“Do you really think so little of me, Dad?”
Snapping his eyes over to me, my father narrowed an eye and asked, “Excuse me?”
“You really think I’m going to give up everything, walk away from it all, because I’m in love with one of the most amazing men I’ve ever known.” Holding up my finger, I tilted my head and said, “Oh wait. You wouldn’t know what an amazing person he is because you’re too busy judging him.”
My father’s eyes grew dark. “My job as your father is to protect you.”
“From what? Please, Dad, tell me from what?”
Standing, he pointed at me as he raised his voice. “From borrowing money from your grandfather, quitting school, running off with someone we know nothing about. From ruining your life, Grace.”
Standing, my mother put her hand on my father’s arm and pulled him back some. “Jeff, I think you need to step outside and get some fresh air.”
Standing up, I felt my whole body shaking. “Ruining my life? How in the hell am I ruining my life? By being in love? You raised me, Dad, to always try and help those you love. Well I did. I did what I thought was the right thing to do at the time. Noah is paying Granddad back. I’m guessing you chose not to hear that part. He is selling off everything he can. He will not take the money as a handout, because that is the type of man he is.”
My father stood there staring at me. His body tense, his chest heaved as I spoke.
“As far as me quitting school, I don’t even know how to respond to that. I’ve given you no indication I’m quitting school. I’m not stupid, Dad. As much as I want to be with Noah, I’m here.” Pointing down, I repeated myself. “Here, Dad. Not where I really want to be.”
“What about after school, Grace, when you are supposed to be starting up your career? Will you be there for Alex or for Noah?”
My mother sucked in a breath as she stood in front of my father. “Stop. You’re angry and you need to stop before you say something you’ll regret.”
Feeling the tears roll down my face, I looked away. Seeing my purse, I knew exactly what I needed to do. Everything in that moment became clear to me. Walking over to it, I picked it up and headed for the front door.
“Grace? Sweetheart, where are you going?” my mother asked as I reached for the door and opened it.