breathe// 5SOS

89

Ashton

Ava went to school next day, because resilience was an important skill she needed. She agreed to go to lesson, but people were supportive and understanding.

And, because she enjoyed drama, she went to the club as Marcus went to track.

I was extremely proud of her.

Marcus went up to shower when I brought them home, but I took Ava back out for ice cream.

"How was today?" I asked, passing her a napkin to wipe the chocolate smudge across her face.

"It was okay. Everyone knows,"

"Did anyone say anything to you?"

"A lot of people were really... supportive. It was hard to focus on my work,"

"I think you did a really good job going today,"

"It made me feel a bit better because I was with my friends,"

"Why don't we invite someone round on Sunday? Maybe Sam,"

"He asked me to go to his," she giggled, "because Harry is going,"

"I think you should,"

"Are you finishing your ice cream?"

"You want it huh?"

"Can I try some please?"

I nodded and she took some, her tired eyes looking at mine.

"It sucks. A week ago I felt pretty because I had a girlfriend, and I had earrings, and now I have neither. You have to focus on mum because she has a baby in her- who will also need attention- and Marcus likes to be alone,"

"Just because my attention is more towards other things, it doesn't mean I don't love you. You're still my little girl,"

"I know,"

"This past week has been a lot to take in poppet, I know that. However, you have so many people you can text and visit,"

"Can I stay at Michael's on Saturday?"

"I'm sure we can ask him,"

She went back to her own ice cream and her focus was fully on that, so I took a photo. I loved to capture moments she was completely unaware of because it proved she could be beautiful without trying, and she didn't always believe that.

"Thankyou for being so patient with me, it's just a silly break up, but it made me feel rubbish,"

"I understand your point of view in the situation, and how much more it took you to be close and comfortable,"

"I love you," she said quietly, putting her empty put in mine and sitting next to me on the booth, "thankyou for adopting me,"

"I thought we were way past thanking me, ay?"

"But I was just this scared patient you had. You could've done your job and never thought of me again. Instead, I have a mum, and you found my brother, and I have my own bedroom with pretty clothes that look nice because I get fed, and I only have bruises when I bump into the coffee table in the living room, where there is a tv. You've never hurt me, and instead get me out of any hurt,"

"You don't see it, but you've done a lot for me too. We help each other,"

"I didn't think I would get a dad,"

I kissed her head, nudging her the other way so we could leave.

"I know I sometimes seem a bit mean to you, but I do everything in your best interest. I only want you to be able to do well,"