As the rain fell against the glass window, Tilly found herself returning to Hollyoaks the same way she left. Only this time she was alone on the bus. Things hadn't quite worked out the way she had hoped with Chloe. At first it was fun and exciting but soon the novelty of share houses and living paycheck to pay check had soon worn off. Tilly was far too sensible for that type of life. As much as she had tried to love Chloe, it was hard to love someone who was in love with the world and its wonders. Tilly would never be able to tame her, nor did she wish too. Esther had tried all those years ago and Tilly had felt caged.
As the bus travelled along the country roads, Tilly started to feel sick in the stomach. Hollyoaks was just a mere half-hour away and she had no idea what or who awaited her arrival. It had been several years since leaving and she had hardly spoken to anybody back home. There were a few emails to Esther but she never replied to them. Tilly had the good sense to stop trying after awhile and figured that Esther would contact her when she was ready. George had stayed loyal and kept in regular contact. Calling Tilly whenever he could, checking in on her and making sure was doing ok. After all she was his oldest friend and after the loss of Maddy and Callum both had sworn no matter what they would always remain friends. The truth is if it weren't for George, Tilly would have never found the strength to leave the life she was living or the courage to come back home.
The bus all of sudden came to a halt.
"Last stop" announced the bus driver.
As Tilly looked out the window she could just make the lights of the price slice. Taking a deep breath, she rose from her seat and got ready to step off the bus. Tilly stood alone, suitcases by her side. There were no familiar faces to greet her. As the clouds closed in and the rain got heavier, Tilly thought to herself how fitting it was that the weather matched her mood. Bending down to pick up her bags, she set off for her parent's house. They had since moved to Spain and retired in a quaint little house by the sea, leaving Tilly the house.
'Tilly" came a familiar voice….
"Tilly Evans wait up", as Tilly turned around she was greeted by two arms around her waist and twirling her around she caught sight of her dearest friend.
"Oh George thank you for coming".