*(New) Author's Note: I noticed this story had been abandoned back around the end of 2011. It quickly became my favorite story on this site after first reading it, and I have decided to hijack it and continue where it was left off 5 years ago, eventually giving it a proper conclusion. Of course, if the original author(s) message me demanding I stop, I gladly will, although I don't suspect that will ever happen. I will try to keep the story going on a similar path to that which it was originally set on, but you may notice a slight change in writing style. I am a different person, after all. Also, keep in mind I don't actually know the original intended ending of the story, so I kind of have to make it up as I go, although I have a general idea of what will happen. I'll try my best to stick to a regular schedule of once or twice a week when posting chapters. Please try to bear with me here, and thanks.*
"Beth, listen to me. Your parents may not fully understand what you're going through, but they certainly still care about you," Carol said reassuringly. "Things may seem hard now, but as time goes on and you slowly start becoming comfortable in your own skin again, you'll start to feel better. Trust me."
"But that doesn't change the fact that my father still sees me as a monster," Beth retorted. "He never said anything outright, but I can see it in him everytime he comes into my room. He always keeps his eyes rooted to the floor and barely says a word to me."
Carol paused for a moment. She wanted to reassure her and say that Greg still loved her and would always be there for her, but even she didn't know if that was true. What must it feel like to think your own father regrets you?
"I know your father still loves you, and I don't want you thinking of yourself as a monster. You need to stay strong, especially when times are tough. And if you ever need some extra support, Lisa, Jen, and I will always be close by. Feel free to call us whenever you're feeling down, alright?" Carol cracked a reassuring smile.
"Alright, I will, and thank you. I've really needed an emotional boost lately. When you see them, tell Lisa and Jen I appreciate them coming over to visit me before," Beth asked sincerely.
"Will do, honey. That's very sweet of you. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to get going. The girls are waiting for me, and I need to continue making preparations for Thanksgiving. It'll be here before we know it." Carol made her way down the stairs, and ran into Greg at the front door.
"How'd it go?" Greg asked dismally.
"You know," Carol responded curtly, "Beth could really use some tender love and care right now. She's having a really hard time, like she's trapped in her own skin. If I were you, I would put my personal issues aside and step up to the plate. Right now, your daughter needs you. That has to be worth something, right?" Carol pleaded earnestly.
"I don't... You're right." Greg slowly conceded. "I've been selfish and my daughter has been suffering needlessly because of me. I'm still not entirely comfortable with this whole situation, but I at least have to make an effort to comfort Beth, my baby girl, even if she doesn't look the part anymore. Thank you for opening my eyes, Carol." Greg then hurried up the stairs and into his daughter's room.
"Hmm, maybe he's not such a bad guy after all," Carol thought to herself. "He just needs a little encouraging push."
She closed the door behind her and began the walk home, feeling accomplished but emotionally exhausted.