Closed Tied Together

[Eric Holland]

After the graduation ceremony Eric knew he wanted to congratulate Penelope as a family, he knew it would mean a lot to her and he felt responsible for her. Their dad not being there was a glaring obvious thing, and it infuriated him on her behalf. So the least they could do was be there for her. He had practically grabbed Holden by the scruff of his neck before he could run off to hang out with his friends, or whatever it was he wanted to do, and then ushered them all in Penny's direction. Eric had even thought of asking Connor to bring her some flowers, which was a gesture he hoped she would appreciate. As Penny approached them, Eric surprised himself by moveing forward and pulling her into a hug. He didn't think he had ever hugged her before, but it somehow felt natural. "Proud of you." He muttered before letting go and stepping back. He wasn't one to linger.

 

[Penelope Marshall]

Penelope felt like a wreck, she had been crying throughout most of the ceremony and she felt a little silly for it. She was still clutching her diploma as everyone started to gather in groups after the ceremony ended, unsure where to go. Should she go to Marnie? To Todd? But then she saw her brothers heading her way and she knew she had to go to them first. She felt a little uncertain as she stepped towards them. They weren't really a normal family, she hadn't even known about Eric and Connor for half her life, and half the time she thought Holden might hate her, but they were here. She almost forgot she was upset about her dad not being there when Eric pulled her into a hug. She thought that maybe, it would have felt just like this if he had been here. Maybe this was even slightly better. As Eric said he was proud of her, she knew she was a lost cause. The tears came back. She sniffed and wiped at her eyes. "Th-thank you." She said shakily.