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Ten

A week after Charlie left, Jody lay in her bed reading through all the letters and notes Charlie had written her while they were together.

Jody,

I went and talked to Cooper today. I know I promised you last night that I wouldn't do anything crazy, but I couldn't help it. It wasn't that crazy though. I just went up and talked to him. I told him I understood and can appreciate that he has feelings for and… well, then I sorta exploded on him.

I'm really sorry Jody, I was trying really hard not to. I guess it just kinda all broke to the surface. But, at least he won't try to come on to you anymore… I hope. I kinda got the feeling he didn't care what I had to say. So much for that.

I don't know why I'm writing you this. I'm going to see you tonight and I could just always tell you then. Oh well. I love you.

Love,

Charlie

Jody smiled and folded up the letter. She unfolded another one and was about halfway through it when there was a lock on her door. She dropped the paper and opened the door. He dad came in and hugged her. He sat down on the bed and Jody sat next to him.

"Jody, I've been thinking. It's really not fair for us to ask you to stay any longer. You're 21 years old and you need a life of your own."

"But… you're not asking me, I want to stay. I love all of you and I want to help you. I know this is hard and I just wanna… I dunno."

"Jody, honey, that's… unnecessary. We'll be fine as long as you visit- not all the time though. Trust me."

"But, I can't go back to New York."

"Why not?"

"Because… I'm scared." Jody admitted.

"Scared? Of what?"

"Of everything! I'm scared that Cooper won't let me dance! I'm scared that everything will be different. And I'm mostly scared of… getting my hear broken." Jody said quietly, immediately wishing she hadn't.

"What?"

"Nevermind Dad, nevermind."

"Does this have anything to do with that young man that was here last week?"

Jody shrugged. "His name is Charlie."

"Well, whatever his name is, he's luck to have you. And you should go back to New York."

Jody nodded. "Ok Dad, if you really want me too."

"Great! You can leave next week!" Mr. Sawyer kissed his daughter's forehead and left.

~~~~* ONE WEEK LATER *~~~~

Jody stepped out of the gate and into the crowded airport. She stood to the side and looked around.

"JODY! OVER HERE!" Someone called out.

Jody spun around and pushed her way through the crowd. Eva, Erik, and Charlie were standing there. Jody hugged Eva and Erik, then turned to Charlie.

Charlie hugged her tightly and kissed her. Jody wrapped herself in Charlie and they just stood there like that for a few minutes.

Eva and Erik looked on, but got bored quickly.

"Charlie! Jody! I really hate to break this up, but we should get Jody's bags or something."

Jody stepped back and looked into Charlie's deep blue eyes. Charlie put his arm around Jody as they walked down to baggage claim.

"So," Eva asked, "How's your dad?"

"He's ok, I guess. It's only been a week, so… they're all still taking it pretty hard…"

"I love you Jody." Charlie whispered in Jody's ear.

"Yeah, I know that Charlie." Jody said, pulling out of Charlie's arms. "But that doesn't fix everything." She walked ahead to keep her distance.