The Memories We Keep

The Memories We Keep

Samantha “Sammie Girl” Mathis sat on the worn couch, surrounded by boxes and half empty coffee cups.

The familiar scent of old books and stale air filled her nostrils as she stared out the window, watching the rain drizzle down on the city. Today was the day she’d been drowning in nostalgia for weeks the day she finally cleaned out her childhood home.

The last link to her Parents, She knew this day was going to come being that her mother’s health had been rapidly failing but she didn't know how hard it would be to pack up the house of everything thing that was them and her…

Her mum had left her the home to sell as she didn't really have money to leave, so she left her the house and all it's contents..

Growing up, this house had been her sanctuary. She’d spent countless hours exploring its nooks, hosting sleepovers, and creating memories with friends. But now, it felt like a life she had to leave behind.

As she sorted through old trunks and yellowed letters, Sammie stumbled upon a dusty photo album. The pages creaked as she opened it, releasing a flood of memories. There she was, a grinning 10 year-old, surrounded by friends at her birthday party. The smiles seemed to leap off the page, and for a moment, she was transported back to that sun drenched afternoon.

A small, faded envelope slipped from the album’s pages. Sammie’s name was scribbled on it in looping handwriting. She recognized the penmanship it was from her best friend from childhood, Emily.

Emily had always been wayward even at 10 years old and a even worse teenager. Emily had just been one of those people you know??

Sammie’s heart skipped a beat as she slid the letter out. The words were like a time capsule, transporting her back to laughter filled sleepovers, whispered secrets, and endless summer days. Emily wrote about their dreams, their fears, and the unbreakable bond they shared.

As Sammie read, tears mingled with the rain outside. She hadn’t seen Emily in years, not since life’s chaos had pulled them in opposite directions. They’d tried to stay in touch, but distance and time had slowly ended their connection.

The memories swirled around her, bittersweet and poignant. Sammie realized that while people may drift apart, the memories they create remain, like anchors.

She closed her eyes, letting the words linger. In that moment, she wasn’t just Sammie Girl, cleaning out her childhood home she was a catalogue of memories, a keeper of stories, and a testament to the power of love and connection.

The rain slowed to a gentle patter as Sammie opened her eyes. She smiled, feeling the weight of nostalgia lift. She’d hold onto these memories that she didn't know how to let go..

The mover truck was coming soon, Sammie just wanted more time with this house but time wasn't on Sammie’s side…

Sammie stared at the letter again the words blurring together as tears pricked her eyes. She hadn't seen Emily's handwriting in years, and the familiar loops and curves brought a wave of nostalgia crashing down. She felt like she was a kid again, giggling with Emily over boys, sharing secrets, and dreaming of the future.

The rain outside seemed to intensify again drumming against the roof like a beat in her heart. Sammie knew she had to reach out to Emily. She couldn't let their friendship fade into the silence a moment longer.

She grabbed her phone and looked through Chatter , she scrolled through what seemed like 1000 Emily Natson profiles and there she was the same nerdy slightly older face she remembered, her fingers trembling as she called and waited for the call to connect. What if Emily didn't answer? What if she'd moved on, forgotten the girl she'd once been?

But then, a familiar voice answered, "Hello?, I think I know you.., haha I got Chatter over 3 years ago and I have never found anyone I'd known"

Emily had always been a rambler

Sammie's throat tightened. "Em?"

There was a pause, and for a moment, Sammie wondered if she'd made a mistake. But then, Emily's voice, warm and rich, filled the line. "Sammie Girl? Oh my gosh, is that you?"

Sammie's eyes closed, relief washing over her. "It's me."

They talked for hours, catching up on lost time, sharing laughter and tears. They reminisced about old friends, old haunts, and old memories. Sammie told Emily about the house, her parents passing and the letter, and the nostalgia that had been simmering inside her.

As they talked, Sammie felt the distance between them shrink. It was like no time had passed at all they picked up right where they'd left off..

"I've missed you," Emily said, her voice barely above a whisper, chocking back tears..

Sammie's heart swelled. "I've missed you too, Em. I’m glad I called."

"Me too," Emily replied. "You should have called sooner ."

Sammie smiled, feeling the memories they'd kept alive and pulsing through her veins. "I think you're right."

As they hung up, promising to stay in touch this time, Sammie felt a sense of peace settle over her.

The rain outside had stopped, leaving behind a calm, silver sky. Sammie smiled, knowing that her and Emily was in contact again.

Emily phoned back again 20 minutes later..

As Sammie and Emily talked, the conversation flowed easily, like they'd picked up where they left off without missing a beat. They reminisced about old times, shared laughs, and caught up on each other's lives.

But as the conversation went on, Sammie noticed a hint of sadness in Emily's voice. "Hey, Em, is everything okay?" she asked, her tone softening. "You sound a little...off."

Emily hesitated, and for a moment, Sammie wondered if she'd overstepped. But then, Emily's voice cracked, and she said, "It's just...money's been tight, Sammie. I've been struggling to make ends meet."

Sammie's heart went out to her friend. "Oh, Em, I'm so sorry. What's going on?"

Emily sighed, and the words spilled out. "I lost my job a few months ago, and I've been trying to find a new one, but it's not easy. I've had to take on some...unsavory clients to make ends meet."

Sammie's mind was racing. She knew Emily had always been proud, and it must have been killing her to struggle like this. "Em why didn't you track me down?" she asked, trying to keep her voice gentle.

Emily laughed, a bitter sound. "I don't know, Sammie. I just felt like I'd failed, I guess. Like I wasn't living up to my potential and I didn't really want you to know."

Sammie's eyes pricked with tears. She knew that feeling all too well. "Em, you're not a failure," she said firmly. "You're just going through a tough spot. We all do."

As they talked, Sammie could feel the weight of Emily's struggles lifting, just a little. They made a plan for Sammie to send some help not just financial, but emotional too. They promised to support each other, no matter what.

As they hung up, Sammie felt a sense of determination wash over her. She was going to be there for Emily, no matter what.

Sammie quickly logged into her mobile banking app and initiated a transfer of $2000 to Emily's account. As she confirmed the transaction, her phone pinged, and she smiled, knowing Emily would receive the notification.

A few seconds later, Emily's phone buzzed in her hand. She looked at the screen, and her eyes widened as she saw the transfer notification from Sammie, Emily phoned Sammie instantly..

"Oh my gosh, Sammie!" Emily exclaimed, her voice trembling. "You didn't have to do this!"

Sammie's voice was warm and reassuring. "I wanted to, Em. You made my childhood worth living , and I'm just grateful. Consider it a gift, or whatever you want. Just take it and use it to get back on your feet, okay?"

Emily's voice cracked as she tried to respond. "Sammie, I...I don't know what to say. Thank you seems so stupid."

Sammie smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. "You don't need to say anything, Em. Just knowing you're okay is enough.

As they talked, Sammie could feel the weight of Emily's struggles lifting, just a little. They chatted for a bit longer.

Emily blurted out..'' check your phone"

A message appeared on Sammie's phone, a picture of a bright eyed 7 year old boy with a mischievous grin. Leo's smile was infectious, and Sammie couldn't help but smile as she gazed at the photo.

The voice of Emily that followed hit Sammie like a wave of nostalgia..

"I didn't know how to reach you or if you'd want contact, but this is my 7 year old son Leo. Remember when we were young, I always said you'd be my child's other mother if I ever had one?"

Sammie's heart swelled as she stared at the picture. She remembered those conversations, the late night talks about their dreams and futures. Emily had always been the one person who truly understood her.

A flood of emotions washed over Sammie surprise, joy, and a deep sense of longing. She hadn't known Emily had a child, but she felt an instant connection to Leo.

"Oh, Em," Sammie whispered, . "He's gorgeous! I can't believe it. You're a mom! "

Emily's voice brought a big smile to Sammie's face. "He's amazing, doing well, typical boy, doing crazy things I'd love to bring him to see you.. where are you staying.."

Sammie's fingers flew across the little face in the photo as she responded. "I'm moving house, Em. I'm in a bit of a transition right now, but I'll contact you as soon as I'm settled, okay? Can't wait to meet Leo and catch up with you "

Sammie's eyes welled up as she waited learn more about Leo, to be a part of his life, and to reconnect with her dear friend.

The meeting- Long lost friend

A few days later, Sammie's phone pinged with a message from Emily. "Hey Sammie, just checking in. How's the move going? I haven't heard from you oh and I told Leo about you been asking about you 😊"

Sammie smiled as she typed out a response. "Hey Em! Move's almost done, just unpacking the last of the boxes. Can't wait to meet Leo! 😊 Send me a pic of him again?"

Emily sent a photo of Leo, this time with a goofy grin and a messy haircut. Sammie's heart melted.

‘‘Aww, he's perfect! 😍 Can't wait to meet him in person. When are you guys free to visit?”

As they made plans to meet within two hours.

Two hours arrived faster than expected, and Sammie's heart was racing as she waited at the door

"Hey, Em!" Sammie exclaimed, opening the door to reveal Emily and a miniature version of herself, with big brown eyes and a cheeky grin.

"Hey, Sammie!" Emily replied, smiling as she ushered Leo forward. "This is Leo. Leo, this is Sammie."

Sammie's heart skipped a beat as Leo looked up at her, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Hi, Sammie!" he chirped, before launching himself into a hug.

Sammie's eyes welled up as she hugged him back..

The 4 hour drive was long, Leo broke the hug and looked up doing his knowing gig as he stepped back and jumped up and down trying to undo his jeans button.

Sammie laughed, Emily grabbed his hand walked him out to the The curb pulled his trousers down and watched him pee, then did back up his jeans

"Come, let's go back to Sammy"

Sammie moved aside as Emily held his wrists and Sammie walked them upstairs to the washroom, where they both washed their hands.

"Sorry it was a 4 hour drive, he would never had made it up the steps"

Sammie handed him small hand towel to dry his hands, they both dried their hands then , Leo perked up…

"Jam sandwich?"

Sammie remembered her Jam sandwich days and laughed…

They go back down the steps with Leo counting each step, they go into the kitchen, without a beat leo opens the fridge, takes out the bread and jam jar and sets them on the counter, Sammie gives him a plate and he stretches out his hand for the knife..

Emily looks nervous and takes the knife from Sammie and makes a few sandwiches and gives one to Sammie, the plate to Leo and eats one herself.

They eat in silence then Emily looks at her watch..

“Somewhere to be?”

“Sam, you like Leo right?, He is a good boy I promise”

“What do you mean?”

“I have to do a few things, can you keep him”

“What like a few days?”

“Yeah sure,a few days”, replies Emily with a straight face..

Emily runs out the kitchen, to the front door she pushes it open, throws Leo's bags out then drives off, Samantha runs out side after hearing the car screeching, she grabs Leo's bag and turns round, he stands at the door..

“Mummy's going on an adventure, she will bring me a present”

Sammie breathes deeply as she walks back into her house and closes the door.

4 months later

Samantha has had a casual relationship with Eric Price for about 5 months now, it’s been nice having him around but Samantha always makes him leave after Leo returns home from school, Leo has grown to like his brief moments with Eric, his little high fives, watching him blow the car horn as he drives off, He’s just Sammie’s Friend Eric, he never sees him sleep over, he never sees them kiss and that’s just the way Samantha wants it..

Samantha and Eric stand at the front door waiting for the school buss to drop of Leo..

Samantha’s phone pings she checks the message and looks shocked at Eric

‘‘Sammie, talk to me, what’s going on’’

Samantha gives the phone to Eric.

‘‘Its been 4 months, she hasn’t contacted once but now she has messaged to get Leo’s stuff ready, she’s 20 minutes away??”

“He’s not even home yet, I don’t know what to do”

Samantha and Eric talk back and forth It’s not long before 20 minutes comes, 20 minutes seems so short when you’re talking to someone..

Samantha looks stressed as a the school bus and a red car show up behind the bus, Leo jumps off the buss and runs into Samantha’s arms, Samantha turns him around as Emily and Jordan walk up to the gate.

“Is his stuff ready?”, Jordan demands as Emily stands looking at Leo, who is now holding Samantha’s hand

“No, Sorry, who are you?”

“I’m Leo’s Dad, Emily and I have made back up, we have come back for our son”

Emily looks at Samantha..

“Thanks for taking care of him, send him to me”

Samantha moves her hand of his chest and turns Leo to face her.

Eric walks of inside after rubbing Leo’s head, Samantha looks down at Leo.

“Leo, I’m always here for you, but your mum, she’s come to collect you, go on be a good boy and go to her”

Leo turns round and walks slowly over to Emily, when he reaches over to her, she hugs him, Jordan takes of his backpack and hangs it up on the fence..

“His stuff!!”, Jordan says impatiently..

Emily turns to look at Jordan..

“Please let me talk to her”

“No, take our boy and go in the car’’

Emily and Leo walk of and climb in the car, Leo cries as the door closes.. Samantha runs to the gate, Jordan blocks her way..

“The least you can do is let me calm him, it’s been four months, he hasn’t seen Emily, he’s confused”

“Are you going to get his stuff?”

Samantha turns round and sees Eric rushing downstairs with Leo’s bags at items he has accumulated over his four month stay, Eric walks to the gate and gives Jordan the bags and his school bag from off the gate, Jordan walks to the car opens the trunk, puts the bags, closes the trunk then walks around to the drivers seat and drives off without a word.

Samantha turns to look at Eric..

“You knew this day was going to come Sammie”

Samantha pushes past him and walks inside, Eric follows her and closes the door, Samantha leans against the wall in floods of tears, Eric takes her phone and rests it on the umbrella stand. He puts his hand on Samantha’s shirt buttons.

“Hey let me take your mind of things”

Samantha puts her hand over his..

“Maybe you should come back tomorrow, I need space”

Eric looks at her, moves his hand off her and starts walking to the front room, Samantha raises her voice slowly..

‘‘I said Go home”

“I heard what you said’’

Eric continues to go into the front room, Samantha walks in and looks at him and puts on a movie and sits beside him.

As the movie, Eric turned to Samantha, his eyes locking onto hers. The air was charged with tension, and Samantha’s heart began to beat faster. Eric was right she needed this distraction.

Without a word, Eric reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair behind Samantha’s ear. His fingers grazed her skin, sending shivers down her spine. Samantha’s eyes never left his, his gaze searching for permission, and Samantha’s eyes gave her all the invitation he needed.

The world felt different without Leo, it was just the two of them now, she had no reason to hold back so she didn’t. Eric’s face inched closer to Samantha’s, his breath whispering against her lips. The tension was almost unbearable Samantha’s tilted her head, slightly opened her lips inviting him to kiss her

Now with Eric’s lips on Samantha’s, The kiss was soft, gentle, and then got harder. As they kissed, the couch, Samantha could only taste the mint of Eric's breath.

Eric pulled back, both of them breathing heavily, he ran his fingers up her shirt..

“He’s gone Sammie Girl, I don’t have to go home’’

Samantha held his hand and pulled him to stand up, they walked to the steps, Samantha leading him to the 3rd door, the only room in the house that had no memory of Leo, as the door opens they walk in and have no need to close it as it is just them alone..

9 months later

Samantha lays breathless in the hospital bed, holding, Luke Gerri Mathis-Price in her arms wrapped in a towel, the nurse takes him across the room, Eric runs in.

‘‘Sorry, I'm later’’ , He kisses Sammie's lips gently, she holds his shirt..

“Go check our son’’

Samantha let's go of his shirt, he walks over to the nurses, checking, cleaning and weighing the baby, he puts his finger in the baby’s hand ..

‘‘Hi , Luke, I'm your daddy”

Eric smiles proudly know this is a memory he will keep forever..

72 hours- Back home

Samantha lays on the sofa with the baby basket Infront of her, Eric looking down and than back up at a sleepy Samantha..

“Thank you Eric”

“Thank you for what”

“Thank you for giving us this chance”

Eric sits beside her gently and kisses her, the door knocks, Eric, stands up..

Samantha looks at him..

“Please, I'm not ready to see anyone”

Eric goes to the door and opens it and there is Emily and Leo, Eric steps back Leo comes bounding in, he runs into the front room and stops still, Samantha looks up at him, then Looks at Emily and Eric walking in..

Emily looks at Samantha..

“Hey it's been awhile, sorry I haven't been in contact”

Samantha doesn't look Leo .

“Hey , Leo, sorry, I didn't get to say goodbye, but goodbye, be a good boy ok’’

Emily talks..

“I came to see if you would have him for me”

Samantha looks at Eric

“Eric please, I don't have the energy for this”

Emily turns to look at Eric

‘‘I am sorry, but we have just had a baby, we can't help you”

Samantha turns Leo to Emily

“Go home, Leo”

Eric takes Leo’s hand and puts it in Emily's hand.

“Please I need help’’

Eric looks at Emily harshly..

“Contact the services that are in place to help you, we are not a temporary shelter, that you can just drop of and pick up as you please’’

Samantha stands up slowly.

‘‘You haven't even noticed have you?, Eric just told you, I have just had a baby’’

Samantha sits down and looks away..

Eric walks out with Emily and Leo and opens the door, they walk outside and Eric looks at Emily…

“Just like you forget Samantha's Number forget her address as well.

Eric turns back round, walks into the house, closes the door, walks into the front room and hands Samantha the baby. Samantha looks at Eric..

“This right here, our little family is going to be The memories we keep.’’

The end thanks for reading..