21 A Parting of Ways

21 A Parting of Ways Peanut put the finishing touches to the door handle, stepped back and returned Little Tail to its slot on her bandolier. Rockwell had suggested moving to a nearby storeroom so that he could make a quiet exit. He didn't want the fact that he was leaving to dampen the festivities, so only Little-Bit and Doodle had gone with them. 'Right, then. I guess this is goodbye,' said Peanut, coolly. 'I guess it is,' said Rockwell. He took a deep breath. 'Listen, Peanut—' 'Don't,' interrupted the girl. She didn't want to hear any emotional speeches. 'Look, maybe we were only ever meant to be study buddies, not real friends. I do really appreciate the

help you've given me over the last few months, but, honestly, I think this is probably for the best. Now that Dad is back, my life is, hopefully, going to return to normal. I'll probably go back to Melody High, so I don't need—' 'You don't need me anymore,' said Rockwell, nodding. Peanut blushed, but didn't correct him. Instead, she turned and walked away from the door she had drawn for him. 'Safe travels, Rockwell,' she said. 'Come on, LB. We've got a lot to do before tomorrow. Hurry up and say goodbye.' Rockwell sighed, turned to Little-Bit and crouched down. She threw her arms around his neck. 'I'll see you when we get back home, Rocky. I wish you were staying here with us for the party, though. You are quite annoying, but it won't be the same without you.' He hugged her back. 'I'll see you soon, LB. Have fun and keep an eye on things for me.' Rockwell then turned to Doodle and ruffled the charcoal fur around his neck. 'Goodbye, boy. I'm not sure when I'll see you again,' he said, sadly. The dog barked three times, each woof laced with a slight whimper, and then licked Rockwell's face enthusiastically. Rockwell stood up and wiped his cheeks. He looked directly at Peanut, but she didn't return his gaze. ' Right, I'll be off then. Say goodbye to the others for me and, well, look after yourselves.'

Then he turned the graphite door handle, opened the illustrated door and walked through, pulling it shut behind him Despite her anger, Peanut couldn't help but feel sad as she watched Rockwell leave. Yes, she was annoyed with him, but she was still going to miss his companionship. What really made the tears well in her eyes, however, was the fact that, deep down, she knew that he wouldn't ever be coming back to Chroma again.