I handed Ash my phone, and without question, she knew already to hold in a way so as to not accidentally end the call. Sharp ears like hers, private conversations aren't so private anymore.
She knew exactly what I was about to do, that's why she wasn't saying a word or was even doing a thing to stop me. Like Amanda, she already knew there was no other outcome to this than me succeeding.
And I will succeed.
"Just hold it out for me, okay?" I told her, letting my hands rest in the warmth of hers for just a brief while, before I began shambling down the porch steps, one excruciating limp at a time.
Then I realized I forgot to address one last time, so I did a quick turn, only to find that she was already following my every step the very instant I made a move.
Diligent, endearing, by my side literally every step of the way… but that's not what I needed from her right now.
Yes, I know, I know. I have absolutely no story structure at all, I'm the worst when it comes to story pacing - but hey, I did it. The barrier's finally gone, Mc finally conquers his obstacle. All that past 3-4 chapters setting stakes hopefully building onto this climax.
Now it's Mom's turn to fill her end of the bargain. How will that go? Well, guess we'll see.