Rabbit Hole Carnival: Aftermath

Renee jumped a bit as she heard a knock. “It’s open. Yes. I am sure.”

“Very well then.. You seemed a bit jumpy today, and we haven't even opened yet.” Nick replied. “Still not used to not always having to look over your shoulder?”

“Stupid I know.” Renee said. “This shouldn’t be—”

“You stop right there.” Nick said. “It's hurt, Renee. It hurt you deeply, and getting rid of those scars is no simple task. But you came a very long way, and you need to remember that, no matter what that means.”

“But I.. should over this. I’m here. I’m home. I can’t just hide forever. I…: Renee replied.

“No, go on.” Nick said. “You were right on target.”

“I can’t just bury myself.” Renee replied, “I can’t just hide. I am her, and I am me. Right where I chose to be.” Renee got up. “Open this place. I’ll manage.”

“Already did, and we got someone who could use a Shocking Apple or two” Nick replied.

---
Renee walked downstairs. “Hey coming right up, sorry about the wait.”

“It’s fine… Ashley is the name.” Ashley replied.

“Also a runaway then?” Renee said, and planted a drink down. “And also having a rough time?”

“Where the hell do you get off assuming all that?” Ashley said, as she took a swig. “Work on your decorum.”

“Daddy, it's fine.” Renee said, as Nick was about to inject. “People don’t come here for decorum. People don’t come here for being told to suck it up. They come here when they need to. Whether there are a mess or just need someone to listen.”

“She can make whatever you need,” Nick said, walking away. “Or know  where to find me, if she doesn’t”

“Will be, okay I think!” Ashley shouted back. “I’ll probably just want a new Shocking Apple anyways.”

“Well I’m the only one who makes those  around here, so that should be fine.” Renee replied.

“Wait, but isn’t there only two of you?” Ashley asked. “Didn’t see anyone else around.”

“Yeah. it's been just us for a while now” Renee replied. “Before you asked yes. My mom is still alive. And he is my uncle, but the closest thing to family I've ever known.”

“Yeah?” Ashley said as finish her drink. “Was that a good thing?”

Renee took the mug, refilled it , and planted back down on the counter. “If you're still asking, you already have the answer.”

“I suppose so, but.. I guess I just came here to hear it.” Ashley replied. “Before I make myself an official runaway.”

“Home.” Renee replied. “Where that is. Whatever that means to you. You should go home. And if all that means is finding it, and it is not  worth stomaching that house anymore. You should listen to that too.”

“And what if that means that I need to be here tonight?” Ashley replied.

“Then you wouldn’t be the first.” Renee replied, gesturing to herself. “ And I doubt you’ll be the last, so do you need to?”

“It… it would help too.

“Daddy!” Reene said. “Code Scallywag!”

"There's blankets in the closet!” Nick replied. “You can manage her drinks?!?”

“I think so!” Ashley shouted. “If you’ll excuse me for a bit? I’ve got some calls to make.”

“You take all the time you need,” Renee said.