Riding back to the house, was a rare treat for Casey. With the music blaring, and her friends surrounding her it felt like old times. With a mild lurch the car stopped in front of the house. "Don't look so scared Case, it's only your mom," said Eric with a grin. "I never get my way in this house." Marla slapped her hand on her knee. "Damn maybe we should take her out to dinner then." They laughed, and the nervousness was broken. When they entered they saw everyone in the dining room, already eating dinner. 'That's wicked harsh,' Casey thought. She cleared her throat to catch their attention, which then everyone looked at her.
"So you were actually telling the truth about meeting people," said Derek, incredulously. "Yes, and mom I know it's short notice, but Marla has something to ask you." She shoved the red-head forward, and she began to stutter. "Well, Mrs. Mac it's Halloween next week, and I know you haven't seen me in like ever, but all of us have really missed Casey, and I was wondering if she could spend the week with us?" The air was still, but as always Derek found his voice, "Casey has to tutor me for school." Casey stomped her foot, "I forgot about that. But I'm sure nobody would mind if we started sometime next week." Derek licked his bottom lip but didn't say anything.
Nora stood up, "I guess I can part with my daughter for a few day." Casey gave a triumphant punch in the air, sending the hat she had specifically bought to cover her new hair-style from her family on the floor. It's safe to say there were gasps. Nora's mouth went agape, as she touched a lock of her daughter's hair. "This is different." Casey shrugged, "I just thought it was more me, than what you did to my hair." Casey swallowed a lump that had lodged itself in her throat. She had never confronted her mother about the changes she had made in her, and she was sure her mother was going to blow a gasket.
"It looks very unique on you sweetie," Nora sighed, "Why don't we pull up some chairs and all of you can join us for dinner before you leave." The group complied all of them squeezing into the tight space. Allen sat next to Casey, and she smiled at him. "So what grade are all of you in?" "Edwin and me are in seventh, Marti's in third, and Casey and Derek are in twelfth," said Lizzie in one breath. "They're all growing up and out," said George with a soft chuckle. "Scary, but we all have to," said Allen quietly, as he easily put his arm around Casey's chair.
In that second Casey saw a familiar look cross Derek's face. The same look he gave Sam during that awkward dinner, just before they started dating. It wasn't the same, this time
A swelling of pride loomed within her chest, settling there, making her face glow. Casey would never admit to anyone, her feelings for Derek. The way he made her feel alive, the way they balanced each other out. At night she'd restlessly toss and turn wondering if a single knock on his door, and several forbidden words would make a difference.
She just needed a sign, and maybe that look was it. 'Maybe he'll miss me while I'm away, and gain the confidence to tell me.' She thought to herself with a small smile. Casey went upstairs with Marla and Jackie to throw some clothes and other necessities into her duffel bag. Within ten minutes they were back downstairs. "Well, I'm off, at least Derek will have a few days without me pestering him." Her family smiled, but said nothing. "We love you honey, don't forget that," said Nora hugging her daughter close. "I love you guys too." Casey then hugged Lizzie and Marti kissing then each on the cheek. She headed for the door suitcase at hand. But gave one last look at Derek, and it surprised her how intently he stared back. The look made her heart leap with excitement. At the same time it gave her such apprehension that it scared the hell out of her.