A/N: Sorry it took me so long to update! My computer got a virus and we had to wipe it. Luckily, I'm a save freak, so I had already made back up copies, lol. Next part won't take as long, I promise.

Chapter 21

I'm in a trance as I move towards the door. I turn the TV off on my way. Taylor and I stand together, just staring at the door like it might bite us, or something retarded like nerds think. Because apparently, in my old age, I'm turning into Brian. Fuck! Why am I thinking about them right now?

There's another crisp knock on the door, and the two of us jump slightly. "Come on, guys. I know you're in there. I just heard the television go off." Claire's voice sounds exactly the same since the last day I heard it in person.

I look cautiously at Taylor. She shakes her head and raises her eyebrows to relieve herself from obligation. I sigh and grab the knob.

Claire's got her hair down, around her shoulders now, and loosely curled. She's still stunning, and I have to remind myself to breathe. We're both quiet for a moment, taking in the sight of each other.

"Hi, John," she says. I don't know if she wants to slap me or hug me.

I can't speak yet, so just nod. I step away from the door to let her in.

Taylor is standing with her arms crossed, looking sullen. Claire moves to her quickly, wrapping her arms around her. Taylor won't hug her back, but she tucks her chin onto Claire's shoulder. They break apart.

Claire pushes Taylor's hair away from her eyes. "Go get your things, honey. Let's go home."

Taylor takes a step backwards and looks at her mother as if she's just slapped her. "I am home."

Claire sighs heavily, and her posture changes just slightly. Just enough to show her mood has gone from concerned to annoyed. "Knock it off, Tay. Go get your stuff. We're leaving."

"No, you are." Taylor's stance has changed from vulnerable to stubborn. It's almost funny how similar they are. I'm suddenly very glad I've missed these teenaged fights. I know what it's like to argue with Claire.

"You may be almost eighteen, but you aren't yet. You're coming back to Shermer, and that's final."

"Why can't I stay here? I've got a job. I've got new friends, I'm in school-" Taylor starts.

"Not for much longer," Claire interrupts.

Taylor snorts. "Why? Cause Bill won't pay for it?" I can hear the disgust in his name. I can tell by the look on Claire's face she heard it, too.

"I'm getting really tired of this attitude you have towards your father-"

"Step-father," Taylor corrects quickly. I have to make sure I don't grin, even though I feel like I've just won something.

Claire sighs again and shakes her head. I can tell this was a very familiar argument. "Bill… Bill has been an excellent-"

"Bill touched me, mom! Bill abused me!" Taylor says, her arms flying to her side animatedly. I feel my insides burn hot.

Claire only rolls her eyes. "You are such a liar."

Taylor looks hurt, but clenches her jaw and scoffs, "You're right, mom. I am lying. Bill's a model fucking citizen. But thanks for taking half a second to wonder if it was true." Her voice is low and malevolent, but it works. Claire looks deflated, knowing she's failed Taylor's little test. I can't help but join Taylor in her anger.

"I'm staying," Taylor hisses. "And that's final." She stomps out of the apartment, slamming the door behind her. Claire and I are alone.