「 ✦ ACCIDENTS AND THEIR OWN ✦ 」

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THE WAITING ROOM WAS THICK WITH tension. The sounds of footsteps and hushed voices outside seemed distant, as though they were part of another world. Sutton, Rafe, and Weezie sat in the corner, their earlier attempt at lightening the mood long forgotten. The weight of the situation was impossible to ignore, with Eli's life hanging in the balance and Gabrielle's nerves stretched thin.

Sutton's mind kept replaying the moments of the last few hours—the shock of Eli's diagnosis, the stress of Carl's unexpected arrival, and the relentless arguing that had followed. Gabrielle, despite her usual grace and poise, had been completely unraveling, only to be confronted by Carl's disapproving gaze. The tension between them had been unbearable, and Sutton couldn't shake the feeling that Carl was pushing for something more. Something that would change everything.

After what felt like an eternity, the door to the waiting room opened, and a nurse stepped in, her face set in a professional expression. She barely acknowledged the group as she walked toward the counter, and the silence stretched on.

The door suddenly burst open again, this time with Gabrielle, Rose, and Carl all walking in, their voices rising in a heated exchange. Sutton's heart skipped as Carl's booming voice broke through the quiet tension of the room.

"I'm telling you, Gabrielle, you can't do this on your own. Eli's condition is far worse than you're admitting. And you—" Carl pointed a finger at her with an accusing glance. "You've let this family spiral. You're barely keeping it together as it is."

Sutton's stomach twisted at the venom in Carl's words. She could feel the anger building in her chest, but she stayed silent, watching as Gabrielle's jaw clenched. Rose stood by her side, looking equally defensive. Carl's girlfriend, a woman Sutton had never met before, remained a quiet presence, standing beside Carl like an unspoken ally.

Zach and Olivia were on the opposite side of the room, their faces pale as they exchanged glances. Zach seemed poised to say something, but Olivia held him back with a hand on his arm. Sutton wanted to speak up, but her words caught in her throat. She was paralyzed by the tense energy in the room.

Carl turned back to Gabrielle, his voice turning sharp. "This is the second time in just a short period that Eli has ended up in the hospital. First the fall, now this. What does that tell you, huh? Are you really equipped to take care of them? Maybe it's time someone stepped in and took responsibility."

The words cut deep, leaving a sickening knot in Sutton's stomach. She watched as Gabrielle's face flushed, her eyes flashing with both anger and frustration. But Carl wasn't done.

"I'm asking for custody," Carl declared, his voice firm, his gaze unwavering. "I'll do whatever it takes to make sure my kids are safe, that they're getting the care they need. This isn't about me. It's about Eli, and the other kids too. They deserve better."

Sutton's blood ran cold at the mention of custody. The words echoed in her mind, each syllable a cruel reminder that Carl wasn't just a distant, disconnected father anymore. He was actively positioning himself to take control of the family.

Gabrielle stepped forward, her voice cracking with emotion as she fought to keep her composure. "You think you can just waltz back into their lives after everything? After you've abandoned us, after everything you've done? You have no right to take them from me!"

Carl's eyes hardened, and he raised a hand to silence her. "You're not fit to raise them anymore, Gabrielle. The truth is, I've been sober for years, and I have a stable life. What do you have? A family in disarray, a son who can't even keep himself out of the hospital? I'm looking at all this, and I'm thinking maybe it's time I step up."

The air in the room felt charged, as if everyone had taken a collective breath and was holding it in. Sutton's chest tightened, her heart pounding in her ears. She wanted to scream, to tell Carl he couldn't do this, but the words wouldn't come. Her thoughts raced, swirling in a vortex of confusion and anger.

Zach finally broke the silence, his voice low and strained. "Carl stop."

Olivia added, her voice quieter but no less intense. "This isn't about custody. This is about Eli. Don't use him as a pawn in whatever game you're playing, Carl."

Carl narrowed his eyes at Olivia and Zach, his lips curling into a sneer. "I'm doing what's best for them, whether you like it or not. Maybe it's time you all accepted that I'm the one who can actually provide a stable home."

The argument continued to escalate, with Gabrielle's voice rising in anger, and Carl's dismissive tone growing louder. As much as Zach and Olivia tried to interject, the fighting only became more heated.

But amidst the chaos, Sutton's eyes found Rafe, who had remained in the corner, watching the whole scene unfold. His expression was unreadable, but there was something there—something that made Sutton's stomach twist again.

Without a word, Rafe stood up and walked over to the group. He gently placed a hand on Gabrielle's shoulder, and the room seemed to quiet for a moment. Everyone's gaze shifted to him.

"Listen," Rafe said, his voice calm but firm. "Everyone needs to take a step back. Fighting right now isn't going to help anyone. Especially not Eli."

Carl glared at Rafe, but Rafe didn't back down. "I get it. You're upset, Carl. But there's a time and place for this. Right now, Eli's the one who needs all our focus. If you really care about him, maybe you should just—" Rafe paused, glancing at Gabrielle. "Maybe you should just trust that she's doing the best she can."

Carl's eyes narrowed, clearly not used to being talked to like this. "What do you know about parenting, Rafe?"

Rafe didn't flinch. "Enough to know that no one here is doing anyone any good by throwing around threats. It's not going to fix anything."

Sutton was surprised by Rafe's calm demeanor, especially considering the storm of emotions swirling around him. But before she could process what he said, the door opened, and a nurse entered the room.

"The doctor wants to speak with you all. Please, follow me."

The tension was palpable as they were ushered into the hallway, and the confrontation was temporarily put on hold. But Sutton could feel the weight of it all—Carl was serious about taking control, and with the situation still fragile, the family was on the brink of a new kind of war.

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A few days had passed since the hospital incident, and Sutton had barely had time to process everything. Eli's condition was still a heavy weight on her chest, but it was the tension between her and Gabrielle that had her feeling suffocated.

Sutton had always been a quiet observer, the kind of person who let the storm rage around her but kept her calm. But today, everything felt different. The air felt thick, as if something was about to snap. She sat by the pool, the sound of water lapping against the edge a faint background to her spiraling thoughts. The sun beat down, its warmth almost mocking her discomfort, as though life itself was moving forward while she remained stuck in a moment of chaos.

Her mind kept drifting to the fallout from that night. Carl's custody threat. Gabrielle's breakdown. And Eli. Her brother. Her own flesh and blood—now struggling with seizures and a future full of uncertainty. Sutton couldn't shake the guilt, couldn't stop replaying the events that had led to Eli's accident.

She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't hear Gabrielle storming out of the house, her heels clicking furiously against the stone. Sutton didn't notice her until Gabrielle's voice, sharp and filled with venom, shattered the silence.

"Do you even realize what you've done?" Gabrielle's voice was high-pitched, strained with emotion. "Your stupid life choices, Sutton! You've put your brother in danger. Do you even care?"

Sutton's body stiffened, and she turned slowly, her heart dropping. Gabrielle was standing in the doorway, her face flushed with rage. Her hands were trembling, but her eyes—they were wild. They locked onto Sutton like daggers, and Sutton felt an overwhelming sense of dread pulse through her.

"What the hell are you talking about?" Sutton stood up, her hands shaking at her sides. "You think this is my fault?"

Gabrielle was on her in an instant, her voice a low, threatening growl. "Of course, it's your fault! You were supposed to protect him! You let that boy—" Gabrielle spat the words, her anger rising with each syllable. "You let John B—the one who almost killed him—to influence him! And now look at where we are! Eli's life is changed forever because of you."

The words hit Sutton like a punch to the gut. Gabrielle's breath was coming in rapid bursts, her face twisted with frustration. Sutton wanted to fight back, wanted to yell at her, but the guilt was choking her, suffocating her. The words lodged in her throat, leaving her paralyzed.

"You're the one who can't handle your own damn life, and now you're blaming me?" Sutton shot back, the defensiveness creeping into her voice. "You think I wanted any of this to happen?"

Gabrielle didn't respond with words. Instead, she took a step forward, hands shaking as they reached for Sutton's shoulders, grabbing her roughly, shaking her. "You are nothing but a disappointment, Sutton! You don't even understand what this is doing to this family—what it's doing to me."

The force of Gabrielle's hands on her shoulders was too much, and Sutton reacted without thinking, pushing back against her with all her strength. The shove was enough to send Gabrielle stumbling backward, her arms flailing as she tried to catch her balance.

Gabrielle collided with the poolside table, and Sutton watched in horror as her stepmother tumbled, landing hard on the stone floor. The sound of her body hitting the ground echoed in Sutton's ears, and for a brief moment, time seemed to stop.

Gabrielle lay there, motionless for a split second, before she groaned, pushing herself up with a pained wince. Sutton froze, panic flooding her chest as Gabrielle glared at her through eyes filled with rage and hurt. The quiet was deafening, broken only by the sound of Gabrielle's labored breathing.

"You bitch," Gabrielle hissed, slowly pulling herself up.

Sutton's stomach twisted, and she took a step back, her mind spiraling out of control. "I didn't mean to—" Sutton's voice was weak, barely a whisper. "Mom, I didn't mean-"

But Gabrielle didn't let her finish. With a furious snarl, she lunged forward, but Sutton, panicked and shaking, turned on her heel and bolted for the car. Her vision blurred as she ran, the sounds of Gabrielle's shouts echoing in her ears. The world seemed to close in around her, the weight of everything crashing down like a wave.

She grabbed Olivia's car keys from the counter without thinking, her hands trembling violently as she pushed the door open and sped down the driveway. The roar of the engine seemed to match the chaos inside her head, the guilt, the fear, the overwhelming sense of failure. She drove aimlessly, not sure where she was going, only knowing that she couldn't be there. Not with Gabrielle, not with the family.

The wind whipped through the car as she drove faster, faster, until her mind was a blur of memories and emotions. She didn't even know how long she had been driving—everything was a haze. All she could think of was the image of Gabrielle's face when she had fallen. The sound of her body hitting the ground. The look in her eyes.

Suddenly, Sutton slammed her foot on the brakes, the tires screeching as she pulled off to the side of the road, her hands gripping the steering wheel until her knuckles turned white. She barely had time to think before everything inside her revolted. The nausea hit hard and fast, and she scrambled to open the car door, barely making it out before her stomach emptied onto the ground.

The sobs came quickly after, ripping through her chest in ragged gasps as she collapsed against the car. She didn't care that she was alone, or that she had no idea where she was. All that mattered was the storm inside her—her fear for Eli, her broken family, and the overwhelming realization that everything was falling apart.

Sutton stayed crumpled against the side of the car, her body shaking uncontrollably with sobs. The night was dark, the air heavy with a kind of stillness that only seemed to make her feel more isolated. She wiped her face with the back of her hand, but the tears wouldn't stop. Everything felt wrong—her world had turned upside down, and she couldn't find a way to right it.

She didn't know how much time had passed when the sound of a car approaching caught her attention. At first, she thought she was imagining it—her mind spinning, playing tricks on her—but the headlights grew brighter and soon enough, a car pulled over beside her. She straightened up, wiping her eyes in a frantic attempt to regain some composure, though her face was still a mess.

A woman stepped out of the car, her silhouette lit by the glow of the headlights. She had the confident stride of someone who had been through a lot, someone who wasn't easily fazed by much. She was tall, with a kind face framed by soft, brown hair. She hesitated for only a moment before approaching Sutton, her gaze softening with concern.

"Hey, are you alright?" The woman's voice was gentle, but there was a firmness to it, like she'd asked this question more than once in her life.

Sutton's throat tightened, but she couldn't find the words. She could barely even look at the stranger. Her heart was still pounding in her chest, the weight of everything crushing her. The woman seemed to notice, her eyes flicking down to the car and back to Sutton, as if piecing something together.

After a beat of silence, the woman's expression shifted to one of realization. "Wait a minute," she said, her voice quieter now but still carrying that hint of concern. "You're one of Carl's kids, aren't you?"

Sutton blinked, surprised. Her eyes shot up to meet the woman's, a mix of confusion and exhaustion washing over her. She didn't want to deal with him, let alone anyone from his life. The thought of him—his presence—was just another layer of complication that she didn't need. But the woman's eyes softened, and for some reason, Sutton felt she could trust her.

"Yeah," Sutton managed, her voice raw. "I'm... Sutton. Sutton Hayes." She tried to wipe the remaining tears from her cheeks, but they kept falling.

The woman nodded, a faint, understanding smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She didn't seem phased by Sutton's distress. "I thought so," she said gently. "I'm Rachel, Carl's girlfriend. I know things are... complicated, but I'm not here to make it worse. I just want to make sure you're okay."

Sutton was too exhausted to respond, her body heavy with emotions she couldn't fully process. The weight of the conversation that had just happened with Gabrielle, the shock of Eli's diagnosis, the overwhelming fear for her brother—all of it crashed in on her again, and she couldn't keep herself from shaking.

Rachel seemed to sense that Sutton wasn't in any condition to drive herself anywhere. "Look," she said, her tone soft but insistent, "there's a café down the road, not far from here. It's quiet, and I can take you there. Maybe you can just sit for a bit, calm down. It's okay, really."

Sutton's first instinct was to refuse. She didn't want to be anywhere near Carl's world—didn't want to be anywhere near him. But the kindness in Rachel's voice, the quiet insistence that didn't feel forceful or overwhelming, made her reconsider.

Sutton swallowed, her chest aching. "I don't even know if I can... I don't know if I can do this anymore," she admitted, her voice breaking as she wiped her face once more.

Rachel stepped closer, her presence steady and calming. "You don't have to figure it out right now," she said, her voice firm but kind. "I'm not going to try to fix anything. I'm just here to help you get somewhere safe. Just for a little while."

Sutton hesitated, still unsure, but her instinct told her she needed something—anything—to take the edge off, to give her a chance to breathe. She nodded slowly, too drained to argue.

"Okay," she whispered. "I'll go."

Rachel smiled, her face softening with relief. "Great," she said, turning back to her car. "Let's get you some peace, yeah?"

Sutton followed her to the car, her steps unsteady but thankful for the warmth of Rachel's presence, the quiet promise of a place where she could just be for a while. They both got into the car, and Rachel pulled away from the side of the road.

The drive was quiet, but there was something comforting about it. It felt like an eternity since Sutton had been able to escape the chaos of her family, the relentless guilt, and the tension that never seemed to leave. She looked out the window, watching the dark, unfamiliar streets pass by, the world seeming so far away from the pain in her heart.

Rachel glanced at her once or twice as she drove, but she didn't press. She just let Sutton breathe, let her process. Sutton could feel the tears welling up again, but this time, they didn't feel as suffocating. Maybe, just maybe, there was a small chance she could let the world outside her head for a moment.

When they finally arrived at the café, Sutton was still unsure, still tangled in her thoughts, but Rachel's calm demeanor made her feel like it was okay to sit in silence for a little while. The night felt quieter here, almost peaceful, and as Rachel parked the car, Sutton felt the tightness in her chest loosen just a little bit.

The café was a quiet respite from everything Sutton had been running from—soft lighting, warm wood floors, the hum of muted conversations around them. The scent of fresh coffee and pastries lingered in the air, offering some comfort to Sutton, even though her mind was still a tangled mess.

Rachel led her to a small table by the window, where the dim glow from a nearby streetlamp filtered through. The café was almost empty, save for a couple of people at the counter, their voices low as if to match the stillness of the evening. Rachel settled across from Sutton, her expression patient, kind, and warm in a way Sutton wasn't used to.

"Do you want something to drink?" Rachel asked softly. "Tea, coffee, water? Whatever you need."

Sutton nodded numbly. "I'll take a water, please." Her voice cracked as she spoke, though she couldn't figure out if it was from the weight of the moment or just exhaustion.

Rachel stood up, moving to the counter with a graceful, measured step, giving Sutton a moment of silence. Sutton let out a long breath, her eyes drifting out the window. The streets felt quiet, distant—a far cry from the shouting and chaos she had left behind.

When Rachel returned, she set down a glass of water in front of Sutton and took her seat again, watching her with a look that said she was willing to wait, to let Sutton speak when she was ready.

Sutton picked up the glass and drank deeply, the coolness of it helping to soothe her dry throat. But no matter how much water she drank, she couldn't wash away the whirlwind of emotions inside her.

Rachel didn't push her, just sat there, allowing the space to breathe. After a while, Rachel spoke again, her voice soft but carrying an undercurrent of something understanding, like she was careful with each word.

"I know this isn't easy," she said. "And I'm not trying to force you into anything. But if you ever want to talk about your dad—or even if you don't—I'm here. Just... if you ever want to ask questions, or if you need someone to listen."

Sutton looked down at her hands, fiddling with the rim of her glass. "I don't know why you're being so nice to me," she muttered. "You don't even know me."

Rachel smiled gently, her expression full of empathy. "I don't need to know you to want to help. I'm not trying to be your friend right away, Sutton. But sometimes, when people are hurting, they just need a moment to breathe, to think. And that's all I'm offering."

Sutton glanced at her, unsure of what to make of the kindness Rachel offered so freely. But something about her calmness—something in the way she didn't demand answers or expect Sutton to be fixed right away—made her feel like maybe, just maybe, she didn't have to carry all this alone.

"Why are you really helping me?" Sutton asked quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Why would you want to be around someone like me? Someone whose life is falling apart?"

Rachel's smile remained warm, but there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. "Because, Sutton, I'm here because of Carl. I don't expect you to like me, or even trust me right now. But I know what he's been through. And I also know that he's not the same man you remember."

Sutton's heart skipped in her chest. Her voice shook when she spoke. "What do you mean?"

Rachel leaned forward slightly, her tone measured but sincere. "Five years ago, Carl went to rehab. He got sober—turned his life around, really. He tried reaching out, but he didn't want to cause more damage. He respected that you hated him, that you didn't want him around. He never pushed, because he understood."

Sutton's breath hitched in her throat. The words sounded impossible, a cruel joke—but Rachel's sincerity told a different story. "He... he got sober? After everything he put us through?"

Rachel nodded. "Yeah. He went through a lot to get to where he is now. He's been clean for over five years. He works as a mental health and addiction counselor now. Helping people get through what he went through." She paused, a small smile on her lips. "He lives in a nice place now, between the Cut and Figure Eight. He spends his days surfing, trying to find balance."

Sutton's mind was spinning. The image of Carl—the man who had been a ghost in her life for so long—was now replaced with something she hadn't expected: the picture of a man who had turned his life around. A man who had fought to rebuild himself, and had managed to do so.

"Why would he wait so long to reach out?" Sutton's voice trembled, and she felt a knot in her stomach tighten. "Why didn't he just come to us? Why didn't he fight for us?"

Rachel's gaze softened, and there was an unspoken understanding between them. "Because he wanted to. But he knew that forcing his way back into your lives would have just made things worse. He's been patient. And he wants to build a relationship with you both, but only when you're ready. He doesn't want to push."

Sutton felt her chest tighten. It was hard to process the words. It didn't make everything okay, didn't erase the pain of the years that Carl had missed—but it was something. Something she hadn't expected.

"I didn't know..." Sutton whispered. "I had no idea."

Rachel reached across the table, placing a hand on hers—tentative, but comforting. "He doesn't want to be the cause of more pain, Sutton. But he's not the same person anymore. And if you want him to be a part of your life, he'll be there. On your terms."

Sutton sat back, her mind still reeling. She hadn't expected this. Didn't know what to make of it. The weight of everything—the anger, the hurt, the abandonment—was too much to process all at once. But for the first time in a long while, there was a small flicker of something else: hope. Just a glimmer.

"I don't know what I want," Sutton admitted quietly. "I don't know if I can forgive him."

Rachel nodded, her eyes kind. "You don't have to forgive him right away. But just know that he's not the man you remember. He's trying. That's all anyone can do."

Sutton nodded slowly, her heart still heavy but now also... slightly lighter than before. It wasn't a resolution. But it was a start.

As Rachel finished her coffee and they sat in silence, the weight of the conversation hung in the air, but for the first time, Sutton didn't feel quite so lost. She didn't have all the answers. But she might have found a piece of the puzzle. A small piece.

Sutton sat back in her chair, her fingers nervously tracing the rim of her coffee cup. Her mind felt like it was a whirlwind of emotions—too many things at once, things she had kept bottled up for so long, things she hadn't even known how to say aloud. Rachel's kindness, her calm presence, was almost overwhelming. It felt safe—so safe, in fact, that Sutton found herself opening up without even thinking about it.

"Things at home... haven't been good," she said softly, her voice trembling slightly. She tried to steady her breath, but it felt impossible. "I can't even remember the last time things were calm. My mom... she's been going off on me. Blaming me for everything, for Eli being in the hospital, for the things that happened with John B. She just keeps screaming at me, telling me how messed up my life is." Sutton's voice cracked, and she swallowed hard to push back the lump in her throat. "It's like nothing I do is good enough. Like no matter what I do, it's all my fault."

Rachel's expression softened, her eyes filled with understanding. "That sounds really tough, Sutton," she said gently. "No one should have to carry that kind of burden. And I'm sorry you've had to go through it."

Sutton nodded, her gaze dropping to the table. The weight of her mom's words felt suffocating. It was hard to remember a time when things had been normal, when there had been love in their house instead of constant chaos. She had always tried to hold it together, to keep up the image of the perfect family, but the cracks were getting wider with each passing day.

Rachel's voice interrupted her thoughts. "When I was younger, my mom used to attack me like that." Her words were soft, almost as if she was speaking from her own place of pain. "Not physically, but emotionally. She would scream, blame me for things I didn't even understand. I think she was hurting, and it just came out in ways I didn't know how to handle." Rachel paused, her eyes darkening for a moment. "It was hard, Sutton. And I know how it feels to be caught in that. To feel like no matter what you do, you're never enough."

Sutton met Rachel's gaze, seeing the quiet strength in her eyes. It was comforting, but it also made her heart ache. She wasn't alone in this. Rachel had her own scars from her past, but she was standing here now, strong and kind—someone who understood, someone who wasn't going to judge her for her messy, complicated life.

"I don't know what to do anymore," Sutton admitted quietly, her voice raw. "I don't think I can keep living like this. I need a break from all the fighting, all the pressure. I... I don't know where else to go."

Rachel leaned forward, her voice gentle but firm. "You don't have to do it alone, Sutton. You deserve peace. And if you need a place to stay, if you need time to breathe... you're welcome to stay with Carl and me for as long as you need."

Sutton's breath caught in her throat. She hadn't expected Rachel to say that—not so easily, not with such kindness. "Are you sure?" Her voice wavered, unsure if she had heard correctly. "I don't want to impose. I mean, I don't even really know you. And I don't want to cause any more trouble."

Rachel smiled softly, reaching across the table to place a hand over Sutton's. "Sutton, you're not an imposition. I want to help. Carl and I both do. We have space, and we want you to feel safe. You can stay with us for as long as you need. No questions asked."

Tears welled up in Sutton's eyes, though she fought them back, blinking rapidly to keep them at bay. She had been holding everything in for so long, and Rachel's words, her kindness, had opened up a floodgate she hadn't even realized was there.

"Thank you," Sutton whispered, her voice breaking. "I don't know what to say. I don't know how to thank you."

Rachel's hand gave hers a reassuring squeeze. "You don't have to thank me, Sutton. Just... take a breath. Let yourself rest for a little while. You deserve it."

Sutton let out a shaky breath, feeling a weight she hadn't realized she was carrying begin to lift, even if just slightly. The possibility of peace, even temporary, felt like something she hadn't allowed herself to believe in for a long time.

"You don't have to decide anything right now," Rachel added gently. "But when you're ready, we'll be here."

Sutton nodded slowly, letting the warmth of Rachel's words seep in.

────

The drive to Carl and Rachel's house was quiet, the kind of quiet that felt peaceful yet heavy with everything Sutton had been carrying. The road wound along the coastline, the ocean stretching out on one side, its waves crashing in a rhythmic, calming pattern. As they neared the house, Rachel's smile never faltered, but Sutton could feel the weight of the tension slowly lifting from her shoulders as they turned onto a tree-lined street.

The house came into view, a cozy, two-story beach cottage with soft, pale blue shutters and a wraparound porch decorated with potted plants and surfboards leaning against the railing. The yard was lush, with a hammock tied between two tall palm trees and a set of colorful lounge chairs arranged near a fire pit. The house exuded a relaxed, laid-back energy, with a mix of weathered wood and cheerful touches that made it feel inviting, like it had been built for unwinding and easy mornings.

Rachel pulled into the driveway, cutting the engine, and Sutton's eyes immediately went to the front door. Without warning, a massive German Shepherd came barreling out of the house, barking with excitement. The dog was a blur of brown and black fur, its powerful legs moving with speed and strength as it charged toward the car. Sutton's heart leaped in her chest, her instincts telling her to brace herself, but Rachel just laughed.

"Don't worry, he's harmless," Rachel reassured her, opening the door. "Come on, meet Max."

Sutton's breath caught in her throat as she stepped out of the car, watching the dog bound toward her. Max skidded to a stop right in front of her, his tail wagging so fast it looked like it might fly off. He was nearly as tall as she was, and his face was an odd mix of intimidating and friendly, with bright, eager eyes.

Max sniffed her curiously, and Sutton hesitated for a moment, unsure whether she should pet him, but then she lowered her hand. The dog's warm nose nuzzled into her palm, and Sutton laughed softly, surprised by how gentle he was.

"Max is a big softie," Rachel said with a grin. "He's more bark than bite."

Sutton couldn't help but smile as the dog licked her hand enthusiastically. There was something about the way Max's presence seemed to instantly ground her. She ran her hand down his back, and the sensation of his soft fur made her think of something she hadn't thought about in years.

As Max trotted happily back to the house, Sutton caught a glimpse of the name tag on his collar. The name on it made her stop in her tracks.

"Wait... Max?" she asked, the realization hitting her. She blinked, staring at the dog as he sat by the front door, his tail wagging.

"That's right," Rachel said, her tone amused. "Max has been Carl's dog for years now. He's kind of a permanent fixture around here."

Sutton swallowed hard, feeling a strange rush of emotion flood her chest. "I used to have a stuffed dog named Max when I was little," she murmured, more to herself than to Rachel. "It was my favorite toy... I don't even know why I remember that."

Rachel's eyes softened with understanding. "Sometimes the little things, like names, can really stick with you," she said, guiding Sutton toward the front door. "Come on in, let me show you around."

Sutton followed Rachel into the house, the cool interior a welcome contrast to the warm, salty air outside. The living room was spacious, with light-colored furniture and beachy accents—seafoam green pillows, driftwood coffee tables, and wide windows that let in tons of natural light. The house felt lived-in and cozy, like it was made for easy conversations and family gatherings. It was completely different from the cold, chaotic atmosphere at her mom's house, and Sutton couldn't help but feel the weight of her tiredness lift just a little bit.

Rachel led her down a hallway toward a set of stairs. "Up here is the guest room," she said, pushing open a door that revealed a simple, comfortable room with light linens and a small window that looked out over the ocean. "You can stay here for as long as you need."

Sutton glanced around, taking in the peaceful vibe of the room. She nodded gratefully, feeling something she hadn't in days—a sense of relief. A sense of safety.

Rachel gave her a quick, reassuring smile before leading her further down the hall. "I just want to show you something really quick."

They stopped in front of a wall that was covered with framed photos—old family pictures of Carl and his kids, their smiling faces frozen in time. Sutton's heart twisted painfully as she looked at the photos, her eyes landing on a few that made her pause.

There was a picture of Eli as a little boy, grinning from ear to ear in a sandy, sun-soaked backyard. Another of Zach and Sutton playing with a soccer ball in the front yard. And there was one of Carl himself, holding a baby Eli, his face full of pride and joy.

Sutton's breath caught in her throat, her fingers tracing over the glass of one photo in particular. It was a picture of the four Hayes kids—her, Zach, Eli, and Olivia—standing together on a beach, their smiles wide and full of life. She had to blink a few times, trying to push down the overwhelming emotions that surfaced at the sight of it.

"I didn't realize you guys had so many pictures like this," Sutton said, her voice trembling slightly as she pulled away from the wall. "I always thought... I thought he didn't care. I thought he didn't want us to remember him."

Rachel's expression softened. "Carl did a lot of things wrong, Sutton. But he's been sober for a long time now. He regrets a lot, and he wants to make up for the time he lost. That's why he didn't try to reach out before. He wanted to respect your space."

Sutton's throat tightened, and she couldn't hold back the tears anymore. Everything felt so much more complicated than it had ever seemed. Carl's absence had always felt like a betrayal. But seeing these photos, seeing the memories of a man who had once clearly been a part of their lives, made her wonder if she had judged him too harshly. Maybe he hadn't abandoned them by choice.

"I don't know what to feel about him anymore," she whispered, shaking her head.

Rachel placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. "You don't have to know right now, Sutton. You're allowed to feel whatever you need to. Take your time."

Sutton nodded silently, feeling the weight of her past and the pain of everything that had happened crash down on her.

Rachel's tone was soft, but there was a quiet determination in her words as she continued. "Carl's going to be home in a couple of hours. I've already told him to give you space. I know this is all happening really fast, but we want you to feel as comfortable as possible."

Sutton nodded, appreciating Rachel's understanding. She had no idea what she was feeling or what to do next, but this kindness from Rachel was grounding her, making her feel like she wasn't completely lost in the whirlwind of emotions.

"Thank you," Sutton whispered, her voice thick with gratitude. "I don't know what I would've done if you hadn't stopped."

Rachel smiled gently, her eyes warm with reassurance. "You don't have to thank me. Just take it one step at a time. But is there anything I can do to help you feel more comfortable while you're here? If there's something you need, we can make sure to get it for you."

Sutton hesitated for a moment, then realized the one thing that had been weighing on her. She couldn't exactly return home to grab her things, not after everything that had happened with Gabrielle. "I—well, I don't have much here. My things are still at my mom's, but..." she trailed off, not quite knowing how to explain the chaos waiting for her back there.

Rachel gave her a knowing nod, not pressing her for details. "I get it. If you'd like, I could take you with a friend of mine to pick up what you need. Whatever clothes or things you want to bring. And don't worry about paying. Carl and I—well, we'll cover it."

The offer was kind, but Sutton still felt a weight in her chest. "I—I don't want to impose," she said softly. "I know you're already doing so much."

Rachel waved her off, her tone light but firm. "Not an imposition at all. If anything, we're just happy to help. You shouldn't have to go back there, and we're happy to do whatever we can to make this easier for you. Plus, we'll make it a quick trip, and I'll make sure you feel comfortable the whole time."

Sutton swallowed, feeling a tear threaten to fall, but she held it back. The tension in her shoulders began to ease, even if only slightly. It was strange, how quickly Rachel had made this house feel like a place she could breathe again.

"I... I think I'd like that," Sutton said, her voice quieter now. She wiped her eyes with the back of her hand, the weight of everything feeling less oppressive with Rachel's support. "Thank you."

Rachel smiled warmly, clearly relieved that Sutton was feeling just a little more at ease. "It's no trouble, trust me. We'll head out in a bit, but for now, why don't you relax here a little while? You can take your time."

Sutton nodded, but the thought of being around Carl so soon still gnawed at her. She wasn't sure what to expect from him, or how she was going to feel when she saw him face-to-face for the first time in years. But for now, she was grateful to be here—grateful that she wasn't alone in the mess of it all.

As Rachel stepped out to make a quick call, Sutton sank into the couch, staring out the window at the view of the ocean beyond. She wasn't sure where her life was heading, but she knew she couldn't keep running from everything.

────

Sutton woke up with a start, the warmth of the afternoon sun slipping through the blinds. Her head was still heavy from the whirlwind of emotions she'd been dealing with, but there was something different about this space—calming in its simplicity. She hadn't realized how exhausted she was until she'd finally allowed herself to rest.

The sound of voices drifted in from the living room, muffled but distinct. Her heart skipped a beat as she recognized Carl's deep, even tone, followed by the sharp, frantic words of Gabrielle. She immediately froze, not sure if she should stay or if she should move.

"You need to stop this, Gabrielle," Rachel's voice cut through the tension, her tone firm but calm. "Carl didn't coerce Sutton into anything. She's here by choice."

Sutton felt her pulse quicken, unsure of how much Rachel knew about what had been happening at home, but she could sense the confrontation building.

"I don't care what you say!" Gabrielle's voice was laced with fury, every word dripping with accusation. "You're just trying to manipulate her! She's a child, Carl. You don't get to pretend like you're some perfect parent now. You abandoned her, you walked away, and now you're trying to be a hero?"

Carl's voice remained steady, almost annoyingly so, as if he was used to this. "I'm not trying to be anything, Gabrielle. I'm here for my daughter, whether you like it or not. And if she wants to stay here, she can. I'm not forcing her into anything. She needs space. And that's what she's getting."

The silence that followed felt like an eternity, the tension so thick it could be cut with a knife. Sutton's hands were clammy as she held her breath, waiting for Gabrielle's response.

"I'm not saying she can't have space," Gabrielle hissed. "But this whole... narrative you've got going about being the concerned dad? The one who's suddenly all noble after all these years? You've never been there, Carl. You left her with me. And now, after everything... you think you have the right to come back in and play happy family?"

Rachel's voice was quick to counter, sharp and unapologetic. "You need to stop pushing that narrative, Gabrielle. Carl was a mess back then. You were both dealing with your own issues. But he's changed. And you're only hurting Sutton by continuing to paint him as the villain."

Sutton's heart raced in her chest. She hadn't realized how much of the story Rachel knew. It felt so surreal—this conversation, the way Rachel was standing up for Carl, for her. She had always assumed Gabrielle would be the one to defend her, to fight for her. But Rachel, who barely knew her, was doing it.

Carl spoke again, his tone quieter now but still resolute. "Sutton deserves the truth, Gabrielle. She deserves to make her own choices, not have this endless battle between the two of us. I'm here. I'm sober. I've changed, and I'm not going anywhere. If she wants to stay, it's her choice. Don't make this about something it's not."

Gabrielle's voice was shaking now, more controlled but laced with an underlying edge. "I can't believe this... I didn't even get a say in any of this."

Rachel's voice softened slightly but still held that firmness. "You do have a say. But you need to let go of the past. Sutton's not a little girl anymore, and you can't keep holding onto grudges. You have to let her find her own path, just like Carl is."

Sutton could hear the anger in Gabrielle's next words, but it was quieter now, almost defeated. "Fine. But don't expect me to just... forgive him."

Sutton's heart clenched as the conversation finally ended. The door to the guest room creaked open, and Rachel stepped inside, her face soft with concern but still strong.

"Sutton," Rachel said gently, her voice warm, "I hope that wasn't too much for you to hear."

Sutton sat up in the bed, still reeling from everything. "I—I didn't mean to eavesdrop," she said, voice shaky. "I just... I don't know what to do anymore. Everything feels like it's falling apart."

Rachel nodded, walking over to sit beside her. "I know. It's a lot. But you're not alone in this. You're here because you need space, and Carl and I will respect that. We're not going to pressure you, and we won't let anyone else try to manipulate you either."

Sutton swallowed hard, the weight of everything finally starting to sink in. "I didn't realize how bad it was... how much everyone was... still angry."

Rachel sighed, her face softening with empathy. "It's a complicated situation. But that's not your fault. It never has been. You have a right to make your own decisions, to find your own peace. Carl's here now. He's different. And so are you."

Sutton wiped her eyes, feeling an unfamiliar sense of relief at Rachel's words. "I... I just don't know if I can deal with all of this. I don't know if I can ever forgive him for everything he did, for how much he hurt us."

Rachel's expression was understanding but firm. "You don't have to forgive him right now. But just give yourself time. You're allowed to feel however you feel. And no matter what happens with your mom, your dad, or anyone else—you're not alone anymore."

Sutton nodded, grateful for the kindness and the space Rachel was giving her. But as she sat there, the reality of what was happening began to settle in—she was staying with Carl. The man who had abandoned her. The man who had hurt her family.

And yet, she felt something strange stirring in her chest—a mix of hope and dread. Could he really change? Could this all be part of a bigger picture, something she hadn't seen until now?

One thing was certain: she didn't have all the answers.

Sutton took a few deep breaths, trying to steady herself. The silence in the guest room felt almost suffocating, but she knew she needed to get a grip, to gather herself. Rachel's words had offered some comfort, but Sutton still felt like a stranger in her own life—too much had changed too quickly, and she wasn't sure how to navigate this unfamiliar territory.

She stood up from the bed and decided a little space was needed. Maybe some time alone in the bathroom would help. It wasn't much, but at least it was something she could control.

As she reached the hallway and approached the bathroom door, she froze.

Carl was standing there, leaning against the wall, his hand resting on the doorframe. He was looking down at his phone, but when he heard her footsteps, he glanced up, startled for a moment. His expression shifted quickly, masking any trace of surprise with the same neutral face she remembered—cool, guarded.

For a moment, neither of them spoke.

Sutton cleared her throat awkwardly, breaking the silence first. "Um, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to... I just needed a minute."

Carl blinked, his brow furrowing slightly, then nodded. "No need to apologize. I understand."

It was strange. The man standing in front of her, this version of Carl, was nothing like the man she remembered from her childhood—angry, reckless, distant. He wasn't the monster she'd imagined for years. The Carl she saw now was calm, composed, even... a little unsure. Like he didn't quite know how to approach her, or if he even had a right to.

Sutton swallowed hard, her nerves coming back in full force. "So... how are you?" she asked, instantly regretting how casual it sounded. It felt forced, but at least it was a way to break the tension.

Carl gave a small, almost tight-lipped smile. "I'm good. Been busy, but good." He cleared his throat, stepping aside so she could pass. "How about you?"

Sutton hesitated, unsure of what to say. She felt like she should give him some kind of answer, something more than just a mumbled, "I'm fine." But what was the truth? How could she explain everything she was feeling when she didn't even understand it herself?

"I don't know," she finally said, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's... a lot."

Carl nodded, and for a second, there was a flicker of something in his eyes—regret, maybe? It was hard to tell. But it was there, just beneath the surface. "Yeah," he said softly. "I can imagine."

Sutton found herself looking at him a little longer, this man who had been absent for so much of her life, the one she had resented for leaving her and her family to pick up the pieces. But something was different. As he stood there, clearly trying to figure out what to say, Sutton saw it—the softness in his eyes, the lack of the hardened edge she had always associated with him.

He wasn't the same person he had been. Maybe he wasn't perfect, but he wasn't the failure she had imagined either. In that moment, she saw a reflection of herself in him—someone who had made mistakes, who had hurt others, but was now trying to do better.

For the first time in a long time, Sutton felt a wave of uncertainty about her own feelings. Maybe it wasn't about forgiveness right away. Maybe it was about giving him a chance—giving herself a chance to see who he had become, without the weight of the past constantly clouding her judgment.

Carl broke the silence first, his voice quiet but sincere. "I'm not here to make things harder on you, Sutton. I'm just trying to be... present, if you'll let me. I don't expect anything from you. I just want you to know I'm here."

Sutton's chest tightened as the lump in her throat grew larger. She had spent so many years hating him for abandoning her, for leaving her to fend for herself. But now... it felt like he was offering her something more, something real. She wasn't sure how to process it, or even if she was ready to let go of the hurt. But she wasn't sure she needed to hold onto it forever either.

She took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. "I don't know if I'm ready for all of this. For... you being here."

Carl gave a small nod, not looking hurt, just understanding. "I get that. But when you're ready... I'm here. I'll always be here."

Sutton didn't know what to say to that. The words felt too heavy, like they were being weighed down by everything that had come before. But in the quiet that followed, she felt a small shift—like the beginning of something new, something that could finally replace all the anger she had carried for so long.

"Thanks," she finally said, her voice softer now. "I'll... I'll think about it."

Carl nodded again, his eyes studying her carefully. Then, without another word, he turned and walked away down the hallway.

Sutton stood there for a few moments, the quiet of the house pressing in around her. It was strange, this feeling that she was finally seeing her father in a new light—one that didn't make her heart tighten with resentment.

Maybe this wasn't all as hopeless as she had thought.

Maybe, just maybe, she could allow herself to consider the possibility that people could change. That even someone like Carl could try to make things right.

────

In the stillness of the night, Sutton couldn't shake the weight of everything that had happened over the past few days. The walls of Carl's beach house felt both comforting and suffocating, and sleep was elusive. Her mind kept circling back to everything—Eli's injury, her mom's meltdown, her father's unexpected kindness—and the knot in her stomach wouldn't loosen.

Finally, she reached for her phone. She had to talk to someone. Someone who wouldn't judge her or try to fix everything, but just listen. Her thumb hovered over JJ's contact, and before she could second-guess herself, she pressed the call button.

It rang twice before he picked up. His voice, still a little groggy from whatever late-night antics Kie had dragged him into, was a welcome sound. "Sutton? Everything okay?"

She let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. "Hey, JJ. I... I really need to talk."

There was a slight pause on the other end of the line, and then JJ's voice softened. "Of course, what's going on?"

Sutton leaned back against the plush couch in the guest room, running a hand through her hair. "It's a lot, JJ. Everything's been falling apart. Eli's in the hospital. Turns out he has epilepsy. He's not just recovering from an accident anymore. It's permanent. He... he might have seizures for the rest of his life."

"Shit, Sutton, I'm so sorry," JJ said immediately. "Is he okay now? How's your mom holding up?"

"Barely," Sutton replied, her voice shaking as she remembered the way Gabrielle had broken down, blaming her for everything that went wrong. "She's been kind of losing it. We... we don't get along right now. It's like she's just... pushing me away. I don't know what to do. I ran into Carl's girlfriend - she's nice. I, uh, ended up staying with them tonight."

Kie's voice came through the line now, quieter but still filled with concern. "Sutton, I'm so sorry. The last time we talked... I never meant for it to get so bad. I know we've both been caught up in our own stuff, but if I'd known what you were going through..."

Sutton swallowed hard. Kie's words weren't the ones she expected, but they hit deep anyway. It was a relief to hear that Kie cared. After everything that had gone down between them, it felt like a little patch of calm in a storm. "I know, Kie. I never wanted to burden you. But it's just... everything's falling apart so fast."

JJ's voice came back into the conversation. "What about your dad? You're staying with him, right? Is everything okay with that?"

Sutton sighed, her shoulders slumping as she thought about Carl. "Yeah. I'm staying with him and Rachel. It's... complicated. He's sober now. Went to rehab five years ago. He's been working as a counselor, helping people with mental health and addiction problems. He's different, JJ. I don't know what I expected, but he's not the man I hated for so long. It's strange, but I think... I think I'm starting to see him for who he really is now."

Sutton paused, the words tasting foreign on her tongue. It felt surreal, everything she had built up about her father crumbling away as she spoke to her best friends. But the more she thought about it, the more she realized she couldn't keep running from this new version of Carl.

"That's... good though, right?" Kie asked hesitantly. "You've got to give yourself room to feel things, Sutton. Maybe this is a step in the right direction."

Sutton nodded absently, her thoughts drifting to Carl, to Rachel, and everything she was beginning to understand. "I guess... but there's still so much going on, Kie. It's like, I just need to make sense of all of it. And now I'm just waiting for my mom to blow up, and Carl's got his own opinions about what's best for me and my brother. It's too much."

There was a brief pause on the other end, and Kie's voice was gentle. "Sutton, I can't even imagine what you're going through right now. But I think you know, no matter what happens with your mom or Carl, we've got your back. Just let us know what you need."

Sutton bit her lip, the ache in her chest deepening. "Thanks, Kie. I just... I don't even know what I need anymore."

The silence stretched on for a moment before JJ spoke again, his voice laced with curiosity. "What about Evan? Have you talked to him? I know things have been rough between you two, but... well, he's your boyfriend, right?"

Sutton flinched at the mention of Evan's name. The thought of him had been buried in the chaos of everything else going on. She hadn't spoken to him since the night she left for Carl's place, and the guilt was starting to weigh on her now, even more than before.

She closed her eyes tightly, trying to push away the overwhelming sense of regret. "I... I need to talk to him, don't I?" Sutton whispered. "I've been avoiding it, but you're right. I should've spoken to him days ago. This isn't just about me anymore, it's about everything—about all of us. I've messed up, Kie."

Kie's voice softened even more. "Sutton, you're not messing up. You're dealing with more than anyone should have to handle. But Evan... you have to face him, babe. You have to tell him what's going on. It's not just about you anymore. You've got to let him in, even if you're scared. He deserves that."

Sutton's breath hitched, and she realized Kie was right. If she truly wanted to make sense of everything, to move forward, she had to face Evan. It wasn't just about her anymore. She owed him an explanation, just like she owed herself a chance to heal.

"I'll call him," Sutton promised, her voice thick with emotion. "I just... I need a little time. But I'll do it."

JJ's voice came back, a little more playful now, trying to lighten the mood. "Well, if you need anything, you know where we are. Kie and I are planning on staying at the beach for the next few days. We can hang when you're ready, okay?"

"Thanks, JJ," Sutton said softly, a small smile forming on her lips despite the chaos of the situation. "I'll reach out. I promise."

After a few more quiet words, the call ended, and Sutton found herself staring at the screen for a moment. The weight of everything was still there, but at least now she knew she wasn't carrying it alone. Maybe she could figure out how to talk to Evan.

But first, she knew she had to face the hardest conversation yet.

Sutton sat on the edge of the bed, her fingers trembling as she stared at her phone. The conversation with Kie had dug up everything she had been avoiding. "You have to talk to him, Sutton." Kie had told her. Sutton had put this off for too long, but now... now she was ready. She needed to know where she stood with Evan, even though something told her she wouldn't like the answer.

She took a deep breath, gritting her teeth as she dialed his number.

It rang for what felt like forever before he answered, his voice slow, almost bored. "Sutton?"

"Yeah, it's me," she said, trying to keep her voice steady but failing. "Look, I'm sorry for everything, but I need to tell you what's been going on. Eli's in the hospital, he's—"

"I know, I heard. Not exactly a good time to be messing with me, though, huh?" Evan interrupted, a smirk evident in his voice. "You couldn't even text me back for days, but now you want to talk?"

Sutton's chest tightened. "It's not like that. I've been dealing with some serious stuff at home, and I didn't know how to... I didn't know how to tell you."

Evan let out a half-laugh, more dismissive than comforting. "Sure, whatever. You didn't know how to tell me. Sounds like an excuse." There was a beat of silence before he added, "But hey, now that we're talking... I saw you hanging around with Rafe the other night, so what's up with that? You think he's got a thing for you?"

Sutton's blood ran cold at the mention of Rafe. Of course Evan was jealous. She had known that much, but to hear him say it so casually was different.

"I'm not... I'm not like that, Evan," she said, trying to steady her breath. "It's complicated, okay? Rafe doesn't—"

"Yeah, yeah, complicated. That's what you always say." He cut her off again, his voice tinged with irritation. "You know, I've been trying to figure you out, Sutton. You're hot, and I'm into you. But I can't stand the whole 'drama' thing. You always come with a bunch of baggage. So if you want to be with me, you need to get your shit together. No more of this back and forth."

Sutton recoiled at his words. "I can't believe you're saying this. I'm dealing with real stuff right now, and all you care about is... is who I'm hanging out with or if I'm 'hot.'" She felt the sting of his words, the callousness of it all.

"Come on, Sutton. You think I don't see what's going on? You've been all over the place, and now you're coming to me when things are falling apart. I'm just trying to keep things fun, you know? No commitments, just a good time," Evan's voice was condescending now, almost mocking. "I don't think I'm the guy who's gonna fix your 'family drama.' So yeah, we can hang out, but you need to drop all this heavy stuff."

Sutton felt a lump rise in her throat, but she swallowed it back, fighting to keep her voice steady. "I don't need your help. I just needed to tell you where I was. That's all."

"Whatever," Evan replied, a shrug practically audible in his tone. "I'm not dealing with all this drama. You'll figure it out, right? Just let me know if you want something lighter. I'm still down for that."

Sutton's heart hammered in her chest as she ended the call without another word. Her phone felt heavy in her hands, like it had become something alien to her.

Tears threatened to well up, but she blinked them away furiously. That was Evan. The guy who had been a flirt, a shallow, cocky Kook who was into her because he thought it would piss Rafe off. Not the guy who had once made her feel special. Not the guy she had convinced herself had potential.

She felt foolish. Anger bubbled up inside of her, hot and fierce, at the way he had just dismissed everything. He hadn't cared about what was going on with Eli. He didn't care about her family or what she was dealing with. He only cared about himself and whatever little games he was playing.

With a deep breath, Sutton tossed her phone onto the bed. She didn't know what she was supposed to do anymore, but she sure as hell wasn't going to let him make her feel like she was the problem. She was done.

If anything, this was the moment Sutton realized that maybe she was the one who needed to make some real choices. Not just about Evan, but about her whole life.

────

Athours note:

OMG SO MUCH HAPPENED AND IS GOING TO HAPPEN. WHAT'S YOUR THOUGHTS? I HAVE EVERYTHING UP TO SEASON 1 WRITTEN AND I CANT WAIT TO START SEASON 1. Also, I picture Rachel as Brianne howey :)