcus walks over to join me.

“I will be goin