Learning To Trust Again

Rebecca could feel tears gathering not far below the surface. She blinked and was silent for a minute as she fought for control. Taking a deep breath she said ‘Todd don’t make me doubt myself please. I don’t need you playing the overprotective brother. I need to know I can trust my own judgment again.’

Todd sighed. After a moment’s silence he used a more even tone as he said ‘I can’t say I like the idea of him following you around, but as you don’t want my help I’ll have to trust your judgment.’

‘Thank you’ Rebecca said.

‘So are you seeing him again?’

‘Yes, tomorrow night’ she said but her voice was flat now. She felt deflated after Todd’s harsh words. The excitement at the prospect of seeing Jake again was gone. With a touch of petulance in her voice she added, ‘but it’s likely to be the last time so you don’t have to worry about him.’

‘Good, but it’s not him I’m worried about you know’ Todd said.

‘I know’ Rebecca said.

‘I don’t like that he knows where you live’ he added, apparently not willing to concede completely.

‘Well you’re just going to have to trust me and believe that I know what I’m doing won’t you?’

‘Yeah well if I wasn’t flying out tomorrow morning I’d come over and make sure about that.’

Rebecca let her breath out on a sigh. She was tired of arguing now. Trying to appease him and end the discussion, she said ‘look I’ll call you the day after tomorrow so you’ll know I’m alright, okay?’

‘I guess it will have to be’ Todd said, before ordering ‘just make sure you lock up well.’

‘Yes Todd’ she said with an indulgent smile in her voice at his last command. To Rebecca he sounded more like their father every day, not that Todd would appreciate hearing that. But ever since they had moved to the city he had taken on the role of father, mother and older brother all rolled into one. In fact if a stranger where to hear this conversation she was certain they would think Todd was the older sibling. And despite how frustrated he made her at times, she did appreciate the way he looked out for her, even if he did over do the protectiveness in her opinion.

Her anger gone, she said ‘have a good trip and I’ll talk to you on Friday.’

‘Okay Becs’ Todd replied using a lighter tone himself now ‘talk to you later and take care. Bye’

‘Bye Todd’