Cyber Love

I dialed my mom’s number on my phone and waited for her to pick up. After it rang five times, she picked it up.

“Hey mom, why haven’t you been home lately.”

“Addie, I’m sorry we haven’t been home. Our boss is sending us away on a business trip to Chicago. Don’t worry though, we deposited some money into your bank account. We’ll be home as soon as possible.” My mom’s weary voice said.

 I feel bad for her sometimes.  She’s always away at work and rarely relaxes. It’s a shame that if she quits, dad will most likely get fired since the boss has a cruel heart. We will be in big trouble then.

“Alright mom. I hope you come back safely.” I said, sighing. No, I’m not one of those kids who partied while their parents were away. I don’t drink, I don’t smoke, but then again, I’m not the ‘perfect, innocent, well-behaved’ young girl people see me as.

“Don’t worry Addie.” A stern voice could be heard from her side of the line.  She apologized to the man or woman. “I have to go, I’ll call you when I can.” And the line went dead.

I pulled a strand of loose blonde hair behind my ear and stared out the window. The sun was barely coming up over the horizon. Today was going to be a long day. I could just tell.

“Addie, what are you doing up so early?” Max was wide awake and dressed in his green shirt and jeans. He loved the color green more than anything. Everything he owned was green. Green shoes, green pants, green hats. I could go on, but then I’d just be boring you.

“I could ask you the same thing? Little boys like you don’t wake up so early.” I commented. The ten year-old pouted and crossed his skinny arms over his chest.  

“I’m ten and a half for your information.” Max stuck his tongue out at me. “But seriously, why are you up so early?”

“I couldn’t sleep last night.” It was true. I was restless at the fact I knew something was going to happen to my parents. I’m not physic, but it’s just a human instinct to just feel it.

Max nodded and took a seat next to me near the window.

“You shouldn’t worry about mom and dad. They are grown ups, they know right from wrong. Even if something does happen, we’ll be fine.”

“Since when did you get so deep?” I playfully hit him. His bright blue eyes reflected the same love we had for each other. “Last time I checked you were my booger of a brother.”

“Clarisse said she liked men who are sensitive, strong, can cook, are always there for her and like to play dolls!” Max complained, flailing his arms in the air. This kid would do anything for that girl.

“Do you really like her?” I asked, raising an eyebrow. Max nodded vigorously at my remark. His cheeks started to turn a light shade of pink.

“I wouldn’t be going through all of this if I didn’t.” Max sighed.

I fiddled with my cell phone for a bit, scheming an idea. I highly doubted Claire was awake this early in the morning, but it was worth a shot trying. I flipped my phone open and began dialing her number. Within a few seconds, Claire answered.

“Oh my god Adele-” She started, but I cut her off. Her voice was off. She was never this sad.

“Addie.” I corrected her mid sentence. I could just imagine her rolling her eyes at me right now.

“Right,” She paused briefly, “Josh and I talked last night…” Claire enjoyed dragging her words out to build suspense. I absolutely despised it.