(brylee's outfit for this part of the chapter)

(bennett's outfit for the next part of the chapter)

The next few days were a bit of a blur. Bennett had spent most of his time at the skatepark, trying to distract himself from his thoughts. Skateboarding was a great distraction and it made him forget about his problems for a while. Unfortunately, it didn't last very long and the thoughts would return with a vengeance. Brylee was a huge help. She kept him company, talked to him, and just made him feel better in general. His dad also did his best to help him, but he knew that his dad was struggling with the situation too. It wasn't easy for him, and he didn't blame him. He had spent the past 18 years without his mom, and now suddenly, she was back. It was a lot to take in.

Bennett knew he couldn't avoid the situation forever, and after a week of agonizing over it, he decided to bite the bullet and talk to his dad about it. He needed to know what his dad was thinking and feeling, and he wanted to make sure that his dad was okay. So, one night, after dinner, they sat down on the couch and talked.

"I'm scared." Bennett admits, his voice barely above a whisper. He had his head down and his hands fidgeted in his lap. "I haven't seen her since I was a baby...And I don't remember what she looks like. You said she left a few months after I was born, right?"

"Yeah, that's right," Eric confirms, his voice gentle as he looks at his son with concern. "You were just a baby when she left. You probably don't remember much about her." He reaches out and places a comforting hand on Bennett's shoulder. "But that's okay. You don't have to remember her. You don't owe her anything."

Bennett nods, taking in his dad's words. He appreciated the reassurance, even if it didn't completely ease his nerves. "I just don't know how to feel about all this, dad," He confesses, his voice wavering slightly. "I mean, part of me wants to see her, to hear her out, but another part of me...I'm just so angry and hurt, you know?" He had been feeling like he wanted to punch something since he heard the news about his mom being back. He ended up taking boxing lessons to get out his aggression and it was helping him. He still had a lot of anger inside, though.

"I know, Benny. And that's perfectly understandable." Eric said softly, his expression understanding. "It's a lot to deal with, and you have every right to be angry and hurt. What she did was wrong, and there's no excuse for it. But..." He sighs, glancing down. "She's your mother, Bennett. You technically don't know her...I've always hated that you didn't have a mother growing up. And now, here's a chance for you to get to know her."

"Yeah, but she's also the woman who abandoned me." Bennett retorts, his tone bitter. "Us. You...You were in love with her, right? I-I mean, how could she just leave you like that? And now she wants to come back and act like nothing happened?" He shakes his head, frustration evident in his voice. "I just don't understand."

Eric sighs heavily, running a hand through his hair. "I don't understand it either, son. Believe me, I've spent years trying to make sense of it, but I just can't." He admits, his voice laced with sadness. "I loved your mother, Bennett. I really did. But she...She had her own demons, her own issues that she couldn't deal with apparently. And instead of facing them, she ran away."

"She had her own issues? That's her excuse for abandoning me and breaking your heart?" Bennett exclaims, his temper rising. He was angry. Angry at his mom for leaving, angry at his dad for not being more upset, and angry at the world for dealing him such a crappy hand. He didn't think he was a bad person, but life had not been kind to him, and it wasn't fair. Yes, of course, he knows that life isn't fair and that bad things happen to good people. But it doesn't make the pain and the anger any less. "Why should I even bother seeing her then? Why should I give her the time of day after everything she put us through?"

"Bennett..." Eric says softly, his heart aching for his son. "I'm not defending what she did, believe me. But she is still your mother. You went through 18 years of your life without her...Now that she's back, you have a chance to at least understand her side of the story. Maybe it won't change how you feel, but it might help you find some closure, some peace. Holding onto all that anger... It's not good for you, Benny. It's not fair that this happened to you, but you shouldn't let it eat you up inside either." He pauses, searching for the right words to comfort his son. "I know it's hard to even consider giving her a chance after everything, but it might also bring you some answers. And who knows, maybe there's a chance for healing, even if it's just a little bit. But ultimately, it's your decision, Bennett. Whatever you choose, I'll support you."

Eric was thinking maybe he had too much hope and that he should keep those thoughts to himself, but he couldn't help but express them to his son. He wanted Bennett to know that while the situation was complex and painful, there might be a glimmer of hope for something positive to come out of it. He also wanted to reassure Bennett that whatever decision he made, Eric would stand by him, supporting him every step of the way.

Bennett looks down, his expression conflicted. "I guess I could see her...Just once. Just to hear what she has to say." He mumbles. He had forced himself to say the words. He didn't want to say them, but he knew his dad was right. He had to at least give his mom a chance. Hear her side of the story, if nothing else. Maybe, just maybe, there was a reason for her leaving. Maybe, just maybe, there was a part of her that still cared about him and his dad. "But I'm not making any promises. If I don't like what I hear, I'm out." He wasn't going to let his mom walk all over him or his dad. He had spent the past 18 years without her. He could handle it if she was out of his life for good.

"I understand, Benny. Whatever you decide, I'm with you." Eric replies, his voice gentle and supportive. He reached out and pulled his son into a hug, squeezing him tightly. "I love you, son. And I'm proud of you." He didn't say it much, that he was proud of Bennett. He showed it in other ways, like supporting him and believing in him. But he didn't tell him as often as he should have. But he was, he was so proud of the man that his son was becoming.

"I love you too, dad." Bennett murmurs, hugging his dad back. He could feel tears pricking at his eyes, but he quickly blinked them away. He pulls back and sighs. "So, have you heard from her at all lately?"

Eric nods, his expression a bit somber. "Yeah, I've talked to her a few times. She's staying at a motel nearby. She said she's willing to meet whenever we're ready. She doesn't want to rush us or anything."

"Wow," Bennett huffs. He had expected her to be a lot more pushy and demanding, but he guessed that she was trying to make an effort. "That's...Surprising."

"Yeah, well, don't judge her too harshly just yet, Benny." Eric replies, his tone slightly warning. "I know you're angry and hurt, and I get it, I am too, but try to keep an open mind, okay? We both need to do that. For our sake and for hers." He didn't blame Bennett for his feelings. He knew they were justified given the circumstances. But Eric also didn't want Bennett to close himself off completely from the possibility of reconciliation, no matter how slim it seemed.

Bennett nods reluctantly, understanding his dad's point. "Yeah, okay. I'll try." He conceded, though the bitterness still lingers in his tone.  He didn't know if he could keep that promise, but he would try his best. He had to keep an open mind. For his sake and his dad's.

They talked for a little while longer before calling it a night. As Bennett laid in bed, staring at the ceiling, he couldn't help but think about his mom. What was she like? Was she like him? Was she nice? Was she funny? Was she kind? What did she look like? Did she think about him and his dad all these years? Did she miss them? Did she regret leaving them? There were so many questions running through his mind. He was nervous. Excited. Scared. All of the above. He had no idea what to expect from his mom, and it was terrifying.

He hoped he wouldn't regret his decision to see her. He didn't know if he could handle being disappointed again.

****

The next day, Bennett found himself working at Topanga's like normal after school. Working helped distract him from his thoughts, and he was grateful for the busy atmosphere. The café was pretty packed that afternoon, so he had plenty to do. But after a while, the crowd died down and he found himself with a few minutes of downtime. His cousin and her friends were at their usual place, working on homework and chatting like they usually do. He had overheard them trying to distract Riley from something that upset her. He had found out Riley had met someone who didn't like her and she wasn't used to that. She was feeling hurt and confused, and upset, and Bennett empathized with her. He knew what it was like to feel rejected and misunderstood. Though he had learned to hide it better over the years, he still felt those emotions deep down. Plus he learned he had no control of what others felt or thought about him. He felt bad for Riley, knowing how tough it could be to deal with those emotions, especially at her age.

Deciding to take a break from his work, Bennett walked over to where Riley and her friends were sitting. He leans against the counter, giving them a small wave. "Hey, Riley. Mind if I join you guys for a bit?"

Riley looks up, her expression brightening when she saw Bennett. "Hey, Bennett! Yeah, of course, come on over." She scoots over to make room for him, patting the seat beside her. "What's up?"

Bennett takes a seat, running a hand through his hair. "Not much, just taking a breather. You guys seem pretty chill over here."

Riley nods, her smile fading slightly as she looked down at her notebook. "Yeah, just trying to get through this homework. It's been a rough day."

Bennett's eyebrows furrows in concern. "Rough day? What happened?"

"There's this girl who doesn't like me!" Riley complains, frustration evident in her voice. "I don't get it, Bennett. I've always been nice to her, but she just...I don't know. It's been bothering me all day."

Bennett listens sympathetically, nodding along as Riley vents. "I'm sorry to hear that, Riley. It sucks when someone has a problem with you for no reason." He pauses, considering his words carefully before continuing. "But you know what? Sometimes we can't control how others feel about us. Sometimes people just don't click, and that's okay. It doesn't say anything about you as a person." He reaches out and gives Riley's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Just keep being your awesome self, and don't let her get to you."

Riley smiles gratefully, appreciating Bennett's words of encouragement. "Thanks, Bennett. That means a lot." She glances back at her friends, who are all listening intently to their conversation. "You're a good cousin, you know that?"

Bennett chuckles, feeling a warmth spread through him at Riley's words. "Thanks, Riley. You're not too bad yourself." He winks playfully before glancing at the clock behind the counter. "Well, I should probably get back to work before Topanga fires me." He pushes himself off the counter, giving Riley and her friends a wave. "Catch you later, okay?"

"Definitely!" Riley replies, her smile brightening once again. "Thanks again, Bennett."

As Bennett walks back to the counter, he can't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him. Despite the turmoil going on in his own life, he was glad he could be there for Riley. It reminded him that even in the midst of his own struggles, he could still make a positive impact on others' lives. And for now, that was enough to keep him going.

****

He was standing behind the counter, restocking some supplies, when the bell above the door chimed, indicating a new customer. He was about to start saying the usual greeting he did with customers as he glanced over his shoulder, but the words got stuck in his throat. His eyes widened and his mouth dropped open a little. His gaze was focused on a woman standing at the entrance of the café, her expression unsure. Even though he never met her before, he knew who she was. He had seen pictures of her, he might've searched her up to see what she looked like, how she was doing....And to see if she had another family or something. He had been relieved when he found nothing like.

"Hi." The woman, his mom, said, her voice quiet.

He swallowed the lump in his throat and turned around to face her fully. She was a little shorter than him and had long dark brown hair that fell in waves down her back. Her eyes were the same shade as his, and he noticed a slight tremble in her hands. She was nervous. He took in a deep breath, trying to steady himself. This was it. The moment he had been dreading, but also anticipating, for weeks now. He had to be strong. He couldn't let her see how much she affected him.

"Hi," He replies, his voice coming out steadier than he expected. He tried to keep his expression neutral, not wanting to give away any of the emotions churning inside him. "Can I help you?"

His mom lets out a small laugh, her lips twitching into a hesitant smile. "You can't fool me, Bennett. I know it's you. You look just like your father did at your age. I can't believe how much you look like him." 

He stiffens slightly, his jaw clenching. Of course she recognized him. Why did he think she maybe didn't know? "Well, you must have me confused with someone else. My name isn't Bennett. It's Isaac. I'm just a random kid working at the local café." He couldn't stop himself from lying, even if it was a childish and stupid thing to do.

His mom shakes her head, her expression saddening a bit. "I know you don't want to talk to me. I get it. But please, can we just talk for a minute? I have a lot to say to you and your dad, and I just want the chance to say it."

"Well, I'm afraid that I'm pretty busy, so..." He trails off, shrugging. He was being a jerk, and he knew it, but he couldn't help it. He paused as he realized all the customers in the café have already been taken care of. His mother looked back at him after glancing around, looking at him with raised eyebrows. He let out a heavy sigh. "Okay, maybe not. But now isn't the time...I didn't plan on talking to you at the place I work." He explained, his voice tinged with frustration.

His mom nods understandingly, her gaze softening. "I understand, Bennett. I really do. I didn't mean to ambush you like this, I really didn't know you worked here.." She takes a step closer, her hands clasped nervously in front of her. "I just...I've been thinking about you and your dad a lot lately. And I wanted to see you. I wanted to talk to you." She had thought about Eric and their son every day since the day she left. She wondered what their life was like, if they were happy, if they had a good relationship. She didn't mean to invade Bennett's life suddenly, and she really didn't mean to corner him at his job, but she didn't know where else to find him. She had been debating whether or not to reach out to Eric for weeks, but she was terrified of rejection. The thought of facing Eric and Bennett after all these years was daunting, to say the least. But she couldn't shake the feeling that she needed to try. She needed to make things right, or at least try to. She was lucky she him here today.

Bennett shifts uncomfortably, his eyes flickering away from his mom's earnest gaze. He didn't know how to respond to her. He didn't know what to say. "Well, you found me," He mumbles, his tone guarded. "But, as I said, now isn't a good time. So if you could just leave, that'd be great." He couldn't deal with her right now. He was barely holding it together. He felt overwhelmed by the flood of emotions that were threatening to break free, and he couldn't risk breaking down in front of her. She didn't deserve to see him vulnerable. She didn't deserve anything from him. "Please." He added quietly, his voice strained. He hoped she would listen to him, that she would understand how hard this was for him and respect his wishes. He didn't plan for this at all. He didn't think she would show up at his job, of all places. He didn't prepare himself for it, and it was taking everything in him to stay calm.

His mom hesitates, clearly torn between wanting to stay and not wanting to upset him further. She takes a step back, her shoulders slumping slightly. "Okay. I understand. But can I have your number? Or give you mine?" She didn't want to push him, but she couldn't let him slip away without getting some form of contact information. She did still have Eric's, but he had blocked her number a long time ago which is why she had to send him a letter. She didn't know how else to reach him. Or his son. And she wasn't going to risk losing the only opportunity she had to reconnect with them.

He was reluctant, but he knew he didn't have much choice. He couldn't just avoid her forever. "Fine. Give me your number." He pulled out his phone and handed it to her, watching as she quickly entered her contact info. She then passed it back to him, a hopeful expression on her face. He glanced at the screen, seeing her number there. It felt weird, having his mom's number in his phone. But it also felt right. Like a part of him that had been missing was finally filled. He shoved the feeling aside, not wanting to acknowledge it. Not yet, at least. 

"Thanks." He murmurs, putting his phone back in his pocket. "I'll text you or something, I guess." He was still angry, still hurt, and he couldn't promise he would reach out anytime soon, but he would do it eventually. He had to. He couldn't let his dad down. He couldn't let his mom's presence slip away again. Even though she hurt him and his dad, a part of him wanted to get to know her. To understand her. To figure out why she left and if there was anything he could've done to prevent it. "I'm assuming dad has your number, right?" He asked, not knowing his dad had blocked her.

His mom's expression fell slightly, a flash of hurt flickering in her eyes. "He does, but he blocked my number a while ago." She couldn't blame him, and she understood his anger, but it still stung. It was a reminder of how badly she had screwed up. She was lucky Eric even gave her a chance to explain herself. "I didn't have a way to contact him or you which is why I sent the letter. I know I probably shouldn't have, but I didn't know what else to do." She was rambling, trying to explain herself and her actions. She didn't want to lose this connection, not now that she finally had it. She couldn't let them shut her out, not when she had so much to say. Not when she was finally ready to face her past. "I'm sorry, I know I have no right to be here, and I know I should've waited until you were ready, but I-" She was cut off by a hand gently gripping her shoulder. Her gaze snapped up, startled. She was met with a pair of familiar blue eyes, staring down at her with an unreadable expression. Eric. Her heart began to pound in her chest, a wave of emotions washing over her. "Eric," She breathed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Eric's eyes roamed over her face, taking in every detail. He hadn't seen her in years, and she was just as beautiful as he remembered. "Hi, Mel," He replied softly, his tone laced with a mixture of surprise and disbelief. "You're actually here." His hand was still resting on her shoulder, and he could feel her trembling beneath his touch.

Melissa swallowed thickly, trying to maintain her composure. It had been so long since she had heard her name spoken in that familiar voice. So long since she had felt his touch. She couldn't help the tears that began to well up in her eyes, threatening to spill over. "Yeah, I'm here." She choked out, her voice wavering. "I'm here, Eric."

The two of them stood there for a moment, just taking each other in. The air between them was heavy with emotion, neither of them knowing what to say. Bennett didn't know what to say, either. Seeing his dad and his mom interact was surreal, and he wasn't sure how to process it. He watched as his dad's thumb gently caressed his mom's shoulder, his expression tender. He felt frozen in place, his mind racing as he tried to make sense of what was happening.

"I, uh, I need a minute or something." He finally managed to say after snapping himself out of his daze. He turned and walked to the back, telling his aunt he needed a break and didn't wait for a response before walking out the back exit. Once he was outside, he leaned against the brick wall and took in a deep breath. He ran a hand through his hair and let it out, staring up at the sky. It was all so much, too much. He couldn't believe his mom was here, at the very place he worked. He just had a conversation with her for the first time. His dad showed up out of nowhere. They were both talking. He didn't know how he felt. Happy? Sad? Angry? Relieved? He was feeling a lot of emotions and he didn't know how to handle them.

Back inside the bakery, Eric and Melissa had took a table in the corner and it took a long time before either of them could talk, but once they did it felt like old times. The awkwardness faded, and they fell into an easy conversation, reminiscing on the good times they had together. Riley and Maya had shared a look, surprised by the whole scene. Maya had texted Brylee that Bennett needed her after noticing he went to the back looking distraught.

Brylee had arrived not long after and went straight to the back of the bakery. She was surprised to see Eric and Bennett's mom talking, but she continued to head to the back where Maya told her Bennett was. She pushed the back door open and saw him leaning against the wall. It looked like he was panicking, his breathing erratic and hand clutching at his chest. She gasped when he suddenly slid down the wall, his legs giving out.

She rushes over and knelt down in front of him. She gently grasps his face in her hands, tilting his head up so their eyes met. "Hey, hey. You're okay. It's just me." She said softly, her voice calm and reassuring. "Focus on me, alright?"

Bennett stared up at her, his eyes wide and frantic. He felt like he couldn't breathe, like the world was spinning too fast and he couldn't catch his breath. He reached out and grasped her wrists, needing something to ground him. He tried to focus on her, on her voice, but he couldn't seem to calm down. He was spiraling, and he didn't know how to stop it.

"Hey, you're okay. It's okay. Just take deep breaths." Brylee says, her tone soothing. "In and out. In and out." She demonstrated the breathing exercise, encouraging him to follow her lead. She continued to speak softly, guiding Bennett through the breathing exercises until he began to regain control of his breathing. Slowly but surely, his frantic gasps subsided, and his chest felt less tight. Brylee stayed by his side, her presence a comforting anchor in the midst of his turmoil.

After a few moments, Bennett's breathing steadied, and he was able to look up at Brylee with slightly clearer eyes. He felt embarrassed by his panic attack, but he also felt grateful to have someone there to help him through it.

"Sorry," He murmurs an apology, his voice still shaky. "I don't know what happened. It just...All got to be too much, I guess."

Brylee shakes her head gently, a small, understanding smile on her lips. "No need to apologize. It's okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes, especially with everything going on. You're not alone, Bennett. I'm here for you."

Bennett nods, feeling a lump form in his throat. He appreciated Brylee's support more than he could express. She always seemed to know exactly what to say to make him feel better. "Thanks," He sighs, his voice barely above a whisper. "I don't know what I'd do without you." He leaned his forehead against hers, the physical contact helping him to relax even more.

Brylee closes her eyes and exhales softly, enjoying the closeness. "I'll always be here for you, no matter what. I promise. I love you, Bennett."

He swallows hard and pulls her closer, burying his face in her hair. "I love you, too," He whispers, the words carrying a weight of meaning that goes beyond the simple expression of affection. "I don't know what I did to deserve you, but I'm so grateful for you."

Brylee hums in response, wrapping her arms around him and holding him close. She understands the gravity of his words, and she feels the same way. She knows she'll always be there for him, no matter what. "You're just being you and that's all you need to do," She murmurs, pressing a gentle kiss to his forehead. "And that's enough for me."

Bennett closed his eyes, soaking in the comfort of Brylee's embrace. He feels a sense of peace wash over him, knowing that no matter what challenges he may face, he'll always have Brylee by his side. His head was buried in the crook of her neck, his arms around her waist, and his breathing was finally calm. "Thank you, again." He mumbled into her shoulder. He was so glad she came when she did. He was getting scared. He couldn't stop his mind from going in a thousand different directions. It was hard to think and breathe. And he couldn't move. But Brylee made it better.

"You're welcome, babe. Do you wanna go back inside? Or do you need a few more minutes?" She questioned, not wanting to rush him. She could stay with him like this for as long as he needed.

"Can we just stay like this for a bit?" He murmured, not ready to let go of her just yet. He needed a few more minutes to compose himself before he could face his parents again.

"Of course. We can stay out here as long as you need," She replied, gently rubbing his back. She was content to stay here with him, no matter how long it took. As long as he was comfortable and calm, that's all that mattered to her.

After a while, they made their way back inside. Everyone had gone except Eric and his mom. Riley and Maya had left a little bit ago with their friends and Bennett realized it was closing time. He didn't realize it had gotten so late. His dad and mom had a cup of coffee and looked like thy had been sitting and talking for hours. Bennett felt weird and nervous all over again. His mom was here, in New York. She had found him and his dad, and she was sitting right across from his dad having a conversation.

Eric looked up when the two teens entered and immediately got to his feet. He went over to his son and pulled him into a hug, murmuring a soft, "Are you okay?" in his ear.

Bennett nodded against his dad's shoulder, clinging to him tightly. "I'm better," He responded quietly, his voice muffled by his dad's shirt. "Brylee helped."

Eric's chest tightened at the mention of his son's girlfriend. He pulled away and held Bennett at arm's length, studying his face. He was relieved to see that he looked more relaxed than he had earlier. "I'm glad," He said softly, giving his son's shoulder a gentle squeeze. "I'm so sorry, kiddo. I had no idea she would show up here. If I had, I-"

"It's okay." Bennett assures him, surprising them both. He gives his dad a small smile, his eyes full of understanding. "Really, Dad. It's okay. I'm okay. It was just...a lot."

Eric nods in agreement, returning his son's smile with a relieved one of his own. "Yeah, it was." He glances over at his ex girlfriend and feels a mixture of conflicting emotions. It's been so long since he last saw her, and part of him still cares for her, but a part of him will never forgive her. There's too much hurt and anger there. "How are you feeling about this whole thing?" He asked his son, wanting to make sure he's truly okay with it.

"Honestly, I don't really know." Bennett admits, running a hand through his hair. "It's weird, seeing her here, but I'm glad she reached out." He pauses, struggling to put his feelings into words. "It's just a lot, you know? I'm not ready to talk to her or anything. Not yet, at least. But I guess I'm willing to give her a chance. Maybe." He shrugs, feeling conflicted. "I just don't want to get my hopes up, you know? I don't want to get hurt again."

Eric nods in understanding, his heart aching for his son. "I get it, Benny. I really do." He reaches out and squeezes Bennett's shoulder reassuringly. "Just take your time, okay? There's no rush. We'll figure this out together, however long it takes."

Bennett nods gratefully, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He may not have all the answers right now, but knowing that his dad was there to support him meant everything. "Thanks, dad," He murmurs, his voice choked with emotion. "I really appreciate it."

Eric smiles softly, pulling his son in for another hug. "Anytime, Benny. I love you, kiddo."

"I love you too, dad." Bennett replied, hugging his dad tighter. He was so grateful for his dad. For everything.

"Hey, um, do you mind if I talk to mom a bit more?" Eric asked his son, hoping that it was okay with him as he pulled back from the hug. He knew it was a lot to ask, especially after the day he had.

"Uh, yeah. Yeah, that's fine." Bennett said, surprised his dad wanted to talk to her. After all the pain and drama his mom had caused, his dad still had questions. Maybe still had feelings. Or maybe it was a closure thing. "Go for it." He shrugged. He just wanted his dad to be happy, and if talking to his mom made him happy then he was fine with that.

"Okay, thanks, Benny. You'll call me if you need me, okay? I'll be home later tonight." Eric told him before turning and heading to the door where Melissa waited for him. They shared a smile before he opened the door for her and walked out with her.

Bennett stood there in disbelief as his dad walked his mom out of the bakery and into the parking lot. He was not expecting his dad to talk to her, let alone keep talking to her. And he was certainly not expecting them to leave together. He shook his head, still in shock, and went back behind the counter.

"Is your mom staying nearby?" Brylee asked, noticing his expression.

"I have no idea. I didn't ask her or anything. Dad wants to talk to her a little bit more so I have no clue." Bennett admitted. He sighed and glanced at the clock, seeing it was time to close up and clean. Great. He really didn't want to clean after the day he had.

Brylee could tell he was tired and stressed so she decided to help him clean and lock up. The two of them worked in silence, and Bennett was thankful she was there. Even just in silence, she made him feel better. She helped him finish up and once they were done, they headed outside to the sidewalk.

"I'll see you later, okay?" Brylee said as they stood on the sidewalk facing each other.

"Wait," Bennett said, reaching out and taking her hand. "You busy tonight? We could grab some food or watch a movie at my place." He suggests, wanting to spend time with her. After the day he had, he really needed her. "I don't wanna be alone."

Brylee's expression softens, and she nods, smiling. "Sure, sounds good."

Bennett lets out a sigh of relief and pulls her into a hug, resting his chin on her shoulder. "Thank you."

"For what?" She questioned, wrapping her arms around him in return.

"Everything. You're always there when I need you. You always know what to say and do. You're always so patient and understanding. And you've never given up on me, no matter how hard things got. You're just...Amazing, that's all." He said honestly, holding her close.

"Bennett..." Brylee trails off, feeling touched by his words. She was blushing and butterflies were fluttering in her stomach. She pulls back to cup his cheeks and stares up at him with loving eyes. "You're amazing, too. You've been through so much, and you've never given up. You're so strong and resilient, and I'm so proud of you." She leaned up and pressed a tender kiss to his lips, her thumbs caressing his cheeks.

He melted into the kiss, savoring the feel of her lips on his. He pulled her closer, his hands on her hips. It was a sweet, tender kiss that lasted for several seconds, neither of them wanting it to end. When they finally pulled away, they rested their foreheads against each other, both of them breathing a little heavier.

"I love you." Bennett whispers, his heart swelling with affection for the girl in his arms. "You have no idea how much I love you, Brylee."

"I love you, too, Bennett." She breathes, her eyes filled with adoration. She felt giddy and excited. She knew they would have to talk about his mom, but right now, she just wanted to enjoy this moment. "So...You up for some food?" She suggests, pulling away and intertwining their hands as they began walking. "I was thinking we could get pizza."

Bennett couldn't help the smile that spread across his face. "Pizza sounds perfect." He agreed, squeezing her hand. His mom may have showed up and shaken things up a bit, but he knew that as long as he had Brylee by his side, he would be okay. No matter what life threw his way, they would face it together. As she began to ramble about the new pizza place down the street, his smile only grew.

Life was unpredictable, but with her, he knew he could handle it. 

A/N brylee & bennett >>>>>