THE WEIGHT OF DREAMS, Cole Walter ✓

18| INDIFFERENCE

IN THAT FLEETING MOMENT OF TRANQUILITY, Charis and Cole found respite from the chaos and uncertainty that often clouded their lives. As they journeyed from the Walters to the concert venue, the soothing melodies of Dire Straits filled the air, weaving a harmonious backdrop to their shared experience. The crisp evening air carried a hint of warmth, allowing them to forgo heavy coats and simply enjoy the comfort of their sweatshirts.

Wrapped in each other's embrace, Charis and Cole found solace in the simple pleasure of companionship. With her head nestled against his shoulder, Charis felt a sense of peace wash over her, a rare moment of calm amidst the storm of their turbulent emotions. Cole's gentle humming of "Portobello Belle" only added to the serenity of the moment, his melodic voice blending seamlessly with the music that surrounded them.

Outside, the landscape unfolded in a tapestry of serene beauty, each passing scene a testament to the quiet majesty of the world around them. Rolling hills stretched out into the distance, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, while patches of verdant forest whispered secrets of ancient mysteries.

In this tranquil interlude, Charis and Cole found a brief respite from their worries and fears, a chance to simply be together and revel in the simple joys of life. And as they continued their journey, the music of Dire Straits serving as their soundtrack, they embraced the fleeting moment of happiness, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, united in their bond of love and companionship.

As Cole received Danny's call to pick up Jackie, a sense of reluctance washed over him. He knew all too well the tension that simmered between him and Jackie, the unresolved conflicts that seemed to perpetually linger between them. Despite Danny's insistence, Cole couldn't bring himself to face Jackie, not when their relationship was fraught with unresolved issues and bitter disagreements.

Charis, on the other hand, remained indifferent to the prospect of picking up Jackie. While she harbored no ill will towards Jackie, she also had no desire to entangle herself in the ongoing conflicts between Cole and Jackie. Lately, their interactions had been marred by heated arguments and strained conversations, leaving Charis feeling weary and drained.

For Cole, the thought of confronting Jackie only stirred up feelings of frustration and resentment. He had grown weary of their constant clashes and the underlying tension that seemed to permeate every interaction. Deep down, he knew that picking up Jackie would only heighten their existing conflicts, further fueling the flames of discord between them.

As Cole's truck rumbled down the road, Charis couldn't help but admire the smooth purr of the engine. Cole had spent countless hours rebuilding it, pouring his heart and soul into every bolt and screw. But just as they neared the destination, the engine began to splutter and cough, and Charis's heart skipped a beat.

"Oh no, not now," Cole muttered, his frustration palpable as he tried to coax the truck back to life.

Charis felt a surge of panic rising within her, memories of her brother's accident flashing before her eyes. But she pushed the fear aside, focusing on the present moment. "Can you fix it?" she asked him, her voice trembling slightly.

She found herself ruminating on her brother's final moments, a mental journey she didn't actively choose but one that her mind often embarked upon involuntarily. Yet, as she grappled with these haunting thoughts, she realized that they were not relevant to the present situation. What mattered now was helping Cole, supporting him through his struggles, even if it meant confronting uncomfortable truths.

Cole's brow furrowed in frustration. "I don't have my toolbox. If we didn't have to pick up Jackie, we wouldn't even be here," he grumbled, his tone laced with irritation.