Part 4

The sun was setting now. But, i still hope for hope should never be lost. No, it can only be misplaced. Never lost.

Blake was comforting me now. Even the trees seem to be dancing. Ironic for this sad event? Maybe. A coast guard member approached me and asked me to go home and rest as he thought I have had a tiring day. DUH!! Well, he meant well so i thanked him for his kindness. I asked if i could stay a while longer. He said of course but It may take a while for the search. Possibly days, weeks, *shudder* years?

I felt a light hold on my right shoulder. It was Blake yet again.

'I should take you home now unless you want to go somewhere else? Want a bite maybe?'

'Thanks but I'm good. Maybe I will just stay at home. At least I can still check the news from home,'

We walked slowly. Well, i did anyways. He was just holding back his speed so he wouldn't be walking in front of me. He drove me home and walked me to my doorstep.

" Thanks again Blake. You've been a great help," I said.

" It was nothing much really. It was just driving." he shrugged while saying so.

" No, it was more than that," I flashed him my signature winning smile.

'Guess I'll go in now. See ya! ' I felt a tug on my shirt. 'Wait' What else could he want? His face from calm to serious. His eyebrows scrunched up. Lower lip curled downwards.

" This isn't easy for me to say and I know the time is inappropriate but I want to say it before it's too late. I...I...I've always loved you! Be it what you think! Infatuation? No, because i belive what i feel for you is true. Ever since I laid eyes on you and got to know you better, " he blurted it all out.

" Wow...urmm..I don't know what to say. I'm sorry, " I replied, finding it hard to establish eye contact with him now.

" It's okay. I guess you should still have your time to think, " with that, he walked away sulkingly to his car and drove off.

I unlocked the door and went in my house. It felt empty without dad. Heck! The house even looked empty without him usually lazing on the couch. I felt something. No, it wasn't my hunger. It wasn't a stomach ache either. I felt, a tear trickling down my face. Out came more. I haven't cried like this since mom died.

Then, I heard a knock. Who could it be? I found a dry towel hanging over the rocking chair by the cans for recycling. I've got a messy house. I know. I made sure to wipe away any sign of tears and finally opened the door to an unexpected victim.