Chapter 12:

"Oh, Trish! How could you do this? You know we're in trouble financially; why would you waste your father's hard-earned money on... God knows what?" Mom scolded me for the entire hour before deciding to take a power nap.

"God, I don't know what to do with this boy anymore! What are we going to do with you? Ugh, I need some time off; I'm taking a nap." she closed her eyes and entered into a deep slumber. Anything you say will not be heard from her for at least an hour. 

After that, the drive became eerily quiet. "Still two more hours left, guys, hang on, okay?" Dad announced, trying to break the silence as he continued driving.

We passed by endless rows of trees, the cityscape fading away into nothingness. The road seemed to stretch infinitely, and there wasn't a soul in sight. Kiara clutched her teddy bear tightly, her knuckles white with fear. I noticed she was uneasy, so I suggested she rest her head on my shoulder. She nodded and quickly fell asleep, her little body relaxing against mine.

"Aww, how cute," I muttered, gently stroking her frizzy hair. With Mom asleep and Kiara napping, it was just Dad and me, the only ones awake. 

"So, what did you buy with the money? Don't tell me you were donating to a Nigerian prince," Dad chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. His attempt at humor made me smile.

"No, nothing like that," I replied, shifting in my seat. "It was for this house. The person who recommended it asked for a small tip for their top-tier recommendations and, uh, other specialties. I gave them 35 bucks because the house is nice and cheap."

The house was dirt cheap for its big space and amenities. My parents were very suspicious of the price at first, then convinced themselves that it might be because of the isolated place from desperation. I didn't even need to talk to them to convince them. 

Dad nodded, seemingly understanding. "Look, Trish, you shouldn't have used your mom's card without her permission. And honestly, what you used it for doesn't seem very trustworthy. We don't know much about this house and this town, and I've heard some unsettling things from friends. Are you sure this is the right decision, Trish?" He didn't look at me, his eyes fixed on the winding road ahead.

I shrugged. "It felt like the right move. I think moving will fix us. We can have a fresh start; the house may have bad Wi-Fi, but it has good scenery. It'll be good for some time together, with each other. Come on, Dad, isn't this a better option than divorce, couples counseling, and therapy? Not to mention, it's cheap!" I sat up, trying to make him see my point.

He was silent for a moment. "I don't know, Trish; this seems a little risky. But I need you to know that I trust you, son. I know you've had some rough times lately, but that doesn't mean you should sit in a corner and sulk. I'm proud of you for taking steps for your family." He smiled, a genuine warmth in his expression. I smiled back, feeling a small sense of relief.

"But, just to be sure, you are going to go to therapy, right?" 

"I'll think about it," I replied, the words hanging in the air.

Suddenly, my phone pinged. I received a message from "grapebox235."

Did it work?

I glanced at Kiara, sleeping soundly, oblivious to everything. My plan had worked; the ritual had worked. 

Yes, I'll wire you the money by dawn.