The letter felt heavier than paper.
One glance was enough to stop Bethany’s breath.
Some choices don’t give you time to think.
1. The Letter
Larry pulled the envelope from the mailbox, already uneasy.
Bethany leaned closer.
Bethany: “Why does that look like bad news?”
Larry opened it. His face changed instantly.
Larry: “This… this can’t be right.”
The date stared back at them—cold and final.
And it wasn’t just any date.
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2. The Collision
Bethany read it over his shoulder.
Bethany: “No… that’s the same day as the Montana flight.”
Her voice cracked. Larry’s hands tightened around the paper.
Before either could speak again, his phone buzzed.
Larry: “Jaden?”
Jaden (urgent): “Dad. AP. Come now.”
The call ended abruptly—leaving silence behind.
3. A Decision Made Too Fast
Larry didn’t hesitate.
Larry: “You handle the court. I’m going to Montana.”
Bethany turned sharply.
Bethany: “Larry, what about your responsibility? What if something goes wrong?”
He shook his head.
Larry: “My grandchild is being born. I won’t miss that.”
The weight of the moment settled between them.
4. Letting Go
Bethany swallowed hard.
Bethany: “You’re really leaving?”
Larry nodded, steady now.
Larry: “This is family. This is life.”
She wanted to fight him—but couldn’t.
Bethany: “Alright. I’ll handle it. Just… be careful.”
He took her hand, grounding her.
Larry: “Stay strong for me.”
5. The Departure
Larry grabbed his bag. The zipper sounded louder than it should have.
Bethany stood on the porch, clutching the court letter as he started the car.
He paused for a moment—looking toward the horizon.
Larry: “It’s now or never.”
Then he drove off.
6. What Remains
Bethany watched until the car disappeared.
The letter lay folded in her hand. The street was quiet again—but nothing felt settled.
Court. Montana. Family.
Every path was pulling in a different direction.
And whatever happened next…
would change everything.
TO BE CONTINUED…
Continue reading Part 2 to see what happens when court day and Montana finally collide.