I finally finished, and when I did, I realized I was crying. I sighed, wiping my eyes carefully. Then I was engulfed in a hug.<br/>"God, Brooke! Why didn't you tell me? I would have let you stay with me!" Natalie's voice said.<br/>I sighed in relief, letting go of Eric's hand, so I could hug her back.<br/>"I didn't want you to get hurt." I told her. She pulled back.<br/>"If that... dick tried to hurt me, I would pull my whoop-ass skills out on him." She said grinning.<br/>I laughed. "Okay then." I took a bite of my ice cream, seeing as how it sat untouched and was now somewhat melted. I put my hand in Eric's again, saying thank you with my eyes.