My mom frowned. I’d obviously hurt her feelings. “Jaicey, why is it your instinct to hold everyone and everything at arm’s length? I’m just trying to talk to you.” My dad spoke up, looking at my mom. “Jenny, let her be. She doesn’t want to go. Let’s just drop it.” Mom sighed loudly and took a sip of her coffee. Dad looked down at me and rubbed my nose. “We’re proud of you, kiddo. We were always proud of you. We’re just glad to see that you’re starting to get back out there.” I looked down, laying my head on his chest, making sure not to let him see the small tear that ran down my cheek.
