Chapter 2: Charlie’s House
Chapter 2
Judith lingered briefly at the doorway, her eyes filled with a blend of concern and determination. She reached out to gently touch my shoulder, offering a reassuring squeeze.
"Remember, Jake, call me if you need anything. I'll just be in Vegas with your Aunt Liz. Try to enjoy yourself here," she said softly, a hint of anxiety in her voice.
"I will, Mom," I replied, managing a convincing smile. "Have fun in Vegas."
She smiled back faintly, gave a quick nod to Alan and Charlie, and then walked toward her car. I watched as she drove away, feeling a strange mix of freedom and apprehension.
Charlie glanced at me and smirked lightly. "Come on, Jake. Let's go shopping. You're gonna need some real food around here."
"Shopping?" I asked, surprised but intrigued.
Charlie shrugged casually. "Yeah, food shopping. What, did you think groceries just magically appear in the fridge?"
I laughed slightly, following him out to his car. Alan waved goodbye from the door, clearly relieved to have a moment alone.
At the grocery store, we moved through the aisles leisurely, picking up snacks, cereal, and frozen pizzas. Charlie seemed entirely relaxed, making casual conversation and occasionally throwing random treats into the cart.