THE WEIGHT OF DREAMS, Cole Walter ✓

12| WHISPERS IN THE WIND

AS THE MORNING UNFOLDED, Austin delicately broached the subject of the bonfire and Charis's recent interaction with Cole. Despite her attempts to downplay any underlying tensions, Austin, sensing the subtleties, decided to seek Katherine's counsel. With her innate understanding of interpersonal dynamics, Katherine could offer valuable insights into the situation.

As Austin conversed with Katherine on the phone, Charis couldn't help but overhear their discussion. Despite feeling a twinge of guilt for not confiding in her father directly, she understood his need for outside guidance in navigating their delicate situation. Her respect for his efforts to understand and support her grew, even as she grappled with her own emotions.

Charis found solace in the fact that her first class wasn't until 10 a.m., allowing her to accompany Austin without the pressure of rushing to school. Initially hesitant, she eventually accompanied Austin into town for a milkshake and a visit to the automotive shop. It was a reluctant step outside her comfort zone, particularly in the aftermath of the recent, humiliating events. Nonetheless, she recognized the importance of facing challenges head-on, even when they felt daunting.

During the drive into town, Charis found herself reflecting on recent events, her thoughts inevitably circling back to Cole. Despite his text about the foal, she couldn't shake the disappointment she felt at his lack of concern in person. The promise he made about refraining from drinking, only to break it so easily, stoked a flicker of anger within her. Yet, beneath it all, there lingered a sense of resignation. Their conversations, albeit brief and mediated through text, had addressed these issues, leaving Charis torn between her frustrations and a reluctant understanding of their complicated dynamic.

Upon arriving at the automotive shop, Austin's errand proved more time-consuming than anticipated. Sensing Charis's unease, he suggested she proceed to get some milkshakes while he completed his task. With a resigned nod, Charis braced herself for the social dynamics awaiting her at Lark's, understanding that her friends Skylar and Grace worked there.

Stepping into the shop, Charis prepared herself for any potential encounters, knowing that her presence might stir up various reactions among those she knew. Despite the uncertainty and apprehension, Charis resolved to navigate the situation with grace and composure, ready to face whatever awaited her.

As Charis stepped into the coffee shop, she immediately spotted Kiley behind the register. Anticipating the inevitable encounter, she steeled herself with a sigh, reminding herself of Kiley's inherent kindness.

"Hey," she greeted Kiley with a forced smile.

"Hi," Kiley responded, her surprise evident. Charis couldn't help but sense the tension.

"Can I get two chocolate milkshakes to go?" Charis requested, trying to expedite her departure.

"Sure, just a second," Kiley replied, masking her unease with a smile.

"Charis!" a familiar voice called out, breaking the awkward silence. Charis turned to find Skylar, Jackie, and Grace sitting nearby.

"Hi, guys," Charis greeted them with a strained smile, her apprehensions materializing. She hoped this interaction would be brief, but with Grace present, she doubted it.

"Come, sit," Grace urged, gesturing to an empty seat.

"I actually have to get going," Charis attempted to decline, motioning towards Kiley at the milkshake machine.

"The milkshake machine is taking forever, so it'll be a few minutes," Kiley interjected, voicing her frustration.

"Come on," Grace persisted, compelling Charis to reluctantly take a seat next to Jackie.