Torn between risking it all and losing the man she loves, Ava must make a choice, but in the process of making this choice, Ava must accept the consequences of her actions and the damage that it leaves.
Series Order: Baby Steps, Colossal Jump, Movin...
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The sight of Thomas and Angela's house is a bigger welcome than I'd initially expected. Staying away from Blake appeared to be harder than I anticipated. I hadn't realised how much of an addiction his presence in my life had become. Neither the less, I'm excited to be home. The thought of his warm arms wrapped around me feels like heaven.
"Thank you for dropping me off." I turn to Mum and smile.
"No problem, hun." She smiles.
"I'll see you soon." I lean over the car so that I can give her a tight hug.
I slowly unbuckle my seatbelt and get out of the car as she pops the boot open for me to collect my belongings. I sling the bag over my shoulder, close the boot, and then stand towards the side of the road so that I can wave goodbye.
The pebbles crunch under the wheels as she drives away. I can't help but feel the comfort and safety go with her. Shaking my head, I can't let myself get too down, I can do this, remember?
When she's gone, I turn around and walk towards the house. I veer off the side so that I can slip through the side gate that leads to our section.
As I walk down the pathway, the back door to his parents' house opens and Angela's head pops out. She's got a giant friendly smile on her face which makes me feel welcome. Angela walks out of the house and charges straight towards me with open arms.
"You're back!" she yells excitedly. "I'm so happy to see you." Angela sweeps me up into a tight hug and snuggles me tight.
"I'm glad to be back," I say.
"I bet Blake will be too. He's been moping around my house like a bad smell." She shakes her head. "What will men do by themselves? I swear I caught him trying to sneak his washing into his father's stuff." She laughs whole heartily.
"Ah, so that means I'm not walking into a weeks' worth of washing?" I giggle.
"You're lucky I like you, Ava, I just saved you from the washing."
"Thanks, Angela."
"Don't worry! When Thomas and I first moved in together, I cleaned and cooked just to get away from him," she mutters. "Sometimes in relationships, you need space to sort your head out and I don't think there's anything wrong with that. You could kick Blake out next time, then you can have the house to yourself."
"Are you kidding?" I laugh. "I'm moving to your house. I want someone to do my washing."
"You're welcome to come over anytime, Ava! My house is your house."
"Thanks again, Angela!" The generosity Angela and Thomas have given me is overwhelming. I can't believe I'd get the chance to meet someone who is so open-hearted and welcoming – these same people are going to be the ones to help guide my little one through life.
"Now I'll let you return to Blake." Angela gives me one more hug before she returns to the house.
I hesitate walking towards our house, I just stand there and think. The way Blake and I departed was shattering. He begged me on the porch of my parents' house to come back with him, but I tore myself away and forced him to go home. While he was pleasant through messages, I worry how he really feels.
