Author's Note: Sorry for the delay, major's writer's block and also, the fact that I have so many damn ideas running through my head for so many stories that I feel the need to post at once and it's just all really ugly. Anyway, ignore this pointless rant and enjoy the chapter (even though it's mostly pointless drabble because I've completely forgotten what story I'm writing for here.) Whoo! Also, sorry for the short length-I'm a little buzzed and haven't slept in about two days, so I can't really function well right now.
….
"Rachel? What are you doing here?"
It's funny really, because in all honesty-Rachel wasn't quite sure either. She'd wanted her mother last night, and when she hadn't answered her she grew concern-but that concern immediately dissipated into anger when she realized her mother wasn't hurt or dead on the side of the fucking road like expected, oh no-she was completely fine.
Crossing her arms possessively over her chest, Rachel huffed and quickly looked away. Shelby, taking the hint that her daughter was upset, quickly ushered her inside-leading the two into the living room before she spoke again.
"Rachel, sweetie-why aren't you in school?"
Swallowing the lump in her throat, Rachel looked down at her hands, sniffling. Tears of anger built up in the corners of her eyes and trailed down her face. Noticing the pen and pad of paper beside her, she quickly grabbed it and started writing before shoving it in the face of the older brunette.
I was looking for you! You didn't respond to me last night so I got worried and thought something happened! Now I see you're fine, you just couldn't be bothered.
"Rachel, that's not true! I just…I'm dealing with my own demons too, you know?"
Scoffing, Rachel rolled her eyes before writing something else down.
And what 'demons' could those be mom? Certainly not the ones that I'm dealing with! Or the ones that won't leave me the hell alone!
Sighing in defeat, Shelby shook her head and grabbed her daughter's shoulders firmly, but not so much that she would hurt her. Rachel immediately locked eyes with hers, waiting for the blow she'd be receiving from her mother-however, it never came.
Instead, the words were soft and full of regret and guilt, along with a hint of exhaustion and sadness in them. "Honey, I'm sorry-I truly am. You're right, I should've at least called or sent you a text but I just…this isn't easy for me either, Rachel. Seeing you like this is killing me! Knowing that I can't do anything about it either isn't making matters easier!"
Nodding, Rachel bit down on her bottom lip, before drawing her knees to her chest. Her mother had quickly let go of her shoulders when she had finished her small speech and was now curled beside her with her legs tucked underneath her small frame.
"How about this?" She piped up, causing Rachel to glance back up at her mother. "How about I call your father's and the school, let them know you're taking the day off-we can stay in and watch a movie, your choice. Sound good to you?"
Sniffling, Rachel wiped at her eyes, the ghost of a smile falling upon her face as she nodded her head lightly. It seemed like Shelby was beginning to get a handle on this parenting thing, however-no good thing lasts forever.